Best Sledgehammer for Demolition

A sledgehammer is a versatile tool that can be used for various jobs. It is best suited for demolition projects that involve breaking through concrete, asphalt, brick, or other hard surfaces. This type of work is typically done with a pry bar. However, if you want to break through concrete without damaging the surrounding area, you should use the demolition sledgehammer.

Choosing the best sledgehammer for your demolition job will depend on the intended use, the material being destroyed or constructed, and the physical characteristics of the tool, such as the head, shaft, and handle. First, you can find more information about the top products listed below, then read on to discover the essential product features you should know before choosing the best sledgehammer for your workshop.

How to use the Best Sledgehammer

• You must become comfortable with the weight and feel of the sledgehammer before using it. Stop immediately if the sledgehammer feels too heavy or if you feel out of control while using it. Follow these tips if you’re a novice to using a sledgehammer.
• Your non-dominant hand should grip the sledgehammer at the bottom of its handle.
• Your dominant hand should once again grip the handle of the sledgehammer near the base of the head.
• Depending on the type of swing you need, position your feet accordingly. For example, you should stand directly in front of the target with your feet shoulder-width apart if you’re going to swing the hammer vertically. On the other hand, in a diagonal swing, stagger your feet with the foot behind you and the front.
• Before driving the sledgehammer into the center of the target, bring it up and level with your head. You should use your dominant hand to control your swing and meet your non-dominant hand at the handle’s bottom. To swing again, repeat the previous steps.

Our Top Pickup of the Best sledgehammer

1. Estwing Sure Strike Drilling Hammer
2. Fiskars Sledge Hammer
3. Wilton Sledge Hammer
4. N.E.I.K.O. Fiberglass Sledge Hammer
5. CRAFTSMAN Sledge Hammer
6. Performance Tool Fiberglass Handle Sledge Hammer
7. CRAFTSMAN Best Sledgehammer
8. Standley 56-808 Hickory Handle Sledge Hammer
9. Council Sledgehammer with Hickory Handle
10. Estwing Special Edition Fireside Sledgehammer

1. Estwing Sure Strike Drilling Hammer

A warranty from Estwing demonstrates that their hammers are of the highest quality. The company does not offer a lifetime warranty per se, but their hammers are covered against failure from everyday use for the tool’s life. Since the head of this hammer is made of forged steel, you’re unlikely to need the warranty.

A 3-pound Sure Strike hammer, the MRF3LB Sure Strike hammer is perfect for use with chisels, punches, hardened nails, and similar tools. However, due to its smaller size, it is not the best choice for demolition. Although it is smaller than many sledgehammers we’ve tested, it helps keep the price down.

Due to its balance, you feel comfortable using this hammer. With the Estwing MRF3LB, you’ll experience both more leverage and reduced fatigue thanks to its well-balanced design. The ribbed grip also helps keep the hammer in your hand, preventing costly accidents. We consider this sledgehammer to be one of the best sledgehammers for the money because of the high quality and low price.

Features of Estwing

• Durability and maximum strength for a lifetime
• The long-lasting, most durable striking tools are also available
• Perfectly balance to give powerful blows with an easy swing
• The durable handle gives a comfortable, controlled swing with the ribbed grip to prevent slips
• It’s versatile on job use with the punches, chisels, hardened nails, and star drills

Specifications of Estwing

Specifications	Values
Product Dimensions	11.03 x 4.15 x 1.89 inches; 3 Pounds
Item model number	MRF3LB
Date First Available	September 29, 2010
Manufacturer	Estwing

2. Fiskars Sledge Hammer

Simple tools like a sledgehammer seem to be easy to use. But isn’t it just a hunk of metal on a stick? In the past, that might have been true, but today, few hammers are taking full benefit of our technological advances like Fiskars Pro IsoCore Sledge.
Even before you hold this hammer, you can see that it isn’t the traditional sled you’re used to. Instead, the fiberglass handle is built with a patented shock-absorbing system called IsoCore. This feature comes in very handy if you’ve ever struck a concrete or brick wall with a sledge.

