Foot helve hammer project

[Sam Salvati]

Here is the finalised design sketch. The hammer head and anvil will be made from 2 3/4 round, It is what I have, I would use bigger but I do not have it. The hammer head is roughly 20 pounds, the anvil roughly 60, so I guess a 3:1 anvil to hammer ratio? AGain not ideal but it's better than tubing. The dies are going to be 3 inch wide by 1 1/2 inch thick and 1 1/2 or maybe 2 inch tall. There is the F (front) R (right side) and L (left side) veiws, garage door spring holds tension on the pedal in the up position, keeping the hammer head up, I might need to add another spring, we'll see when it is built. Notice the attachment plate for the pillowblock bearings, there will be room for little spacer plates to be added between, to make the helve arm adjustable for working larger stock, which is usually the downfall of the helve design. Coarse thread bolts and nuts will make changing in or out an adjustor plate quick and easy. Bolt on changeable dies as well.

I know, all this thought and effort to a little foot powered hammer when I could probably build a tire power hammer or rusty type hammer, but I like the foot powered machines, not as efficient as a powerhammer but I feel there is more of a connection left with the foot powered stuff. The goal I have for this hammer is for it to atleast move more metal than the arm is capable of without risking injury to the arm. Hopefully I can pull that off. Comments, critique, questions welcome.

 

[Gene Chapman]

Have you considered a fly press?

Google flypress for more info. I have a P6 Kayne and Son, really like it. Have used a treadle hammer briefly at a workshop. The fly press will out work it and is almost dead quiet. So much power, and it will make your arm bigger.