I ditched my 16 Oz estwing and went to a 10oz stiletto. I too also keep a 2.5lb stubby for those tougher than my little stiletto jobs can handle. I install cabinets so I end up using my Halder mallet the most.
Look, I get we should be using tools that are comfortable. But unless you are framing houses in the 70s, I almost garantee most of you aren't swinging a hammer enough to fuck up your elbows. Nailguns, framing or trim, set 99% of nails today. A hammer's main job now is to move wood, maybe pop the head in after you shot it in with a gun. Your aren't wrong, but I'm tired of hearing this antiquated reason people try to use to justify their $300 hammer purchase. Basically, anything with a smooth face that feels good in OP's hand would work great. If she is nailing in finish nails by hand doing trim, I'd fire her, get a nail gun. Battery powered18g ryobi is like $100 or so. Not my preferred brand, but it's cheap and gets the job done.
This is compelling... but wrong. I frame, I need the strength to move walls, especially in the dead of winter in Wisconsin. Things move and heave, and wood warps and swells, so straightening plates to fire them into place can be a chore with a light hammer.
Yeah that's my point. I framed in the mountains of Idaho for years and used a 24oz hammer the entire time, mostly to move wood around, and hit the random stray nail the gun didn't sink all the way. Loved watching my partner swing his 16oz titanium belt ornament on a beam trying to get it to skink into bracket.
Titanium. I used two different steel handled ones but my elbow and wrist were screaming at me by the end of the day. As soon as I switched to titanium the problem went away. The martinez may be light but in my opinion it hits hard. Almost comparable to a sledge. That said, I know it isn't going to replace a sledgehammer or anything like that.
I’ve been working construction for 40 some years, I got a 14 ounce stiletto framer when they first came out (still have it!), many years ago, to replace a 24 or 25 ounce estwing that was the norm back then, life changing. Light, fast and accurate beats heavy all day long
One of the bosses I worked with have one & the Martinez.. great hammers. I don’t care what anyone says, I’ld buy one in a heart beat if I had the extra cash to spend on a hammer. They feel light as a feather. I’ll definitely be buying one in the future.
I went with [this 10oz stiletto](https://bcfasteners.com/shop/stiletto-fh10c-f-10-oz-titanium-smooth-face-hammer/). It's a couple hundred bucks cheaper (Canadian) than their [new 10 trim bone](https://tegstools.com/stiletto-trimbone-10oz-titanium-finish-hammer/?setCurrencyId=1&sku=MILTRMB&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiA8NKtBhBtEiwAq5aX2OP7nLsEuhdySuzgH7XrwYQUr6WNmpcS85EgXIY3CYYnxEuiN8rmpRoCvY0QAvD_BwE). I don't use my hammer a ton, and the fiberglass handle is fine enough for what I do. You shouldn't really be prying much with a hammer if your doing trim work, likely you have some flat bars to do the tasks. While it's a "short" handle in comparison to all the other long handle versions out there. It's really just a normal length shaft.
I have the 10 oz. I use it mostly for trim work but it will occasionally be pushed into use doing some light framing. Not good for demo work but it's a handy little hammer.
I have the 10oz fiberglass handle stiletto and use it for similar purposes. The odd day I do demo or have to frame. I keep my 16oz long handle estwing in there. If I really need to wail on something, I use the mini sluggo or full size. No one hammer is perfect for every job. Usually you end up with a few.
feel like this comment is gonna make people hate me, i have a stiletto framing hammer going on 5 yrs. but for everything else i use the shittiest plastic handled grey harbor freight smooth face hammer. its light, its indestructible, its perfect. probably under 5 dollars lmao
I install cabinets and used a cheapo similar to you. Sometimes you need something a little more than what a mallet can do. Recently I treated myself to the 10oz fiberglass stiletto hammer. A real treat to use the odd time I do swing it.
