Editing Hammer (section)

==Construction and materials==
A traditional hand-held hammer consists of a separate head and a handle, which can be fastened together by means of a special [[wedge]] made for the purpose, or by [[Adhesive|glue]], or both. This two-piece design is often used to combine a dense metallic striking head with a non-metallic mechanical-shock-absorbing handle (to reduce [[muscle fatigue|user fatigue]] from repeated strikes). If wood is used for the handle, it is often [[hickory]] or [[ash (tree)|ash]], which are tough and long-lasting materials that can dissipate [[shock wave]]s from the hammer head.<ref name="claw"/> Rigid [[fiberglass|fiberglass resin]] may be used for the handle; this material does not absorb water or decay but does not dissipate shock as well as wood.

A loose hammer head is considered hazardous due to the risk of the head becoming detached from the handle while being swung becoming a dangerous uncontrolled projectile. Wooden handles can often be replaced when worn or damaged; specialized kits are available covering a range of handle sizes and designs, plus special wedges and spacers for secure attachment.

Some hammers are one-piece designs made mostly of a single material. A one-piece metallic hammer may optionally have its handle coated or wrapped in a [[Resilience (engineering and construction)|resilient]] material such as [[Elastomer|rubber]] for improved grip and to reduce user fatigue.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://boingboing.net/2014/08/06/hammers.html|title=A beginner's guide to hammers / Boing Boing|website=boingboing.net|date=6 August 2014|access-date=2019-05-31}}</ref>

The hammer head may be surfaced with a variety of materials including [[brass]], [[bronze]], wood, plastic, rubber, or leather. Some hammers have interchangeable striking surfaces, which can be selected as needed or replaced when worn out.