A mason's hammer is primarily used for what purpose?

The primary use of a mason's hammer is to split and rough break masonry units. This tool is specifically designed with a flat face on one side for striking and a chisel-like edge on the other side for shaping and breaking masonry materials such as brick or stone. When mason bricks or stones need to be cut or shaped to fit specific dimensions, the hammer's design allows the mason to apply focused force, making it effective for splitting and roughing the materials.

Using a mason's hammer in this way is fundamental to masonry work because it aids in achieving the precise dimensions required for a stable and aesthetically pleasing final product. The ability to manipulate masonry units efficiently is crucial for the overall integrity and appearance of the structure being built.