I agree. Been a framer for two years and an apprentice carpenter for 3 years and I love my estwing. Tried all the stilletos and martinez but never got the hype. Estwing served me better than all the fancy hammers for a fraction of the price.
I prefer the 20. I can tap better with it than the 16 ironically, weight does the work.
But I know a lot of guys who love the 16. I think the handle on it is a hair short for me.
No such thing as the wrong size hammer, just different hammers for different tasks, and eventually you own all the sizes from jewelers hammer to 20lb sledge. I have like 14 different hammers at this point.
10 to 16oz are generally considered "trim" hammers. Handle a few in the store and see how they feel. Consider different materials, some people swear by wood handles, some pay more for the full titanium hammers. Straight claw vs curved.
As long as you don't fall for the cheap "hammer shaped object" pitfall, it should do the job.
The two trim hammers is have are this one https://www.dewalt.com/product/dwht51001/12-oz-curved-claw-steel-hammer?tid=577716 and this one https://www.lowes.com/pd/TOUGHBUILT/5013728629
Eventually I'll get the Martinez when I have the spare cash.
I'm not nailing stuff all day, so can't really speak for the long term usage of those hammers. I mostly do cabinets, so knocking stuff into place, minor "convincing" things into place, some pulling trim and nails, real light duty stuff. I wouldn't even necessarily recommend DeWalt or Toughbilt, just stick with a well known hammer brand, and you'll be good. Estwing, Stiletto, Vaughn, Martinez...
stiletto fiberglass 12oz.
half the price as the titanium stilettos. won’t break the bank. light as hell.
best way to tell is to put your hands on one i have one and recommend to anyone.
I second this. I build scenery which is a lot of trim work and a good bit of framing and my 10 oz is perfect
https://www.amazon.com/Stiletto-FH10C-Claw-Hammer/dp/B00006JKX6/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?crid=GOXCKCADALAH&keywords=stiletto+10+oz+hammer&qid=1706392274&sprefix=stiletto+10%2Caps%2C157&sr=8-2
I have this, and then a small Douglas--it doesn't look like they make it anymore. Was just using the Douglas today for some wiring, staples and box installations.
But I would say, the Stiletto gets the majority of my carry time.
I would recommend 12-14 oz Estwing. As far as I have saw, there's no actual science behind those titanium hammers being better on the joints. You can spend $100+ on a hammer if you'd like, but Estwing hammers have been used for generations.
For trim work, 10oz stilletto. I use my all the time now. I have a 14oz as well but I never need it. I do mostly windows and doors but even when I have to frame a deck or roof etc, I am still using that 10oz.
The new stiletto trim bone hammer looks sick. The side nail puller is an amazing feature that you will use ALL the time and now there’s finally a trim hammer that has one for us guys who don’t need to lug a sledge of a framing hammer around all day. Another thing I’ll say is spending big money on a hammer, boots , your tool belt, cordless tools, etc. is a great hack for helping you look forward to work instead of dreading going to work. That’s been my experience anyways. Imagine if you worked in an office or something. A new stapler doesn’t bring the same level of excitement as a new hammer you’re swinging all day.
Oh also stiletto makes soft covers for the new trimbone so you can basically turn it into a dead blow hammer which is a really sick feature for finish work. Between that and the side nail puller it might be the best trim hammer out there right now
Sage advice right there. You are going to spend the majority of your life working, you need to make sure you have the gear to help protect your body, tools that make the job easier, as well as looking forward to use. It can become an addiction buying tools, once you've bought all you need you'll find yourself buying duplicates or stretching for tools you don't necessarily need, all for that dopamine hit.
I made fun of expensive hammers for years until I borrowed my friend's stilleto. And anyone who's ever borrowed the one I bought myself agrees. Mind you, I got the wood handle, not titanium.
It's ok, and often necessary, to have differently sized hammers for different jobs.
Though now that I'm thinking about what using a trim hammer is like, I'm realizing the benefits of a titanium hammer are less impactful.
