Best Tack Hammers of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 4, 2025

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Tack hammers are a versatile tool used in various applications, including upholstery, woodworking, and crafting. These hammers have a small head and a short handle, making them ideal for precise tapping and nailing. They are designed to drive small nails, tacks, and brads into different materials without damaging them. Tack hammers are available in different sizes and shapes, allowing users to choose the one that suits their needs. They are commonly used by professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike, making them a must-have tool in any toolbox.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Estwing Sure Strike Tack Hammer - MRWT Cover #TOP 1
Estwing Sure Strike Tack Hammer - MRWT
ftb score rating icon 9.8
IVY Classic 15005 Magnetic Tack Hammer Cover #TOP 2
IVY Classic 15005 Magnetic Tack Hammer
ftb score rating icon 9.7
INTERTOOL Tack Hammer HT08-0202 Cover #TOP 3
INTERTOOL Tack Hammer HT08-0202
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Tack Hammers

#TOP 1

Estwing Sure Strike Tack Hammer - MRWT

MRWT
Wood
Estwing Sure Strike Tack Hammer - MRWT Cover
ESTWING Sure Strike Tack Hammer - 5 oz Forged Steel Head with Magnetic Face & Hickory Wood Handle - MRWT

The Estwing Tack Hammer is a professional-grade tool designed for maximum strength and durability. With its forged steel head, this hammer is built to handle a lifetime of hard work. The unique triple wedge construction ensures stability and precision by securely fastening the head to the hickory handle. The polished, magnetic, smooth face of the hammer allows for one-handed, fast, accurate, and convenient nailing, thanks to its ability to hold and set tacks. Whether you're an upholsterer, framer, finisher, roofer, carpenter, contractor, or serious DIYer, this hammer is the ultimate tool for you. Its genuine hickory handle provides a lightweight feel that fits comfortably in your hand, ensuring control and comfort. The Estwing Tack Hammer is not only perfect for professional use but also makes a great addition to any kitchen drawer.

What We Like
Durable
Precise
Convenient
#TOP 2

IVY Classic 15005 Magnetic Tack Hammer

15005
Brown
IVY Classic 15005 Magnetic Tack Hammer Cover
IVY Classic 15005 5 oz. Magnetic Tack Hammer with Contoured Hickory Handle, Brown

The IVY Classic Magnetic Tack Hammer is the perfect tool for upholsterers, framers, finishers, and carpenters. Its drop-forged head features a magnetized split-end that securely holds and inserts tacks, while the rectangular head on the other end is designed for driving the tack home. With its magnetic tack starter, you can easily hold and center tacks for fast, accurate, and convenient one-handed nailing. The durable hickory handle is lacquered and contoured for a comfortable grip, providing vibration absorption and reducing fatigue during use. This hammer's 25 oz. head weight and 10-1/2" length make it a reliable and versatile choice for various applications.

What We Like
Holds and drives tacks
Magnetized split-end for easy tack insertion
Magnetic tack starter for one-handed nailing
#TOP 3

INTERTOOL Tack Hammer HT08-0202

HT-0202
Red, Black
INTERTOOL Tack Hammer HT08-0202 Cover
INTERTOOL 7 oz. Tack Hammer, Jewelers Small Cross Peen Hammer, Upholstery, Riveting, Jewelry, Tinners, 11” Shock Absorbing Fiberglass Handle HT08-0202

The INTERTOOL Tack Hammer is a versatile lightweight multi-tool designed for small tasks and projects. Whether you need to spread rivet heads, bend and flatten sheet metal, repair furniture, work on jewelry, or install small fasteners, this hammer has got you covered. It is forged with quality steel, ensuring durability, and is coated with an anti-corrosive protectant. The smooth polished face and wedge provide accurate contact for precise work. The impact-absorbing fiberglass handle with a non-slip rubberized grip minimizes shock to your hand and arm. With its balanced weight distribution, you can leverage powerful strikes when needed, while also having control for soft strikes on small nails or delicate pieces. The INTERTOOL Tack Hammer is the perfect tool for a wide range of tasks, and INTERTOOL is always available to quickly resolve any issues and address your needs.

What We Like
Versatile
Durable
Shock-absorbing handle
#TOP 4

Century Drill & Tool 72280 Magnetized Tack Hammer

72280
Brown
Century Drill & Tool 72280 Magnetized Tack Hammer Cover
Century Drill & Tool 72280 Magnetized Tack Hammer, 5-Ounce

The Century Drill & Tool 72280 Magnetized Tack Hammer is a lightweight hammer designed for setting tacks on all types of wood. With an overall length of 11", this hammer is easy to handle and comes with a magnetized head for added convenience.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to handle
Suitable for all types of wood
Magnetized head for added convenience

Mr. Pen 8oz Hammer

HM06NL
Yellow
Mr. Pen 8oz Hammer Cover
Mr. Pen- Hammer, 8oz, Small, Camping Claw Hammer, Stubby Tack Hammer, Hammers Tools, Nail Hammer for Women, Magnetic Handy Hammer, Teal Hammer For Kids

The Mr. Pen 8oz Hammer is a high-density carbon steel hammer with an ergonomic non-slip soft handle. It features a magnetic nail starter and hammer claw for easy nail removal, making it ideal for woodworking and DIY projects. It's perfect size and weight make it easy to carry and use in tight spaces.