The double-faced head of this sled is one of its best features. A wedge-shaped side is designed for maximum destruction. A sled head with this side can cause up to 5X as much damage as a regular sled head. You can also sharpen this side with any best metal files sharpener. On the other side is a flat surface perfect for driving stakes or other items. The weights of this sled range from 4 to 16 pounds. It’s more expensive than the competition, but we think it’s worth the extra cost with all of these top-notch features.

Features of Fiskars

• This tool is best for demolition work driving shakes or shattering concrete and wedges
• For up to 5X more destructive power than the traditional design & directs debris to the sides
• The large diameter driving face improves the strike accuracy

Specifications of Fiskars

Specifications	Values
Item Weight	12.5 pounds
Product Dimensions	3.25 x 7.25 x 36 inches
Size	10 LB
Style	Sledge Hammer
Color	Orange/Black
Material	Steel

3. Wilton Sledge Hammer

When we first held the Wilton B.A.S.H. Sledgehammer, we knew it would be a winner. In addition to its sleek and robust appearance, it also feels like Thor’s hammer when held, giving its wielder strength. You’ll need that strength because the sled weighs 20 pounds and has a 36-inch handle. It will give you a lot of leverage, but it takes you for a wild ride if you don’t have the strength to control it. When you have a hammer this powerful, you can break down brick walls with ease. If you used any other hammer, your arms would probably be destroyed before you finished.

That’s a lot of pressure on your bones. The product B.A.S.H. is a great machine. Even after swings, our arms still felt great because the handle absorbs so much impact. The hammer is designed to be unbreakable. However, for the price of one Wilton, you can get several sledgehammers from other manufacturers. Will they last as long? Maybe not. But still, it’s a hefty investment for a hammer.

Features of Wilton

• For a secure grip, while striking vulcanized rubber handle
• The hi-vis, drip-forged 46 H.R.C. steelheads will endure the demanding applications
• The steel core eliminates breaking during overstrikes
• Safely secure the hammer to stationary or wrist object

Specifications of Wilton

Specifications	Values
Item Weight	24 pounds
Size	36 Inch
Color	Hi-Vis Green
Power Source	Hand Powered

4. N.E.I.K.O. Fiberglass Sledge Hammer

The Neiko 02867A Fiberglass Sledgehammer is reasonably priced, but it isn’t as durable as some of our favorite hammers. Instead, there’s a fiberglass shaft that’s shatterproof and chip-resistant. Unfortunately, while ours held up through regular work, it started to show signs of weakness as soon as the work got more complicated.

The handle is covered in rubber to absorb shock. Furthermore, it adds grip so that the hammer won’t slip from your hand. Sadly, the rubber covering fell off, meaning that it was no longer functional. It’s safe to say this hammer shouldn’t be used for heavy-duty work. When used with chisels or to drive significant, hardened nails, it is most appropriate.

Features of N.E.I.K.O.

• Lightweight tool that provides the impact power for general and pounding daily striking task
• Essential tool for construction which has heat-hardened steelhead with mirror polish for ultra-long service
• The ribbed rubber handle gives a no-slip grip even when ergonomically engineered to dampen vibrations and apply amplified force
• The design of the sledgehammer is chip-resistant & shatterproof fiberglass shaft is durable and robust for ironwork

Specifications of N.E.I.K.O.

Specifications	Values
Item Weight	3.72 pounds
Product Dimensions	14.17 x 4.72 x 1.97 inches
Item model number	02867A
Power Source	Hand Powered

5. CRAFTSMAN Sledge Hammer

This CRAFTSMAN CMHT56019 Sledgehammer is an excellent option if you’re looking for a cost-effective sledgehammer. Unfortunately, the bullet nose on both sides of the hammer’s head creates twice as much striking force as a flat face. Fortunately, the handle is designed specifically to dampen the extra impact. It has a fiberglass core filled with particulates. In addition, the shock-absorbing collar further dampens vibrations.

