A Warrington hammer is a type of lightweight hammer designed for use in tasks like finishing woodworking projects. Many hardware stores carry Warrington hammers, often with several sizes available so that people can pick a size and weight appropriate to a task. It is also possible to order these hammers directly from manufacturers, with some manufacturers offering custom options which people can use to design the ideal hammer for their needs, such as specialized grips and heads.
The design of a Warrington hammer is double headed. One end of the head of the hammer has the classic rounded appearance people associate with hammers. The peen on the other end, however, is wedge-shaped or flattened. This is designed to allow people to start small nails and fasteners without having to worry about hitting their fingers. The design also allows people to use a Warrington hammer in settings where the larger peen will not fit, such as tight corners.
Warrington hammers are sometimes known as cross peen hammers or joiners hammers, with terminology varying by region. The design is popular with woodworkers who like it for small, detail-oriented tasks, and also for people who work on light craft projects which require the use of a hammer. Warrington hammers can also be useful for things like assembling flat pack furniture and making minor aesthetic repairs around the house. The light weight is also useful for doing things like driving in tacks and brads.
As with other hammers, the Warrington hammer comes in different weights and sizes. Some are very lightweight, which means that they can be used for delicate tasks, while others are heavier and larger and need to be handled with more care. Some people may have multiple joiners hammers so that they will be able to select an appropriate hammer for a specific task. These hammers are generally note designed for heavy tasks.
When selecting a Warrington hammer, people should think about how the hammer will be used, and they should take the time to confirm that it feels good in the hand, since it is a tool which should last for life if it is of good quality. The handle should be easy and comfortable to grip, whether it is made from wood, plastic, or metal, and whether or not it has an easy-grip handle applied. If the hammer does not feel right, it may be easy to lose control, which could result in accidental damage while working on a project.
By Mary McMahon
Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a About Mechanics researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.