Do any of you fine fellows use, have used, or seen a home made trip hammer? I am several 10's of thousands short of being able to buy a power hammer. I may be confuting the terms, but if you are familiar with either term, you know what I'm talking about. I was thinking of a primitive model, using springs and cables as opposed to an electric or air driven motor. I found some plans online, but was wondering if anybody on here had a first hand account.

I've just found out I have carpal tunnel and other issues in my strong hand, and would like to continue with my new-found passion without wrecking my hand completely. Wish I were a switch hitter, but my left hand is utterly retarded. If nothing else, I'll continue on as is regardless, but it would be neat to be able to do some of the moving on the metal with a machine rather than my hammer, cool as it is.

Thanks,

Jason

Research 'Rusty' hammers

Here's a link to the Rusty, Dusty and Super Rusty hammer plans Mike mentioned because I have it handy... http://www.appaltree.net/rusty/index.htm

You might also check around on Craig's list for an older Little Giant or similar...

Another option might be a press. They are both useful machines I believe, but Uncle Al's press might be a consideration.

https://www.riversidemachine.net/ecommerce/

He sells some forging equipment and other odds and ends that will be right up your alley.


Dale

Thanks guys.