What qualifies a hammer as a mallet?

A hammer qualifies as a mallet primarily based on its design, particularly the characteristics of its head and handle. The distinction generally centers around the shape and size of the hammer. In this case, a mallet is defined by having a short handle and a round head, which is designed for delivering force to an object without damaging it.

The round head allows for a softer impact, making it suitable for tasks like tapping wooden pieces together or striking chisels without causing chipping or breaking. This construction differentiates it from other types of hammers, which may have different head shapes and lengths designed for varied uses.

The other characteristics mentioned do not qualify a hammer as a mallet. For example, having a head filled with sand or bird shot is more indicative of a specific type of hammer meant for deadening sound or reducing the shock of strikes. Requiring both hands to use suggests a specific need for leverage or force not intrinsic to the definition of a mallet. Similarly, the presence of a small round ball on one side of the head describes a specific tool design that may serve a niche purpose, rather than the broader category of mallet.