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10 Best Rubber Mallets of 2024 – Reviews & Buyer’s Guide

rubber mallet

rubber mallet

Rubber mallets are one of the most useful woodworking tools, which has resulted in there being thousands of models on the market. Between the different color options, handle materials, and additional features, it can be difficult to know which model is right for you, especially if you have never purchased a rubber mallet before.

To make the process easier, we have searched for the best rubber mallet and came up with the top 10. In this article, we offer reviews of the best rubber mallets you can add to your workshop and provide a Buyer’s Guide to help you select the best model for your needs. Read on to find out more.


A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2024

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
TEKTON 30603 Fiberglass Handle Rubber Mallet TEKTON 30603 Fiberglass Handle Rubber Mallet
  • Made with a fiberglass handle
  • Minimizes recoil
  • Features a non-slip grip
  • Best Value
    Second place
    Coleman 2000016517 Rubber Mallet Coleman 2000016517 Rubber Mallet
  • Features a dual head
  • Will not need to buy a new mallet if the handle breaks
  • Comes with a wooden handle
  • Premium Choice
    Third place
    OX Tools Combination Rubber Mallet OX Tools Combination Rubber Mallet
  • Multi-color head
  • Minimizes staining
  • Includes a fiberglass handle
  • Stanley 51-104 Rubber Mallet Stanley 51-104 Rubber Mallet
  • Rubber head molded onto the handle
  • Will not need to buy a new mallet if the handle breaks
  • Features a wooden handle
  • Alltrade 648336 White Rubber Mallet Alltrade 648336 White Rubber Mallet
  • 16-ounce head
  • Includes a fiberglass handle
  • Absorbs shock
  • The 10 Best Rubber Mallets

    1. TEKTON 30603 Fiberglass Handle Rubber Mallet – Best Overall

    TEKTON 30603 Fiberglass Handle Rubber Mallet

    One of the most impressive rubber mallets on the market is the TEKTON 30603 Fiberglass Handle Rubber Mallet. Our best overall pick has options to prevent staining, and is durable and comfortable.

    The TEKTON mallet features a double-faced solid rubber head that both delivers a soft strike while also minimizing stain on whatever material you are working on. This option also comes in three color choices to help you control or prevent staining: black, white, and both black and white.

    The handle of the TEKTON is made from fiberglass, which is the top handle material since it absorbs vibrations. This helps to minimize the recoil of the mallet, making it easier to use. More so, this option comes with a soft, non-slip rubber grip, further making it easier to wield.

    The only possible downside of this model is that fiberglass handles are impossible to fix once broken, which will require you to buy a new rubber mallet in the case of a broken handle. With that being said, fiberglass is the top material for rubber mallet handles, nonetheless.

    Pros
    • Includes a double-faced solid rubber head
    • Comes in three color head options
    • Minimizes staining
    • Made with a fiberglass handle
    • Minimizes recoil
    • Features a non-slip grip
    Cons
    • Fiberglass handle requires new mallet purchase once broken

    2. Coleman 2000016517 Rubber Mallet – Best Value

    Coleman 2000016517 Rubber Mallet

    If you are looking for the best rubber mallets for the money, then you will be interested in the Coleman 2000016517 Rubber Mallet. It’s powerful, versatile, and affordable, making it a great choice for those on a budget.

    The Coleman features a dual black rubber head and a wooden handle. This wooden handle is great since it absorbs vibrations and can be easily fixed or replaced in the case of a break.

    Another great feature of the Coleman is a tent peg remover. This feature will allow you to easily pull up stakes from your tent, regardless of where you have camped or the type of ground you have dug the stakes into.

    We have this mallet number 2 on our list, as opposed to number 1, because this model does not come with a rubber grip, nor is it made with a fiberglass handle, which is more durable and resilient than wood. For the price, however, this model is highly impressive.

    Pros
    • Features a dual head
    • Comes with a wooden handle
    • Will not need to buy a new mallet if the handle breaks
    • Comes with a tent peg remover
    • Highly affordable
    Cons
    • Does not come with a rubber grip
    • Handle not made from fiberglass

    3. OX Tools Combination Rubber Mallet – Premium Choice

    OX Tools Combination Rubber Mallet

    The OX Tools Combination Rubber Mallet features a multi-surface head. One side of the mallet is black, while the other is white. The black side allows you to use your rubber mallet normally, but the white side allows you to minimize staining on whatever material you’re hammering on.

