Suzanne Knorr
I have an old blacksmith hammer, and no idea how old it is. There’s no marking on it. Any information is welcome! jpeg jpeg jpeg
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Suzanne Knorr
There’s some cracks right at the top of the handle too. Should I not use it?
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jmccustomknives
I'm not convinced it's a hammer.  The handle itself is pretty small.  I think it may be a striking tool instead.  Probably special made for a specific task.  As far as age goes, it's difficult to tell without some tests.  One good test would be a spark test to see if the body is wrought iron or steel.  Wrought would mean it was well over 100 years old. 

If it's just a trick of the pics about the size of the handle in proportion to the hammer cracks that are deep can cause failure.

Rule #10;  "I can make that" translates to; "I'm to cheap to buy it new."

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mtforge
I was thinking the same thing. Looks more like a tool that is struck with a hammer. Maybe a drift?
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Norseman C.B.
Could possibly be an old rock hound hammer .......
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jmccustomknives
Norseman C.B. wrote:
Could possibly be an old rock hound hammer .......


When I first saw it that's what I thought too.  Right now I'm torn 50/50 between striking and rock hound.

Rule #10;  "I can make that" translates to; "I'm to cheap to buy it new."

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Hank Rearden
I'm with the stone mason.
code[Maglio.gif]  Keep the fires burning hot!
ABANA is making Johnstown PA. It's new home. An April meet is in the works.
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confederatemule
Am I the only person who thinks the handle is not original to that head? I believe the handle is second hand.

Mule
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mtforge
The handle could be third or fourth hand. I tend to have to replace handle a lot.
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Marc
Not a forging hammer but possibly a repousse hammer. The handle is of course irrelevant since it is replaced as many times as necessary. 
The government cannot give to anybody anything that the government does not first take from somebody else.
Adrian Pierce Rogers
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shreejisteelcorp

Certainly, trying to determine the age of a blacksmith hammer without any markings can be a bit challenging, but there are a few general characteristics and features you can look for that might give you some clues. When discussing this on a forum, you could mention the following points and see if other members can provide insights:

  1. Style and Design:

    • Describe the overall design and shape of the hammer. Different time periods and regions often had distinct styles in blacksmithing tools. Pay attention to the shape of the head, the length of the handle, and any specific details like decorative elements or forging techniques.
  2. Material:

    • Mention the material of the hammer. Older hammers might be made of different types of steel or iron, and the quality of the metal can sometimes offer clues about its age. Note any signs of rust, corrosion, or patina, as these can also indicate the hammer's age.
  3. Handle Construction:

    • Describe the handle. Older hammers might have handles made from materials like wood or even leather. The style of the handle, whether it's straight or has a curve, can also provide some hints about the era in which it was made.
  4. Weight:

    • Note the weight of the hammer. Different time periods favored different weights for blacksmith hammers, and this can be a useful detail in gauging its age.
  5. Any Unique Features:

    • If there are any unique features or characteristics that stand out, make sure to mention them. For example, if the hammer has a specific shape to the peen (the side opposite the face), or if there are any marks that may not be a manufacturer's mark but could be indicative of a specific blacksmith's work.
  6. Local History:

    • Consider the history of the area where you found the hammer. If it has a local or regional history, that might provide some context. Blacksmithing styles and techniques often varied by region.
  7. Seek Expert Opinions:

    • If possible, consult with local blacksmiths or experts who specialize in antique tools. They may have a better eye for the nuances of tool construction and could provide more specific information.

Remember, identifying the exact age of a tool without markings can be challenging, and any information gathered from a forum should be taken as suggestions rather than definitive answers. The collective knowledge and experience of the forum members can still offer valuable insights into the potential age and origin of your blacksmith hammer.

 
 
 
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Marc
The government cannot give to anybody anything that the government does not first take from somebody else.
Adrian Pierce Rogers
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