10 Best Tent Stake Hammer for Camping

Last Updated November 15, 2023
Top 3 Best Tent Stake Hammer
MSR Tent Stake Hammer
MSR Tent Stake Hammer
  • Lightweight: Weighing just 11 oz, it’s easy to carry, particularly on hiking or camping trips.
  • Functional Design: Provides a good swing and striking position, aiding in driving stakes into the ground.
  • Effective Claw: The claw feature is excellent for pulling out stakes effortlessly during pack up.
  • Additional Features: Integrated bottle opener and a hole for a carry strap.
  • Durability Concerns: The handle is not reinforced, which may affect long-term durability.
Spofine Tent Stakes Mallet Hammer
Spofine Tent Stakes Mallet Hammer
  • Lightweight and Durable: Features a lightweight aluminum handle and a stainless steel head, weighing just 13.4 oz.
  • Versatile: Includes a tent stake puller and a small spade for digging out stakes.
  • Convenient Packaging: Comes with 10 aluminum tent stakes, four guy lines, and a nylon carry pouch.
  • Ease of Use: Found to be easy to use and great for its intended purpose
BareFour Tent Stake Hammer
BareFour Tent Stakes
  • Heavy Duty: Made of cast steel with a rubber handle, weighing over 2 lbs.
  • Hammer and Pulling Tool: Equipped with a hammer head and a pulling tool for versatility.
  • Not for Lightweight Camping: Its weight makes it unsuitable for backcountry camping or hiking.
  • Indestructible: Ideal for car camping or glamping due to its durability.
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Firmly securing your tent is one of the most important parts of setting up camp. Lots of hikers swear by the ‘pick any rock’ method of hammering in tent stakes, but you really can’t beat a good tent stake hammer. Today we’ll be reviewing several different options to help you find the best tent stake hammers for your needs.

Best Tent Stake Hammer Reviews

Tent stake hammers are a lot different from construction or other functional hammers. They’re designed to hammer a small metal or plastic stake into a soft material. To do this they have to be portable, lightweight, and able to stand up to hammering.

We’ve picked out some of the best tent stake hammers across the full range of price and functionality to help you find your favorite.

MSR Tent Stake Hammer

MSR Tent Stake Hammer
The MSR tent stake hammer product picture

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I went ahead and purchased the MSR Tent Stake Hammer before my recent camping trip to the Rockies, as I was on the lookout for a light yet effective hammer for my outdoor adventures. The fact that it’s engineered for hikers and campers with a lightweight aluminum handle and a stainless steel head caught my attention. Weighing just 11 oz, it seemed like a great addition to my camping gear.

Upon reaching the rocky campsite, I was keen on putting this hammer to the test. Right off the bat, I appreciated the swing it offered, making the stake driving somewhat easier even in the challenging terrain. However, I did notice that I had to exert a bit more effort in hammering compared to using a heavier hammer. The striking position was good, but not extraordinary, especially when compared to my trusty 5-pound hammer which I ended up using occasionally during the trip.

The real charm of this hammer shone when it was time to pack up. The claw feature on the hammer was a lifesaver in pulling out the stakes from the hard ground, which was a breeze compared to the struggle I had without it in the past.

Now, while the hammer came with a built-in bottle opener and a hole to attach a carry strap, which are clever additions for campers, I did have some reservations. I couldn’t help but wonder about the durability of the handle over time, as it wasn’t reinforced. This concern was shared by a fellow camper who carried an additional hammer, just in case this one didn’t withstand the demanding tasks.

I also gave this hammer a spin at home, nailing pickets to a fence. It required a bit more muscle due to its lightweight nature but caused less fatigue compared to my 16 oz Estwing. The claw wasn’t suited for pulling bent nails, but it held up well against the task it’s designed for—handling tent stakes.

During a recent weekend getaway with friends, we drove down to a nearby lakeside camping spot. As someone who cherishes an organized and well-set campsite, I was eager to use my new MSR Tent Stake Hammer. The ground was a mix of gravel and soil, presenting a moderate challenge. As the sun cast a warm golden glow, I started setting up the tents. The lightweight nature of the hammer was immediately noticeable and appreciated, especially since I had to move around a lot. Driving the stakes in was fairly straightforward, though I did miss the hefty feel of a heavier hammer a little.

