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The dead blow hammer is one of those unusual items in the tools category that plenty of people have heard of but few actually own. A dead blow hammer is surprisingly versatile and can be used in engineering, metalworking, woodworking, masonry, and demolition, so it’s worth considering owning one.
The big advantage that the dead blow has over other types of hammers is that it doesn’t rebound. This allows for greater control because there’s no bounce, and because there’s less vibration, it can also reduce fatigue. A dead blow hammer can apply considerable force but can also tap something into place gently with little risk of damaging the surface. The well-rounded nature of the dead blow hammer is what really stood out in our top pick, the Neiko 02847A 2-Pound Dead Blow Hammer, which is one of the most versatile options out there.
For those new to these tools, choosing the right one can be a challenge. We’ve addressed that in this article by selecting the best dead blow hammers for a variety of different tasks.
Best Overall
Neiko 02847A 2-Pound Dead Blow Hammer
Pros
- Versatile and affordable all-rounder
- High-vis, non-sparking poly body
- Diamond textured, non-slip handle
Cons
- Not for heavy-duty use
Specs
- Weight: 2 pounds
- Dimensions: Head: 2⅛ inches by 3⅞ inches; Overall length: 13⅜ inches
- Features: Checkered grip, spark-resistant coating
It isn’t easy picking a single best dead blow hammer, but this one from Neiko is the kind of general-purpose tool that’s suitable for working with both metal and wood. With a weight of 2 pounds and a length of 13⅜ inches, it can deliver high force when required but remains maneuverable for more delicate work. The shot-filled head maximizes the impact without rebound, and the poly coating prevents marring the material and sparking when it comes in contact with metal. With its diamond texture, the octagonal handle provides a trusty grip.
There are a few reports of the head splitting, which could be a concern. To put that concern in context, however, it’s important to understand the purpose of a dead blow hammer: to impact a surface straight on while absorbing the impact and without damaging the surface. When hitting a flat surface to smooth a wood finish, remove a dent, or bring pieces of wood flush, the hammer will simply absorb the impact. When used to drive in nails or sharper objects, the coating that helps protect the surface it hits from being damaged may split when the sharp object pierces or impacts the coating. An ordinary steel hammer should generally be used for that type of work. If using a dead blow hammer to protect the surface when driving nails going into soft woods, some splitting or damage to the head is to be expected.
Get the Neiko dead blow hammer at Amazon or Lowe’s.
More Dead Blow Hammers Worth Your Money
To properly answer the question, “What is a dead blow hammer?” it helps to have a selection of the different types and sizes as reference. The following top picks range from affordable sets that maximize the tool’s versatility to a heavyweight dead blow sledge hammer.
- Yiyitools Dead Blow Hammer Set, available at Amazon.
- Performance Tool M7234 Dead Blow Hammer Set, available at Amazon.
- Milwaukee 32-Ounce Dead Blow Ball Peen Hammer, available at The Home Depot, or Northern Tool + Equipment.
- ABN 4-Pound Dead Blow Hammer, available at Amazon.
- Capri Tools C102 12-Pound Dead Blow Hammer, available at Amazon.
How We Chose the Best Dead Blow Hammers
Dead blow hammers are popular with professionals but less common with DIYers, so in putting together this article, we wanted to provide examples of the various sizes, types, and materials. We looked at durability, coatings, grip, and, of course, prices. While tools from some leading brands command a premium, even large dead blow hammers can be very affordable.
We also sought expert advice from masonry contractor Andriy Boyko of A.O. Handy Inc., commercial and residential masonry specialists in Wisconsin. Boyko called a dead blow hammer “simple but incredibly useful, especially when you want to get a clean, controlled strike without leaving any marks.” Balance and weight are key features, he explained. “A 16-ounce hammer is a good all-rounder, but if you’re working on something bigger, you might want a 32-ounce one. Ideally, the head should be tough but gentle on surfaces. If you’re going to be using it for longer periods, look for a handle that has a good grip to reduce strain.” Before purchasing a dead blow hammer, consider the projects planned in the future and choose the appropriate weight and head material.
FAQs
Using a combination of the product descriptions and the key features should provide answers to many of the questions that people have when deciding which model to buy. We did find a few queries that we felt warranted further information, so we have addressed those here.
The question “What are dead blow hammers used for?” is a common one. Small models are good for assembly, or taking dents out of metal panels. Some landscapers use a dead blow hammer for pavers. Large models can be used for demolition. Any time you want maximum control with no rebound, a dead blow hammer is the tool to reach for.
No. In our article on best rubber mallets, the tool is described as being like “a padded hammer”, and that’s a great page to visit for further information. Dead blow hammers deliver a hard, flat blow with no bounce that risks damaging the surface or the user.
Although different sizes of hammers can be used depending on the task, most woodworkers prefer a dead blow hammer between 12 and 16 ounces.
The head of a dead blow hammer is usually filled with sand or steel shot. When you strike something, that loose material moves forward, effectively “deadening” the blow and ending the hammer’s motion in place. As such, rebound is virtually non-existent, so the hammer stays where you hit.
People use dead blow hammers when they need maximum control. Lightweight models are used for mechanical assembly. A heavy-duty hammer can apply a lot of force but will cause less surface damage than an ordinary hammer. However, because most are encased in plastic, they are not the best hammer for knocking in nails, for example.
You can. Dead blow ball peen hammers are specially designed for dent removal, shaping, and riveting.
