Chasing hammer vs ball-peen hammer: which to buy first
For detailed metal manipulation, a chasing hammer offers unparalleled control; a ball-peen is the versatile workhorse for general forming. Choose wisely based on your primary bench tasks.
At a glance
| Chasing hammer | Ball-peen hammer | |
|---|---|---|
| Primary use | Controlled metal movement and surface texturing | General shaping, dish forming, and riveting |
| Best for | Repoussé, chasing, planishing | Forming, peening, texturing |
| Avoids when | Heavy forging, riveting | Fine chasing, delicate surface work |
| Price tier | ££ | £ |
| Buy first if | You're serious about repoussé | You need a do-it-all hammer |
How Chasing hammer works
The defining characteristic of a chasing hammer is its domed, usually polished, face. This rounded surface allows for controlled displacement of metal without creating sharp dents. When you strike a chasing tool, the hammer's weight and the smooth curvature of its face transfer energy efficiently, pushing metal precisely where you want it. It’s the tool for bringing designs to life from the back (repoussé) or adding intricate textures and patterns to the surface (chasing). The balance is key, often lighter than a ball-peen, facilitating the sustained, rhythmic tapping required for detailed work.
How Ball-peen hammer works
A ball-peen hammer is a fundamental tool for any metalsmith. It features two distinct faces: a flat striking surface for general hammering and peening, and a hemispherical peen designed for shaping curved surfaces and creating textured patterns. The round peen is excellent for sinking metal into a dapping block or forming concave shapes. Its weight and robust construction make it ideal for more forceful applications, such as setting rivets or flattening wire. The flat face provides a clean strike for general shaping and straightening components.
Side-by-side at the bench
The most immediate difference you'll notice is the weight and balance. Chasing hammers are typically lighter, designed for the delicate, repetitive taps needed for repoussé and chasing. Their broad, rounded face is crucial for moving metal smoothly, whereas a ball-peen’s flat face is better for forceful blows and its rounded peen is for forming dishes. For delicate surface work and intricate pattern development, the chasing hammer is superior. Conversely, for general forming, flattening, and creating deep depressions, the ball-peen's heft and dual-purpose head make it the more versatile choice. While some overlap exists, using the wrong hammer for a specific task can lead to unwanted marks or inefficient metal movement. For precise, controlled metal displacement, reach for the chasing hammer; for all-round shaping and forming, the ball-peen is your go-to.
Which should you buy first?
For the absolute beginner venturing into jewellery making, a ball-peen hammer is the most sensible first purchase. Its versatility covers a wide range of basic forming, texturing, and assembly tasks, making it an indispensable bench companion. If your ambition lies specifically in intricate metal sculpting, repoussé, or detailed surface chasing, then investing in a dedicated chasing hammer should be your priority, even if it means acquiring it before a ball-peen. For a jeweller already comfortable with basic techniques and looking to expand their capabilities, both hammers offer distinct advantages and are worthy additions to the toolkit.
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Frequently asked
Should a beginner jeweller buy a chasing hammer or a ball-peen hammer first?
A ball-peen hammer, for most beginners. Its versatility covers a wide range of basic forming, texturing and assembly tasks. Buy a chasing hammer first only if your main ambition is intricate metal sculpting, repoussé or detailed surface chasing, where its control makes it the priority.
Why does a chasing hammer have a domed face?
The domed, usually polished face lets you displace metal in a controlled way without creating sharp dents. When you strike a chasing tool, the hammer's weight and the smooth curve of its face transfer energy efficiently, pushing metal precisely where you want it for repoussé or for surface texture and pattern.
Can I use a chasing hammer for setting rivets?
No, it is the wrong hammer for that job. Chasing hammers are typically lighter and designed for the delicate, repetitive taps of repoussé and chasing, not heavy forging or riveting. A ball-peen hammer's weight and robust construction make it better suited to forceful work such as setting rivets or flattening wire.
What is the round end of a ball-peen hammer used for in jewellery making?
Shaping curved surfaces and creating textured patterns. The hemispherical peen is well suited to sinking metal into a dapping block or forming concave shapes, while the flat face on the other end handles general hammering, peening, shaping and straightening of components.