OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
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- J Miller
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OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
I have a small hammer head that is flat on the one side and angled to a sort of a point on the other. A very handy hammer. I broke the handle so I'm gonna put a new on on it.
Now, I've never been good at fitting hammer handles. What is the best way to fit the handle to the head? As it sits the new handle is somewhat larger than the hole in the hammer head.
So, any suggestions?
Joe
Now, I've never been good at fitting hammer handles. What is the best way to fit the handle to the head? As it sits the new handle is somewhat larger than the hole in the hammer head.
So, any suggestions?
Joe
Last edited by J Miller on Thu Dec 17, 2009 7:00 pm, edited 1 time in total.
***Be sneaky, get closer, bust the cap on him when you can put the ball where it counts .***
Re: OT: Fitting a new handle to a small hammer head
If the handle is a lot larger than the hole place the head on top of the handle and with a sharp pencil trace the hole onto the top of the handle. With a spoke shave or a sharp knife, trim the wood to the line. Try and shape it a little larger near the handle end. Once it fits snug, with the head down, tap the end of the handle with a plastic hammer or wooden mallet to drive the head onto the handle. Cut off any protruding wood and install a wedge to expand the handle and you are done. Some people soak the finished job in water to expand the wood.
Happiness is a comfortable stump on a sunny south facing mountain.
Re: OT: Fitting a new handle to a small hammer head
If you use a hardwood wedge for your handle, apply some carpenters wood glue to the wedge before you drive it in place. I am a framing carpenter by trade(before i was laid off). I use a wood handled hammer for work, it is a Stilleto titanium, cast by Ruger. When I started glueing the wedge in place, I was able to get two or three more months out of each handle before it would start to loosen. Good luck. Kevin
Re: OT: Fitting a new handle to a small hammer head
A hammer head by Ruger??? Who's a thunk it??
Is it marked "Ruger" on it somewhere or do you just have to know it is?
Is it marked "Ruger" on it somewhere or do you just have to know it is?
If you're gonna be stupid ya gotta be tough-
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Re: OT: Fitting a new handle to a small hammer head
don't soak a wooden handle on anything in water,
when it dries out it will be looser than when you started.
if you want to soak it in something try anti-freeze,
THEY say it won't dry out and shrink the wood.
when it dries out it will be looser than when you started.
if you want to soak it in something try anti-freeze,
THEY say it won't dry out and shrink the wood.
careful what you wish for, you might just get it.
"BECAUSE I CAN"
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Re: OT: Fitting a new handle to a small hammer head
Use some acraglass on it, it will fit perfectly and NEVER come out.
Re: OT: Fitting a new handle to a small hammer head
Better hope you never break the handle, did that oncejnyork wrote:Use some acraglass on it, it will fit perfectly and NEVER come out.
Also putting several drops of BLO or tung oil on the top of the handle over several days will help it to swell and not dry out, repeat as necessary.
Rob
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May your rifle always shoot straight, your mag never run dry, you always have one more round than you have adversaries, and your good mate always be there to watch your back.
Because I can!
Never grow a wishbone where a backbone ought to be.
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Re: OT: Fitting a new handle to a small hammer head
If there isn't already a cut in the head end of the handle, cut one with a saw before fitting the head and installing the wedge. I use a wooden wedge in the cut, the same width as the handle diameter, and then a metal one that goes cross-ways to the wooden one and is just maybe 1/4" wide. They sell 'kits' at most hardware stores with the two kinds of wedges. If they only come with a spare handle, you can always use the handle for something else anyway.
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Want REAL change? . . . . . "Boortz/Nugent in 2012 . . . ! "
"first do no harm" - gun control LAWS lead to far more deaths than 'easy access' ever could.
Want REAL change? . . . . . "Boortz/Nugent in 2012 . . . ! "
Re: OT: Fitting a new handle to a small hammer head
soaking a loose hammer head in old motor oil will swell the head up... and it lubricates the wood grain in the handle.
I have a ball peen that is almost unbreakable after 20 years of heavy duty use...
