Which tool is inappropriate for striking punches?

The plastic hammer is considered inappropriate for striking punches due to its design and intended use. Plastic hammers are primarily utilized for tasks where a softer strike is needed, such as in assembly work that requires minimizing damage to the surface being struck. When it comes to striking punches, which need firm, directed force to drive them into materials, a harder hammer is more suitable.

Tool options like the ball peen hammer, rubber mallet, and machinists hammer are designed to provide the necessary impact for tasks like driving punches. They deliver the required force effectively while maintaining the integrity of the punch and the workpiece. Therefore, using a plastic hammer in this situation would not provide the adequate force required, making it an inappropriate choice for this application.