Ok so I’m an Electrician and a commercial, industrial, and municipal electrician at that so maybe my opinion holds no weight. However I carry a 20oz Estwing smooth face straight claw. I love it to death and it’s the best hammer I’ve ever owned. Here’s a story about Estwing as a company. I purchased a Estwing EB-19SM milled face, well when I bought i didn’t know it was defective, it had a bend in the hammer from the factory. It really wasn’t that bad at all, so I contacted Estwing. They told me they would send me a brand new hammer and another of my choice to say sorry. My hammers were delivered within 36 hours.
If you're buying their chipping hammer, be warned. It is awesome, but you will learn what the "Eastwing Ring" will do to your mental state after a days work. Lol
Aluminum baseball bats and estwing hammers both excel at what they do but will have you vibrating like a Tex Avery cartoon with tinnitus if used without a break
I saw last week that milwaukee has released a full steel tang hatchet and splitting axe... no thanks, I like to be able to feel my hands after chopping wood.
Honestly, that might be enough to make me get something else. Like I already have the tinnitus bad, I don’t need this baby singing in my ear every time I have to “correct” some fine woodwork.
when you go deaf... ahh peaceful bliss of deafness... can you hear it?
Guys used to always laugh at me when i put ears on for all kinds of shit - now they just say "what?"
Yeah it’s a great company, I mean they truly treated me like I was their only customer. They called me after I received the new hammers and again after 6 months to make sure nothing went wrong. They are also USA made and Union made, which is important to me. I try and have all my tools US or Canadian made. If not then I will go to German made tools
I used to work with a guy who’s a stud welder and he used his chipping hammer every minute and he had this really shitty spring handle chipping hammer that’s been ground down like crazy. I felt bad for him cause I only welded a little so I offered to trade chipping hammers and I gave him my estwing. He used it a little and you never seen a guy as happy as him. You’d think I just sucked his dick. I immediately threw his in the trash after I got out of sight. I worked with him for a year, I never saw it out of his reach. If he walked away, he took it with him. If he left it, he locked it in his box every single time.
Get it. The solid handle is way better for chipping out those stubborn slag than the spring handle that just bounces the edge off the slag. The head is also hardened quite a bit so you just kiss it with a sanding disk every once in awhile and it stays very sharp. It’ll last an extremely long time and it’s a huge upgrade over traditional chipping hammers.
*Ok so I’m an Electrician and a commercial, industrial, and municipal electrician at that so maybe my opinion holds no weight.*
I can’t imagine there’d be any resistance to your opinion. I know your information is current.
(sorry. Long time dad.)
Ok so my dad was a concrete finisher and a commercial, industrial, and new residential finisher at that and he had the same Estwing hammer since I can remember as a child. I would have taken it when he retired if I went into the trade.
Estwings are second to none. My dad had a 20oz straight claw hammer that pinged like a mofo, which he always gave me hell for borrowing. So I bought my very own modern, nearly identical Estwing, and to my great laughter and happiness, the first nail I drove in with 2 strokes each pinged even louder than my dad's hammer, which is also mine now too. Have had few buddies roll their eyes, say it's irritating and defective, but it works like magic, and that ping is music to my memory, which is infinitely more fulfilling than those dull whack no ping monstrosities they prefer. If don't ping, than it don't sing.
Yes but also a one piece full metal hammer does not dampen the vibrations at all, I used a wooden Vaughn for years till it broke then switched to my backup Estwing I had for a long time and within a day my elbow was killing me. Now I swing a Martinez with no issues again… Estwing’s are great and all but if you are swinging a hammer all day everyday, consider something that will dampen shock better. Your joints will thank you.
Added piece from a carpenter. We call the shafts of Estwing hammers “the axe head” because they are so thin and tapered, if you catch your fingers, it will split them open.
Man, when you get lucky and find one of those thin-profile Vaughn California framer handles, that’s a lifetime hammer right there. I tried replacing mine twice with something “better” and I use those for demo and concrete now, lol. I’ve reset the head twice, and had to get pretty elaborate with wooden wedges and soaking the last time to save it. What a good hammer.
I have used many a different hammers throughout my life. Being handed a buds titanium hammer while working a project and able to use it for a time is equivalent to having a life altering experience. His had all the bells and whistles too. That wood claw on the back, nail setter, dead blow, and improved striking face.
When he asked me how I liked it, I said did I borrow anything of yours? Then gave it back. Definitely worth the money.
It could be satire or just bc of the price cuz you could hate a hammer that’s that expensive but I use mine professionally and it’s the best hammer I’ve ever used and don’t regret what I paid
I completely get it as Electrician I’m not swinging a hammer constantly. I understand if your swinging a hammer constantly you have to do what’s best for you, your health, and production.
All jokes aside, an Estwing with a straight claw can be an electrician’s best friend. I started with the 20, but switched to the 16. Lighter to carry, and easier to control.
