My cross-peen hammer head won't stay put after a handle swap

I switched out the old handle for a new hickory one last week. No matter how hard I pound the wedge in, it loosens up after a short time at the anvil. What's the deal with getting a solid, lasting fit?

3 comments

3 Comments

nathanwalker1mo ago

Last summer I fought with my own cross-peen for weeks after a handle change. I mean, the key for me was soaking the new hickory handle in linseed oil overnight before even putting the head on. Idk, maybe it's just me but that lets the wood swell up a bit and grip tighter. Then when you drive the wedge in, really pound it until the top of the handle mushrooms out. If it still loosens, try cutting a deeper slot for the wedge or adding a second one made from a piece of old hacksaw blade.

andrew8501mo ago

Forget quick fixes and check your basic setup first. I see guys rush the head seating to start swinging, and that weak foundation always fails under real stress. It's the same with most things, where skipping the boring first step makes the whole job fall apart later.

the_robin1mo ago

Might not be driving the wedge deep enough. Try shaping the handle top more so it splits wider, then add a second metal wedge.