Fretz HMR-19-Janus Chasing Hammer

The Fretz HMR-19 Janus Chasing Hammer is a one-of-a-kind tool from master toolmaker Bill Fretz, named in honor of Janus, the two-headed Roman god of beginnings and endings. Unlike a conventional chasing hammer, the Janus features two identical round chasing faces — one straight and one angled — giving the metalsmith two distinct striking positions in a single tool.

The angled head changes the approach angle to the work, which in turn shifts the arm and elbow position. This ergonomic variation helps reduce repetitive stress during extended chasing sessions by naturally encouraging the user to alternate between the two heads. The tilted face directs the striking motion more downward, which many chasing artists find beneficial depending on their working posture and technique.

The handle design on the Janus differs from other Fretz chasing hammers: it features a round-end grip rather than a pistol grip, allowing it to be spun freely in the hand for quick repositioning. The handle is also slightly longer than standard Fretz handles. It is crafted from Padauk, a species of rosewood prized for its density, warmth, and smooth feel — qualities that make it exceptionally comfortable during long periods of use.

The head is cast from 420 stainless steel and hardened to 50C on the Rockwell scale. It is important to note that this hammer is designed to strike chasing tools — not to contact metal workpieces directly. As a result, the polished face may show marring during normal use. Bill Fretz notes that properly hardened chasing tools will exhibit mushrooming on their striking end with use, and any marring on the Janus face will not affect its performance or intended function.

Eye protection is required whenever this hammer is in use.

Features

• Dual chasing faces — one straight, one angled — to vary arm position and reduce repetitive stress
• Identical round face profile on both ends for consistent chasing performance
• Round-end handle allows easy spinning and repositioning in the hand
• Longer handle than standard Fretz hammer models
• Head cast from 420 stainless steel, hardened to 50C Rockwell
• Handle crafted from Padauk rosewood for a smooth, comfortable grip
• Designed exclusively for striking chasing tools — not for direct metal contact

Specifications

Notes

• This is the only hammer in the Fretz collection intended for use against a chasing tool rather than directly on metal.
• Marring of the polished face during normal use is expected and does not impair function.
• Mushrooming on the striking end of properly hardened chasing tools is a normal result of use.
• Eye protection must be worn at all times when using this hammer.

California Prop 65 Warning:
Cancer and Reproductive Harm. www.P65warnings.ca.gov.