While picking a sledgehammer may seem like an easy task, a lot depends on the type of work you're undertaking and the environment you're working in. That's why we've put together this handy buying guide to help you pick the best Sledgehammer for your needs.
Whether you're looking to knock in fence posts, hammer stakes into the ground, or need a heavy-duty sledgehammer to demolish concrete and brick, there's something for everyone. We've ranked the 10 best sledgehammers available online in the UK, comparing top brands like Rolson, Silverline, and Draper.
Quick List - Top Sledgehammers
Roughneck
A Professional Grade Sledgehammer That’s Suitable for Any Environment
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The most important thing to consider when picking a sledgehammer is making sure you have plenty of space to swing in the area you're working in. If you're doing work in the garden, like driving in fence posts or ground stakes, you won't have to worry too much, but for inside demolition jobs, your working room may be restricted.
Combined with the weight of the head, the length of the sledgehammer determines how much force you're able to generate. The heavier options tend to be around 90 cm in length as a longer shaft makes heavier weights easier to swing in an arc. Just make sure you have enough space to swing comfortably - having double the length of the hammer should be enough!
If you're knocking down walls, don't forget to wear a pair of safety glasses!
It may seem strange to use pounds (lbs) in the UK, but that's the universal measure for a Sledgehammer's weight worldwide. Hammers usually range from 3 lbs (approx 1.4 kg) all the way up to 14 lbs (6.4 kg) so there can be quite a difference between the lighter and heavier ends of the scale.
The more weight (combined with the length) the more powerful the impact. However, it's important to be careful of what you can safely manage. You'll want to choose a hammer that's not too light for the job you have in mind, but not too heavy to swing.
Although it may be hard to gauge, you should consider your own upper body strength. Pick a weight you can comfortably lift with one hand, even though you should use two hands to swing.
While the head of a sledgehammer is almost always made from steel, the shaft will likely be made from either fibreglass or hardwood, like hickory, ash or maple. When it comes to handles, the jury is still out on which is better between the two, as much of it comes down to personal preference and how you store and use your tools.
The main benefit of a wooden handle is that it's very easy to repair or replace and, when properly maintained, will last a very long time. If they're not properly maintained and stored they can be damaged by rain and other elements. Fibreglass handles, on the other hand, are completely weatherproof, meaning that they won't swell or crack. If they do break, however, they are almost impossible to repair and will have to be replaced.
Keep all your tools handy with a tool belt!
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Roughneck Sledgehammer|ROU65633 | ![]() | A Professional Grade Sledgehammer That’s Suitable for Any Environment | |
2 | Staplefords Sledgehammer | ![]() | A Handcrafted Hickory Sledgehammer Made in England | |
3 | Roughneck Mini Sledgehammer|ROU65622 | ![]() | A Durable One-Handed Hammer With Shock Absorbing Grip | |
4 | Tooltime Sledgehammer with Fibreglass Shaft | ![]() | A Great All-Rounder to Have in the Tool Cupboard | |
5 | Silverline Sledgehammer | ![]() | A Heavy 14 lb Hammer With Serious Smashing Power | |
6 | Rolson Sledgehammer | ![]() | Budget-Friendly Sledgehammer for Home and Garden DIY | |
7 | Meister Sledgehammer|2204500 | ![]() | A Small Hardwood Hammer that's Great for Striking | |
8 | Draper Sledgehammer|81430 | ![]() | A Powerful 14 lb Option With a Carbon Steel Head | |
9 | Silverline Fibreglass Sledgehammer | ![]() | 10 lb Fibreglass Sledgehammer Suitable for Occasional Use | |
10 | Rolson Sledgehammer | ![]() | Light and Long Hammer for Those Who Find Lifting Difficult |
This Roughneck Sledgehammer is perfectly suited to even the hardiest professional work environments thanks to its drop forged, alloy steel hammerhead. Combined with the handle's overstrike protection, and solid fibreglass core, it makes for an extremely sturdy tool.
