Piano Hammers

During the 1800's, animal hide glue was the only glue available for making piano hammers. This
glue was not very strong as a bonding agent.

To improve the bond, manufacturers clamped the felt to the hammer wood in addition to using the hide glue.

The clamps took the form of a loop of wire inserted into two small holes previously drilled through the hammer and twisted tightly on the other side.

later, an improved T clamp was devised. It was inserted through one hole drilled in the hammer with the legs of the clamp bent back on the opposite side (like a cotter pin).

As better glues were developed, the clamp was eliminated in hammer construction by creating a firmer base to the hammer.

In other words, even though the fastener is no longer necessary to help the glue joint, it is still a valuable feature because it contributes to quality ton production.

Yamaha Reinforced T-Clamped Hammers

All Yamaha piano hammers are made by Yamaha and contain a T clamp in all of the 88 hammers in every piano.

This procedure securely presses the felt against the hammer wood, and at the same time, compresses the felt in that area into a firmer base.


"Natural Piano Center in "Colorado" has "Yamaha" T clamped hammers as far as the eye can see.