Rubber mallets are extremely common and useful woodworking tools. They have a softer impact than hammers with metalheads, meaning they won’t leave behind any marks on objects. The uses of rubber mallets range from bending and shaping metal, shifting plasterboard into place, general construction, forcing tight-fitting parts together, and driving chisels. There are a few different types of rubber mallets available on the market, which can make it overwhelming when trying to decide which one is right for you.
Several factors like the size, material, weight, length and price need to be considered in order to make the ideal choice. The specifications of a rubber mallet can have a huge impact on its functionality, so it’s better to do some research before purchasing one. In order to assist you, our team has formulated a list of the top rubber mallets for 2023. While curating this list, our team thoroughly reviewed a number of available brands, so we could offer you the highest-quality examples.
In this buyer’s guide, we’ve aimed at answering all your questions and clearing up any doubts or concerns you might have about rubber mallets. We’ve also provided some key factors to consider when purchasing these products.
If you are wondering why you need a rubber mallet when you already have a regular hammer, you’ve come to the right place. Rubber mallets can perform several tasks which cannot be done with a regular hammer. The first common use of a rubber mallet is evening out dents on a metal surface. You cannot use other tools to do this, especially normal hammers, because they can leave impact marks, damaging the surface of the metal. You can simply use a rubber mallet for pounding the area that’s been dented, without worrying about damaging the surface.
Another common use is when you need to fit two parts or components together. Often during construction, you need to force two pieces of wood into place using a rubber mallet. The softer strike and impact of the rubber ensure the wood stays protected. Also, you can break something into smaller pieces with a rubber mallet, especially if you do not want the object to crack into a million pieces. If you want to tile your floors, you need to use a rubber mallet as it will keep tiles intact. Some rubber mallets are capable of withstanding tough and heavy-duty shocks, while more lightweight products are ideal for minor tasks.
Rubber mallets usually require using a lot of force, so if the handle is not ergonomic, you won’t be able to use the mallet comfortably. Some mallets are designed to prevent you from getting tired quickly, meaning you can use them for hours on end without difficulty. On the other hand, there are some handles that are hard and without a proper grip. Such mallets can make you tired after just a few uses. Handles are usually made from materials like wood, stainless steel, and fiberglass. These are not very comfortable to hold by themselves, so manufacturers add a rubber grip on top, making them more ergonomic. So, always make sure that the rubber mallet you purchase has a comfortable and secure grip.
With the abundance of options available on the market, it can become a hassle to choose a product suiting your specific needs. In order to narrow down your options, you should keep a few factors in mind. And, remember the emphasis we already put on the importance of an ergonomic handle.
The weight of a rubber mallet is an important consideration because you won’t be able to use a mallet that’s too heavy for you. It is better to invest in a lightweight mallet weighing between 8 and 16 ounces. These are easy to handle by both professionals and amateurs. Heavy mallets can only be handled by stronger individuals. Ease of use and convenience should be your top priority.
Durability is another significant factor. If the rubber mallet is made of low-quality materials and cannot handle tough tasks, it will soon break and you’ll need to replace it – which is always a terrible feeling. In order to avoid this situation, purchase rubber mallets made from high-quality materials. And, their handles should provide adequate shock absorption, protecting you from stain and injury. Also, if you opt for a wooden or fiberglass handle, you won’t have to worry about rust and corrosion. However, if you choose a metal version, make sure it’s stainless steel, preventing rust.
The rubber mallet you purchase should be able to complete a number of tasks. For example, the Coleman rubber mallet we reviewed above comes with a tent peg remover that is attached at the bottom of the handle. When a single tool can perform more than one function, it saves you the need to purchase different tools for every task, saving you time and money.
Rubber mallets are manufactured by a number of brands, each offering different specifications and prices. A few brands charge more because they use high-quality materials, while others charge less for lower-quality materials. However, a higher price does not necessarily mean that a tool is more durable. Since everyone has a different budget, you should think about the value a given tool will provide. An easy way to do that is by comparing the prices and features provided by different brands, allowing you to make a better, more informed choice.
