How do I keep from missing a nail with a hammer when I hit it? (Please don't laugh)?
I have to use both hands while holding a hammer and I still keep missing the nail and I can't hit it hard enough to make the nail go into the wood.
I have to use both hands while holding a hammer and I still keep missing the nail and I can't hit it hard enough to make the nail go into the wood.
TALLEYMAN
Favorite Answer
They make hammers with magnets in the end on top.I use a stilleto but they are pretty pricey. Alot of the framing hammers you buy today have that feature. It will have a groove in the top that holds the nail. Then you can hold it with both hands and give it heck. It will start it for you then continue hitting with both hands.
Ashrightuk
I'm an electrician and therefore do this every day: where a glove on your hand that u r holding the nail with (so it doesn't hurt as bad), hold the hammer near the end of its grip, (away from the head of the hammer) lock your wrist that u r holding the hammer with in a position u feel comfortable. Tap the nail whilst holding it, until it can holding its own weight, then when it can remove ur hand and hit it as hard as u feel necessary. Do not use your wrist to move the hammer use your forearm, only practise can make u not miss... -And make sure u r using the correct hammer for the job ie a 16 ounce Claw Hammer not a 32ounce Lump hammer
Choppygutz
Hold the nail with one hand and the hammer with the other. Don't hold the hammer close to the head. Take a big swing and hit the nail. Don't be afraid.
dsgrieve
It is harder to hit a nail using two hands. You could try a lighter hammer - but lighter hammers don't have the momentum to drive a larger nail. You can also try choking up on the hammer (moving your hand toward the head). Get a good swing at it, but don't swing your whole arm, just from your elbow. Imagine your forearm is an extension of the tool's handle. Then practice, practice, practice.
QaHearts
You can try a lighter hammer so you don't need to use both hands. Also, you may not be able to hit a nail at all. Seriously, you may not have the hand / eye coordination. Before I went to design school, I thought everyone could cut on a drawn line. The first day of class, the first thing we did was cut on a straight, squiggly and zig zag line. Seven people were told they couldn't go through the program and they were given their money back because they couldn't cut on the line.