Classification of Hand Tools

There are different varieties of hand tools, designed for specific purposes. They are available in various types, shapes and sizes with different degrees of hardness and varying configurations for specific purposes. Hand tools are used throughout the world by industry, railroads, foundries, contractors, carpenters, automotive body men and hundreds of others, including home repair services. Each hand tool is designed for a particular job and should be used for that purpose only. Using a tool for some other work instead of its intended purpose lead to various damages in the tool which can cause discomfort, pain or injury.

Hand Tools Classification:
On the basis of the various purposes served, hand tools can be classified into four different sections:

• Cutting, Pinching, Gripping Tools: As the name suggests, these tools are used for cutting, pinching and gripping purposes. Cutting tools are used not only to cut a physical object into pieces but also used to remove metal or wood from the workpiece by means of sheer deformation. Hand tools are also used for gripping objects by using leverage. For example: Pliers, Cutters, Snips
  
  
• Striking Tools: The striking tools are the most widely used tools and they are also considered to be the the most often abused tool. Chiseling, punching and riveting can be done properly using striking tools. Hand-held striking tools have been used in a variety of disciplines as leveraged devices providing a striking force to complete endless variety of tasks. For example: Hammers, Chisels
  
  
• Driving Tools: Driving hand tools are those tools which are designed in a such a way so that insertion, tightening, loosening, removing screws, bolts, nails or other pointed objects or hard to turn items is done by applying torque. These tools have mechanical advantage in applying torque. For example: Screwdrivers, Nut drivers, Hand wrenches, T-handle wrenches
  
  
• Struck or Hammered Tools: Struck or hammered tools are tools used for forcing a bolt, pin, or rivet in or out of a hole. For example: Punches, Nail sets, Chisels