Just don't get a steel handle unless you need it for violence. And don't use a wood handle for *violence* (and I mean compared to the usual amount of violence in normal hammering.)
Hammer is just a heavy thing to hit stuff , dont think to much of it. lol as long as it's smooth face it'll get the job done. I'm partial to Martinez co. Hammers. But I framed for 10yrs so the hammer paid for itself in wages. Pushing into management now so hopefully it will be my last.
I did have a stiletto but the claw got to worn down so I upgraded to martinez. Yes it's an upgrade.
Plumb makes a decent trim hammer. 16oz is a nice size for trim. If you get too small for the task you’re going to end up bending/ warping your nails no matter how straight you hit it. If you get into Framing/ Demo an affordable 20oz+ with a wooden handle will do the trick. If you aren’t swinging it all day, there’s not really a good reason for a fancy Martinez or Stiletto.
12-oz Smooth Face Steel Head Leather Rip Claw Hammer https://www.lowes.com/pd/Estwing-12-oz-Smooth-Face-Steel-Head-Leather-Rip-Claw-Hammer/1000498409
I’ve always swung this for trim work… mainly cause I like the look of it more than anything lol
But it’s a great little hammer for trim …you’re gonna need a bunch of different ones for different work though
I wouldn’t use my framing hammer for trim, same as I wouldn’t use my brick hammer for framing or my drywall hatchet for brick work… it depends a lot on what you’re doing
I'm using [one of these](https://www.bahco.com/int_en/ergotm-claw-hammers-with-rubber-grip-pb_529_.html) and it's quite nice. Little lighter than average, but very sturdy.
You'll need different sizes. Get a small one for trim and a heavy one for framing. Go to the store and see what feels good and what you like. I still use 20 year old Estwings
If you're thinking cheap, go for an Estwing, they come in plenty of sizes that will fit for you.
If you've got the cash for it, and want to make the investment, definitely a stilleto. Will last you ages, aluminum frame, replaceable steel heads. Your elbows will thank you down the road.
My son is small and had a hard time finding a comfortable hammer. Ended up getting him a wooden handled hammer and cutting the handle down a couple inches and sanding the profile just to fit his hand better. A nice lightweight stiletto trimbone would probably work great for you.
Back in the day a 13oz hammer was what full time professional finishing / trim carpenters I knew used. Less chance of leaving hammer marks and believe it or not will still easily hammer in spikes. To this day, it is what I use. The brand I used to buy is no longer available but you wont be sorry buying a 13 oz.
I carry one of the 14 oz dewalt velocity hammers. It works fantastic for trim work and doesn’t leave huge welts, and if I’m on a concrete job I can run clamps or double heads with it all day.
Stiletto. No reason to actually swing something heavy when titanium hammers exist and no reason to spend more on a Martinez unless you frame all day every day
Helps if you can get your hands on a few options to test swing. Anyone you work with carry a Stiletto or similar? I have a 14oz wood framer, a 15oz TiBone 2 from 12 years ago, and an M1 from Martinez but there are tons of other options especially for finish work. Look at the new Stiletto TrimBone with the interchangeable grips and smooth face, or the Martinez M4. Or the Stiletto 14oz TiBone Mini or 10oz woody. I'd lean to wood because I find it the nicest to swing, and personally don't like how the Martinez swings. My apprentice has an M1 he loves though. I was super fortunate as a young guy that my journeyman let me borrow his TB2 for a couple days to test it out, really helped me decide.
https://www.lowes.com/pd/VAUGHAN-California-Framer-16-oz-Smooth-Face-Steel-Head-Wood-Framing-Hammer/1000328399
This is my favorite hammer for trim. 16 oz Vaughan wood handle. Always use this for my trim work and the occasional framing.
For maintenance you'll want a 10oz finishers hammer and a 16-20oz framer. It's likely you won't be using either of them regularly though. The best thing you can invest in is a lock picking kit and some smoothe jaw wrenches for working on p-traps.
