Striking hammers, recognizable by their slightly domed face and rounded edges, are the blacksmith's basic tools. Their size varies according to the work to be done. The heaviest hammers allow heavy stretching work, while the lighter ones serve for the finishes and the more delicate work. Their handles are usually made of dogwood, locust, or beech wood. The flat pincers visible in the background of the forge of the medieval construction site of Guédelon are essential for handling the pieces to be forged inside the forge hearth and transporting them to the anvil.