There is a downside to this hammer’s bullet nose; it is not ideal for driving. Unless you intend to drive stakes or rebar with this hammer, it won’t work for you. The panel comes at a low price and is durable enough to withstand abuse, but it does not present the optimal option for demolition. However, this hammer is covered by a lifetime warranty, so you can be sure it will last through many demolition projects. Consequently, the handle isn’t just shock-absorbing; it’s shatterproof as well. Furthermore, the grip is textured, ensuring that it won’t slip from your hands.

Features of CRAFTSMAN

• The bullet nose design gives 2x concentrated striking force
• Particulate filled fiberglass shock and core absorbing collar will reduce the vibrations on impact
• The over-mold texture grip for comfort & control

Specifications of CRAFTSMAN

Specifications	Values
Item Weight	12.97 pounds
Package Dimensions	35.5 x 6.5 x 3 inches
Item model number	CMHT56019
Included Components	Sledge Hammer

6. Performance Tool Fiberglass Handle Sledge Hammer

It’s not always necessary to use a big, heavy sledgehammer to rip down concrete buildings. You just need something a bit stronger than a regular hammer but still manageable. The Performance Tool Sledgehammer is designed to fill that role. Small and affordable, this 2-pound sledge is a great buy. Although it’s not a heavy-duty machine, it can still be used daily.

The fiberglass handle of this hammer reduces vibrations to a minimum. It also has a rubber grip that further dampens vibrations and adds grip, so the hammer stays in your hand. Nevertheless, this hammer is only suitable for light work such as operating a chisel. The handle of this hammer broke when we pushed it too hard. This wasn’t the longest-lasting hammer we tested, but we weren’t expecting it to break. We would be upset if it were more expensive.

Features of Performance

• This tool comes with the steelhead
• The heavy-duty fiberglass handles for durability and strength
• It provides Anti-shock, rubber cushion grip

Specifications of Performance

Specifications	Values
Brand	Performance Tool
Model	1935
Item Weight	2.4 pounds
Cover Included	2lb Fiberglass Handle Sledge, Hammer

7. CRAFTSMAN Best Sledgehammer

Craftsman’s lightweight sledgehammer is an affordable heavy-duty tool that may be a good option for DIYers. With its bullet-nosed head, this sledgehammer weighs just under 10 pounds. Additionally, an absorbing collar surrounds the fiberglass core of the sledgehammer to reduce shock.

In just over 30 Amazon reviews, Craftsman’s eight-pound sledgehammer received an average rating of 4.5 stars — a slight drop from the average rating of 4.72 stars for all recommended products. Even though this sledgehammer has only received 32 reviews, 79% of reviewers gave it a 5-star rating, and there was only one 1-star review.

The sledgehammer was praised for its quality and sturdy construction. It has even been used for exercise by some reviewers, who noted that its size is perfect. One customer gave this Craftsman sledgehammer a 1-star review after receiving it in a damaged state.

Features of CRAFTSMAN

• The bullet nose design gives 2x concentrated striking force
• Particulate filled fiberglass shock and core absorbing collar will reduce the vibrations on impact
• The over-mold texture grip for comfort & control

Specifications of CRAFTSMAN

Specifications	Values
Item Weight	10.78 pounds
Package Dimensions	35.25 x 6 x 2 inches
Item model number	CMHT56011
Included Components	Sledge Hammer

8. Standley 56-808 Hickory Handle Sledge Hammer

Sometimes, you need the power of a sledgehammer in a package that won’t destroy the surface you’re hitting. Stanley’s Compo-Cast Sledgehammer is designed for such occasions. In place of a metalhead meant for demolition and driving, this sled has a rubber head that won’t damage softer surfaces like wood. Even so, it’s a mighty hammer because it weighs 11.5 pounds.

This type of sledgehammer is referred to as a dead-blow hammer, and it has several advantages and is less damaging to softer surfaces. This hammer doesn’t bounce back due to its soft rubber material. It just stops when it hits a surface. As you might see with a metal sled, the sled won’t create sparks when hit against concrete.

