A specialized hand tool employed in metalworking, characterized by a curved or rounded face, is crucial for shaping malleable metals into graceful curves. Different head shapes and weights cater to various metal thicknesses and desired curve radii. Examples include planishing hammers and various types of chasing hammers, each designed to produce specific effects.
These tools are indispensable for achieving aesthetically pleasing and structurally sound curved metal forms in diverse applications, from jewelry making and sculpture to automotive and aerospace manufacturing. Precise control over impact force allows for delicate shaping or powerful forming depending on the task. Historically, such tools have been fundamental in artistic metalwork and evolved alongside advancements in metallurgy, enabling increasingly intricate designs.
The following sections will explore the diverse types of these tools, their appropriate applications, and essential techniques for their safe and effective use in shaping metal components.
