Best Mallet For Woodworking This Year – Hand Tools Reviews
Our winners of the Best Mallet For Woodworking this year are:
BEST OVERALL
TEKTON 30812 Double-Faced Soft Mallet

- Double-faced design
- Soft, non-marring material
- Lightweight
- Ergonomic handle
- Durable construction
Introduction
When it comes to woodworking, having the right tools is essential. One of the most important tools in any woodworker’s arsenal is a mallet. A good mallet can make all the difference in the quality and precision of your work. In this article, we will review the best mallets for woodworking available on Amazon, helping you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re a professional carpenter or a DIY enthusiast, choosing the right mallet can be a daunting task. There are various types of mallets, each designed for specific tasks. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the key factors to consider when buying a woodworking mallet, answer some frequently asked questions, and review the top 10 products on Amazon.

Reviews & Comparisons
1. TEKTON 30812 Double-Faced Soft Mallet
The TEKTON 30812 Double-Faced Soft Mallet is designed for delicate work where precision is key. Its soft faces prevent damage to surfaces, making it ideal for woodworking projects.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the TEKTON 30812 for its versatility and gentle impact. The mallet’s double-faced design allows for a variety of applications, and its soft material ensures your projects remain unmarred.
Features
- Double-faced design
- Soft, non-marring material
- Lightweight
- Ergonomic handle
- Durable construction
Pros
- Gentle on surfaces
- Versatile use
- Comfortable to hold
- Durable
- Affordable
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
- Faces may wear out over time
- Limited force
- Handle may be too short for some users
- Not ideal for chiseling
Our Verdict
The TEKTON 30812 Double-Faced Soft Mallet is perfect for delicate woodworking tasks. Its gentle impact and ergonomic design make it a valuable addition to any woodworker’s toolkit.
2. Estwing DFH-12 Rubber Mallet
The Estwing DFH-12 Rubber Mallet is a durable and reliable tool, designed for a variety of woodworking applications. Its rubber head ensures minimal damage to work surfaces.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the Estwing DFH-12 for its robust construction and versatility. The rubber head is gentle on surfaces, making it ideal for both professional and DIY projects.
Features
- Rubber head
- Durable construction
- Comfortable grip
- 12 oz weight
- Shock-resistant handle
Pros
- Gentle impact
- Versatile
- Durable
- Comfortable to use
- Good weight distribution
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
- Rubber may wear out
- Limited force
- Heavier than some alternatives
- Not ideal for precision work
Our Verdict
The Estwing DFH-12 Rubber Mallet is a versatile and durable tool, suitable for a range of woodworking tasks. Its gentle impact and ergonomic design make it an excellent choice for both professionals and hobbyists.
3. Stanley 51-106 13-Ounce Rubber Mallet
The Stanley 51-106 13-Ounce Rubber Mallet is a lightweight and versatile tool, perfect for delicate woodworking tasks. Its rubber head ensures minimal damage to surfaces.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Stanley 51-106 for its lightweight design and gentle impact. The mallet’s rubber head is ideal for delicate tasks, and its ergonomic handle ensures comfort during use.
Features
- 13-ounce weight
- Rubber head
- Ergonomic handle
- Durable construction
- Versatile use
Pros
- Lightweight
- Gentle impact
- Comfortable to use
- Durable
- Affordable
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
- Rubber may wear out
- Limited force
- Handle may be too short for some users
- Not ideal for chiseling
Our Verdict
The Stanley 51-106 13-Ounce Rubber Mallet is a great choice for delicate woodworking tasks. Its lightweight design and gentle impact make it a valuable addition to any toolkit.
4. TEKTON 30603 Fiberglass Handle Rubber Mallet
The TEKTON 30603 Fiberglass Handle Rubber Mallet is designed for comfort and durability. Its rubber head ensures minimal damage to work surfaces, while the fiberglass handle provides strength and shock resistance.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the TEKTON 30603 for its combination of durability and comfort. The fiberglass handle is strong and shock-resistant, making it an excellent choice for extended use.
