Rock Hammers
An item that is of utmost importance out in the field for geology students and professionals is the rock hammer.
Surprisingly, there are a vast amount of different hammers on the market and although some say that it doesn’t matter what hammer you use because they all break rocks – well there is a difference, a major difference! The shape of the head, the handle length, how sharp the point is, and the balance of the hammer all make a difference. Essentially, the quality of your rock hammer does have a direct impact on your field samples!
There are a variety of different names for rock hammers, including: rock picks, geology picks, geology hammers, geology picks, and brick hammers. In addition to all the different names, there are three different types of hammers, including: pointed-tip or hard rock hammers, chisel-edge or soft rock hammers, and heavy rock or crack/sledge hammers. Thus, the type of rock hammer you want is highly dependent on what type of field work you will be doing.
The Pointed-tip rock hammer
Pointed-tip rock hammers, typically known as rock picks, are the hammers used by geologists when working with hard rocks. Igneous (granitic), metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks are all part of the hard rock family. In most instances the crystalline structures within these rocks are tightly bound, so by fracturing and cracking a rock the crystalline structure opens and breaks apart allowing for proper inspection and identification.
The square head of the hammer is used to crack open a rock, allowing you to see what the rock looks like on the inside as opposed to the outer, weathered surface (which looks completely different than the real rock type). The pointed end of the hammer can be used to dig or scrap out mineral samples from the hard rock so that you can better identify the rock or mineral components.
The Chisel-edge rock hammer
Chisel-edge rock hammers, often called fossil or paleontologist hammers, are designed to be used on “soft rock.” Soft rock is usually sedimentary derived rock that has been laid down in distinct layers, typically from from ocean floors, lakes, or rivers. On occasion, these layered rocks could have undergone metamorphism, turning them into slate or shale. Sometimes these layered rocks can have fossils such as leaves, fish bones, trilobites or other features from the past.
The benefit of the chisel-edge rock hammer is that chiseled end can be used to cleanly pry or split apart layers in “soft rock,” unlike the pointed-tip hammer which is better for scraping.
The Crack hammer
The crack hammer, also referred to as a sledge hammer, is used to really break apart, crack, and split rock. These hammers are also ideal for driving chisels and pry bars into fractures since they develop a lot of kinetic energy.
The take home message with crack hammers is that if you plan to be breaking apart a lot of rocks and you don’t need to be meticulous about it, then this type of hammer will get that job done.
Hybrid hammers
Hybrid hammers are hammers that are not made to solely break apart rock. These hammers have specific functional uses.
Pointed-tip Rock Hammers
Estwing E3-22P, 22-oz Rock Pick
One of the most popular rock picks carried by geologists and field students/professionals is the Estwing Supreme 22-oz hammer. This is a fully polished hammer that is forged from one piece of steel. The nylon-vinyl rubber grip is also shock absorbing, tested and proven to reduce shock by 50%. Although Estwing is known by their blue grip, this hammer can also be purchased with an orange grip, which makes it easier to be identified out in the field.
Specifications:
- Full length: 13 inches (33 centimeters)
- Head length: 7 inches (17.8 centimeters)
- Total weight: 2 pounds
- Head weight: 22 ounces
The E3-22P hammer is light enough to easily carry around but heavy enough to crack open rock. It is rugged, sturdy, and can be used on all rock types, including granite, basalt, quartz, and many more. The pointed end is sharp and perfect for not only prying but for probing rocks as well. It is also long enough for digging into small crevasses and fractures.
If you want a hammer that will last a very long time, that is made from a reputable company, manufactured in the USA, and will surely get the job done in the field, this hammer is the one you want!
Estwing E3-14P, 14-oz Rock Pick
The Estwing Supreme 14-oz hammer is a smaller, lighter version of the Estwing E3-22P hammer. The main difference is that this hammer is narrower and shorter in length, making it perfect if you are looking for a lighter rock hammer. Being an Estwing product, this hammer is fully polished and forged from one piece of steel. The nylon-vinyl rubber grip is also shock absorbing, tested and proven to reduce shock by 50%.
Specifications:
- Full length: 11 inches (28 centimeters)
- Head length: 6.4 inches (16.2 centimeters)
- Total weight: 1 pound and 5 ounces
- Head weight: 14 ounces
The trade off with this smaller hammer is that it allows for more accuracy when striking a sample; however, less power will be delivered since the hammer is lighter (less kinetic energy!).
