Bell System Lineman's Hammer - Looks Good for Setting-Swaging

[MangoBoy]

29 August 2023

I just bought a “Bell System Lineman’s Hammer” on eBay for $28.80 including S&H and tax.

The same or similar hammers are currently eBay-listed as:
“Mini Sledge 9" Hammer Tapered Peen Sledge Blacksmith forging metalwork Used”
“Bell System Style Linesman Round Peen Hammer Good Shape Working Tool”
“Vintage Bell System Hammer Tapered Peen Sledge Linesman Blacksmith Hammer”

The head is about 1 lb., the small hardened face is 1/2 inch diameter, the large hardened face is
1 inch diameter, and the handle is just under 8 inches long.

I haven’t tried it yet, but t looks and feels pretty good for a setting/swaging hammer.

The price was certainly better than what I’ve seen for saw setting hammers.

[Jim_Thode]

That is an interesting hammer. The small face is similar in size to a normal swaging hammer but the larger body may get in the way some.

I added a little relief on my home made hammer and I see little divots from adjacent points on well used swaging hammers.

[MangoBoy]

Narrowing the hammer back of the face is a good idea.

I remember a big mistake with an adjacent tooth.

And there are several ball peen hammers lying around here somewhere.