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IS 11106:1984 is the Indian Standard (BIS) for carpenter's mallets. This standard specifies the requirements for carpenter's mallets made from timber. It covers the materials, dimensions, manufacturing process, workmanship, finish, and testing for two patterns of mallets.
! The standard specifies two main types: Pattern 1 is a heavier, rectangular head mallet (1.0 kg), while Pattern 2 is a lighter, cylindrical head mallet (0.7 kg).
! Ensure the grain of the wooden handle runs parallel to its length for maximum strength and to prevent snapping during use.
! The fit between the head and handle is critical; the standard specifies a tapered fit to ensure the head does not become loose.
Focuses on safety requirements for a broad range of striking tools including mallets, rather than dimensional or material specifications.
Key Differences
≠IS 11106 specifies indigenous Indian hardwoods like Sissoo, Babool, and Haldu, whereas DIN 7320 specifies European woods like Hornbeam for the head and Ash or Hickory for the handle.
≠The head shape in IS 11106 is defined as rectangular or cylindrical, while DIN 7320 specifies a distinct trapezoidal head shape with angled striking faces.
≠Sizing in IS 11106 is based on three nominal mass categories (800g, 1000g, 1250g), whereas DIN 7320 defines four sizes based on the length of the mallet head (125, 140, 160, 180 mm).
≠IS 11106 specifies a simple tapered mortice for the handle, while DIN 7320 details a more complex double-conical (Doppelkegel) hole for a secure, non-wedged fit.
Key Similarities
≈Both IS 11106 and DIN 7320 are prescriptive product standards defining the dimensional, material, and manufacturing requirements for carpenter's wooden mallets.
≈Both standards emphasize the use of dense, shock-resistant hardwood for the mallet head and strong, straight-grained wood for the handle to ensure durability and safety.
≈The principle of a secure head-to-handle joint using a tapered mortice and tenon is a common construction requirement in both standards to prevent head separation.
≈Both standards include requirements for the quality of the finished product, mandating that mallets be free from defects like cracks, loose knots, and decay, and have a smooth, protective finish.
Parameter Comparison
Parameter
IS Value
International
Source
Head Material
Hard and heavy wood such as Sissoo, Babool, or Haldu
Hornbeam (Carpinus betulus)
DIN 7320:1990-09
Handle Material
Tough and straight-grained wood such as Sissoo or Babool
Ash (Fraxinus excelsior) or Hickory (Carya)
DIN 7320:1990-09
Head Shape
Rectangular or Cylindrical
Trapezoidal with angled faces
DIN 7320:1990-09
Sizing Basis
Nominal mass (e.g., Size 1: 800 g)
Head length (e.g., Size 1: 125 mm)
DIN 7320:1990-09
Moisture Content of Wood
Shall not exceed 12 percent
Average moisture content of 12% ± 3%
DIN 68340:2018-02
Handle to Head Fit
Handle fixed in a tapered mortice hole
Handle fixed in a double-conical hole
DIN 7320:1990-09
Marking Requirements
Manufacturer's name/mark, size, and the Standard Mark (ISI)
Manufacturer's mark and DIN number
DIN 7320:1990-09
⚠ Verify details from original standards before use
Key Values5
Quick Reference Values
Nominal mass of Pattern 1 mallet1.0 kg
Nominal mass of Pattern 2 mallet0.7 kg
Maximum permissible moisture content in timber12 percent
Recommended timber for headSheesham, Babul, Anjan
Recommended timber for handleHickory, Ash, Axlewood
Hardwoods such as Sheesham (Dalbergia sissoo), Babul (Acacia nilotica), or Anjan (Hardwickia binata) are specified in Clause 3.1.
What are the standard masses for mallets?+
The standard specifies a nominal mass of 1.0 kg for Pattern 1 and 0.7 kg for Pattern 2 (Clause 4.1).
What is the maximum allowed moisture content for the timber?+
The timber for both the head and handle shall not have a moisture content exceeding 12 percent (Clause 3.1.1 and 3.2.1).
How should the mallet be marked?+
The mallet should be marked with the manufacturer's name or trade-mark and the country of origin. It can also bear the ISI Certification Mark (Clause 7.1).