Mallet, Maul, and Hammer

Mallets, Mauls and Hammers — Essential Striking Tools for Leathercraft

Mallets, mauls and hammers are essential tools for all leatherworkers. Designed to provide precise and controlled striking, they can be used to set rivets and hardware, mark and punch stitching holes with pricking irons, cut leather with punches, and perform tooling and leather molding work. At Cuir Naturel, we offer a selection of quality mallets, mauls and hammers in nylon, wood and steel, for every technique and project.

Which Striking Tool Should You Use?

• Nylon mallet — its highly durable nylon head reduces the impact on your tools, helping to preserve them even with intensive use. Ideal for striking pricking irons, stamps and leather punches. Available with a wooden handle or a steel handle with a rubber grip for greater comfort, and in several weights to suit your needs.
• Round maul (with adjustable weight) — its cylindrical shape provides a consistent strike regardless of the angle. Its adjustable weight can be positioned according to the thickness of the leather: towards the front for thick leather and towards the handle for thinner leather. Perfect for tooling and hammering.
• Cobbler's riveting hammer — designed for tapping and flattening stitches and achieving a clean, neat finish.

Complete your equipment with our pricking irons, leather punches, striking and cutting surfaces and our complete range of leather striking tools.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mallets, Mauls and Hammers

What Is the Difference Between a Mallet and a Maul?

The two terms are often used to describe the same type of tool, but the term “maul” generally refers to models with a round, cylindrical head, which provide a consistent strike regardless of the angle of impact. A mallet may have a head with a different shape. In both cases, they are preferable to a traditional hammer for striking pricking irons, stamps and leather punches without damaging them.

Why Shouldn't You Use a Traditional Hammer on Leathercraft Tools?

A metal hammer can damage the heads of your pricking irons, stamps and leather punches, while also transferring shock to your wrist. A nylon-headed mallet or maul absorbs the impact, helping to protect your tools and joints and allowing you to work for longer periods without excessive fatigue. A cobbler's hammer, on the other hand, is mainly used for tapping and flattening stitches.

Nylon Mallet or Wooden Mallet: Which Should You Choose?

A nylon mallet is the most durable option and withstands intensive use very well, making it an excellent all-purpose choice. The handle, whether wooden or steel with a rubber grip, can be selected according to your preferred grip and comfort. For beginners, a medium-weight nylon mallet is suitable for most setting and striking tasks.

What Is an Adjustable-Weight Maul?

Some round mauls allow you to move a weight inside the head. Positioning the weight towards the front increases the striking force for thick leather, while moving it towards the handle produces a lighter and more precise strike for thinner leather. It is a versatile tool that can be adapted to each project.

What Weight Mallet Should You Choose?

The weight depends on the intended use: a lightweight mallet (around 200 to 350 g) is sufficient for hand stitching and light tooling, while a heavier model provides more force for driving large leather punches through thick leather. A medium-weight mallet is a good compromise for beginners and covers most leathercraft tasks.