    More so, the OX Tools Combination Rubber Mallet is made with a strong and light fiberglass handle, which allows the mallet to absorb impact and prevent recoil. The handle is also covered in an attractive and sleek rubber grip. Together, the fiberglass handle and comfortable grip will allow you to use this rubber mallet for longer periods of time.

    The main downside of this model is that it is more expensive than other options, which is why it is our Premium Choice. At the same time, you will need to buy a completely new mallet in the case that the handle should break.

    Pros
    • Multi-surface head
    • Multi-color head
    • Minimizes staining
    • Includes a fiberglass handle
    • Handle covered in a rubber grip
    Cons
    • Expensive
    • Fiberglass handle requires you to buy a new mallet once broken

    4. Stanley 51-104 Rubber Mallet

    Stanley 51-104 Rubber Mallet

    The Stanley 51-104 Rubber Mallet is an incredibly powerful and classic rubber mallet. This classic look allows the model to be tough, efficient, and lightweight. At the same time, the quality of this product is not compromised.

    Since this model has the classic look, the Stanley 51-104 Rubber Mallet includes a black rubber head and wooden handle. The head minimizes marring and surface damage, and it is molded onto a wooden handle. This handle material helps to absorb the vibrations from the shock, which makes this model easier to wield for long periods of time.

    This product also incorporates a modern design. Instead of simply placing the rubber head on the wooden handle, the head is actually molded onto the handle, which allows the two parts to work together seamlessly. This will make it easier and less exercising for you to use.

    Like any other wooden handle, the Stanley 51-104 Rubber Mallet handle is less powerful and absorbent than a fiberglass option, which is a downside of this model. Additionally, it does not come with a rubber grip on the handle, which might make it less comfortable to use.

    Pros
    • Classic design
    • Rubber head molded onto the handle
    • Features a wooden handle
    • Will not need to buy a new mallet if the handle breaks
    Cons
    • Wood is not as powerful as fiberglass
    • Does not come with a rubber grip

    5. Alltrade 648336 White Rubber Mallet

    Alltrade 648336 White Rubber Mallet

    The next rubber mallet on our list is the Alltrade 648336 White Rubber Mallet. This product is very impressive because it is highly powerful, incredibly lightweight, and prevents staining and marring. This makes this model great if you are concerned about a damaged surface after use.

    Most importantly, the Alltrade 648336 White Rubber Mallet features a 16-ounce white rubber mallet. The size of this mallet is impressive, and the white coloring prevents against staining on the surface you are hammering against. Additionally, this option is highly affordable for a mallet with an exclusively white head.

    The fiberglass handle with a rubber grip is impressive enough. This material allows the tool to absorb a lot of shock, as well as reduce the energy you expend while using it. As a result, you will be able to wield this tool for a long time without getting tired.

    The only downside of this option is that it is rather large for a hammer. For this reason, the Alltrade 648336 White Rubber Mallet is not suitable for smaller projects.

    Pros
    • All-white rubber head
    • 16-ounce head
    • Includes a fiberglass handle
    • Absorbs shock
    • Includes a rubber grip
    Cons
    • Not suitable for small projects
    • Fiberglass handle requires you to buy a new mallet once broken

    6. ABN 1590 Rubber Mallet

    ABN 1590 Rubber Mallet

    The ABN 1590 Rubber Mallet is a highly sleek, modern, and comfortable rubber mallet.

    Made with an all-black rubber mallet head ND fiberglass handle, the mallet head allows you to hammer in items without marring or damaging the surface. Meanwhile, the fiberglass handle prevents recoil and makes it easier to wield.

    As mentioned before, the ABN 1590 Rubber Mallet is also very modern looking. The head is black, and that coloration extends down half of the handle. The lower half of the handle has a silver-colored rubber grip that mimics metal. This will make your rubber mallet stand out.

    Although the ABN is made from durable materials, the hammer is prone to breaking after use. This is probably attributed to faulty construction. In the case that the handle should break, which some people have experienced early on during use, you will have to buy a completely new mallet since the handle is made from fiberglass.

    Pros
    • Includes a fiberglass handle
    • Prevents marring and recoil
    • Sleek look
    Cons
    • Prone to breakage
    • Fiberglass handle requires you to buy a new mallet once broken

    7. STEEL GRIP 2259323 Rubber Mallet

    STEEL GRIP 2259323 Rubber Mallet

    The next rubber mallet on our list is the STEEL GRIP 2259323 Rubber Mallet. This product has a very classic look and feel, which allows it to perform exactly as you expect. In other words, this product is a great, sturdy option for those who need a standard rubber mallet.

