What tool would you commonly use for bending thin metal sheets?

A sheet metal brake is a specialized tool designed explicitly for bending thin metal sheets accurately and consistently. It has a hinge mechanism that allows for controlled manipulation of the metal, ensuring clean, precise bends without damaging the material. This tool often features adjustable lengths and angles, making it ideal for producing various bends, such as flanges or seams.

Using a hammer might bend metal, but it lacks the precision needed for professional results and can easily damage the metal or create uneven bends. A wrench is primarily used for gripping and turning fasteners, not for bending materials, while vice grips are designed for holding objects firmly in place rather than shaping them. Therefore, the sheet metal brake is the appropriate tool for this task, emphasizing the need for accuracy and quality when working with thin sheet metal.