THE CUT-DOWN SLEDGEHAMMER
BY RICHARD A. FRITZ
The cut-down sledgehammer is popular in the Chicago (IL) Fire Department and many surroundings departments. It enhances efficiency and safety. It enables firefighters to greatly increase their striking capabilities in confined areas such as hallways and has a larger striking surface than a flathead ax or a splitting maul. The larger strike makes it more likely that the firefighter swinging the tool will hit the mark each time and less likely that he will hit his partner. In addition, the firefighter can use his body and not just his arms to swing the tool. The tool can be cradled at waist level, enabling the firefighter to pivot his hips to drive the hammer.
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