What distinguishes a rawhide hammer from others?

A rawhide hammer is specifically designed to have a soft head that effectively prevents surface damage. The unique construction of this hammer, typically made from layers of rawhide or a similar malleable material, allows it to absorb shock and distribute impact without marking or denting the surfaces being worked on. This characteristic makes it particularly useful in automotive and woodworking applications where maintaining the integrity of the workpiece is crucial, especially on softer metals or finished surfaces.

The soft head is ideal for applications like tapping on metal panels, assembling delicate components, or when a gentle touch is required to avoid damaging the detail or finish of a project. This quality stands in contrast to other types of hammers, which may have hard steel heads or pointed tips designed for heavy impacts or precision work, making them less suitable for applications where safety and finish integrity are priorities.