Features
- Fiberglass handle
- Rubber head
- Shock-resistant
- Comfortable grip
- Durable construction
Pros
- Durable
- Gentle impact
- Comfortable to use
- Shock-resistant
- Versatile
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
- Rubber may wear out
- Limited force
- Heavier than some alternatives
- Not ideal for precision work
Our Verdict
The TEKTON 30603 Fiberglass Handle Rubber Mallet is a durable and comfortable tool, suitable for a range of woodworking tasks. Its shock-resistant handle and gentle impact make it a valuable addition to any toolkit.
5. Stanley 51-104 16-Ounce Rubber Mallet
The Stanley 51-104 16-Ounce Rubber Mallet is a versatile and durable tool, perfect for a variety of woodworking tasks. Its rubber head ensures minimal damage to work surfaces.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We like the Stanley 51-104 for its versatility and robust construction. The mallet’s rubber head is gentle on surfaces, making it ideal for both professional and DIY projects.
Features
- 16-ounce weight
- Rubber head
- Ergonomic handle
- Durable construction
- Versatile use
Pros
- Gentle impact
- Versatile
- Durable
- Comfortable to use
- Good weight distribution
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
- Rubber may wear out
- Limited force
- Heavier than some alternatives
- Not ideal for precision work
Our Verdict
The Stanley 51-104 16-Ounce Rubber Mallet is a versatile and durable tool, suitable for a range of woodworking tasks. Its gentle impact and ergonomic design make it an excellent choice for both professionals and hobbyists.
6. Garland 11001 Split Head Rawhide Mallet
The Garland 11001 Split Head Rawhide Mallet is a high-quality tool designed for precision woodworking tasks. Its rawhide head provides a gentle impact, making it ideal for delicate projects.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the Garland 11001 for its precision and gentle impact. The rawhide head is perfect for delicate tasks, and the split head design ensures durability and longevity.
Features
- Rawhide head
- Split head design
- Durable construction
- Comfortable grip
- Lightweight
Pros
- Gentle impact
- Precision
- Durable
- Comfortable to use
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
- Rawhide may wear out
- Limited force
- More expensive
- Not ideal for general use
Our Verdict
The Garland 11001 Split Head Rawhide Mallet is a high-quality tool perfect for precision woodworking tasks. Its gentle impact and durable design make it a valuable addition to any toolkit.
7. TEKTON 30603 Fiberglass Handle Rubber Mallet
The TEKTON 30603 Fiberglass Handle Rubber Mallet is designed for comfort and durability. Its rubber head ensures minimal damage to work surfaces, while the fiberglass handle provides strength and shock resistance.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the TEKTON 30603 for its combination of durability and comfort. The fiberglass handle is strong and shock-resistant, making it an excellent choice for extended use.
Features
- Fiberglass handle
- Rubber head
- Shock-resistant
- Comfortable grip
- Durable construction
Pros
- Durable
- Gentle impact
- Comfortable to use
- Shock-resistant
- Versatile
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
- Rubber may wear out
- Limited force
- Heavier than some alternatives
- Not ideal for precision work
Our Verdict
The TEKTON 30603 Fiberglass Handle Rubber Mallet is a durable and comfortable tool, suitable for a range of woodworking tasks. Its shock-resistant handle and gentle impact make it a valuable addition to any toolkit.
8. Estwing DFH-12 Rubber Mallet
The Estwing DFH-12 Rubber Mallet is a durable and reliable tool, designed for a variety of woodworking applications. Its rubber head ensures minimal damage to work surfaces.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the Estwing DFH-12 for its robust construction and versatility. The rubber head is gentle on surfaces, making it ideal for both professional and DIY projects.
Features
- Rubber head
- Durable construction
- Comfortable grip
- 12 oz weight
- Shock-resistant handle
Pros
- Gentle impact
- Versatile
- Durable
- Comfortable to use
- Good weight distribution
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
- Rubber may wear out
- Limited force
- Heavier than some alternatives
- Not ideal for precision work
Our Verdict
The Estwing DFH-12 Rubber Mallet is a versatile and durable tool, suitable for a range of woodworking tasks. Its gentle impact and ergonomic design make it an excellent choice for both professionals and hobbyists.