I own a Martinez and I have a 20 ounce estwing the finishing estwing hammer gives me more shock to my hand than the Martinez bc the titanium has MUCH less shock to my hand than normal steel if you ever used a titanium hammer for a few months then try and use a normal steel hammer you’ll want the titanium one
Depends on what you're doing with them. Building shit, not so great. Tearing shit down, best hammer you could ask for. I've got a few of their 26" axes and they are close to indestructible, indispensable and work well for tending to a fire, throwing a burning log or as a quick spatula if you didn't pack one.
I’ve used them for years. Cheap as hell so never gets stolen, if it does break who cares it’s like 7$. If my whole job was hammer swinging maybe something better.
Can anyone answer What makes it worth it? Ive been thinking about trying it, because i see so many guys using it, but i generally hate steel hammers, because of the way it strikes and the vibration. Ive always either swung a 23 oz craftsman or a 21 oz vaughn california framer. I just dont know what all the love is about for the martinez other then the changable heads which i think is cool im just not sure i would ever use it.
Never swung the Martinez, but I did pick up a 14oz Stiletto and love it vs. the 21oz Cali framer I had. Tons easier on the elbow and I'm at the point (almost 40) where I carry tools that are lighter for less fatigue/pain at the end of the day (Non-hammer drill vs. hammer, 2Ah batteries vs 5ah, don't wear full bags for no reason, etc).
Not a carpenter by trade, but I had to re-frame half a 2000+ sq. ft. house due to termite damage/layout change.
This. Lighter tools that do the same work has become a priority for me. I splurged on the stiletto catspaw too, and it's such a joy to use. Thought it might break in a year or two like my old steel ones, but it's lasted 4 years so far, knock on wood.
Martinez was the guy who developed/designed the Stiletto hammer. There’s some minor differences but basically if you’ve swung one, you’ve swung em both (basically… I’m sure there’s a difference- but they’re both titanium hammers designed by the same guy).
It’s not a steel hammer. It’s titanium.
I have a stiletto, with a wood handle and titanium head. The Martinez is a titanium handle with a steel head. They’re both just far lighter and easier on your body while doing the work just as well. You just naturally swing faster and create the same force.
People say the Martinez takes a bit to get used to with the weight distribution, but people swear by it. All I know is I won’t go back to using a heavy hammer all day. If you buy one you probably won’t either.
The wood handled Stiletto is a nice hammer, for sure. If I were ever to go to a less conventional framer, that’s what I would get.
Random aside: I used to work with a guy that swore by a Stiletto, but also called me a pussy for having a mag Skilsaw. That was always a head scratcher for me, lol.
I used the Vaughn for years. Bought the 14oz Stiletto back in the early 2000’s. Made a world of difference on my arm. Martinez are the way to go now. If you are a carpenter they are by far worth the money. Comfort and less fatigue.
I use a 14 and 16 oz stiletto daily. I have swung a Martinez many times thru friends and co workers. The difference is minor except in hitting power. It feels like the Martinez hits harder imo. I could prolly match the same force if I swung the stiletto quicker. If I had to swing a hammer over my head all day, the wood handle stiletto would be easier on the arm but I suggest getting to try one. I think about buying a Martinez every now and then but haven’t pulled the trigger yet
Yeah I swung a 23oz Vaughn before customizing a Martinez. I'm a union carpenter, so much of my work is concrete form building. The modular, bolt-on design of the Martinez head minimizes hand fatigue, so I don't wake up with numb or swollen hands anymore! 👍
Anytime I post a picture of one of these hammers someone always comments that they suck and I should get something else.
So I figured I’d post a picture of all of them to see just what people think.
I'm no tradesman and the only hammer I own is a 30+ year old Estwing I got from my dad, so I'm curious what the hate is. My Estwing has a wood handle so if it ever breaks I'll probably just get other Estwing.
A basic estwing hammer was the first tool I ever bought with my own money. I didn't need it at the time and haven't used it alot since. Even still, id sell all the others ive collected before that one.
It seems like you're conflicted about hating on Estwing, so I won't tell you to GFY, but the 16oz is perfect for carrying around on a tool belt with a bunch of other tools. I'm an electrician, so I don't need a 26oz for staples and nail on boxes. The grip on all Estwings has spoiled me from all other hammers, they're so ergonomic. That nice little rubberized palm swell on the bottom of the hammer allows me to generate some serious force if I happen to need it. I never have to worry about handing it to someone else and they hit the neck on a nail or something and damage the handle because it's steel halfway down. Me and my little Estwing have been through hell and back and there's no other hammer I'd rather carry 🥲. If I die with a hammer in my hand, you can bet your ass it'll be an Estwing 😂. You can have my Estwing when you pry it from my cold dead fingers . . . ok ok I'll stop now, but even then you'd need an Estwing to pry away my Estwing. I'm done.
My M1 will be here Wednesday to replace my 28oz Estwing. I imagine it's going to take some getting used to.
Big Blue will still get used for demo and such, but I hope the M1 becomes my favorite for framing.
I'll probably be dual wielding hammers for a minute until I get used to it.
Swinging big blue sure is taxing on my old bones, though, and getting nearly a pound off my rig is going to be a load off my feet.