However, the MSR hammer’s claw stole the show the next morning when we were wrapping up. The ease with which I could pull out the stakes was remarkable, saving me a good amount of time and effort. Additionally, the integrated bottle opener came in handy during our evening relaxation by the fire, adding a touch of convenience that was the cherry on top of a well-spent day outdoors. Despite its minor shortcomings, the MSR Tent Stake Hammer has indeed found a place in my camping gear, making me look forward to more outdoor adventures with a slightly lighter load.

In reflection, the MSR Tent Stake Hammer is a decent middle-ground option for someone who enjoys the outdoors as much as I do. It’s lightweight and relatively strong, but may not replace the need for a heavier hammer in more demanding terrains. It’s a tool I see myself using for light work during my hiking and camping escapades, yet I’d still keep a heavier hammer on standby for those tougher jobs. The ease it brought in pulling out stakes was a highlight, making the packing up process quicker and less strenuous. Despite a few reservations, I find it to be a worthwhile addition to my outdoor toolkit, especially for someone who values the blend of lightness and functionality it offers.

Pros:

  • Lightweight: At 11 oz, it’s easy to carry around, particularly on hiking or camping trips.
  • Functional Design: The hammer is engineered to provide a good swing and striking position, making it easier to drive stakes into the ground.
  • Effective Claw: The claw feature is excellent for pulling out stakes effortlessly, which is a boon during pack up.
  • Additional Features: Integrated bottle opener and hole for a carry strap are thoughtful additions for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Durability: Despite its lightweight nature, it held up well through various tasks including hammering over 300 nails during a fence installation.

Cons:

  • Might Require Extra Effort: Due to its lightweight nature, it may require more strikes or muscle power compared to heavier hammers, especially in more demanding terrains or tasks.
  • Handle Durability Concern: The handle is not reinforced, raising concerns about its long-term durability especially in rigorous use.
  • Not a Complete Replacement for Heavier Hammers: In tougher terrains or for more demanding tasks, a heavier hammer might still be necessary.
  • Claw Limitation: The claw is not suited for pulling out bent nails or similar tasks outside its main purpose of handling tent stakes.

Spofine Tent Stakes Mallet Hammer

Spofine Tent Stakes Mallet Hammer
The Spofine tent stake hammer product picture

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The Spofine tent stake mallet is a lightweight aluminum hammer designed for use with tent stakes. It comes in a pack with 10 aluminum tent stakes and four guy lines.

It combines a lightweight aluminum handle with a stainless steel head. It has both a tent stake puller and a small spade to dig out tent stakes stuck in earth. It weighs just 13.4 oz, with a total kit weight of 1.55 lbs.

The whole thing comes in a nylon carry pouch that is perfect to pack away with your tent and other camping supplies. We found the hammer to be easy to use and the extra tent stakes a great value add.

The Spofine tent stake hammer is a quality tool that includes a lot of extras. It’s reasonably priced, easy to use, and great for its intended purpose.

BareFour Tent Stakes

BareFour Tent Stakes
The BareFour tent stake hammer product picture

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The BareFour tent stake hammer is a heavy duty tent stake mallet intended for use alongside their forged steel tent stakes. It’s made of cast steel with an impact reducing rubber handle.

It weighs more than most similar hammers at just over 2 lbs, but is excellent for use with heavy duty tent stakes. It has both a hammer head and a pulling tool attached.

The weight of this hammer makes it unsuitable for camping in the backcountry or hiking. If you’re car camping or glamping its near indestructibility is a big bonus.

The BareFour tent stake hammer is a heavy duty tool great for use with the BareFour tent stakes. If you’re using lighter tent stakes or need a lightweight tool it might be best to look elsewhere.

