TM 9-243
SAFETY - Continued
Specific Steps to Take
1.
Make sure handle (1) is tight in head (2).
Do not tape a cracked handle.
REPLACE IT.
2.
Make sure wedges (3) are in handle (1), keeping
head (2) tight on handle.
USE ONLY CORRECT WEDGES.
3.
Make sure striking face (4) and ball peen (5) are free
of oil.
USING HAMMERS
The proper way to hold any hammer is near the end of
the handle. The handle is shaped for gripping without
slipping from your grasp at this position, and gives the
best control and impact with least effort. Strike nail or
tool squarely and on center to prevent the hammer from
glancing off.
The wrist and arm motion depends on the power of the
impact required. Small nails require light blows almost
entirely from a wrist motion. Heavy blows, needed, to
drive a large nail or other similar task, come from the
wrist, forearm and shouIder.
21-9