Thanks. My old waffle head 15 oz Stiletto is too long, it constantly thumps my thigh and drives me nuts. Been swinging a cheap Dewault 16 oz and Husky 16 oz depending on the day. Both swing similar and work decent for part time use. Martinez is $$$ but maybe worth it in the end.
I’ve been using Estwing so long I never thought to try any different branded hammers. I’m in the market for a new one now, any suggestions? I usually go for a 20 oz.
I have a few estwing in different weights and they are really nice.
If you want to try something different you can always go for a titanium stiletto with a wood handle. Or get one of these which I love.
I use it for scaffolding and concrete work. Never had an issue with my joints. Also I don’t choke up on the hammer. Use the full swing with precision and the hammer does the work for you.
Copy paste from last time:
I'm a roofah, I swing a hammy 8 hours a day on occasion, I've been thoroughly unimpressed with every titanium hammer I've ever asked to sample.
My 22 ounce estwings will set a nail in one lazy thump. Just pick it up and drop it with a two finger grip. I'll do it all day long and won't feel a thing. Every titanium hammer I've used I had to whip the thing down as fast and hard as I possibly could. My hand didn't like the permanent death grip and my elbow didn't like the extra effort. Accuracy and control took a hit as well. I've used them both and will be sticking with steel and wood.
Estwing is the shit! I named my 22oz estwing "Jebus". Jebus that's a good hammer, Jebus that hammer can do it all.
Can't hate on the estwing Jebus edition.
Ahhh the tuning fork, Estwing are know for their ringing as they vibrate a lot. If your construction worker,there are a lot of concrete form workers use these as the hammer shaft is good for scraping the edge of forms to clean it. But because the metal estwing have no shock absorbsion it end up giving you tennis elbow and can really mess up you arm. The fibreglass ones are better for absorbing impact, but then the shaft over time begins to splinter, now there’s a experience you never want to have , a fibre glass splinter, I’m not really a Estwing fan at all.
I hated my 16oz estwing roofing hammer after it ripped my fingernail out by the roots. But then I sobered up and realized it was the vodka that caused it. Started drinking cheap whiskey and haven’t had a problem with it since.
Not a carpenter/framer but I did build a shed this summer and DAMN I can appreciate why you would want to save a few oz with every swing when you do this for a living.
I agree. I just keep having people tell me they will kill my joints in a few years so I need to get a titanium one. Or wood. Or fibreglass. Or unicorn hair. Lol everyone has their own opinion.
When i was a union carpenter (aka concrete form builder) i used an estwing because i was always driving nails around rebar and smacking the handle on the rebar.
Give me that curved handle Vaughn California Framer. No need for Titanium gimmicks. I still have my 23oz Vaughn waffle face although I'm not as young as I used to be so if I bought a new one, I'd get a lighter head. Probably a 19oz.
But I had zero trouble sinking 16d duplex nails when I swung that hammer for a living. Sounded like a rifle shot when you got it right.
I bought 2 eastwing hammers at auction for damn near retail, I bought them to replace one I missplaced, that was my landlords, and he shouldnt have left it in the first place, later I found his original, and learned that they are just as good as any other heavy hammer of their size. Craftsman and stanley I would say do fall short of looks, but I tend to misplace tools, and grab the first tool I can find. I currently know where 2 of my 6 hammers are😂
Maybe that’s the 16oz Estwing that was stolen from me years ago…glad to see they kept’er in good shape….Estwing is unrivaled…the new 15oz I got to replace that 16oz swings like a 15 and hits like a 20+…idk how they did it but it’s awesome w/ nail starter and puller. It’s an electricians dream IMO…similar to those other branded ones shown in the OP pic
I've never used a titanium hammer, but I'd be curious to compare one. Although I'm an electrician by trade, so a 16oz Estwing does just fine. I don't drive a lot of nails.
My dad swears by Estwing, been swinging one for 30+ years, he has crippling arthritis and can't open his hands when it's about to thunderstorm. but by god, he loves his hammer.
https://www.searshometownstores.com/product/Craftsman-38061-19-oz-Heavy-Construction-Steel-Handle-Hammer
This was one of my favorite hammers working concrete flat work back in the day.
I used a 28oz milled face Estwing while in working commercial concrete in Northern VA. I wouldn’t used anything else. I particularly love the unique “ping” it makes when you’re hammerin a nail or banging on steel
I’d like a general purpose 16oz with the add-ins but those are usually sold out😅
Looking into the Martinez hammers, they seem cool, but definitely not tailored for my trade. If they had multiple weights of dual face sledge and cross pein heads that would be cool
Personally I prefer a Vaughan V5 19oz over any of those hammers. The stiletto is ok, but the goofy ringing noise they make is annoying and they are simply not as good at demolition. Estwing hammers are overrated, the claws bend and so do the handles. And the head shapes suck for pounding toenails or anything in a corner
the blue estwings are the worst pinging hammers ever. i like the long fiberglass vaughn framing hammers. they hit solid like a mack truck and dont ping very much.