Leatherman Signal

Leatherman Signal
The Leatherman Signal tent stake hammer product picture

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The Leatherman Signal is an outdoor focused multi tool. It’s a full size butterfly fold style multi tool that packs 19 different tools into a 4.5 in, 7.5 oz body. These include:

  • Needlenose Pliers
  • Regular Pliers
  • Regular Wire Cutters
  • Hard Wire Cutters
  • Wire Stripper
  • Awl With Thread Loop
  • Hammer
  • 420HC Combination Knife
  • Can Opener
  • Bottle Opener
  • 1/4 in Bit Driver
  • Saw
  • Bit Driver
  • Hex Wrench
  • Carabiner
  • 3/16 Hex Wrench
  • Safety Whistle
  • Ferrocerium Rod
  • Diamond Sharpener

The combo knife and saw are accessible from the outside. The saw is just under 3 in long and is great for cutting through kindling and other small branches for firewood. The knife is of a similar length and has both a straight and serrated age. The gives you a blade to cut just about anything you need to.

The hiking and camping tools are contained in removable slots on the sides of the handles. The ferro striker is smaller than most others but still usable with a bit of practice. The diamond sharpener is great for putting a field edge on your main blade and the whistle can quickly alert others to your position.

One of our favorite features is the hammer on the end. By including a hammer head in your multi tool you don’t have to carry a full tent stake hammer.

The Signal is a large and highly capable multi tool made to excel in the outdoors. It’s a lot more expensive than any other tent stake hammer but it also gives you significantly more functionality. If you’re looking for a great multi tool that’s loaded with outdoor capabilities the Leatherman Signal won’t let you down.

Snow Peak Peg Hammer

Snow Peak Peg Hammer
The Snow Peak tent stake hammer product picture

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The Snow Peak Peg Hammer is a handsome and heavy duty tent stake hammer made from forged steel with a copper cap. This head is attached to a polished wood handle with a carry strap bolted just below the hammer head.

The forged steel head gives the Peg Hammer a substantial heft and strength. The copper cap helps reduce the shock from the impact and creates an even strike with every blow.

Once the cap has been worn out it can be easily replaced with just a screwdriver. On the other end of the hammer is a tent stake pulling tool.

Like most Snow Peak products the Peg Hammer looks really sharp. Unfortunately, it also has the price tag we expect from Snow Peak products.

If you’re looking for probably the best tent stake hammer available and are willing to pay for it, the Snow Peak Peg Hammer is the tool for you.

Coleman Rubber Mallet with Tent Peg Remover

Coleman Rubber Mallet
The Coleman tent stake hammer product picture

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The Coleman Rubber Mallet is the great granddaddy of tent stake hammers. It’s a very basic rubber mallet style tool with a metal hook on one side.

Coleman has been making excellent camping gear for decades. Their Rubber Mallet is great at pounding in tent stakes and is safe to use for just about anyone. The stake pulling tool fits into just about any tent stake.

Probably the best feature of this hammer is its price. The Coleman Rubber Mallet costs well under $10 and is sturdy enough to last through years of camping trips.

Leatherman MUT

Leatherman MUT
The Leatherman MUT tent stake hammer product picture

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The Leatherman MUT is a heavy duty multi tool designed with firearms, and especially AR15, maintenance in mind. It’s a large multi tool, fully 5 inches long and weighing 11.2 oz. It includes many of the features that have become hallmarks of Leatherman’s top of the line tools. It provides 16 different tools, including:

  • Needlenose Pliers
  • Regular Pliers
  • Replaceable Wire Cutters
  • Replaceable Hard Wire Cutters
  • Stranded Wire Cutters
  • Wire Crimper
  • 420HC Combo Knife
  • Saw
  • Replaceable Cutting Hook
  • Hammer
  • Bolt Override Tool
  • Replaceable Bronze Carbon Scraper
  • 8-32 Cleaning Rod/Brush Adapter
  • Replaceable Firearm Disassembly Punch
  • Carabiner and Bottle Opener

The MUT is a large and extremely durable multi tool. A good chunk of its tools are designed for AR15 maintenance but the remaining general purpose tools give it a lot of day to day functionality.

One of our favorite features is Leatherman’s replaceable wire cutter design. It makes it easy to quickly remove and replace the part of your multi tool most likely to wear out. The combo blade is made from 420HC stainless steel, comes nice and sharp.

The hammer is located on the end of one handle. It’s fully capable of hammering in a tent stake and has a hook on the end that works well to pull them free.