    The STEEL GRIP 2259323 Rubber Mallet features an all-black rubber mallet head, with a dead blow hammer type. This hammer type and head allow you to hammer objects without fear of marring your surfaces. The head weight is 16-ounces, which allows it to be very powerful and suitable for large jobs.

    The head is connected to a wooden handle that will absorb most of the shock and vibrations from the force. This will make the tool easier to use for extended amounts of time.

    As with any other handle made from wood, this handle is not as powerful or absorbent as fiberglass options. As a result, the STEEL GRIP 2259323 Rubber Mallet is not as efficient as some of the other products on our list. Additionally, this option does not come with a rubber grip, which decreases comfortability.

    Pros
    • Classic look
    • Prevents marring
    • Features a wooden handle
    Cons
    • Wood is not as powerful as fiberglass
    • Does not come with a rubber grip

    8. Estwing DFH24 Rubber Mallet

    Estwing DFH24 Rubber Mallet

    The Estwing DFH24 Rubber Mallet is a unique, versatile, and marring-proof rubber mallet. This product is designed with versatility in mind, making it suitable for framers, roofers, carpenters, contractors, and DIYers alike.

    The feature that makes the Estwing DFH24 Rubber Mallet so versatile is its dual-faced rubber mallet. One side of the mallet is black and the other is white, which prevents staining. Additionally, the mallet is separated with a piece of metal between the two-colored heads, as opposed to two pieces of rubber welded together. The mallet head is attached to a wooden handle.

    Unfortunately, there are more cons than pros for this product. Importantly, the piece that separates the two rubber heads makes this product much heavier than other options. Even though the manufacturer claims that this model is lightweight. It is nearly twice the weight as other options while having a mallet surface of half the size.

    Additionally, the lack of rubber between the two sides makes this model absorb fewer vibrations and shock. This is only furthered by the wooden handle, which is less effective at absorbing shock than a fiberglass handle. It also lacks a rubber grip.

    Pros
    • Unique design
    • Prevents marring and staining
    Cons
    • Heavy
    • Less surface area than other options
    • Does not absorb shock well
    • Wood is not as powerful as fiberglass
    • Does not come with a rubber grip

    9. Edward Tools Harden Rubber Mallet

    Edward Tools Harden Rubber Mallet

    The second to last rubber mallet on our list is the Edward Tools Harden Rubber Mallet. This product is made from rubber and a fiberglass handle, which allows the mallet to absorb shock and prevent recoil. Additionally, the handle features an ergonomic non-slip rubber grip, making the tool easier to use and more comfortable.

    Additionally, the Edward Tools Harden Rubber Mallet comes with a lifetime warranty. This warranty will come in handy in the case that your rubber mallet should break now or in the future, saving you valuable dollars.

    With that being said, there are several downsides to the Edward Tools Harden Rubber Mallet as well. Most importantly, the rubber head is prone to breaking off the handle after only minimal use. This will be very inconvenient if you are working on a project, especially if you just purchased this product.

    This negative aspect is incredibly saddening since the manufacturer constantly reaffirms the durability of this product, resulting in an untrustworthy manufacturer.

    Pros
    • Absorbs shock
    • Includes a lifetime warranty
    Cons
    • Prone to breakage after minimal use
    • Inaccurate description/marketing
    • Fiberglass handle requires you to buy a new mallet once broken

    10. Great Neck Saw RM8 Rubber Mallet

    Great Neck Saw RM8 Rubber Mallet

    Finally, the last rubber mallet on our list is the Great Neck Saw RM8 Rubber Mallet. This affordable product is made with an 8-ounce rubber head and wooden handle. This will allow you to hammer products with minimal marring and recoil.

    Unfortunately, there are several negatives about this product. Notably, the Great Neck Saw RM8 Rubber Mallet does not come with a non-slip rubber grip. This can make the product more difficult to use and wield. Additionally, the product is lightweight, making it unsuitable for heavier projects.

    Another downside of the Great Neck Saw RM8 Rubber Mallet is that the company does not honor returns. This can be aggravating if you are not pleased with the product.

    Pros
    • Affordable
    • Prevents recoil
    Cons
    • Wood is not as powerful as fiberglass
    • Does not come with a rubber grip
    • Too light
    • Does not honor returns

    Buyer’s Guide –  Choosing the Best Rubber Mallets

    Even if you are presented with a list of high-quality rubber mallets, it can still be difficult to know which model is right for you. The best way to select a model is to be educated on your needs, as well as the role and parts of a rubber mallet. In this Buyer’s Guide, we offer key tips and ideas for selecting the best rubber mallet for you.

