The hammered dulcimer is a percussion stringed instrument where the strings are stretched over a sound board and struck using small hand-held hammers. Here we review the best dulcimer hammers available online.
Traditionally, the hammered dulcimer is played by a musician that sits cross-legged on the floor. However, more modern players prefer to either stand or sit while playing the instrument on a table. While dulcimer hammers can be made of any material (including metal or plastic), they are typically constructed of wood. Wooden hammers are often made of hardwood, such as cherry, walnut, maple, padauk, or oak.
The ends of the hammers are sometimes covered in a soft material, such as leather or rubber. And this creates a softer sound. It also promotes a quicker rebound after striking a string.
The most popular dulcimer hammers sold today are typically solid, ranging from simple wooden designs to those with ornate details. However, many dulcimer players in other parts of the world actually prefer flexible hammers. While we find that more rigid hammers are easier to play, we find that it really comes down to user preference.
Below are three highly rated hammers to choose from. These are all suitable to both beginner and experienced hammered dulcimer players.
Roosebeck Dulcimer Hammers – Plain Sheesham (Pair)
Roosebeck is a trusted brand in the dulcimer world, and these hammers are perfect for those who value simplicity. Made of solid wood, these hammers are extremely lightweight, well-balanced, and fit perfectly in your hands.
These particular hammers are quite simple in design. They do not contain any leather wrapping on the heads which is typical of more expensive models. Roosebeck also offers other models that provide leather wrapping, which provide a softer sound when struck.
These Roosebeck Sheesham hammers measure approximately 8.5 inches in length, while the head measure approximately 2 inches long. Some reviewers suggest that these hammers may actually be a little too light. However, others say that the sound they produce is excellent and are a great value for the money.
The bottom line is that the Roosebeck Sheesham dulcimer hammers are great for hammered dulcimer players who need a set of simple, but reliable hammers. These also work great as a backup pair. Certainly some of the best dulcimer hammers we’ve come across.
One pair per package.
Roosebeck Dulcimer Hammers – Walnut (Pair)
Another quality set of hammers made by Roosebeck, these hammers are great for those looking for a bit more in functionality.
These hammers are also made of wood, and equally well-crafted. Made of solid walnut, these hammers come with leather wrap on one side of the heads. This provides a softer tonal experience when the strings are struck. The heads come in a standard design, while the other side has a comfortable grip. The hammers feel well-balanced when held.
These Roosebeck walnut hammers measure approximately 8.5 inches in length, while the head measure approximately 2 inches long. Some reviewers say that these hammers are also somewhat light, although these have about the same heft as the Roosebeck Sheesham hammers reviewed above. Overall, these are an excellent product.
One pair per package.
Roosebeck Dulcimer Hammers – Hearts/Rosewood (Pair)
Another quality set of hammers made by Roosebeck, these heart-shaped hammers are great for those looking for a bit more in functionality.
These hammers are also made of wood, and well-crafted. Made of solid rosewood with lacewood accents, these hammers come with leather wrap on one side of the heads. This provides a softer tonal experience when the strings are struck. The heads come in a heart shape, while the other side has a comfortable grip. The hammers feel well-balanced when held.
These Roosebeck Heart-Shaped Rosewood dulcimer hammers measure approximately 8.5 inches in length, which the head measure approximately 2 inches long. Some reviewers say that these hammers are also somewhat light, although these have a bit more heft that the simple Roosebeck Sheesham hammers reviewed above. Overall, these are an excellent product.
One pair per package.
Final Words
We hope you’ve enjoyed reading a bit about what dulcimer hammers are and how they’re used.
Already selected a set of hammers? Great! Check out the best dulcimer stands, and best dulcimer cases to complete your dulcimer package.
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