The Leatherman MUT isn’t for everyone, it has highly specialized tools that really only apply for shooting sports enthusiasts. If you’re a camper who enjoys shooting as well the MUT can be a great tool to have.

To find out more about the Leatherman MUT, check out our full review here.

Texsport Tent Stake Mallet

Texsport Tent Stake Mallet
The Texsport tent stake hammer product picture

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The Texsport Tent Stake Mallet is a molded plastic hammer used for pounding in tent stakes. It’s lightweight and easy to use.

The entire hammer is one piece of molded plastic. It weighs under a pound. This makes it easy to carry, but does require that you use more force when pounding in tent stakes.

The Texsport Tent Stake Mallet is inexpensive and lightweight. It’s a useful tool but not quite as durable as some other hammers on this list.

Gerber Downrange Tomahawk with Hammer

Gerber Downrange Tomahawk with Hammer
The Gerber Downrange tent stake hammer product picture

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The Gerber Downrange Tomahawk is a tactical tomahawk combined with other useful tools. These include a hammer and a pry bar head.

It’s made from 420HC steel with a pair of composite scales. This gives you an excellent grip even under wet conditions. The hammer is located on the back of the tomahawk head and is a bit narrower than similar tools.

This can make it more difficult to hammer in tent stakes, though it’s easy enough with a bit of practice. The pry bar is especially useful at removing stuck tent stakes.

The tomahawk head itself is good at chopping through small branches and splitting small logs. This makes it a great all around camp tool.

The Gerber Downrange Tomahawk is a useful multi tool that gives you the ability to set up tent stakes and process firewood. It’s on the high end of the price scale but has a lot of capabilities that help make up for it.

Off Grid Tools Survival Axe with Hammer

Off Grid Tools Survival Axe with Hammer
The Off Grid Tools tent stake hammer product picture

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The Off Grid Tool Survival Axe with Hammer is a multi tool designed around a combination hammer and axe. It offers 16 different tools, including:

  • Hammer Head and Claw
  • Hatchet
  • 10 Hex Wrenches
  • Replaceable Saw Blade
  • Hardened Glass Breaker
  • Seat Belt Cutter

The hatchet is excellent for breaking through small branches and getting wood ready for the fire. The saw is a great tool to assist with this.

The hammer head works on all types of tent stakes and the claw is useful as a tent stake puller. The other tools aren’t very useful on a camping trip but are great to have in the car.

The Off Grid Tool Survival Axe with Hammer is a great tool to have when camping or just to keep in the car. It’s not the cheapest tool around but it does offer many options and useful features.

Buyer’s Guide to Buying the Best Tent Stake Hammer

With tent stake hammers there isn’t a lot of features you need to consider. Price, additional tools and the physical qualities play into your choice, but overall there’s not a huge difference between different tools.

Price

Hammers made just for use with tent stakes don’t have to be very expensive. You can find quality hammers for less than $10 that will easily hammer in tent stakes and remove them quickly.

On the other end of the spectrum is forged hammers and tent stake hammers intended for high intensity work. These can cost over $50, but they do give you a lot of extra functionality.

Does it Have Multiple Functions

The majority of tent stake hammers have at least two functions. A hammer head to pound in a tent stake and a tool to pull them free.

If you’re camping and climbing a piton hammer can often do double duty as a tent stake hammer.

Some actual multitools have hammer’s built right in. These give you substantially more tool options and help lighten your load.

Weight and Carry Options

Tent stake hammers need to have enough heft to get the job done. Most will weigh at least a pound. Multi tool hammers are generally a bit lighter, but still hefty enough to pound in tent stakes.

The majority of tent stake hammers don’t come with a carry case or any other specific way to carry them. Some of the higher end models will have at least a protective case or way to attach them to your belt though.

Generally speaking tent stake hammers aren’t something you’d carry with you. They’re for car camping and larger expedition style trips where weight isn’t as big of an issue.

Intended Use

Tent stake hammers are a lot different from construction and metal working hammers. They’re intended to hammer relatively soft tent stakes into earth, sand, and other loose materials.

They don’t need to be quite as heavy duty and can actually be made from rubber and other soft materials. Using a standard hammer on a tent stake can damage the head of the stake.