    Finding the Right Mallet

    Mallet/Hammer Type Best For
    Claw hammer Driving in small, metal pieces
    Copper, brass, and leaden mallet Use on machinery with reduced risk of damage and sparks
    Rubber mallet Driving into large, soft surfaces
    Wooden mallet Driving wooden pieces together

    There are a variety of hammers and mallets that are suitable for different occasions. A claw hammer; copper, brass, or leaden mallet; rubber mallet; and wooden mallet are the most popular options. It is important to know the differences between them, so you know when to use which tool.

    You use a claw hammer for a variety of projects to drive in metal nails or other small, hard pieces. When working with the claw hammer, expect to cause dents or damage to the surface you’re hammering on. For this reason, you should not use a claw hammer when working on a delicate surface.

    Copper, brass, and leaden mallets are used on machinery in order to apply force and reduce the risk of damage and sparks. Since these materials are softer than steel, which is the material most machinery is made from, the mallet will get damaged from the force, not the machinery.

    A rubber mallet is a soft head mallet that is suitable for soft surfaces. Since the head is covered with a soft covering, the wood or material you’re working on will not become dented while hammering. Additionally, rubber mallets have a wide surface, making them ideal for larger projects.

    A wooden mallet is typically used in carpentry to drive together wooden pieces or drive dowels or chisels. This mallet will not cause damage to the surface you’re hammering on and maximizes control.

    How to Select a Rubber Mallet

    When purchasing a rubber mallet, there are several factors to consider. These factors will help you find the right model for your needs. Here are 3 factors to consider when buying a rubber mallet:

    1. Head

    The head is what makes a rubber mallet different from other mallet types. This head is made of rubber, allowing it to be softer than metal. This softer material prevents it from damaging the surface of whatever workpiece you are working on.

    Although rubber mallets do not dent the surface, they often stain it, especially if the rubber head is black. Some people opt for a white rubber mallet for this reason, although a white head is more expensive than a black one.

    2. Handle Material

    The materials that comprise a rubber hammer will determine its comfortability and durability. You will need to consider the materials used in the handle primarily since the head will be made from rubber.

    Rubber mallets typically come with three handle choices: wood, fiberglass, and steel.

    • Wood: Wood is comfortable and absorbs shock well. Additionally, wooden handles are easy to replace when broken, as opposed to buying a new rubber mallet, making this option more affordable in the case of breakage.
    • Fiberglass: Fiberglass is incredibly strong and long-lasting. This makes this handle very difficult to break. In the case that it should break, however, you will have to buy a whole new mallet since a fiberglass handle is unfixable.
    • Steel: Steel is the cheapest option, but it is also very sturdy. The main downside of a steel handle is that it is springier than the other two options, which will increase the bounce rate of the mallet head.

    3. Comfortability

    Rubber mallets tend to have a lot of recoil, which makes them very tiresome after long use. For this reason, it is important to buy a mallet that is comfortable to use. The more comfortable the model, the longer you will be able to use it.

    One of the most comfortable features of a rubber mallet is a rubber grip on the handle. Today, most rubber mallets come with a grip. If you find an option without a rubber grip, it is recommended to look at a different option instead. Wood, fiberglass, and steel typically all have some kind of grip that makes it more comfortable.

    How to Use a Rubber Mallet

    Rubber mallets are typically used when you do not want to damage the surface of whatever project you are working on. Here are some tips to help you best use a rubber mallet:

    • Place your hand at the opposite end of the mallet for maximum power. This allows the mallet to fall under its own weight, saving you energy.
    • If you want more control over your swing, you can place your hand in the middle of the handle, but this will reduce your power, as well as require more energy.
    • Place the mallet on the point you want to hit before you swing to better increase your chances of hitting your target.
    • Find your foot placement while resting the mallet head on whatever point you aim to hit. This will help you find the most comfortable hitting position.
    • Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart.

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    Conclusion

    If you are looking for the best rubber mallet, then we recommend the TEKTON 30603 Fiberglass Handle Rubber Mallet. This product is highly durable, comfortable, and made with the best materials. If you are looking for something more budget-friendly, however, then we recommend the Coleman 2000016517 Rubber Mallet, which is also durable, highly affordable, and comes with additional features.

    We hope that our reviews and Buyer’s Guide has made the process of selecting a rubber mallet just a little bit easier. If you consider the things we discussed in our Buyer’s Guide, you are sure to find the best model for you.


    Featured Image Credit: Pixabay

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