Correct option is D
In forging operations, a sledge hammer is commonly used due to its heavy weight and robust design, which makes it ideal for shaping metal through repeated, forceful blows. Forging involves heating metal until it becomes malleable and then hammering it into the desired shape. The sledge hammer, with its large, flat striking surface and long handle, allows the blacksmith or forger to deliver powerful strikes, ensuring the metal is properly shaped and compressed.
While other hammers like the ball peen hammer or flat head hammer are useful for specific tasks, they lack the mass and force required for heavy-duty forging. The sledge hammer’s design ensures efficiency and precision in forging operations, making it the most suitable choice for this type of work. Its weight typically ranges from 8 to 20 pounds, providing the necessary impact to manipulate dense metals effectively.