I have a ball peen that is almost unbreakable after 20 years of heavy duty use...
always press the "red" button--- it's worth the effort and the results can be fun
Re: OT: Fitting a new handle to a small hammer head
Hey Rusty, Yes, Ruger cast their name right into the side of the hammer head. They apparently were the only ones at the time who knew how to cast titanium. I bought this hammer in 2001. I do not think that current production Stilleto hammers have the Ruger name on them. Kevin
- marlinman93
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Re: OT: Fitting a new handle to a small hammer head
I usually fit the handle to the opening by using my belt sander to shape it. Just trial and fit. Then once it's close fit I cut a slot lengthwise in the end of the handle and shove it into the hammer head. This lets the handle go in easier, plus it provides a place to drive a wedge in that wont split the wood. If you drive a wedge in without relieving it first the wood will actually be weakened and the handle wont last long.
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Re: OT: Fitting a new handle to a small hammer head
Joe, I have to ask. This broken hammer wouldn't have anything to do with your recent medical procedure, would it?
- J Miller
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Re: OT: Fitting a new handle to a small hammer head
Ahhhh, noooo not hardly.nemhed wrote:Joe, I have to ask. This broken hammer wouldn't have anything to do with your recent medical procedure, would it?
Just an ancient little Stanley hammer that I've had for decades and the old handle just gave it up.
Joe
***Be sneaky, get closer, bust the cap on him when you can put the ball where it counts .***
Re: OT: Fitting a new handle to a small hammer head
If you really want a handle to last cap a chunk of plastic pipe and fill it with 1/2 and 1/2 linseed oil and turpentine and soak the handle for about a month before fitting it. Then fit as noted and cover the end grain with varnish. Gramps use to keep the spare ax handles in the fuel pil barrel for a while before fitting. This keeps the moisture from alternatly expanding and shrinking the wood. If you take care of the hammer after this kind of fitting it will last for a LONG time, I have 30 years on one in my shop.
Re: OT: Fitting a new handle to a small hammer head
I was taught the same as KCSO except didn't cut the linseed oil ,until the handle breaks it will never loosen and that will depend on the wood quality and grain
Re: OT: Fitting a new handle to a small hammer head
Joe, this is sad news indeed.
You broke your primory Marlin adjusting tool! It must be like being with out your right arm
N
You broke your primory Marlin adjusting tool! It must be like being with out your right arm
N
Psalm ch8.
Because I wish I could!
Because I wish I could!
- J Miller
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Re: OT: Fitting a new handle to a small hammer head
gimdandy wrote:I was taught the same as KCSO except didn't cut the linseed oil ,until the handle breaks it will never loosen and that will depend on the wood quality and grain
gimdandy,
Well, I'm gonna get me some linseed oil and do that. The new handle is Made in U.S.A. out of hickory so it can't be all that bad I guess.
Nath, I know. This is terrible. But I have to look on the brite side, I've still got the 3# sledge I use to adjust the Winchesters with.Nath wrote:Joe, this is sad news indeed.
You broke your primory Marlin adjusting tool! It must be like being with out your right arm
N
Joe
***Be sneaky, get closer, bust the cap on him when you can put the ball where it counts .***
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Re: OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
All fixed, thanks for the tips.
I didn't have any linseed oil, but I'll get some.
Old handle below, new in hammer. Made in Indiana too. Wow!
I've used this hammer for so long I honestly cannot remember where or when I got it. I think it was used even then. So I think I got my monies worth.
Joe
I didn't have any linseed oil, but I'll get some.
Old handle below, new in hammer. Made in Indiana too. Wow!
I've used this hammer for so long I honestly cannot remember where or when I got it. I think it was used even then. So I think I got my monies worth.
Joe
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Re: OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
Ya dun good, Joe. I have a hand forged "fence hatchet" about 120 yrs old that needs a handle. I dread the process of fitting it up properly, but can't let it go away. Ought to be good for at least another 100 years if I spend the time to do it right.
Certified gun nut
Re: OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
Good job!!
