Quick answer
Choose the Fretz HMR-8 narrow raising hammer for precise embossing on long thin shapes, and the Fretz HMR-409 wide hammer for broad concave shapes and direct chasing.
Face shape and application
The main difference between these two Fretz hammers is the face shape and how it affects your metal forming. The narrow raising hammer has a long, narrow face (19mm x 6mm) that creates smoother overlapping marks on long thin shapes. The wide hammer has a broader face (13mm x 6mm and 13mm x 4.5mm) that produces subtle oval marks on flat sheet and is better for sinking small curves.
Size and handling
Both hammers have a 220mm handle length, but the head length differs. The narrow raising hammer has a 73mm head, while the wide hammer has a 63mm head. The narrow hammer is classified as medium type, while the wide hammer is a mini type. This affects the weight and swing dynamics, with the narrow hammer providing more control for detailed work.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Narrow raising hammer (HMR-8): Best for long thin shapes and narrow pod or oblong embossing. The 19mm x 6mm face creates smoother overlapping marks than a round embossing hammer.
- Wide hammer (HMR-409): Best for broad concave shapes, direct chasing, and sinking small curves. The dual faces (13mm x 6mm and 13mm x 4.5mm) produce subtle oval marks on flat sheet.
- Key trade-off: The narrow hammer offers precision on thin shapes, while the wide hammer provides broader coverage and subtler marks on larger surfaces. Choose based on whether your project requires fine detail or broad shaping.
Product facts
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Rounded Narrow Raising Hammer, Fretz HMR-8: The Rounded Narrow Raising Hammer can emboss narrow pod or oblong shapes with smoother overlapping marks. This makes it ideal for creating precise, elongated embossed patterns on thin metal strips.
Rounded Narrow Raising Hammer, Fretz HMR-8
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Rounded Wide Hammer, Fretz Precisionsmith HMR-409: The Precisionsmith Rounded Wide Hammer is for broad concave shapes and direct chasing, with subtle hammer marks. It allows you to shape larger curves and sink small curves smoothly without leaving deep marks.
Rounded Wide Hammer, Fretz Precisionsmith HMR-409
Which one fits your work?
Best for
- Jewelry makers forming long thin shapes like pod or oblong embossing
- Metalworkers needing precise, controlled marks on narrow strips
Not for
- Large concave shaping or direct chasing where a broader face is more efficient
- Projects requiring subtle, wide marks on flat sheet