Crescent family of hammers sitting on plywood and lumber

Hammers FAQs

You have questions. We have answers. Check out our most frequently asked questions.

  1. How do I choose the right hammer for a job?

    You should consider the type of project, the material to be used, and the force required when choosing a hammer. General purpose hammers are best suited for DIY tasks or finish carpentry. Framing hammers are best suited for framing, roofing, and decking projects. Drilling, blacksmith, and engineering hammers are best suited for projects requiring heavier hits.

  2.  What is the difference between a claw hammer and a ripping hammer?

    A claw hammer has more curvature in its claw and is best suited for gently removing nails. A rip claw has a straighter claw and is best for ripping materials apart.

  3. What safety precautions should I take when using a hammer?

    You should wear safety goggles and gloves to ensure safe use of your hammer. Start nails with gentle taps, and then remove your fingers from the nail before swinging harder. Beware of nails, chips, or other debris that can fly unexpectedly.

  4. How do I maintain my hammers for a long tool life?

    To maintain your hammer, you should only use it for appropriate tasks. Never use your hammer as a chisel, pry bar, or wedge.

  5. Can I use a hammer for demolition work?

    The Crescent Demolition Hammer, CHSDEM22, is suited for demolition tasks, such as removing boards. Engineering and drilling hammers, such as CHFDRL48 and CHFENG64, may also be used for small demolition tasks.

  6. What are the different types of hammers that Crescent offers?

    Crescent offers a variety of hammer types, which are listed below, or you can check out our full line of hammers here.

  7. What are Crescent hammer heads and handles made from?

    Crescent steel hammers are made from forged alloy steel with molded VibeGuard™ grips. Crescent's wood framing hammer has a forged alloy steel head and a hickory wood handle. Steel provides the best durability, while wood has natural vibration reduction qualities. Users should choose whichever material feels best to them.

  8. What specialty hammers does Crescent offer?
  9. What Crescent hammers would you recommend for carpenters to have in their tool bag?

    Our hammers CHSFRM22, CHSFRM28, and CHFRAM22 are great hammers for a carpenter to have in their tool bag.

  10. What does it mean when it says my Crescent hammer has "VibeGuard," and do all Crescent hammers have this feature?

    VibeGuard™ is a special layer in the hammer handle that reduces vibration by 70%. VibeGuard™ is included on the Crescent framing and general purpose hammers.

  11. Is there a difference between a general-purpose hammer and a framing hammer? When would I use them?

    A general purpose hammer tends to be lighter weight and is best suited for DIY projects, such as hanging a picture. A framing hammer tends to be heavier and have a longer neck. They are best used for framing, roofing, and decking projects.

  12. Does Crescent offer any hatchets or axes?

    Yes, we do. CSHATCH16 is a steel camping hatchet. CFHATCH20 and CFHATCH26 are fiberglass hatchets.

  13. What are the benefits of a milled face versus a smooth face? How do I know which one to use?

    A milled face helps prevent slippage on nail heads and is best suited for framing, decking, and roofing. A smooth face prevents marring on material surfaces and is best suited for finish carpentry.

  14. Do Crescent hammers include a magnetic nail starter?

    Yes, the Crescent framing and general purpose hammers have integrated magnetic nail starters.

  15. What are ball pein hammers used for?

    The ball end of a ball peen hammer is used to round off edges, make dents, or shape metal. It can also be used to flatten or round over rivet heads.

Additional Resources

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Crescent ripping hammer being used to pry lumber apart

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Man using a Crescent general purpose hammer to hammer a nail into framing

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