Intro to Millwright Practice Exam

Which type of hammer is commonly used for shaping metal?

1. Ball-peen hammer

2. Sledgehammer

3. Claw hammer

4. Mallet

The correct answer is: Ball-peen hammer

The ball-peen hammer is specifically designed for shaping and working with metal. Its distinct features, such as a flat peen on one end and a rounded end on the other, make it ideal for striking metal without causing damage, as well as for shaping various components. The flat face is often used for striking chisels and punches, while the rounded end is effective for peening, or shaping metal surfaces, which is essential in processes such as metalworking and blacksmithing. In contrast, a sledgehammer is primarily designed for heavy-duty tasks like demolition, which doesn’t involve intricate shaping of metal. A claw hammer is predominantly used in carpentry for driving nails and removing them, lacking the specialized design needed for metalwork. A mallet is typically made of softer materials like rubber or wood and is used to prevent damage to delicate surfaces, making it less suitable for tasks that require precise shaping of metals compared to a ball-peen hammer.