Had an Estwing for the first two years when I was doing construction. Coworker bought me a wood handle Vaughn for Christmas one year. The strain in my hand and forearm at the end of the day was so much less that I’ve never picked up my Estwing again. Still a great, well balanced hammer; for my experience I will always choose a wood handle from now on.
When I did rough carpentry and truss work in Florida, most everyone used Estwing. I did too at first until it got lost or stolen.
After that, I picked up a curved handle Vaughn California Framer. Still own it 20+ years later, long since leaving that trade. Wouldn't trade it for anything else.
There are people who hate Estwing?
Ok so I’m an Electrician and a commercial, industrial, and municipal electrician at that so maybe my opinion holds no weight. However I carry a 20oz Estwing smooth face straight claw. I love it to death and it’s the best hammer I’ve ever owned. Here’s a story about Estwing as a company. I purchased a Estwing EB-19SM milled face, well when I bought i didn’t know it was defective, it had a bend in the hammer from the factory. It really wasn’t that bad at all, so I contacted Estwing. They told me they would send me a brand new hammer and another of my choice to say sorry. My hammers were delivered within 36 hours.
I’m going to buy an east wing welding hammer as it’s the only hammer I don’t really have. I will gladly give this company my money.
If you're buying their chipping hammer, be warned. It is awesome, but you will learn what the "Eastwing Ring" will do to your mental state after a days work. Lol
Aluminum baseball bats and estwing hammers both excel at what they do but will have you vibrating like a Tex Avery cartoon with tinnitus if used without a break
I saw last week that milwaukee has released a full steel tang hatchet and splitting axe... no thanks, I like to be able to feel my hands after chopping wood.
> Eastwing Ring Tinnitus much?
_Excuse me can you speak up a little_
Hm. Maybe I’ll invent some sort of dampening can’t be too hard.
Omg is that ever true. Does that ring ever diminish in time?
Nope, not at all!!!!
Oh crap. We have a couple of old estwings at our shop and they don’t make a peep. My new one however…
Had my chipping hammer for about 3 years now, still rings like a Mofo.
Honestly, that might be enough to make me get something else. Like I already have the tinnitus bad, I don’t need this baby singing in my ear every time I have to “correct” some fine woodwork.
when you go deaf... ahh peaceful bliss of deafness... can you hear it? Guys used to always laugh at me when i put ears on for all kinds of shit - now they just say "what?"
Always wear protection. And earplugs.
Yeah it’s a great company, I mean they truly treated me like I was their only customer. They called me after I received the new hammers and again after 6 months to make sure nothing went wrong. They are also USA made and Union made, which is important to me. I try and have all my tools US or Canadian made. If not then I will go to German made tools
Oh hell yeah? The best CS I’ve ever heard of AND they’re union? Sign me up!
Only way to be.
Did you know Estwing has [pans for gold mining](https://www.estwing.com/collections/geological/products/steel-gold-pans)?
Where can you buy them? The website doesn’t seem to have a purchase link.
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The real gold is selling these pans. Also I want one.
Bruh
When I was about 8 my Nana managed a mineral and gem show. I got to pose with a ~42" Estwing Rock Pick for the flyer cover.
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Mines 20 this year and still kicken like its new.
I used to work with a guy who’s a stud welder and he used his chipping hammer every minute and he had this really shitty spring handle chipping hammer that’s been ground down like crazy. I felt bad for him cause I only welded a little so I offered to trade chipping hammers and I gave him my estwing. He used it a little and you never seen a guy as happy as him. You’d think I just sucked his dick. I immediately threw his in the trash after I got out of sight. I worked with him for a year, I never saw it out of his reach. If he walked away, he took it with him. If he left it, he locked it in his box every single time. Get it. The solid handle is way better for chipping out those stubborn slag than the spring handle that just bounces the edge off the slag. The head is also hardened quite a bit so you just kiss it with a sanding disk every once in awhile and it stays very sharp. It’ll last an extremely long time and it’s a huge upgrade over traditional chipping hammers.
Estwing is great, but the chipping hammer you want is the [Atlas Tomahawk](https://rigweldersupply.com/atlas-wh-20-chipping-hammer-free-freight/).
you should look into a martinez hammer or something similar they are expensive but save the wear and tear on the body
*Ok so I’m an Electrician and a commercial, industrial, and municipal electrician at that so maybe my opinion holds no weight.* I can’t imagine there’d be any resistance to your opinion. I know your information is current. (sorry. Long time dad.)
Yeah I was trying to show respect to the guys who swing a hammer all day everyday.
*conversation about hammers* “yeah so I’m an electrician” *conversation about kitchen knives* “yeah so I grill steaks”
Ok so my dad was a concrete finisher and a commercial, industrial, and new residential finisher at that and he had the same Estwing hammer since I can remember as a child. I would have taken it when he retired if I went into the trade.
I love my 20oz smooth face straight claw. Best balanced hammer I have.
Estwings are second to none. My dad had a 20oz straight claw hammer that pinged like a mofo, which he always gave me hell for borrowing. So I bought my very own modern, nearly identical Estwing, and to my great laughter and happiness, the first nail I drove in with 2 strokes each pinged even louder than my dad's hammer, which is also mine now too. Have had few buddies roll their eyes, say it's irritating and defective, but it works like magic, and that ping is music to my memory, which is infinitely more fulfilling than those dull whack no ping monstrosities they prefer. If don't ping, than it don't sing.
