Abstract: An apparatus for lifting and dropping a drop hammer in a crushing or compaction process allows the drop hammer to fall completely freely, without being retarded by an attached cable or other element, and allows the height to which the hammer is lifted to be infinitely adjusted, i.e. to virtually any position. The drop hammer moves vertically, up and down, within a hollow cylinder and has a latch engaging head on an upper portion. An anchoring device is disposed within the cylinder and is distinct from the drop hammer and cylinder, and includes first and second latches which are movable by an actuator (such as a hydraulic cylinder) to engage or disengage the drop hammer head. The latches are typically mounted between top and bottom generally horizontal plates, and are pivotally connected adjacent one end to the plates and adjacent another end to the actuator. Crank blocks and a synchronizing lever may be provided.