Having all the benefits of the standard Estwing 22-oz hammer while being lighter and easier to take on the go, the E3-14 Rock Pick is great choice for young or newer students.
Estwing E3-23LP, 22-oz Long Handle Hammer
The Estwing E3-23LP long handled hammer is a longer handled version of the Estwing E3-22P hammer. This hammer adds 3 inches of handle in length, which in turn allows more energy and power into whacking a rock or sample. The added length is also helpful for prying leverage. Like all Estwing products, this hammer is fully polished and forged from one piece of steel. The nylon-vinyl rubber grip is also shock absorbing, tested and proven to reduce shock by 50%.
Specifications:
- Full length: 16 inches (40.5 centimeters)
- Head length: 7 inches (17.8 centimeters)
- Total weight: 2 pounds and 1.1 ounces
- Head weight: 22 ounces
The Long Handled Hammer is a very popular Estwing hammer. It is preferred by many because of the extra advantage of power, as well as the added reduction in shock due to the longer length. Nonetheless, if you do not mind the added length, this medium-heavy weighted hammer is great to have in the field and you know it will last a long time since it comes from Estwing.
Estwing E30 Leather Grip, 22oz Rock Pick
The Estwing Leather Grip rock hammer is nearly the same as the Estwing E3-22P. The difference here is that this hammer has a leather handle rather than the vinyl, rubber one. This leather grip is made of leather “O” rings that are pressed and riveted to the shaft. The whole handle is then laminated and factory coated with a varnish for maximum protection. The hammer itself is fully polished and is forged from one piece of steel.
Specifications:
- Full length: 13 inches (33 centimeters)
- Head length: 7 inches (17.8 centimeters)
- Total weight: 1 pound and 15 ounces
- Head weight: 22 ounces
The positive aspect with this hammer is that the leather grip makes is aesthetically pleasing; however, with the brownish color, it is easy to forget in the field since it blends in well. Over time and with continual use, the laminated leather handle will also wear off.
Like all Estwing products, expect this hammer to last a long time. If you don’t mind missing the shock resistant handle, the leather handle truly has a classic appearance and feels comfortable in your hand.
Estwing E13P Leather Grip, 13-oz Rock Pick
The Estwing E13P Leather Grip Rock Hammer is essentially a slimmed down version of the Estwing E30 Leather Gripped hammer. This rock pick is similar in overall size, the handle is just narrower which has reduced the total weight. To be more precise, the square end of the hammer head is slightly smaller in size and length while the pick end is the same length but tapered to a sharper point.
Specifications:
- Full length: 12.9 inches (32.8 centimeters)
- Head length: 6.75 inches (17 centimeters)
- Total weight: 1 pound and 10 ounces
- Head weight: 13 ounces
For hard field work, this hammer is not recommended. However, if you will be working with mostly sedimentary rock and digging for fossils then this is a great hammer. With the leather structure, this hammer is also aesthetically pleasing and being an Estwing product, you know the hammer is going to last and be well built.
Estwing E3-13PM, 13-oz Lightweight Rock Pick
The Estwing E3-13PM Lightweight Rock Pick is a slimmed down version of the Estwing E3-22P hammer. This rock pick is similar in overall size, the handle is just narrower which has reduced the overall weight. To be more precise, the square end of the head is smaller in size and length while the pick end is the same length but tapered to a sharper point.
Specifications:
- Full length: 12.5 inches (32 centimeters)
- Head length: 6.25 inches (15.9 centimeters)
- Total weight: 1 pound and 12 ounces
- Head weight: 13 ounces
For hard field work, this hammer is not recommended. If you will be working with mostly sedimentary rock, digging for fossils, or giving this hammer to a child, then this is a great hammer.
SE 8399 11-inch Rock Hammer, 20-oz
The SE 8399 hammer is a durable, well-balanced 20-oz rock hammer that is forged from one piece of steel. It is fully polished, has a comfortable rubber grip handle, and comes with a heavy duty, reusable plastic tip cover so that the pointed end wont scratch or tear up anything while in a pack or in transit.