What We Like
Compact and adorable
Perfect size for smaller hands
Sturdy construction
Comfortable grip
Affordable price
#TOP 6

Draper 19724 Upholstery Magnetic Tack Hammer

19724
Blue
Draper 19724 Upholstery Magnetic Tack Hammer Cover
Draper 19724 Upholstery Magnetic Tack Hammer with Hickory Handle, 7oz

The Draper 19724 Upholstery Magnetic Tack Hammer features a magnetic face that makes it easy to pick up and hold tacks or nails. The forged fine grain high carbon steel head ensures durability and long-lasting performance. The hammer is magnetised with a keeper on the fork to keep the tacks or nails firmly in place, making it a reliable tool for upholstery work.

What We Like
Durable and long-lasting
Easy to pick up and hold tacks or nails
Reliable tool for upholstery work
#TOP 7

C.S. Osborne #222 Magnetic Tack Hammer

C.S. Osborne #222 Magnetic Tack Hammer Cover
C.S. Osborne #222 Magnetic Tack Hammer

The C.S. Osborne #222 Magnetic Tack Hammer is a high-quality tack hammer made in the USA. It has a 9 1/2" wooden handle and a 5 1/2" forged steel head with a fully polished split head. This tack hammer is ideal for those who demand precision and accuracy when working with tacks.

What We Like
Made in the USA with high quality materials
Precise and accurate with a fully polished split head
Wooden handle provides a comfortable grip
#TOP 8

General Tech Intl 2257897 Tack Hammer 5 Oz.

2257897
No Color
One Size
General Tech Intl 2257897 Tack Hammer 5 Oz. Cover
General Tech Intl 2257897 Tack Hammer 5 Oz.

The General Tech Tack Hammer is designed to provide comfort and control for the user. Its grip is tailored to fit the user's hand, ensuring a comfortable and secure hold. The polished, smooth face of the hammer allows for easy and accurate nailing, making it convenient for one-handed use. This hammer is perfect for a variety of professionals, including upholster shops, framers, finishers, roofers, carpenters, contractors, and serious DIYers. Additionally, the sanded and lacquered finish adds to its durability and comfort. The solid head of the hammer is beautifully polished and rim tempered, reducing the risk of chipping or spalling. With its ergonomic design and reliable construction, the General Tech Tack Hammer is the ultimate tool for any job.

What We Like
Comfortable grip
Smooth face for accurate nailing
Perfect for various professionals
#TOP 9

C.S. Osborne Magnetic Tack Hammer #36

CS-36
Bronze
C.S. Osborne Magnetic Tack Hammer #36 Cover
C.S. Osborne Bronze Nylon Tip Magnetic Tack Hammer #36 Upholstery Tool

The C.S. Osborne Tack Hammer is designed for tasks requiring a gentle touch. Its solid bronze head features a large striking face with a nylon tip, making it ideal for upholstery work without damaging delicate materials. The permanent magnet on the opposite end allows you to easily pick up and position tacks, enhancing your efficiency. With a lacquered hickory handle, this tool not only feels good in your hand but also offers durability. Made in the USA, this hammer exemplifies fine craftsmanship, ensuring that you get a reliable tool for your projects.

What We Like
Durable bronze construction
Nylon tip for soft strikes
Magnetic end for convenience
Comfortable hickory handle
Made in the USA
#TOP 10

Yansanido 11 OZ Claw Hammer

medium
Yansanido 11 OZ Claw Hammer Cover
11 OZ Claw Hammer, Forged Steel Stubby Tack Hammer with Shock Absorbing Leather Handle for Driving and Pulling Out Nails (S)

The Yansanido Claw Hammer is a versatile tool designed for driving and removing nails with ease. Made from durable forged steel, its sturdy construction ensures it can handle tough tasks. The hammer features a unique ram's horn design, which is particularly effective for pulling out nails, providing you with extra leverage. Weighing in at 11 ounces, it strikes a balance between lightweight and powerful, making it comfortable to use for extended periods. Additionally, the shock-absorbing leather handle enhances grip and reduces vibrations, allowing you to work more efficiently whether at home, outdoors, or in industrial settings.

What We Like
Durable forged steel
Effective ram's horn design
Comfortable leather handle
Lightweight for easy use
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a tack hammer used for?

A tack hammer, also known as an upholstery hammer, is a lightweight hammer used specifically for securing upholstery fabric to furniture frames. It is used to drive tacks or small nails into the furniture frames to hold the fabric in place.

2. Why do tack hammers have a split head?

Tack hammers have a split head with a magnetized split end. This design allows users to easily pick up small upholstery tacks and safely start them without risking their fingers. The split end creates both north and south poles in the same half of the head, enabling the tack to be held securely in the center of the magnetized face.

3. What small specialty hammer is used to drive tacks?

The small specialty hammer used to drive tacks is called a tack hammer or an upholstery hammer. It is a lightweight tool specifically designed for driving upholstery into furniture or surfaces. Most tack hammers have two faces, with one side split and magnetized to help users accurately place tacks.

4. How do you hammer tacks?

Hammering tacks with a tack hammer is similar to using any other hammer, but with less force. Tacks and small nails do not require much force to be hammered in. The key is to use steady and precise tapping. A variation of a small multi-purpose hand-held hammer called the Mini Combination Hammer can also be used for this purpose.

Editor's Notes

During our tack hammer research, we found 24 tack hammer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 59,539 customer reviews through our big data system to write the tack hammers list. We found that most customers choose tack hammers with an average price of $11.50.

The tack hammers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of tack hammers, including Estwing, IVY Classic, INTERTOOL, Century Drill & Tool, Mr. Pen. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 60 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.