Regular use rubber mallets can be found for as low as $5. High-end rubber mallets produced by big brand names can range up to $250. Usually, the higher the price, the more features come included. If you want a product for one-time use, opt for a less expensive model, but if you want to purchase something that will last you several years, go for a higher-end option.
Our first pick is this extremely functional and durable rubber mallet by YIYITOOLS. This product also landed our coveted “best overall” award owing to its extreme practicality and value. Its handle is made of solid wood and the overall weight is only 310 grams, making it ideal for several purposes. Metal is not used in its construction, making this mallet immune to rust and corrosion. The rubber material is high quality, making it long-lasting and resistant to different temperatures. It is also moderately elastic which is an essential property for tasks like tiling floors and woodworking. The handle is designed with ergonomics in mind, providing a comfortable and secure grip. And, this rubber mallet is designed to be shockproof, the solid wood handle absorbs shocks easily. Importantly, it won’t damage the paint or the surface of the object you use it on. The rubber and wood are attached to each other tightly, meaning there’s little chance of the rubber becoming loose or falling off.
Our second pick is this fiberglass handle rubber mallet by Tekton. The rubber used in the head is double-faced, allowing you to deliver soft strikes and making sure that items you use it on are not damaged. The fiberglass handle is durable and has the ability to absorb vibrations and shocks. And, there is an external poly jacket, protecting the core of the handle from missed strikes. The bottom of the handle has a soft and non-slip rubber grip, making it extremely ergonomic. Since the rubber is integrated into the handle, you don’t need to worry about the grip coming loose. This product is ideal for many purposes including woodworking, construction, and automotive repair. This rubber mallet comes available in two sizes, you even choose a set if you want different sized mallets. You can choose from a wooden handle as well.
The Coleman rubber mallet is another one of our favorites because it is made from high-quality materials and gets the job done conveniently. It comes with a small hook at the bottom of the handle, designed to be used as a tent peg remover. The double-sided head of the mallet is made of high-grade rubber, ideal for making sure that your tent stakes stay firmly in the ground. And, it’s perfect for plastic and steel pegs, after you are done, you can use the peg remover to conveniently pull up your stakes. The handle is constructed from solid wood, making it durable as well as shockproof. This rubber mallet is definitely a durable tool that will last a great deal of time.
The Gunpla rubber mallet made it to our list due to its stainless steel handle and balanced precision. The double sided head mallet is made from high quality and durable rubber, meaning it can withstand even heavy duty shocks during different tasks. Weighing just 8 ounces, its anti-vibration technology reduces the level of shock and vibration felt by the user, meaning it can be used continuously for hours on end. The stainless steel handle is also durable and resistant to rust. The bottom is covered with a rubberized grip, making the mallet extremely comfortable to hold. And, the grip is attached securely and won’t become loose or fall off. Plus, this product is so ergonomic it will make tasks less tiring. The lightweight design of the hammer also makes it perfect for older users and non-professionals.
Last but not the least, the Edward Tools Harden Rubber Mallet is a durable and eco-friendly tool. The mallet head is ideal for soft strikes and blows that won’t leave damage on surfaces. The handle is made of extra-strength fiberglass, offering an efficient shock-absorbing design. This mallet is ideal for several uses including flooring, woodworking, lamination, carpentry, and construction. Also, the non-slip rubber grip makes the handle ergonomic and easy to hold. And, it weighs 16 ounces, so it can be used for tougher, heavy-duty tasks as well. This mallet comes with a lifetime warranty, so you can purchase it with confidence. Overall, this rubber mallet is constructed using high-quality materials, promoting a long-lasting product.
A: Since the head of the mallet is made using rubber, it cannot be used for hammering nails. The sharp edges of the nails will tear the rubber’s surface.
A: A rubber mallet is used in place of a hammer in woodworking projects because it is important to protect the surfaces of the wood. However, make sure that you do not use black rubber as it can leave behind marks on surfaces.
A: If you do not own a rubber mallet but need one for one-time use, you can improvise. If you have a heavy kitchen sponge, wet it and wring as much water out of it as possible. Then you can wrap it around a regular hammer and use it in place of a rubber mallet.