Features of Stanley

• Choose the hickory handle with the clear lacquer
• It comes with the lifetime warranty
• The forged steel head is tempered & hardened

Specifications of Stanley

Specifications	Values
Manufacturer	Stanley
Part Number	56-808
Product Dimensions	34.5 x 6.7 x 2.2 inches
Item Weight	9.45 pounds

9. Council Sledgehammer with Hickory Handle

PR800 from Council resembles an old railroad sledgehammer rather than a contemporary sledgehammer. Compared to some of the more modern-looking hammers, this one lacks sleek looks and technology. For example, there are no vibration dampeners or anti-shatter technologies on this hammer. Instead, it features a hickory handle.

Despite lacking those features, this hammer is still durable. In place of the plastic retainer that many companies use, this hammer uses a steel wedge to secure the head to the handle. It won’t have the same durability as fiberglass, however. Although it may be weak, it isn’t weak. This one left our arms feeling sore and broken after using all the more modern-looking tools.

This hammer has no vibration dampening, so you feel the full force of every blow. You’ll be sore for weeks if you swing this for a few hours. On the other hand, a well-built hammer is unlikely to cause any damage to you. But for the price, we’d rather have few modern comforts that save our skeletons from being vibrated into oblivion with every strike.

Features of Council

• Lightweight tool that provides the impact power for general and pounding daily striking task
• Essential tool for construction which has heat-hardened steelhead with mirror polish for ultra-long service
• The ribbed rubber handle gives a no-slip grip even when ergonomically engineered to dampen vibrations and apply amplified force
• The design of the sledgehammer is chip-resistant & shatterproof fiberglass shaft is durable and strong for ironwork

Specifications of Council

Specifications	Values
Item Weight	9.4 pounds
Part Number	PR800
Package Dimensions	36 x 8 x 2.5 inches
Item Package Quantity	1

10. Estwing Special Edition Fireside Sledgehammer

Fiskars’ dual-faced sledgehammer is perfect for construction workers who need a tool for both demolition and building. The head of this sledgehammer has a wedged end for crushing masonry and a flat end for driving stakes or securing reinforcements. As well as being ideal for construction workers, this high-quality sledgehammer can also be used as a powerful demolition tool by homeowners and professionals.

Over 290 Amazon customers gave this sledgehammer an average rating of 4.8 stars, slightly higher than the average rating of 4.72 for all recommended sledgehammers in this article. Fiskars sledgehammer was rated four stars or higher by 97% of customers.

The low-shock impact of the sledgehammer, as well as the power delivered by its beveled demolition edge, were praised by reviewers. In addition, many reviewers praised the handle’s non-slip properties. However, most negative reviews deal with the product breaking over time or customers receiving damaged or wrong products.

Features of Estwing

• It’s a long-lasting, durable and striking tool
• The wood splitting easy made design makes chopping firewood and logs a breeze
• The unit includes a ballistic nylon sheath to protect the hand-sharpened cutting edge
• The tool is durable, comfortable and reduces the impact vibration by 70%

Specifications of Estwing

Specifications	Values
Item Weight	7 ounces
Product Dimensions	14.25 x 5.83 x 1.5 inches
Color	Black-Special Edition
Material	Synthetic

Buying Guide of the Best sledgehammer

Customers tend to look for sledgehammers capable of breaking through any hard material easily, including sheetrock, tile, brick, and concrete. As demolition tools, sledgehammers should be selected based on their particular make and model.
Hopefully, this buying guide will help you select the proper sledgehammer by explaining how a sledgehammer’s handle, weight, cost, and intended use impact its performance.

Handle Material

The handles of sledgehammers are usually made from wood, fiberglass, or steel wrapped in rubber. Because fiberglass handles are lightweight and rugged, most sledgehammers are equipped with fiberglass handles. A sledgehammer with a fiberglass handle is shock-absorbent, durable, and able to maintain its shape over time.

Some sledgehammers, however, are made of low-quality fiberglass, making them heavy and fragile. Sledgehammer handles are traditionally made of wood because of their flexibility and feel. However, unlike fiberglass, wood handles crack, splinter, and become cosmetically damaged over time.

Steel is the most robust and most durable material for handles. Steel-handled sledgehammers can be more expensive and heavier than their wood and fiberglass counterparts, but they are also more effective.

