Hand Tools: Drilling hammer

Reviewed by:
Scott Gibson, Contributing Editor

Hammers designed to drive nails have hardened faces to reduce wear, but they should not be used to strike tools or nails made from hardened steel because they can chip. This Estwing drilling hammer, model B3-3LB, is made for driving punches, star drills, chisels and hardened nails safely. (It's still a good idea to wear eye protection.)

The drilling hammer has a 3 lb. head and a nylon-vinyl handle. This hammer is made from a single piece of steel so the head won't separate from the handle. In December 2004, the B3-3LB was available for about $32.