SLEDGEHAMMER

A 'sledgehammer' is a tool that consists of a large, flat head attached to a lever (or handle). The head is typically made of metal. The sledgehammer can apply more impulse than other hammers due to its large size. Along with the mallet, it shares the ability to distribute force over a wide area. This is in contrast to other types of hammer, which concentrate force in a relatively small area.

The handle is over half a meter long and, typically, is a full meter long; the head masses at least one kilogram and, typically is three kilograms. Sledgehammers usually require two hands and a swinging motion involving the entire torso; in contrast, smaller hammers used for driving in nails are held by a single hand and only one arm is swung. The combination of a long swinging range and heavy head increases the momentum preceding the resulting impact.
Sledgehammers are used in construction work especially for breaking through drywall or masonry walls. Sledgehammers are also used when one needs to apply a lot of force to dislodge a stuck object (often on farms or in oilfield work). They are also used for driving fencing posts into the ground.
In the United States, 10 and 20 pound sledgehammers are common. A 20 pound sledgehammer can break an unreinforced 8 inch concrete wall.

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Other meanings

Popular Culture

See also

External links

Other meanings

The word ''sledgehammer'' is often used in hyperbole to suggest that the artless use of sufficient force is just to get a job done.
Sledgehammer is also the nickname of famous journalist Steven Vincent.

Popular Culture

WWE wrestler Triple H commonly uses a sledgehammer in his matches. It has become a trademark for "The Game" or "The King of Kings", and some of his action figures come equipped with them. However when he uses the sledgehammer he places his hand in front of it before hitting his opponent so no major damage is done.

See also

★ War hammer

★ Maul

External links

★ ''The Sledgehammer: How It Works'', a humorous essay by Steve Martin