This sledgehammer from Staplefords is handcrafted in England, pairing a reinforced forged steel head with a hardwood hickory handle. At 8 lbs, it's heavy enough to handle tough tasks, while not being too much for the average user to lift thanks to the long 91 cm handle.
If you're planning on working outside, whether to knock down stone walls, break up paving, or knock-in fence posts, the size and weight are just right. There's also something very aesthetically pleasing about the beautifully crafted handle.
Roughneck are one of the best brands when it comes to making durable sledgehammers that can handle a rugged working environment. Just like our number one pick, this also has a heat-treated drop forged steel hammerhead.
Its shock-absorbing grip and small size make it great for working in compact spaces where your movements are restricted, such as knocking out bathroom tiles. If you need to carefully demolish internal walls without causing larger-scale damage, this is well worth picking up.
This fibreglass sledgehammer from Tooltime sits in a nice position between the lighter, one-handed hammers and the longer, heavier options. At 79 cm and 6 lbs, this is a great all-rounder to have in your tool cupboard, and well worth picking up for the price if you don't already own a sledge.
The comfortable rubber grip handle and shock-absorbing fibreglass shaft mean that using this hammer isn't too hard on the hands if you're not used to physical work. A bargain pickup that won't disappoint!
This sledgehammer from Silverline has a powder-coated head and polished striking faces to protect it from the elements. The hardwood handle is made from fully varnished ash that's both water and dirt resistant.
The main thing to take note of is the heavy 14 lb weight. While it will take some upper body strength to wield, this is a very powerful sledgehammer suitable for working outdoors or demolishing masonry. If you have a thick concrete patio or something similar you need to remove, this is the hammer to go for.
If you're looking for a small, budget-friendly sledgehammer to use around the home and garden, then this offering from Rolson is the best of the bunch. It's relatively lightweight at 3 lbs, while still having a long enough handle to make sure your hands are well away from the head.
This hammer makes a great choice if you're planning on undertaking any DIY projects inside the home, or are looking to bulk up your tool collection for when the need for one arises. At this size and weight, most people shouldn't have any trouble using it, but it isn't the most powerful or durable option around.
This little sledgehammer from Meister is the smallest on our list and, due to its size, is much less likely to break than other hardwood options. The comparatively large striking surface makes this one best suited to striking a chisel or stakes.
Its small size is both its greatest strength and its weakness as, although easy to use and lift, you can't generate much power making it less than ideal for demolition purposes. However, for a handy tool to use in the garden or when camping, this is a quality option.
Draper is a well-known brand in the world of hand tools, and this powerful 14 lb sledgehammer is perfect for any heavy-duty work you have in mind around the house or garden. Whether it's breaking down some rubble or dislodging trapped items, this is a hefty tool.
As a heavier option, not everyone will be able to use this hammer so it's important that you're able to lift it comfortably with one hand. It's also not the most versatile option, but if you're looking for power, it's a fantastic choice.
There's a lot to like about this 10 lb fibreglass sledgehammer from Silverline, especially the extra-long nylon cushioning around the handle and powder coated head. This is a solid and sturdy sledgehammer that's suited for demolition.
While it may not be up to the rigours of a hazardous professional environment, it makes a great choice for DIY enthusiasts and handymen. If you're looking for a hammer that will see occasional rather than regular use, this is a fine choice.
If you struggle with heavier tools, then this 6 lb sledgehammer from Rolson makes a great choice thanks to its length. It's not going to break the bank, and works wonders for general use when the situation calls for a hearty whack!
As a more budget-friendly option, the build quality may not be up to the highest standards, and the rubber handle means that gloves are a necessity. It may be a little rough around the edges, but it still does the job!
No. 1: Roughneck|Sledgehammer|ROU65633
No. 2: Staplefords|Sledgehammer
No. 3: Roughneck|Mini Sledgehammer|ROU65622
No. 4: Tooltime|Sledgehammer with Fibreglass Shaft
No. 5: Silverline|Sledgehammer
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