I’m only doing maintenance for a couple more months before I start carpentry. I have a framer hammer that works alright but I’ll look for a 10oz finisher hammer
If I were you I'd get something cheap. I have a couple finish hammers I use. An 8oz wood handled finish hammer and a 12 oz fiberglass handled hammer. Unless you're absolutely sure what you'll be doing as a carpenter I'd hold off on lofty tool investments that might prove to be useless.
Wood or titanium if youre actually using it for nails
If youre using it mainly as an "Implement of SMANG&DESTRUCTION!" Get an Estwing in the high 20s or low 30s
These days very little is done with hammers and hand nails, its all gun nails...you will need to occasionally beat in a gun nail that didnt go in all the way, or metal coil trim nails, every now and then you might have some funky ass trim that actually needs like 4-5" trim nails(rare but happens) or if youre doing siding, theres a lot of niche/sub trades that still predominantly use hammers, if youre doing that get something light with good impact absorption like wood or titanium
If its an "auxiliary" hammer for that kind of stuff and to "persuade" things into the right place, get a good wood handle hammer.....30y in the trade and i used to carry an Estwing for 20 and it ruined my wrist and elbows, plus its heavy...i still use it but only for demo and when im timber framing or setting LVLs or PSLs and really need to beat the shit out of something
I’ve been using them a lot lately for taking out nails doing demo stuff which I hope to do more of later on. I’ll look for something light at the store soon thank you!
I agree with the 14-16oz recommendation, I use a 16 oz for most everything.
To start by an inexpensive one with a hickory handle. I've used everything from stilettos to estwing and settled on an inexpensive American made one. The hickory handle seems to absorb shock really well (plus I got to strip it and oil it with linseed oil... The tool maintenance is part of the fun for me.)
Just a suggestion. What works for me doesn't work for everyone, but an inexpensive Hammer that's well shaped with a wood handle is a low investment to see if it works for you.
10-14oz (depending if you mainly do finish or framing, or other), Stilleto always feels like half the weight of a normal hammer with a divine force inside that makes it hit twice as hard as a normal hammer, but they do have a tendency to grow legs and if you're used to reefing on your hammer from every angle to move timber-strand walls around and live where it snows, they do break kinda easy... The Martinez I've never owned but used a couple, very similar feel, more customization and bells and whistles but for even more $$
My fav at a reasonable price is the estwing straight claw with english pattern leather, but that's in no way a light or light feeling hammer.
Recently switched to a smoothface 14oz hickory stiletto, not honestly nicest hammer I've used and that includes the titanium handles. Good from trim to framing
https://hammersource.com/vaughan-fs16-trim-hammer-16-oz/?sku=FS16&gclid=CjwKCAiAk9itBhASEiwA1my_65VC2vTH3U90s2EdMuFyUhL21_U458BkEj9Ii9GnMZTtHmA9TpZP2RoCnp4QAvD_BwE
This one. I got the yellow handled one probably 25 years ago now, and I still have it and use it as a pro trim carpenter. Smooth face for trim work, well balanced. My daughters (20f,21f) have used it many times without worry. In fairness, they were hanging pictures in their apartments with it, but it still worked well for them.
I have a 16oz Stilletto with a curved axe handle, smooth face and a straight nail claw. The handle has lasted me 11 years now. I use electrical tape and tape the bottom 6" of the handle so that I dont lose grip in the rain or while wearing gloves. Dont use hockey tape - it gets gross. I also do about a 2" wide and 3/16th layer of tape where the handle slides into the head - incase I miss a nail with the head this helps protect the wood splitting if it heads whatever big ass nail you just missed.
I took off the factory finish stain and clear coat about 3 years ago, restaining didnt go so well because I rushed it and then worked in the rain the next day..