Specifications:
- Full length: 11 inches (28 centimeters)
- Head length: 7 inches (17.8 centimeters)
- Total weight: 1.3 pounds
- Head weight: 20 ounces
The SE3899 is very sturdy and after several uses in the field, the only signs of use will be scratches from splitting rocks apart (which is normal). On the other hand, the tip is sharp, so it is likely to wear out quicker depending on how often it is used.
The best feature of this hammer is its price. Not only is it on the inexpensive side, it is also known to get the job done.
Valley Soft-Touch, 20-oz Rock Pick
The Valley Soft-Touch pointed rock hammer is a one piece, drop forged, heat treated, fully polished hammer. The handle has a two-tone cushioned grip that is form fitting, shock absorbent and non-slippery. The design makes it virtually unbreakable and heavy duty.
Specifications:
- Full length: 11 inches (28 centimeters)
- Head length: 7 inches (18 centimeters)
- Total weight: 1 pound and 14 ounces
- Head weight: 20 ounces
Compared with the prestigious Estwing hammers, the Valley Soft-Touch is a bit smaller in size (excluding the Estwing 14-oz hammer). The square faced striking surface is a bit larger than Estwing rock hammer picks while the pointed tip is nearly identical. Unlike the Estwing brand, this product is made in China. If you plan on investing in a rock hammer so that it lasts several years just remember, you get what you pay for.
Gold Rush, 32-oz Rock Pick
The Gold Rush 32oz hammer is a single piece, forged, stainless steel rock hammer. It has an ergonomic injection molded handle allowing for a good amount of shock absorption.
Specification:
- Full length: 11 inches (28 centimeters)
- Head length: 7 inches (18 centimeters)
- Total weight: 2 pounds
- Head weight: 20 ounces
The Gold Rush hammer is sturdy, balanced, works well out in the field, and should last a long time. This hammer is great for prospecting and fossil hunting.
Caliburn, 28-oz Rock Pick
The Caliburn 28-oz rock pick is made of a durable, carbon steel material.
Specification:
- Full length: 12 inches (30.5 centimeters)
- Head length: 6.5 inches (16.5 centimeters)
- Total weight: 1 pound and 12 ounce
This hammer is good for rock hounding, prospecting, and field work.
Chisel-edge Rock Hammers
Estwing E3-20PC, 20-oz Chisel Edge
The E3-20PC is a chisel edged rock hammer that is a fully polished and forged from one piece of steel. The nylon-vinyl rubber grip is also shock absorbing, tested and proven to reduce shock by 50%. Being a chisel edge, this type of hammer is best used with soft or sedimentary derived rock since it can pry and split layers apart.
Specifications:
- Full length: 11 inches (28 centimeters)
- Head length: 6.9 inches (17.5 centimeters)
- Total weight: 1 pound and 12 ounces
- Head weight: 20 ounces
This hammer is light enough to easily carry around but heavy enough to crack open some rock. It is manufactured in the USA, is made from a reputable company, and will surely last a very long time.
Estwing E3-24PC, 24-oz Chisel Edge
The E3-24PC is Estwing’s heaviest chisel edged rock hammer. It is a fully polished and forged from one piece of steel. The nylon-vinyl rubber grip, which is is molded and bonded to the hammer handle, is also shock absorbing, tested and proven to reduce shock by 50%.
Specifications:
- Full length: 11 inches (28 centimeters)
- Head length: 7 inches (18 centimeters)
- Total weight: 1 pound and 14 ounces
- Head weight: 24 ounces
Being a chisel edge, this type of hammer is best used with soft or sedimentary derived rock since it can pry and split layers apart. This hammer is manufactured in the USA, is made from a reputable company, and will surely last a very long time.
Estwing E3-16BLC, 16-oz Chisel Edge
The Estwing E3-16BLC is a smaller, lighter version of the Estwing E3-20PC. It is slightly shorter in the handle and has a 16-oz head. With this, you are going to have to swing a lot harder and with many more blows to break rock.
Specifications:
- Full length: 10.75 inches (27.3 centimeters)
- Head length: 6.5 inches (16.5 centimeters)
- Total weight: 1 pound and 9 ounces
- Head weight: 16 ounces
The E3-16BLC is great to take on longer trips given its smaller size and the lighter weight also provides you with more control when you go to strike a sample. This hammer is great for first time users or for young explores.