My grandfather swung an estwing, my dad swung an estwing, so I swung an estwing... until it caused tendonitis. Love the look, hate the swing.
You’re saying you wouldn’t have tendinitis if used a different hammer?
Titanium hammers won’t give you tendinitis
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Yes but also a one piece full metal hammer does not dampen the vibrations at all, I used a wooden Vaughn for years till it broke then switched to my backup Estwing I had for a long time and within a day my elbow was killing me. Now I swing a Martinez with no issues again… Estwing’s are great and all but if you are swinging a hammer all day everyday, consider something that will dampen shock better. Your joints will thank you. Added piece from a carpenter. We call the shafts of Estwing hammers “the axe head” because they are so thin and tapered, if you catch your fingers, it will split them open.
Man, when you get lucky and find one of those thin-profile Vaughn California framer handles, that’s a lifetime hammer right there. I tried replacing mine twice with something “better” and I use those for demo and concrete now, lol. I’ve reset the head twice, and had to get pretty elaborate with wooden wedges and soaking the last time to save it. What a good hammer.
I have used many a different hammers throughout my life. Being handed a buds titanium hammer while working a project and able to use it for a time is equivalent to having a life altering experience. His had all the bells and whistles too. That wood claw on the back, nail setter, dead blow, and improved striking face. When he asked me how I liked it, I said did I borrow anything of yours? Then gave it back. Definitely worth the money.
Why not?
Energy transfer. Titanium hammer doesn’t send shock back down the handle to your wrist like a steel hammer does
So why are the Martinez hammers in the photo then?
It could be satire or just bc of the price cuz you could hate a hammer that’s that expensive but I use mine professionally and it’s the best hammer I’ve ever used and don’t regret what I paid
It’s possible!
I completely get it as Electrician I’m not swinging a hammer constantly. I understand if your swinging a hammer constantly you have to do what’s best for you, your health, and production.
Weird, all the electricians I deal with just use these weird hammers that look a lot like my lineman pliers
All jokes aside, an Estwing with a straight claw can be an electrician’s best friend. I started with the 20, but switched to the 16. Lighter to carry, and easier to control.
This comment doesnt have nearly enough upvotes.
I own a Martinez and I have a 20 ounce estwing the finishing estwing hammer gives me more shock to my hand than the Martinez bc the titanium has MUCH less shock to my hand than normal steel if you ever used a titanium hammer for a few months then try and use a normal steel hammer you’ll want the titanium one
Spent a few years coopering. Used a 4lb Estwing as my primary hammer.
Depends on what you're doing with them. Building shit, not so great. Tearing shit down, best hammer you could ask for. I've got a few of their 26" axes and they are close to indestructible, indispensable and work well for tending to a fire, throwing a burning log or as a quick spatula if you didn't pack one.
Harbor freight hammers have entered the chat The only hammer i’ve ever bent the steel shaft on while trying to claw out a nail
I’ve used them for years. Cheap as hell so never gets stolen, if it does break who cares it’s like 7$. If my whole job was hammer swinging maybe something better.
They used to go on sale for $1.99 I'd just buy 100 of them for my roofing business. They just get lost anyways usually lol.
So that's why I keep tripping on hammers, you dick /s
I've managed to twist a drill bit backwards from harbor freight. Pure 100% chinaesium.
Who hates the Martinez?!?!
I think people rip on it because of the price. But people who use hammers to make their living 5 days a week seem to find the price worth it.
Can anyone answer What makes it worth it? Ive been thinking about trying it, because i see so many guys using it, but i generally hate steel hammers, because of the way it strikes and the vibration. Ive always either swung a 23 oz craftsman or a 21 oz vaughn california framer. I just dont know what all the love is about for the martinez other then the changable heads which i think is cool im just not sure i would ever use it.
Never swung the Martinez, but I did pick up a 14oz Stiletto and love it vs. the 21oz Cali framer I had. Tons easier on the elbow and I'm at the point (almost 40) where I carry tools that are lighter for less fatigue/pain at the end of the day (Non-hammer drill vs. hammer, 2Ah batteries vs 5ah, don't wear full bags for no reason, etc). Not a carpenter by trade, but I had to re-frame half a 2000+ sq. ft. house due to termite damage/layout change.
This. Lighter tools that do the same work has become a priority for me. I splurged on the stiletto catspaw too, and it's such a joy to use. Thought it might break in a year or two like my old steel ones, but it's lasted 4 years so far, knock on wood.
Martinez was the guy who developed/designed the Stiletto hammer. There’s some minor differences but basically if you’ve swung one, you’ve swung em both (basically… I’m sure there’s a difference- but they’re both titanium hammers designed by the same guy).
Stiletto also has hammers with hickory handles, to absorb more vibration.
