Abstract: A pneumatic hammer is provided with a handle which is isolated from the body of the tool so that vibrations of a reciprocating hammer are dampened. This is accomplished by a shock absorbing insert located between the handle and reciprocating hammer. The insert includes a rubber cushion member bonded to two steel coupling members, one of which is bolted to the handle and the other which is bolted to the body of the tool. An air passageway extends through the handle and cushion member to reciprocate the hammer. To protect the rubber from deterioration from the oil transported with the pressurized air, a neoprene liner is provided which extends through all of the members and which also as a flange at the remote face of each of the coupling members to provide sealing gaskets thereat.