Weight of Best Sledgehammer

• The majority of the weight of a sledgehammer comes from its head, which ranges from three to over 20 pounds. The head weight of a sledgehammer determines its head design and handle length. Here are some features of some sledgehammer heads:
• Sledgehammers with heads weighing 3–6 pounds have short handles. Small demolition projects such as cracking tile or removing tub surrounds can be done with these sledgehammers shaped like hammers.
• Sledgehammer heads weighing between eight and 12 pounds have a traditional sledgehammer look with a long handle and large head. Sledgehammers are helpful for heavy-duty household tasks such as tearing down walls and breaking up concrete. Therefore, we recommend Craftsman’s eight-pound sledgehammer as the best lightweight, traditional-sized sledgehammer.
• Designed for heavy use and professional applications, heads with 20 or more pounds are heavy-duty and robust. The large head and long handle of these sledgehammers enable them to break stone or concrete and drive rebars.

Shaft Length

Sledgehammers have a shaft that includes the handle and extends down through the head. Sledgehammers vary in length from about 10 inches for lightweight hammers to 36 inches for standard and heavy-duty hammers. In theory, a longer handle will exert more physical force than a shorter handle because the shaft serves as the connection between the handle and head.

Despite having power, long handles can hinder working in tight spaces or trying to drive small nails or bolts. If you’re facing these issues, it’s better (and safer) to use a sledgehammer with a short handle rather than a regular sledgehammer.

Grip

Sledgehammers typically have a grip above the shaft, extending down so that you can grip them either with one hand when they are lightweight or with two hands when they are heavy-duty. In addition, manufacturers of sledgehammers usually use rubberized material molded into an ergonomic shape, making it easier to hold and control.

The grip might also be textured to prevent the sledgehammer from slipping out of a user’s grasp during swinging. Additionally, the grip shields the hands from shock and vibrations transmitted from the sledgehammer head up the shaft.

Use

A sledgehammer’s intended use should match your needs before purchasing it since each one is designed for a particular task. For example, three-pound hammers would be suitable for small home projects. On the other hand, if you’re knocking down a wall or breaking up concrete, a 10-pound model may be needed.

Cost

Prices aren’t always indicative of quality, but knowing the average cost of a sledgehammer, especially if you’re on a budget, may be helpful. A sledgehammer that weighs between 3- and 6-pounds costs 15 to 20 dollars. Prices range from $40 to $50 for heavier models, such as a 10-pound sledgehammer.

Conclusion: Best Sledgehammer

To test these hammers, we broke a lot, but we’re not complaining. Or something to that effect. Since we have written so many reviews and tested so many sledges, we believe we know the subject inside out. In our opinion, the best sledgehammer is Fiskars’ PRO IsoCore Sledgehammer. The tool is packed with a lot of modern technology.

A sledge with two faces lets you drive one and tear one down, and it’s five times more destructive than a regular sled. In addition, the IsoCore Schock Control System protects your arms from repeated strikes. Are you searching for a more affordable solution? The Estwing Sure Strike 3-Pound Sledge is recommended. It’s a bit smaller, but it’s also easier to manage.

It’s well-balanced and has a rubber grip that helps you keep it in hand. Furthermore, it is reasonably priced and comes with a warranty against everyday wear and tear. The Wilton B.A.S.H. is the pinnacle of sledgehammer technology, and it comes with a $1,000 guarantee. Additionally, the handle absorbs most of the impact, saving your arms.

F.A.Q.’s

Why are sledgehammers so expensive?

The handle material and head size often determine the price of a sledgehammer. For example, compared to a more miniature sledgehammer with a wooden handle, a sledgehammer with a broad steel head costs more.

When choosing a sledgehammer, what size is best?

A typical sledgehammer has a 36-inch handle and weighs about 10 pounds. For household tasks and smaller professional projects, this size is perfect.

Safety equipment is required when using a sledgehammer?

If you use a sledgehammer, make sure you protect your hands and eyes. If debris and dust are flying around, you may want to wear impact goggles or glasses to keep your eyes safe. In addition to cut-resistant gloves, you should wear protective clothing to avoid blisters and lacerations.

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