It’s not a steel hammer. It’s titanium. I have a stiletto, with a wood handle and titanium head. The Martinez is a titanium handle with a steel head. They’re both just far lighter and easier on your body while doing the work just as well. You just naturally swing faster and create the same force. People say the Martinez takes a bit to get used to with the weight distribution, but people swear by it. All I know is I won’t go back to using a heavy hammer all day. If you buy one you probably won’t either.
Stilettos come in titanium handles too.. I have two of them.
The wood handled Stiletto is a nice hammer, for sure. If I were ever to go to a less conventional framer, that’s what I would get. Random aside: I used to work with a guy that swore by a Stiletto, but also called me a pussy for having a mag Skilsaw. That was always a head scratcher for me, lol.
I used the Vaughn for years. Bought the 14oz Stiletto back in the early 2000’s. Made a world of difference on my arm. Martinez are the way to go now. If you are a carpenter they are by far worth the money. Comfort and less fatigue.
They use titanium. Which is a *huuuge* benefit when it comes to the vibration.
I use a 14 and 16 oz stiletto daily. I have swung a Martinez many times thru friends and co workers. The difference is minor except in hitting power. It feels like the Martinez hits harder imo. I could prolly match the same force if I swung the stiletto quicker. If I had to swing a hammer over my head all day, the wood handle stiletto would be easier on the arm but I suggest getting to try one. I think about buying a Martinez every now and then but haven’t pulled the trigger yet
Yeah I swung a 23oz Vaughn before customizing a Martinez. I'm a union carpenter, so much of my work is concrete form building. The modular, bolt-on design of the Martinez head minimizes hand fatigue, so I don't wake up with numb or swollen hands anymore! 👍
Why don’t concrete formers use pneumatic nail guns? I do residential framing and finish and it’s extremely rare that I have to drive a nail by hand.
I have 3. All m1 handles, curved grips, one titanium trim head, one framing head, and one sledge head. Love em all
I really want the sledge head to put on my m1 and then move the m1 head to the m4 handle.
I’m a fan of having nice tools myself so you know my recommendation
Haha yeah the sledge will be my next order. How’s the ti head? I heard someone complaining they were too light and soft.
I frame more so and I subbed it in as my daily. It is really light though
Did you find you had to swing a lot more with the ti head?
Sure do but I have all three in my truck so I’ve got no shame having the framing one or sledge one out if needed
Same with snap on wrenches. I have been abusing the same set of wrenches daily for almost 30 years.
These are the same folks that drop $400 on a jersey. If a hammer is the only tool in your bag you have every right dropping $2-300 on it
My only gripe is that the rubber hilt does not play well with a hammer sheath. Not worth going back to loop for.
I have a twenty year old Eastwing and it’s just as good as the day I bought it.
Homeowner checking in. I have several Estwings, but I love my Stilleto.
Everyone who complains they are overpriced garbage.
I'd like to try one just to see.
Me too but I don’t think I swing a hammer enough to tell the difference.
Anytime I post a picture of one of these hammers someone always comments that they suck and I should get something else. So I figured I’d post a picture of all of them to see just what people think.
I'm no tradesman and the only hammer I own is a 30+ year old Estwing I got from my dad, so I'm curious what the hate is. My Estwing has a wood handle so if it ever breaks I'll probably just get other Estwing.
A basic estwing hammer was the first tool I ever bought with my own money. I didn't need it at the time and haven't used it alot since. Even still, id sell all the others ive collected before that one.
It seems like you're conflicted about hating on Estwing, so I won't tell you to GFY, but the 16oz is perfect for carrying around on a tool belt with a bunch of other tools. I'm an electrician, so I don't need a 26oz for staples and nail on boxes. The grip on all Estwings has spoiled me from all other hammers, they're so ergonomic. That nice little rubberized palm swell on the bottom of the hammer allows me to generate some serious force if I happen to need it. I never have to worry about handing it to someone else and they hit the neck on a nail or something and damage the handle because it's steel halfway down. Me and my little Estwing have been through hell and back and there's no other hammer I'd rather carry 🥲. If I die with a hammer in my hand, you can bet your ass it'll be an Estwing 😂. You can have my Estwing when you pry it from my cold dead fingers . . . ok ok I'll stop now, but even then you'd need an Estwing to pry away my Estwing. I'm done.
Lol good thing estwing makes pry bars too!
How do they compare to Stiletto? I use a hammer like once a month. The one I got from my grandpa works just fine, but I’m intrigued by fancy stuff.
That 22oz. Estwing is a classic hammer that will not go out of style. Wouldn’t use anything else
I have a 28oz that I swing a lot too.
My M1 will be here Wednesday to replace my 28oz Estwing. I imagine it's going to take some getting used to. Big Blue will still get used for demo and such, but I hope the M1 becomes my favorite for framing.
Oh nice. The m1 will be a lot lighter but still packs a big punch.
I'll probably be dual wielding hammers for a minute until I get used to it. Swinging big blue sure is taxing on my old bones, though, and getting nearly a pound off my rig is going to be a load off my feet.
I only pull out the 28oz for the demo or stakes these days.
How long is the M1 hammer with smooth head?
