What is the primary purpose of a hammer?

The primary purpose of a hammer is to strike nails or fasteners. This tool is designed specifically to deliver a forceful impact on nails, allowing them to be driven into various materials like wood or drywall. When you use a hammer, the striking force is concentrated to effectively penetrate the surface, ensuring that the nail is securely positioned.

While hammers can also be used in various tasks related to pulling nails or applying fasteners, these functions are secondary to the fundamental action of striking. For instance, pulling nails typically requires the use of the claw end of a hammer, which is more of a secondary feature rather than the main purpose. Similarly, applying fasteners encompasses a broader range of actions, including screws and bolts, which often require different tools such as screwdrivers or wrenches. Thus, the core function of a hammer remains its role in striking to drive nails or fasteners efficiently.