Broken hammer handle should be replaced and loose handle tightened. If a handle is loose set it by striking the end of the handle with a mallet, and then drive the wedges back into the handle. Wedges may be of either metallic or straight-grained hardwood. Nail or screws should not be used. If a handle is broken, remove it, seat a new handle, and replace the wedges. If it is difficult to remove the old handle, saw it off close to the head and drive it through the large end of the eye. The wedges should be saved and reused.