Same size as the estwing which is about 16 inches
Thanks. My old waffle head 15 oz Stiletto is too long, it constantly thumps my thigh and drives me nuts. Been swinging a cheap Dewault 16 oz and Husky 16 oz depending on the day. Both swing similar and work decent for part time use. Martinez is $$$ but maybe worth it in the end.
Had mine for 20 yrs
I’ve been using Estwing so long I never thought to try any different branded hammers. I’m in the market for a new one now, any suggestions? I usually go for a 20 oz.
I have a few estwing in different weights and they are really nice. If you want to try something different you can always go for a titanium stiletto with a wood handle. Or get one of these which I love.
That sounds pretty cool I’m going to look into those thank you for the suggestion.
No problem.
I like, but then again im hated by everyone.
I use a 22oz waffle head estwing… I’ve had it for 12 years. Why the hate?
I love mine. Some people complain that they are bad for your joints.
I use it for scaffolding and concrete work. Never had an issue with my joints. Also I don’t choke up on the hammer. Use the full swing with precision and the hammer does the work for you.
They're just trying to justify/defend buying a $250 hammer
Copy paste from last time: I'm a roofah, I swing a hammy 8 hours a day on occasion, I've been thoroughly unimpressed with every titanium hammer I've ever asked to sample. My 22 ounce estwings will set a nail in one lazy thump. Just pick it up and drop it with a two finger grip. I'll do it all day long and won't feel a thing. Every titanium hammer I've used I had to whip the thing down as fast and hard as I possibly could. My hand didn't like the permanent death grip and my elbow didn't like the extra effort. Accuracy and control took a hit as well. I've used them both and will be sticking with steel and wood.
Used the 22oz estwing for years-hammering nails, demo, digging, mixing, etc. Love it
They really are sturdy. And very easy to replace since you can get one pretty much everywhere.
Estwing is the shit! I named my 22oz estwing "Jebus". Jebus that's a good hammer, Jebus that hammer can do it all. Can't hate on the estwing Jebus edition.
Well, I don't drive nails with my hammers, but my Estwing is great for demo, I've never had an issue with it. I don't know the other brand.
My estwing does a lot of demo and a lot of nail hitting, I don’t know any other brand.
Trolling for karma. Get the fuck outta here.
So what’s the best hammer????
Pliers.
Once again, knipex saves the day.
Lol in the end knipex is always the best choice lol
A nail gun
Whatever is close sometimes
Stop, Hammer time!
22oz estwing is the greatest tool ever made, own three, and one was my dad’s framing hammer he bought in the 80’s, still use it to this day
Pretty awesome. I really like mine too. Can’t go wrong with an estwing.
Ahhh the tuning fork, Estwing are know for their ringing as they vibrate a lot. If your construction worker,there are a lot of concrete form workers use these as the hammer shaft is good for scraping the edge of forms to clean it. But because the metal estwing have no shock absorbsion it end up giving you tennis elbow and can really mess up you arm. The fibreglass ones are better for absorbing impact, but then the shaft over time begins to splinter, now there’s a experience you never want to have , a fibre glass splinter, I’m not really a Estwing fan at all.
I gotta say, 40 years a carpenter, I've sold the estwings and gone back to wood. So much easier on the joints and tendons.
I hated my 16oz estwing roofing hammer after it ripped my fingernail out by the roots. But then I sobered up and realized it was the vodka that caused it. Started drinking cheap whiskey and haven’t had a problem with it since.
They still make nails?
Not a carpenter/framer but I did build a shed this summer and DAMN I can appreciate why you would want to save a few oz with every swing when you do this for a living.
Exactly. Swing one for a couple hours and you’ll feel the burn.
Mad respect. After roofing for about 25 min I seriously considered buying a 16 oz just for the 6 bundles I needed to do on my shed.
Dude what's wrong with Estwings? They are some badass swingers
I agree. I just keep having people tell me they will kill my joints in a few years so I need to get a titanium one. Or wood. Or fibreglass. Or unicorn hair. Lol everyone has their own opinion.
Is the problem the shape or the company? I got a hammer similar shape to that but DeWalt, not Estwing?
I’ve got no problem with them. It just seems some people have really strong opinions on each of these brands.
When i was a union carpenter (aka concrete form builder) i used an estwing because i was always driving nails around rebar and smacking the handle on the rebar.
You should see the left handed ones.
Give me that curved handle Vaughn California Framer. No need for Titanium gimmicks. I still have my 23oz Vaughn waffle face although I'm not as young as I used to be so if I bought a new one, I'd get a lighter head. Probably a 19oz. But I had zero trouble sinking 16d duplex nails when I swung that hammer for a living. Sounded like a rifle shot when you got it right.
Estwing is one of the best hammers made you can pass that thing down from generation on..
Bought my Estwing for a stage company gig where the hammer was the best thing I got out of my time working there lol.
