Striking Tools

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A striking tool is a very basic hand tool consisting of a weighted head attached to a handle. Some examples of striking tools are as follows:

Sledgehammer (8, 10, 16 pounds)

Maul

Battering Ram

Pick

Flat-head Axe

Mallet/Hammer

Punch

Chisel

In certain instances, a striking tool is the only tool required. However, in most forcible entry situations, the striking tool is used in conjunction with another tool to effect entry. As common as they are, striking tools are dangerous when improperly used, carried, or maintained. Striking tools can crush fingers, toes, and other body parts. Improperly maintained striking surfaces may cause chips or splinters of metal to fly into the air. Proper eye protection must be used when using striking tools

The sledgehammer or maul is commonly found in several sizes with the 10-pound sledge/maul being the most common and versatile. Other sizes include the 8-, 12-, and 16-pound versions. The 10-pound sledge/maul is sometimes carried with the Halligan Bar to again form a set of "Irons," like the Halligan Bar and Axe combination. The 16-pound sledge/maul is considerably too heavy to drive other tools such as the Halligan and is sometimes used to break in doors and locks. Fiberglass handles are recommended over wooden handles for strength and safety.

A striking tool is a very basic hand tool consisting of a weighted head attached to a handle. Some examples of striking tools are as follows:
Sledgehammer (8, 10, 16 pounds) Maul Battering Ram Pick		Flat-head Axe Mallet/Hammer Punch Chisel
In certain instances, a striking tool is the only tool required. However, in most forcible entry situations, the striking tool is used in conjunction with another tool to effect entry. As common as they are, striking tools are dangerous when improperly used, carried, or maintained. Striking tools can crush fingers, toes, and other body parts. Improperly maintained striking surfaces may cause chips or splinters of metal to fly into the air. Proper eye protection must be used when using striking tools
The sledgehammer or maul is commonly found in several sizes with the 10-pound sledge/maul being the most common and versatile. Other sizes include the 8-, 12-, and 16-pound versions. The 10-pound sledge/maul is sometimes carried with the Halligan Bar to again form a set of "Irons," like the Halligan Bar and Axe combination. The 16-pound sledge/maul is considerably too heavy to drive other tools such as the Halligan and is sometimes used to break in doors and locks. Fiberglass handles are recommended over wooden handles for strength and safety.