Estwing E6-22BLC, 22-oz Big Blue Chisel Edge
One of the newest models by Estwing is the E6-22BLC Big Face Chisel, developed to be better and safer. It is fully polished and forged from one piece of steel. The nylon-vinyl rubber grip, which is molded and bonded to the hammer handle, is also shock absorbing, tested and proven to reduce shock by 50%.
Specifications:
- Full length: 11 inches (28 centimeters)
- Head length: 6.9 inches (17.5 centimeters)
- Total weight: 2.2 pounds
- Head weight: 22 ounces
This hammer has a larger smooth face, is double tempered for added strength, and has unsurpassed balance. Being an Estwing product, you know this hammer will last a long time.
Valley Soft-Touch, 20-oz Chisel Edged
The Valley Soft-Touch chisel edged rock hammer is a one piece, drop forged, fully polished hammer. The handle has a two-tone cushioned grip that is form fitting, shock absorbent and non-slippery. The design makes if virtually unbreakable and heavy duty.
Specifications:
- Full length: 11 inches (28 centimeters)
- Head length: 6.9 inches (17.5 centimeters)
- Total weight: 1 pound and 14 ounces
- Head weight: 20 ounces
Compared with the prestigious Estwing hammers, the Valley Soft-Touch is a bit smaller in size. While the square face striking head is nearly the same, the chisel edge does not have as much of a bend or bow to it as the Estwing Chisel hammers. Unlike the Estwing brand, this product is made in China. If you plan on investing in a rock hammer so that it lasts several years just remember, you get what you pay for.
Crack Hammers
Estwing B3-2LB Crack Hammer
The Estwing B3-2LB crack hammer (or drilling hammer) is prefect for cracking rocks. This hammer is fully polished and forged from one piece of steel. The nylon-vinyl rubber grip is is molded and bonded to the hammer handle and it is also shock absorbing, tested and proven to reduce shock by 50%.
Specifications:
- Full length: 10.5 inches (26.5 centimeters)
- Head length: 3.4 inches (8.6 centimeters)
- Total weight: 2.5 pounds
- Head weight: 2 pounds
The shorter handled 2 pound hammer is versatile and will not disappoint.
Estwing B3-3LB Crack Hammer
The Estwing B3-3LB crack hammer (or drilling hammer) is prefect for cracking rocks or driving chisels. This hammer is fully polished and forged from one piece of steel. The nylon-vinyl rubber grip is molded and bonded to the hammer handle and it is also shock absorbing, tested and proven to reduce shock by 50%.
Specifications:
- Full length: 11 inches (28 centimeters)
- Head length: 3.9 inches (10 centimeters)
- Total weight: 3.5 pounds
- Head weight: 3 pounds
Not only is this hammer durable, it will last a very long time. It can take a beating, is great for all sorts of projects and is virtually indestructible.
Estwing B3-4LB Crack Hammer
The Estwing B3-4LB crack hammer (or drilling hammer) is prefect for cracking rocks or driving chisels. This hammer is fully polished and forged from one piece of steel. The nylon-vinyl rubber grip is molded and bonded to the hammer handle and it is also shock absorbing, tested and proven to reduce shock by 50%.
Specifications:
- Full length: 11.25 inches (28.5 centimeters)
- Head length: 4.9 inches (12.5 centimeters)
- Total weight: 4.4 pounds
- Head weight: 4 pounds
If you are serious about breaking rocks, driving chisels, or pounding stakes into the ground, then look into this hammer. There is nothing like having a lot of kinetic energy behind your swing to get the job done. It is fairly heavy compared to the other hammers but it is robust and will surely last a very long time.
Estwing B3-4LBL Long Handled Crack Hammer
The Estwing B3-4LBL crack hammer (or drilling hammer) is built for hard use and is almost on par with being a true sledge hammer. This hammer is fully polished and forged from one piece of steel. The nylon-vinyl rubber grip is molded and bonded to the hammer handle and it is also shock absorbing, tested and proven to reduce shock by 50%.
Specifications:
- Full length: 15.9 inches (40.4 centimeters)
- Head length: 4.9 inches (12.5 centimeters)
- Total weight: 5 pounds
- Head weight: 4 pounds
If you are looking for an industrial sized hammer, then the B3-4LBL is the hammer to get. It differs from the B3-4LB due to the fact that handle is longer. Nonetheless, this thing will break rock, drive chisels, and pound stakes into the ground without a problem. There is nothing like having a lot of kinetic energy behind your swing to get the job done. It is fairly heavy compared to the other hammers but it is robust and will surely last a very long time.