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Re: OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
At your lumber yard or hardware store you can find a product called "Chair Lock". It comes in a little plastic squeeze bottle. It is a kind of resin that soaks into the wood fibers and dries, so they can't shrink. I've had one bottle for more than thirty years and used it on every tool handle I have and most of the chair rungs in the house. I haven't had to re-tighten any of them.
- J Miller
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Re: OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
I have an ancient hand axe head out in the garage that needs a handle too. I think I may have a new handle but I also may have used it in the past.adirondakjack wrote:Ya dun good, Joe. I have a hand forged "fence hatchet" about 120 yrs old that needs a handle. I dread the process of fitting it up properly, but can't let it go away. Ought to be good for at least another 100 years if I spend the time to do it right.
Ahhh, another project for the roundtoit list.
Joe
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- J Miller
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Re: OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
Thanks for tip, I have a ball pein hammer that's a bit loose, I'll check out the "Chair Lock".765x53 wrote:At your lumber yard or hardware store you can find a product called "Chair Lock". It comes in a little plastic squeeze bottle. It is a kind of resin that soaks into the wood fibers and dries, so they can't shrink. I've had one bottle for more than thirty years and used it on every tool handle I have and most of the chair rungs in the house. I haven't had to re-tighten any of them.
Joe
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Re: OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
Joe, IIRC ,that type hammer is called a Cross Peen.
I have a couple myself. One of about 2 oz. I made while in the army and one of about 2lb. that is as old as me (63) and still going strong. Great for seating those ornery Winchester primers.
I have a couple myself. One of about 2 oz. I made while in the army and one of about 2lb. that is as old as me (63) and still going strong. Great for seating those ornery Winchester primers.
Re: OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
Chuck is right its a cross peen and a nice looking one too. Do you do any metal work?
Jeremy
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- J Miller
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Re: OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
JReed wrote:Chuck is right its a cross peen and a nice looking one too. Do you do any metal work?
Occasionally, but not as a rule. About the only time is if I'm fixing something.
A cross peen hammer, I've never heard that name. Today I've learned something new. Cool.
Joe
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Re: OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
How'd you find time to fix a hammer in between all those medical adventures...?
Doctors for Sensible Gun Laws
"first do no harm" - gun control LAWS lead to far more deaths than 'easy access' ever could.
Want REAL change? . . . . . "Boortz/Nugent in 2012 . . . ! "
"first do no harm" - gun control LAWS lead to far more deaths than 'easy access' ever could.
Want REAL change? . . . . . "Boortz/Nugent in 2012 . . . ! "
Re: OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
Dont you know Joe is multi talented.AJMD429 wrote:How'd you find time to fix a hammer in between all those medical adventures...?
Jeremy
GySgt USMC Ret
To err is human, To forgive is devine, Neither of which is Marine Corps policy
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To err is human, To forgive is devine, Neither of which is Marine Corps policy
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- J Miller
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Re: OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
My medical adventures are over. At least for a while.
I did the hammer after all the Dr visits were over.
JReed,
What is a cross pein hammer used for?
Joe
I did the hammer after all the Dr visits were over.
JReed,
What is a cross pein hammer used for?
Joe
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- vancelw
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Re: OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
Back around 1980, my dad was bragging to a friend about how well his 1960 Ford Falcon station wagon had held up over the years and had moved the family from Texas to Montana to Nebraska and back again. The friend said,J Miller wrote: I've used this hammer for so long I honestly cannot remember where or when I got it. I think it was used even then. So I think I got my monies worth.
Joe
"My dad had a good axe one time. He replaced the handle three times and the head twice, but it sure was a good axe."
Let the wind right out of my ole Dad's sails.
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- J Miller
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Re: OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
Vance,vancelw wrote:Back around 1980, my dad was bragging to a friend about how well his 1960 Ford Falcon station wagon had held up over the years and had moved the family from Texas to Montana to Nebraska and back again. The friend said,J Miller wrote: I've used this hammer for so long I honestly cannot remember where or when I got it. I think it was used even then. So I think I got my monies worth.
Joe
"My dad had a good axe one time. He replaced the handle three times and the head twice, but it sure was a good axe."
Let the wind right out of my ole Dad's sails.
Strangely I was thinking of that same story as I put the new handle in my old hammer head. At least this is the original head.