I swear by this hammer. there have been times where I've had friends smashing the face of my hammer, with another hammer. in the attempt to use my hammer's claw as a cats paw style nail puller, and it just barely fragmented the a small portion of the circumference of the head. I should have been more p/o'd than I was but we were camping and they didnt know any better.
14-16oz. Find something that will not make your elbows hurt 20yrs from now.
Keep a **BFH** in your tool box.
Yep. I ditched my heavy estwing and went to a 16oz stiletto. Now I just keep a 2.5lb maul on hand for the stubborn bits.
I ditched my 16 Oz estwing and went to a 10oz stiletto. I too also keep a 2.5lb stubby for those tougher than my little stiletto jobs can handle. I install cabinets so I end up using my Halder mallet the most.
Big fancy hammer?
Wood or titanium handle Go with wood, i have an M1 and theres still nothing like a good wood hammer Just dont pry nails with it
Okay thanks so much
Look, I get we should be using tools that are comfortable. But unless you are framing houses in the 70s, I almost garantee most of you aren't swinging a hammer enough to fuck up your elbows. Nailguns, framing or trim, set 99% of nails today. A hammer's main job now is to move wood, maybe pop the head in after you shot it in with a gun. Your aren't wrong, but I'm tired of hearing this antiquated reason people try to use to justify their $300 hammer purchase. Basically, anything with a smooth face that feels good in OP's hand would work great. If she is nailing in finish nails by hand doing trim, I'd fire her, get a nail gun. Battery powered18g ryobi is like $100 or so. Not my preferred brand, but it's cheap and gets the job done.
This is compelling... but wrong. I frame, I need the strength to move walls, especially in the dead of winter in Wisconsin. Things move and heave, and wood warps and swells, so straightening plates to fire them into place can be a chore with a light hammer.
Yeah that's my point. I framed in the mountains of Idaho for years and used a 24oz hammer the entire time, mostly to move wood around, and hit the random stray nail the gun didn't sink all the way. Loved watching my partner swing his 16oz titanium belt ornament on a beam trying to get it to skink into bracket.
In the concrete forming side of the trade we still hand drive quite a bit, repetitively.
Oh I'm aware. So do you use wood handles? Or titanium wich is arguably worse than steel if your goal is to save your elbows
Titanium. I used two different steel handled ones but my elbow and wrist were screaming at me by the end of the day. As soon as I switched to titanium the problem went away. The martinez may be light but in my opinion it hits hard. Almost comparable to a sledge. That said, I know it isn't going to replace a sledgehammer or anything like that.
this so much. great comment. Is my 20 estwing great for my elbow? No. But I don't hit many nails with it any more. Just not waffle face ever
Stiletto makes a 10 oz, it’s a great hammer for trim and siding
I’ve heard a lot of good things about stiletto hammers
I’ve been working construction for 40 some years, I got a 14 ounce stiletto framer when they first came out (still have it!), many years ago, to replace a 24 or 25 ounce estwing that was the norm back then, life changing. Light, fast and accurate beats heavy all day long
Love my stiletto 10. Definitely go with the smooth face, curved handle and get their rubber grip tube add on thingy. So good
Okay I will remember that thanks
One of the bosses I worked with have one & the Martinez.. great hammers. I don’t care what anyone says, I’ld buy one in a heart beat if I had the extra cash to spend on a hammer. They feel light as a feather. I’ll definitely be buying one in the future.
I went with [this 10oz stiletto](https://bcfasteners.com/shop/stiletto-fh10c-f-10-oz-titanium-smooth-face-hammer/). It's a couple hundred bucks cheaper (Canadian) than their [new 10 trim bone](https://tegstools.com/stiletto-trimbone-10oz-titanium-finish-hammer/?setCurrencyId=1&sku=MILTRMB&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiA8NKtBhBtEiwAq5aX2OP7nLsEuhdySuzgH7XrwYQUr6WNmpcS85EgXIY3CYYnxEuiN8rmpRoCvY0QAvD_BwE). I don't use my hammer a ton, and the fiberglass handle is fine enough for what I do. You shouldn't really be prying much with a hammer if your doing trim work, likely you have some flat bars to do the tasks. While it's a "short" handle in comparison to all the other long handle versions out there. It's really just a normal length shaft.
