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Replacing a hammer handle may sound simple, but choosing the wrong fit can ruin your tool. The key is understanding eye size, eye shape, and handle length. With your VAUGHAN hammer, the right handle ensures performance, safety, and durability.
Why Eye Size Matters
The eye size is the opening in the hammer head where the handle fits. A handle that is too small will loosen quickly. A handle that is too large won’t fit at all. Always measure the length and width of the eye opening before ordering your replacement handle.
Understanding Hammer Eye Shapes
Not all hammer heads have the same eye shape. Choosing a handle that matches your eye type is critical.
The most common shapes include:
Teardrop eye – Found in many claw hammers, with a rounded end tapering to a point
Oval eye – Widely used in sledgehammers and heavier striking tools
Flat oval eye – Offers more stability in framing and striking hammers
Rectangle eye – Common in blacksmith and specialty hammers
Choosing the Right Handle Length
Handle length affects control, swing, balance, and comfort. A longer handle provides more power but less accuracy. Shorter handles allow precision but reduce striking force. VAUGHAN hammers are well-balanced based off their head weight and handle length. When buying a replacement handle, always match the length to the original hammer design.
Steps to Replace a Hammer Handle
For a step-by-step guide, check out our previous Workshop post: Give Your Vaughan Hammer New Life or watch the video below:
Choosing the right replacement hammer handle comes down to three things: eye size, eye shape, and handle length. Check out our Replacement Handles Guide (link to m.com) to see which handle is best for your VAUGHAN hammer.
FAQ: Hammer Replacement Handles
Q: How do I measure hammer eye size?
A: Measure the inside of the hammer head where the handle fits. Record both the length and width of the eye. Always measure the widest points for accuracy.
Q: Which hammer eye shape do I have?
A: Look at the opening in the hammer head. If it’s rounded on one end and pointed on the other, it’s teardrop. Rectangular eyes have straight edges. Oval eyes are rounded, while flat oval eyes are elongated with flatter sides.
Q: Can I replace a VAUGHAN hammer handle with a generic one?
A: For best results, use VAUGHAN replacement handles, which are designed to fit their hammers perfectly.
Q: Can I replace a generic hammer handle with a Vaughan one?
A: Yes, VAUGHAN replacement handles can be used with other brands on the market. It is important to understand Eye Size, Eye Shape, and Handle Length prior to buying a replacement handle.
Q: What length hammer handle should I choose?
A: Match the length of your original handle. Longer handles give more power, while shorter handles provide control. Using the wrong length can affect balance and safety.
Q: Do all hammer handles come with wedges?
A: Most quality replacement handles, including VAUGHAN handles, come with wedges. Wedges secure the handle inside the eye to prevent loosening.
