The 9 Best Sledgehammers
This wiki has been updated 30 times since it was first published in April of 2016. Sledgehammers are remarkably useful for demolition work when taking down drywall, brick, concrete, kitchen cabinets or countertops. Our selections will help you choose between the many excellent models available, but note that they can be very dangerous and should only be used by trained professionals wearing the appropriate safety gear. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Groz 34520
2. Ames Companies Jackson 1199900
3. Stanley FMHT56019 Fatmax
Editor's Notes
August 07, 2019:
Sledgehammers are massively helpful for many tasks ranging from metal and concrete work to demolition. Personal preference should always inform your decision but there are certain facts to know before committing to a particular model. Perhaps most importantly, in most cases of sledgehammer use, the speed at which the tool is swung is more important to the potential of the tool to transfer energy than its mass. Within certain parameters, a lighter sledgehammer can strike with greater force than a heavier hammer since it will almost certainly be swung at higher speeds. Knowing this can help you choose the right tool to increase productivity and preserve the health of your tendons and joints.
Concrete framing involves using stakes to hold forms in place. This will require holding the stakes with one hand and hammering them with the other. For this task a lighter sledge with a smaller handle like the Wilton 20412 is ideal. If the purpose of the tool is demolition, then a longer handle with a medium-sized head is preferable. The Groz 34520 and the Jackson 1199900 will offer the greatest destructive power along with a handle of a comfortable length that allows you to put a good arc to it.
Working with sledgehammers is dangerous and should only be done by trained professionals to avoid personal injury or damage to property.
4. Wilton 20412
5. Graintex SH1612
6. Collins MD-4FD-C
7. Neiko 02867A
8. Ludell 11306
9. Performance Tool 1935
Rafael Perez is a doctoral candidate in philosophy at the University of Rochester. His primary focus is the metaphysics of time and the philosophy of mind, with a particular interest in artificial intelligence and antirepresentational models of the mind. He has extensive experience as a mechanic, a construction worker, and a general repairman. This has allowed him to gather a wealth of knowledge on automobile repair, auto parts, carpentry, masonry, welding, and the tools used in those trades. In his spare time, he enjoys playing guitar, woodworking, and fishing.