Choosing between a 2.5 pound and a 4 pound cross peen hammer for a big scroll job

I had a commission for a set of four large gate scrolls last month. I was stuck between using my trusty 2.5 pound cross peen or buying a heavier 4 pound one for the initial shaping. I went with the heavier hammer, thinking it would move the 1/2 inch stock faster. After about an hour, my elbow was killing me and my control was off. I switched back to the lighter hammer and the work was slower, but way more precise and less tiring. Has anyone else found a sweet spot for hammer weight on bigger decorative pieces?

3 comments

3 Comments

thomas.cameron1mo agoTop Commenter

My sweet spot is a 3 pound hammer for that kind of work. The 4 pound is just too much for all day swinging. You trade speed for pain and bad hits. The lighter one is good for detail but you'll wear yourself out with all the extra swings. A solid middle weight gives you the punch you need without wrecking your arm. Found a 3 pound cross peen that's my go to for anything over 3/8 inch stock.

miles5811mo ago

My buddy Jake tried a 4 pounder for a week and his elbow swelled up like a grapefruit. He's back to his 3 pound cross peen now and swears by it.

adams.henry10d ago

Totally agree with you on that. I made the mistake of jumping to a 4 pounder thinking it would save time and my shoulder was in rough shape for a solid month. Had to drop back down to a 2.5 for a while just to heal up. That 3 pound cross peen is the real deal. It's got enough heft to move metal but you can keep your form tight all day without killing your joints. It's like finding the right balance between power and control just makes everything click.