Slide Hammer Probe
$225.00
- Enables deep moisture readings (between 1”-4”, depending on pin length) in dense hardwoods and thick wood materials
- Connector cap compatible with the PT-83 Pin Moisture Meter for extended measuring capabilities
- Includes 4 1 ½” insulated pins for more accurate internal moisture measurement
- Slide hammer mechanism provides clean, controlled penetration
The Slide Hammer Probe is a powerful accessory designed to read moisture deeper in the wood than the pins that are installed on the Bessemeter PT-83 Pin Moisture Meter. Ideal for professionals and DIYers alike, this probe works best with hardwoods and thicker wood samples to reach depths that pin meters with short pins can’t easily reach.
With its slide hammer mechanism, the probe drives insulated pins into dense wood with greater control and less effort. The insulated pins force the meter to read only at the pin tips (where the insulation stops) instead of averaging from the entire pin length.
These pins are especially useful for inspecting stickered lumber stacks, kiln-dried hardwoods, and other demanding applications where internal moisture levels matter most.
Features
- Designed for use with the Bessemeter PT-83
- Allows for deeper penetration into wood (between 1”-4”, depending on pin length) for more comprehensive moisture readings
- Comes with four 1 ½” insulated pins for improved accuracy in dense materials
- Rugged construction with a handle, cable, and slide mechanism for reliable performance
- Ideal for sawmills, manufacturing, inspections, or DIY woodworking projects
When precision and depth matter, the Slide Hammer Probe delivers the extra reach and reliability your moisture testing demands.
Shipping & Support
We currently ship only within the United States. At this time, international shipping is not available. View full shipping details here.
We want you to be satisfied with your purchase. If you are not completely satisfied with any Bessemeter product, you may return it within 30 days to request a refund or replacement. Learn more details about the Return Policy here.
For technical support, warranty-related service, or assistance in using your meter or accessories, visit our contact page.
Specifications
Slide Hammer Dimensions
- Length: 19.75” (50.2 cm)
- Width: 2.5” (6.35 cm)
- Weight: 3.9 lbs (1,769 g)
- Cord length: 35” (88.9 cm)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Slide Hammer Probe used for?
Use a slide hammer probe to get deeper moisture readings in thicker wood than what can be achieved with the PT-83 meter alone. The surface of wood being dry doesn’t mean it’s dry enough to use—there could be moisture deeper in the wood.
With thicker cut wood, it’s almost impossible to get pins deep enough without the force that a slide hammer probe provides.
Why does the Slide Hammer Probe use insulated pins?
Insulated pins force the meter to read only at the pin tips (where the insulation stops) instead of averaging the reading from the full pin length. With these deeper readings, you can measure gradients and determine if the wood has case hardening or not.
Can I use the Slide Hammer Probe on hardwood?
Yes. The probe makes it easier to drive pins into denser types of wood.
How do I use a Slide Hammer Probe?
Always handle a slide hammer probe with care. Keep a firm grip on the probe to avoid accidentally dropping it on/in unintended surfaces/materials or on yourself.
- Connect the end “plug” of the hammer probe to the pins on a PT-83 moisture meter.
- Use the slide hammer probe to line up the insulated pins on the surface of the wood.
- Use the higher grip to keep the probe steady, and use the lower grip to “plunge” the mechanism down onto the pins, making sure the pins are going in straight (as opposed to at an angle).
- Once you’ve reached the desired depth, check the PT-83 meter for a moisture reading.
- To remove the pins from the wood, use opposite force on the slide hammer mechanism until pins are removed.
How easy is the slide hammer able to drive the pins in?
The slide hammer probe uses force to drive pins deep into wood. The force comes from how you handle the probe—the probe itself directs that energy into the pins.
Think of taking a hammer and nailing pins into wood. You don’t have to be incredibly strong to do that because the hammer itself directs your force onto the nail’s head. Similarly, a hammer probe uses your strength to direct force into pins.
Always handle a slide hammer probe with care. Accidentally dropping the probe can result in pins being inserted into surfaces or materials you don’t intend.
How far can the pins penetrate?
Between 1”and 4”, depending on the length of the insulated pins that are attached to the probe.
Can I remove the pins easily after testing?
It will likely take more force to remove pins from the wood than it takes to insert pins into wood. But the process is similar—you’ll use your own energy and pull up on the hammer mechanism to remove pins from wood.
Always handle a slide hammer probe with care. Accidentally dropping the probe can result in pins being inserted into surfaces or materials you don’t intend.
Does it include insulated pins? How many? What size/length?
The hammer probe comes with four 1½” (1.5”) insulated pins.
Are replacement insulated pins available?
Bessemeter offers replacement insulated pins ranging from 1” to 4” in length. Buy replacement pins here.
How do I attach the Slide Hammer Probe to the PT-83?
The slide hammer probe attaches to the pins of a PT-83 moisture meter.
Why measure moisture deep inside wood?
Wood being dry on the surface doesn’t mean it’s ready for use. There can still be moisture deeper in the wood. So you should measure moisture deep inside wood to
- check moisture content of wood’s core
- bypass dry surface readings to get MC readings deeper in the wood
- measure MC of thick wood and kiln-dried lumber
A slide hammer probe is best suited for these purposes.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.