For tooling and light punching and rivets - I started with Mallets but only use a maul. I get way better balance, control and more forgiving for when you happen to strike off the line of the tool. But oddly enough are more consistent that way. I believe having the striking face closer to the centre line of the handle and hot having a weighted bit sticking out the opposite side helps greatly. Much easier on the wrist too.
For heavy punching and rivets I use a #2 (lbs) Thorex Mallet with the hard nylon (white) striking faces (you can get different one such as rubber etc.).
For my makers stamps I use a 1.5 pound Power Fist "dead blow" hammer which gives ZERO bounce. Excellent for makers marks.
Hope this helps.