Joe
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Re: OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
I'm a pack rat and won't throw anything away (ask my wife.)
If I have something that I would have to spend 10 dollars and 2 hours to fix, or I could throw it away and buy a new "improved" one for 12 dollars, I'll spend the time to fix it. I've got old axes, hoes, sledges, etc. that I will continue to repair. By BIL is a rancher and uses those irrigation shovels that cost 50 or 60 bucks. The quality of them has gone down drastically over the years. When I go visit him I spend a little time replacing handles and even welding or sharpening shovels for him, because it's got to where he can't afford to replace them. He's not real handy and doesn't like to take the time to repair/replace them himself.
I worked for Union Pacific for a year on a switch and crossing gang. Got LOTS of practice replacing maul handles.
I'm glad to see anyone repair something rather than chunking it.
If I have something that I would have to spend 10 dollars and 2 hours to fix, or I could throw it away and buy a new "improved" one for 12 dollars, I'll spend the time to fix it. I've got old axes, hoes, sledges, etc. that I will continue to repair. By BIL is a rancher and uses those irrigation shovels that cost 50 or 60 bucks. The quality of them has gone down drastically over the years. When I go visit him I spend a little time replacing handles and even welding or sharpening shovels for him, because it's got to where he can't afford to replace them. He's not real handy and doesn't like to take the time to repair/replace them himself.
I worked for Union Pacific for a year on a switch and crossing gang. Got LOTS of practice replacing maul handles.
I'm glad to see anyone repair something rather than chunking it.
"Make yourself an honest man, and then you may be sure that there is one less scoundrel in the world." - Thomas Carlyle
Re: OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
A nice light cross peen blacksmiths hammer. That should work well for most general use in the shop and should last you a long time now. Looking at the old handle it looks motor oil soaked and that probably weakened it.
Re: OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
Thats a "tinners" hammer...mostly used in sheet metal and tin smith work.
Made one myself way back when.. High School machine shop project. need to take a pic and post it here.
Joe Miller... I missed the update. Can you set square on your buttcheeks yet?
J
Made one myself way back when.. High School machine shop project. need to take a pic and post it here.
Joe Miller... I missed the update. Can you set square on your buttcheeks yet?
J
always press the "red" button--- it's worth the effort and the results can be fun
- J Miller
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Re: OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
I used to have a hammer like that I made in metal shop in high school.
I used it until the handle, wich was steel just broke. I shortened it and rethreaded the end and used it again till it broke. After that I have no idea what happened to it. Then sometime many many summers ago I got this one. When I got it it was already rusted and the handle was black. That was ... who knows how long ago. I was at the ACE hardware store again today and they do not have any hammers like this.
I wonder if they are extinct?
I did get some of the "Chair Lock" stuff though. It cost almost $10.00 for the tube. My wife almost blew a gasket. So we'll have to fix some of her chairs with it I guess.
Joe
I used it until the handle, wich was steel just broke. I shortened it and rethreaded the end and used it again till it broke. After that I have no idea what happened to it. Then sometime many many summers ago I got this one. When I got it it was already rusted and the handle was black. That was ... who knows how long ago. I was at the ACE hardware store again today and they do not have any hammers like this.
I wonder if they are extinct?
I did get some of the "Chair Lock" stuff though. It cost almost $10.00 for the tube. My wife almost blew a gasket. So we'll have to fix some of her chairs with it I guess.
Joe
***Be sneaky, get closer, bust the cap on him when you can put the ball where it counts .***
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Re: OT: Fitting a hammer handle - all fixed w/ pic
You posted as I was typing. I made one in high school shop too.Hillbilly wrote:Thats a "tinners" hammer...mostly used in sheet metal and tin smith work.
Made one myself way back when.. High School machine shop project. need to take a pic and post it here.
Joe Miller... I missed the update. Can you set square on your buttcheeks yet?
J
Yes, my posterior is doing fine. The Dr was quite good I guess, I've felt no discomfort at all from the procedures.
Joe
***Be sneaky, get closer, bust the cap on him when you can put the ball where it counts .***