The head is connected to a long handle, usually made of wood, plastic or fiberglass. The handle is used to hold the hammer and transfer the impact force to the head. There may be a grip strap in the middle of the handle to provide a better grip.
The hammer is used primarily for driving nails, using the flat striking surface. With the pointed edge or V-shaped notch, the hammer can also be used to break off materials such as concrete or tile.
There are several types of hammers designed for specific tasks. These include, for example, the locksmith's hammer, the mason's hammer, the claw hammer and the sledge hammer. Each variant has specific characteristics that make them suitable for certain crafts.