How to use a Japanese Hammer (Genno)
Welcome to our detailed tutorial on mastering the Genno, the quintessential Japanese hammer.
In this article, we delve into the nuances of this traditional tool, known regionally as Tsuchi or Tonkachi, and globally recognized simply as a hammer.
1: Introduction to Japanese Hammers
The Genno, also known as Tsuchi or Tonkachi, is a tool made up of a handle and a metal striking face.
When made of wood, it's called Kizuchi. Its name varies regionally, but in English, it's simply a 'hammer'.
2: Genno Features
A Genno with two identical faces is a 'Ryoguchi Genno.'
One face is slightly rounded, and the other is flat.
Use the flat face to start driving nails and the rounded face to finish, preventing surface damage.
3: Before You Begin
Before you begin, make sure there's no wobble in the Genno's head before you use it.
Let's check the ideal way to strike a Genno.
Grasp it with three fingers, allowing your index finger and thumb to touch it lightly, giving you better wrist flexibility. 
Keep your elbow still, using it as a pivot, and snap your wrist to strike.
Keep your armpit closed to maintain accuracy and control.
Ensure the Genno is perpendicular to the nail to avoid bending it.
4: Driving Nails
Now, let's use a Genno.
Try driving a nail while standing for better posture. Pre-drilling a hole helps prevent splitting.
Start with the flat side of the Genno, keeping these points in mind, we mentioned in the previous chapter:
- Use your elbow as a pivot for striking
- Snap your wrist for more power
- Strike perpendicularly
Hold the nail and place it in the pre-drilled hole.
At first, hold the middle of the handle to guide the nail for lighter hits.
Once it's stable, shift your grip to the end for a stronger hit.
Finish by using the rounded side for the nail head.
5: Tools Support Nailing
If you misdrive a nail, use a nail puller to remove it. Some hammers come with built-in pullers.
Nail pullers leverage the principle of a lever. Protect the material with a wooden block.
Hook the nail in the V-shaped groove and use the contact point as your fulcrum.
Gently pull out the nail, holding the upper part for easier leverage
When driving nails by hand, it can be daunting if you're worried about missing the nail or if the nails are too small to hold securely.
In such cases, using a pair of pliers can be very helpful.
Clamp the nail with the pliers and then hammer it in.
This method offers stability, ensuring the nail goes in straight, and eliminates the risk of accidentally striking your fingers.
A nail punch (kugishime) is an excellent tool for a strong and aesthetically pleasing finish.
It allows you to hit just the nail head precisely.
It's particularly useful in places where a Genno cannot reach.
This tool ensures a firm fixation of the wood and leaves no marks.
Check out our other articles for more tips on your Japanese hammers!