Dead-blow hammers have a place in every home. They are often a better choice than a steel-faced hammer (unless you’re driving nails!), as they are non-marring, have little or no bounce-back, and are easier on your hands and wrists.

The secret is a head filled with shot that delivers the striking force spread over more time than a steel hammer would, as the loose shot “arrives” after the moment of contact. Coupled with softer belled faces, the dead-blow hammer is ideal for assembly work and persuading things into position without damaging them.

The lighter slimline hammers excel for bench work, the broad-faced standard-head hammers for assembly (or positioning and setting stonework), and the sledges for work that requires more authority.