A test bench (10) for testing a hammer (196) and hammer tool (198) comprising: a bench frame (12); a load cell assembly (16) mounted on the bench frame for absorbing the impact delivered by the hammer; and a movable mounting deck (26) for securing the hammer (196) to the bench frame (12) and for moving the hammer (196) with the hammer tool (198) into a test firing position against the load cell assembly (16) and delivering an impact force against the load cell assembly (16). The load cell assembly (16) comprises a pneumatic air bag assembly (56) constructed to dissipate the impact force of the hammer (196). Other aspects include a load cell assembly (16) for testing a hammer (196) and hammer tool (198) and a method for test firing a hammer tool. Hydraulic hammers generating forces between 200 ft-lb and 12,000 ft-lb can be adequately test fired.