Top Stake Hammer Video

FAQ – Best Tent Stake Hammers

When it comes to camping and outdoor adventures, having the right tools can make a world of difference. One such essential tool is a tent stake hammer. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a beginner, you may have questions about tent stake hammers and their importance in securing your shelter. In this FAQ section, we address some of the common inquiries to help you make informed decisions and choose the best tent stake hammer for your needs.

From understanding the key features that make a tent stake hammer stand out, to exploring the materials used in their construction, we cover the basics to give you a solid foundation. We also delve into the benefits of using a dedicated tent stake hammer instead of a regular hammer and discuss the versatility of this tool beyond its primary purpose. Additionally, we shed light on the varying sizes and price ranges of tent stake hammers, providing insights that can help you find the right fit for your camping style and budget.

So, whether you’re wondering why a tent stake hammer is necessary, seeking guidance on the best materials and features, or curious about alternative uses for this handy tool, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the frequently asked questions and equip you with the knowledge to make your camping experience safer and more enjoyable.

Why do I need a tent stake hammer?

A tent stake hammer is an essential tool for camping and outdoor enthusiasts. It helps you secure your tent stakes firmly into the ground, ensuring stability and preventing your tent from getting blown away by strong winds. It makes the setup and takedown process of your tent easier and more efficient.

What makes a tent stake hammer the best?

The best tent stake hammers possess several key features. They should be lightweight yet sturdy, allowing for easy handling and durability. A comfortable grip is important to prevent slippage or hand fatigue during use. A hammer with a claw on one end can be useful for pulling out tent stakes or performing other tasks. Additionally, a hammer with a long handle can provide increased leverage and make it easier to drive stakes into hard or rocky ground.

What materials are commonly used in tent stake hammers?

Tent stake hammers are typically made of durable materials such as steel, aluminum, or titanium. Steel hammers offer excellent strength and durability but may be heavier. Aluminum hammers are lightweight and resistant to rust, making them ideal for backpackers and hikers. Titanium hammers are the lightest and strongest but tend to be more expensive.

Can I use a regular hammer instead of a tent stake hammer?

While it is possible to use a regular hammer for driving tent stakes, it may not be the most efficient or suitable option. Regular hammers are often heavier, bulkier, and lack the specialized features of a tent stake hammer. Tent stake hammers are designed with a narrower striking surface to prevent damage to tent stakes. They also usually have a hook or claw for removing stakes. Using a tent stake hammer ensures that you have the right tool for the job, making your camping experience easier and more enjoyable.

Are all tent stake hammers the same size?

No, tent stake hammers come in various sizes to suit different preferences and needs. The length of the handle can vary, ranging from compact and portable to longer handles for increased leverage. The size and weight of the head also differ among models. When choosing a tent stake hammer, consider factors such as the weight you are comfortable carrying and the type of camping terrain you usually encounter.

Can I use a tent stake hammer for other purposes?

While a tent stake hammer is primarily designed for driving tent stakes, it can be a versatile tool for outdoor activities. The hammer end can be used for light pounding or to drive in other small stakes or nails. The claw or hook end can assist with removing stakes, breaking up small rocks, or even opening bottles. However, it’s important to use the tool within its intended limits to avoid damage or injury.

How much does a tent stake hammer cost?

The cost of a tent stake hammer can vary depending on its quality, materials, and additional features. Entry-level models can range from $10 to $20, while high-end, specialized models may cost $30 or more. It’s important to strike a balance between your budget and the quality and durability you desire.

Best Tent Stake Hammers Recap

Final Thoughts

When you’re picking tent stake hammers it really comes down to how you intend to use them. You can get basic tools that will get the job done for just a few dollars or really nice multi tool hammers for substantially more.

If you want a single use tool you have several great options, including the Coleman Rubber Mallet.

For a higher end model we recommend the Snow Peak Peg Hammer or the Leatherman Signal.

2 thoughts on “10 Best Tent Stake Hammer for Camping”

  1. I recently purchased the Spofine Tent Stakes Mallet Hammer, and it’s a game-changer! Lightweight and the included stakes are a bonus. Made my camping experience much smoother. I highly recommend it to casual campers.

    Reply

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