Estwing E6048E Engineers Hammer
The Estwing E6048E engineering hammer is made for heavier rock hammer use for tough, hard rock extraction work. This hammer is fully polished and forged from one piece of steel. The nylon-vinyl rubber grip is molded and bonded to the hammer handle and it is also shock absorbing, tested and proven to reduce shock by 50%.
Specifications:
- Full length: 16 inches (40.6 centimeters)
- Head length: 5 inches (12.7 centimeters)
- Total weight: 5 pounds
- Head weight 3 pounds
This hammer is similar to the Estwing Long Handled Crack Hammer (B3-4LBL) except the head is narrower and longer than the head on the crack hammer. The smaller face and longer head allows one to reach into places a hand sledge or drilling hammer would not. Given the size of this hammer, you can break or split rock with less force. It is fairly heavy compared to the other hammers but it is robust and will surely last a very long time.
Valley Soft-Touch 2.5lb Crack Hammer
The Valley Soft-Touch 2.5lb crack hammer is a one piece, drop forged, fully polished hammer. The handle is finger fitted, shock absorbent and non-slippery. Unlike the Estwing brand, this product is made in China.
Specifications:
- Full length: 10.75 inches (27.3 centimeters)
- Head length: 3.25 inches (8.25 centimeters)
- Total weight: 3 pounds
- Head weight: 2.5 pounds
Valley Soft-Touch 3lb Crack Hammer
The Valley Soft-Touch 3lb crack hammer is a one piece, drop forged, fully polished hammer. The handle finger fitted, shock absorbent and non-slippery. Unlike the Estwing brand, this product is made in China.
Specifications:
- Full length: 11 inches (28 centimeters)
- Head length: 4 inches (10 centimeters)
- Total weight: 3.5 pounds
- Head weight: 3 pounds
Valley Soft-Touch 4lb Crack Hammer
The Valley Soft-Touch 4lb crack hammer is a one piece, drop forged, fully polished hammer. The handle finger fitted, shock absorbent and non-slippery. Unlike the Estwing brand, this product is made in China.
Specifications:
- Full length: 11 inches (28 centimeters)
- Head length: 4 inches (10 centimeters)
- Total weight: 5 pounds
- Head weight: 4 pounds
Hybrid Hammers
Estwing E3-WC, 14-oz Big Blue Welding/Chipping Hammer
The Estwing E3-WC has both a pointed tip end and chisel end. The combination of the pick end and chisel end provides more accuracy for the removal of specimens or minerals from the rock matrices. As a result, this hammer is primarily used for mineral or fossil collection and not for breaking apart rocks in the field. Being an Estwing product, this hammer is fully polished and forged from one piece of steel. The nylon-vinyl rubber grip is also shock absorbing, tested and proven to reduce shock by 50%.
Specifications:
- Full length: 11 inches (28 centimeters)
- Head length: 7.5 inches (19 centimeters)
- Total weight: 1 pound and 7 ounces
- Head weight: 13 ounces
It is important to note that sheaths do not work with this hammer, mostly because the head of this hammer is uniquely shaped compared to most other rock hammers. Nonetheless, the Big Blue is top quality, well crafted, easy to swing, and very durable. If your primary use will be for chipping, welding, or both, then look into this hammer.
Estwing GP100 Paleo Geological Pick
After being out of production for several years, Estwing has started remaking this classic tool and it is better than ever. The GP100 handle has been redesigned, making the unit even stronger. The blade end is perfect for digging and the painted end is great for prying rocks or breaking up hard dirt. This tool includes a durable powder-coated finish and textured vinyl grip which reduces shock significantly.
Specifications:
- Total length: 25 inches (63.5 centimeters)
- Head length: 14 inches (35.5 centimeters)
- Total weight: 4 pounds
The GP100 is well balanced, easy to swing, and light, making it a very efficient tool! The design of the tip is also very meticulous. Due to the length, the GP100 is helpful for navigating steep slopes since it can be used like a walking stick. This product is sure to last a long time, no matter how often you use it. It is the overall perfect hammer for digging and rock hounding.
