What is a ball-peen hammer?

• A. A hammer with a magnetic head and curved claw.
• B. A hammer with a round point on one end and a flat head on the other end.
• C. A rubber-faced hammer used for delicate surfaces.
• D. A mallet used for bending metal.

Answer: (B)

A ball-peen hammer is a hammer that has a round, hemispherical end on one side and a flat striking face on the other. The rounded end is used for peening and shaping metal—creaming, upsetting, or forming rivet heads—without tearing the material, while the flat face drives or aligns parts. This combination is what makes it distinct from other hammers: a claw hammer has a curved claw for nail removal, a rubber-faced hammer protects delicate surfaces, and a mallet is used for gentler shaping with minimal surface impact.