Striking metal stamps with a regular hammer or other tools not made specifically for metal stamping can take its toll on your artwork and the longevity of your stamps themselves. The Brass head of this hammer provides a soft but strong striking surface elimination double impressions. The one pound weight of the hammer’s head also provides optimal weight for deep impressions. The hammer can be used on a standard work table but we highly suggest using a small anvil or steel bench block. Brass hammers may flake when striking however this lengthens the life of the stamp by taking the brunt of the hammer blow.