9. TEKTON 30603 Fiberglass Handle Rubber Mallet
The TEKTON 30603 Fiberglass Handle Rubber Mallet is designed for comfort and durability. Its rubber head ensures minimal damage to work surfaces, while the fiberglass handle provides strength and shock resistance.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the TEKTON 30603 for its combination of durability and comfort. The fiberglass handle is strong and shock-resistant, making it an excellent choice for extended use.
Features
- Fiberglass handle
- Rubber head
- Shock-resistant
- Comfortable grip
- Durable construction
Pros
- Durable
- Gentle impact
- Comfortable to use
- Shock-resistant
- Versatile
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
- Rubber may wear out
- Limited force
- Heavier than some alternatives
- Not ideal for precision work
Our Verdict
The TEKTON 30603 Fiberglass Handle Rubber Mallet is a durable and comfortable tool, suitable for a range of woodworking tasks. Its shock-resistant handle and gentle impact make it a valuable addition to any toolkit.
10. Garland 11001 Split Head Rawhide Mallet
The Garland 11001 Split Head Rawhide Mallet is a high-quality tool designed for precision woodworking tasks. Its rawhide head provides a gentle impact, making it ideal for delicate projects.

Read Customer Reviews Here »
Why we like it
We appreciate the Garland 11001 for its precision and gentle impact. The rawhide head is perfect for delicate tasks, and the split head design ensures durability and longevity.
Features
- Rawhide head
- Split head design
- Durable construction
- Comfortable grip
- Lightweight
Pros
- Gentle impact
- Precision
- Durable
- Comfortable to use
- Lightweight
Cons
- Not suitable for heavy-duty tasks
- Rawhide may wear out
- Limited force
- More expensive
- Not ideal for general use
Our Verdict
The Garland 11001 Split Head Rawhide Mallet is a high-quality tool perfect for precision woodworking tasks. Its gentle impact and durable design make it a valuable addition to any toolkit.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right woodworking mallet involves several key factors. Below are five important points to consider:
- Material: The material of the mallet head and handle can significantly impact its performance. Wooden mallets are traditional and offer a good balance. Rubber or plastic mallets are softer and less likely to damage delicate surfaces. Learn more about mallet materials here.
- Weight: The weight of the mallet should match the task at hand. Heavier mallets provide more force, making them suitable for heavy-duty tasks. Lighter mallets offer better control and are ideal for delicate tasks. Find more information about mallet weight here.
- Handle Length: The length of the handle affects leverage and control. Longer handles provide more leverage but can be harder to control. Shorter handles offer better precision but less force.
- Head Shape: The shape of the mallet head can influence the type of work it is best suited for. Round heads are versatile, while flat heads are better for specific tasks like chiseling.
- Ergonomics: A comfortable grip is essential for prolonged use. Look for mallets with ergonomic handles that reduce strain on your hands and wrists.
FAQs
What is the best material for a woodworking mallet?
Wooden mallets are traditional and offer a good balance of weight and control. Rubber or plastic mallets are softer and less likely to damage delicate surfaces.
How heavy should a woodworking mallet be?
The weight of the mallet should match the task at hand. Heavier mallets provide more force, making them suitable for heavy-duty tasks. Lighter mallets offer better control and are ideal for delicate tasks.
What handle length is ideal for a woodworking mallet?
The ideal handle length depends on the type of work you are doing. Longer handles provide more leverage but can be harder to control. Shorter handles offer better precision but less force.
What head shape is best for a woodworking mallet?
The shape of the mallet head can influence the type of work it is best suited for. Round heads are versatile, while flat heads are better for specific tasks like chiseling.
Are ergonomic handles important in a woodworking mallet?
Yes, ergonomic handles are essential for prolonged use. They reduce strain on your hands and wrists, making the mallet more comfortable to use for extended periods.
Conclusion
Choosing the right woodworking mallet is crucial for any woodworking project. By considering factors such as material, weight, handle length, head shape, and ergonomics, you can find the perfect mallet for your needs. We hope this guide and our top 10 product reviews help you make an informed decision and enhance your woodworking experience.