Tool Review: Sorbothane Soft-Blow Mallet

May 8, 2024
Reviewed by Brian Culotta, master technician and shop foreman at Dave's Auto Care in WIlloughby, Ohio.

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Q: How did the tool function as far as saving you time?

A: Often when using a more popular metal construction hammer or even a plastic dead-blow style hammer, automotive technicians may resort to adding something “soft” in between the item and the hammer itself to be struck, such as a piece of scrap wood or cloth, etc. These are not only “clumsy” and potentially unsafe but also require additional time to find such items. With these hammers, I can simply grab the tool and swing without risk of damage or injury.  

 

Q: How has using this tool impacted your shop's profitability?

A: This tool impacts our shop's profitability by avoiding damage to components. The extremely soft material it is constructed from assures the stuck item does not get damaged or leave hammer impressions on it. Replacing a part I damaged can be a costly whoopsie.  

 

Q: What kind of setup was involved before using the product?

A: There was no setup necessary for this tool. It arrived fully assembled and ready for use.  

 

Q: How easy was it to use?

A: Swing! These hammers are very easy to use and are well-balanced.

 

Q: How was its packaging? Did it come with any accessories?

A: The hammers were packaged with a cardboard sleeve on the hammering surface. No accessories included or necessary.  

 

Q: What features did you like?

A: The unique ultra-soft construction of the hammering head. Also, the three size/weight choices are nice. Three sizes to choose from for any task. 

 

Q: Is there any way you could think to improve or add to this tool?

A: Different-shaped (smaller) hammering heads. Sometimes, due to the large striking surface, the hammer may not fit where you need to strike. Also, a weighted version could be more helpful. The hammers could be a little bit heavier. I think a weighted center core of the hammerhead would improve the design.  

 

Q: What types of jobs/repairs did you use this tool for? 

A: During removal of delicate components on a vehicle such as a valve cover or oil pan. This hammer is soft enough to not mar or damage the item it is striking while having enough weight to it to dislodge a stuck component. Also, I can’t think of a better hammer to use for installing metal hub caps onto wheels. This product ensures you aren’t going to dent or bend an expensive classic car wheel cover/hubcap/beauty ring.  

 

Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate this tool? Why? 

A: I would give this a nine. The product performed well and should last the test of time. 

 

About the Author

Brian Culotta

Brian Culotta is a graduate of the Universal Technical Institute in Chicago, Illinois. After graduating, he started working for an independent car dealership as a lead technician for seven years. He then moved to a new job at an independent repair shop where he stayed for three years. He now works at Dave's Auto Care in Willoughby, Ohio, as the shop foreman and ASE Master L1, L3 technician.

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