r/metalworking 4d ago

How to polish a brass hammer?

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u/averagesizedideas 4d ago

Context: I bought a non-sparking hammer (allegedly 100% brass) as a gift for a friend, to congratulate him on a cool event for his construction company. I’d like to smooth it out before getting it laser engraved. Is that possible?  What is the best process for brass?

Will a sander or flap disc work for this? Or do I need a buffing wheel/compound?  I don’t have a lot of experience working with metal. Thanks in advance!

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u/DadEngineerLegend 4d ago

Maybe ask the Laser etcher first about a polished surface. I'm not sure, just guessing, but a polished surface may be an issue and make it much harder to etch properly.

Anyway, it doesn't look too bad. A buffing wheel and polishing compound will clean it up pretty quick. Assuming it's actually brass and not coated steel or aluminium.

Some brasso might even get you close enough.