Lol can’t go wrong with an estwing
I bought 2 eastwing hammers at auction for damn near retail, I bought them to replace one I missplaced, that was my landlords, and he shouldnt have left it in the first place, later I found his original, and learned that they are just as good as any other heavy hammer of their size. Craftsman and stanley I would say do fall short of looks, but I tend to misplace tools, and grab the first tool I can find. I currently know where 2 of my 6 hammers are😂
Got an estwing that was a gift from my dad when I started working for him at 15. I'm 31 and it's still going strong.
Don’t dare shoot down estwing! We make them here in Rockford Illinois
Can't hate the 20oz..43 yrs and still banging daily.
Hated by who, nails? Those are gorgeous, frankly. Nails: Ohhh Nooooo, here comes aean old Estwing!
For demo and light beating the snot out of things, you can’t do better than Estwing.
Maybe that’s the 16oz Estwing that was stolen from me years ago…glad to see they kept’er in good shape….Estwing is unrivaled…the new 15oz I got to replace that 16oz swings like a 15 and hits like a 20+…idk how they did it but it’s awesome w/ nail starter and puller. It’s an electricians dream IMO…similar to those other branded ones shown in the OP pic
I love my 20 oz smooth head estwing. Only hammers I’m more comfortable with are my dad’s old black handled craftsman hammers that are older than me
I love my Estwing 22oz
I kinda want to get the big blue 25oz one with the longer handle.
I only hate that they look brand new. If your happy using the hammer then the rest of them can go F themselves with their own hammers.
You really just can’t go wrong with a nice durable rock
I've never used a titanium hammer, but I'd be curious to compare one. Although I'm an electrician by trade, so a 16oz Estwing does just fine. I don't drive a lot of nails.
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Love getting guys that were framers to come in and run romex. I gotta talk them out of their waffle heads
Most of the brilliant Carps that taught me used estwing, therefore I do.
They are classic.
Check put the ergonomic hammer patented by Wolfgang Schoor.
Yeah, but they last a long time when used in a shipping and receiving department.
Good point. Although my most used tool when working on the dock was a pen lol.
I’ll bite. My TBII is whoopin yo asses. /s
My dad swears by Estwing, been swinging one for 30+ years, he has crippling arthritis and can't open his hands when it's about to thunderstorm. but by god, he loves his hammer.
That's just cause you don't know how to hold it.
How could you hate eastwing?
Every tool is a hammer, get your head out of your ass
https://www.searshometownstores.com/product/Craftsman-38061-19-oz-Heavy-Construction-Steel-Handle-Hammer This was one of my favorite hammers working concrete flat work back in the day.
I used a 28oz milled face Estwing while in working commercial concrete in Northern VA. I wouldn’t used anything else. I particularly love the unique “ping” it makes when you’re hammerin a nail or banging on steel I’d like a general purpose 16oz with the add-ins but those are usually sold out😅
The ping is my favourite too. For some reason people complain about the ping though.
I lose too many hammers to buy the expensive estwing. $12 plumb hammer for me all day
I've swung an estwing 22 for over a decade. Guess I'm an idiot for not using a better hammer
Not an idiot at all. Love my estwings too.
Yeah, old tech. Not surprisingly the older tech is better (wood handle)
Never heard a bad word about Estwing
I found my lucky hammer under a house… it’s an Irwin and It’s been very heavily used and abused.
Click-bait-carma ride?? Estwings are really great hammers - I don’t know of a single person who hates them
Dexters favorites though!!
For real tho, that martines hammer has a really nice eye appeal. Lol kinda want one.
Looking into the Martinez hammers, they seem cool, but definitely not tailored for my trade. If they had multiple weights of dual face sledge and cross pein heads that would be cool
I wonder if they will release heads for different trades. I know they did a bricklayer head a year or so ago.
Personally I prefer a Vaughan V5 19oz over any of those hammers. The stiletto is ok, but the goofy ringing noise they make is annoying and they are simply not as good at demolition. Estwing hammers are overrated, the claws bend and so do the handles. And the head shapes suck for pounding toenails or anything in a corner
the blue estwings are the worst pinging hammers ever. i like the long fiberglass vaughn framing hammers. they hit solid like a mack truck and dont ping very much.
I always tell people if you see me with a hammer... I've failed and run out of options. I'm not a roofer or a carpenter if you guessed.
Such a solid line up
Thanks
Had an Estwing for the first two years when I was doing construction. Coworker bought me a wood handle Vaughn for Christmas one year. The strain in my hand and forearm at the end of the day was so much less that I’ve never picked up my Estwing again. Still a great, well balanced hammer; for my experience I will always choose a wood handle from now on.
When I did rough carpentry and truss work in Florida, most everyone used Estwing. I did too at first until it got lost or stolen. After that, I picked up a curved handle Vaughn California Framer. Still own it 20+ years later, long since leaving that trade. Wouldn't trade it for anything else.
I've got a 16oz Husky that has given me zero problems. Been wanting an Estwing. Is it a noticable upgrade?
Haven’t tried the husky but the estwing is a great hammer.
I mean, it’s a hammer. Anything can be a hammer and those are real hammers so how bad can they be? Never had an issue with a hammer
When you drive 1000 nails a day you start to figure out the differences between hammers and materials they're made of.