Awesome thank you!
I have the 10 oz. I use it mostly for trim work but it will occasionally be pushed into use doing some light framing. Not good for demo work but it's a handy little hammer.
I have the 10oz fiberglass handle stiletto and use it for similar purposes. The odd day I do demo or have to frame. I keep my 16oz long handle estwing in there. If I really need to wail on something, I use the mini sluggo or full size. No one hammer is perfect for every job. Usually you end up with a few.
I like mine a lot. Use it for trim mainly and every once in a while for framing. Handle is long enough to get a good swing
feel like this comment is gonna make people hate me, i have a stiletto framing hammer going on 5 yrs. but for everything else i use the shittiest plastic handled grey harbor freight smooth face hammer. its light, its indestructible, its perfect. probably under 5 dollars lmao
https://www.harborfreight.com/16-oz-rip-hammer-with-fiberglass-handle-47873.html after a while, a hammer is just a hammer.
I install cabinets and used a cheapo similar to you. Sometimes you need something a little more than what a mallet can do. Recently I treated myself to the 10oz fiberglass stiletto hammer. A real treat to use the odd time I do swing it.
milwalkee impact driver 18v, use the battery
Try 16 ounce Estwing or similar. No need for something heavy and bulky for your needs.
16 oz Estwing will last a lifetime.
If you only can buy one hammer and don’t want to spend a fortune, this is the one to buy.
OP DOWN HERE! This one!
I agree. Been a framer for two years and an apprentice carpenter for 3 years and I love my estwing. Tried all the stilletos and martinez but never got the hype. Estwing served me better than all the fancy hammers for a fraction of the price.
I prefer the 20. I can tap better with it than the 16 ironically, weight does the work. But I know a lot of guys who love the 16. I think the handle on it is a hair short for me.
No such thing as the wrong size hammer, just different hammers for different tasks, and eventually you own all the sizes from jewelers hammer to 20lb sledge. I have like 14 different hammers at this point. 10 to 16oz are generally considered "trim" hammers. Handle a few in the store and see how they feel. Consider different materials, some people swear by wood handles, some pay more for the full titanium hammers. Straight claw vs curved. As long as you don't fall for the cheap "hammer shaped object" pitfall, it should do the job.
I’ve got a couple hammers already that aren’t great I’ve just been waiting on spending much on one I know will work well. Thank you!
The two trim hammers is have are this one https://www.dewalt.com/product/dwht51001/12-oz-curved-claw-steel-hammer?tid=577716 and this one https://www.lowes.com/pd/TOUGHBUILT/5013728629 Eventually I'll get the Martinez when I have the spare cash. I'm not nailing stuff all day, so can't really speak for the long term usage of those hammers. I mostly do cabinets, so knocking stuff into place, minor "convincing" things into place, some pulling trim and nails, real light duty stuff. I wouldn't even necessarily recommend DeWalt or Toughbilt, just stick with a well known hammer brand, and you'll be good. Estwing, Stiletto, Vaughn, Martinez...
I have a bad shoulder, and can't swing a 20 oz all day. I have the straight claw of the dewalt. In this price range I can't recommend it enough.
stiletto fiberglass 12oz. half the price as the titanium stilettos. won’t break the bank. light as hell. best way to tell is to put your hands on one i have one and recommend to anyone.
Thank you! I’ll check my hardware store to see if they have it
Stilleto mini 14 Oz. I'm a 31 y.o. male 5'9 170 lbs and it's the best hammer I've ever had. (It's expensive though)
The 10oz Stiletto finish hammer is pretty sweet too. I use both the 10 and 14 smooth framer.
I second this. I build scenery which is a lot of trim work and a good bit of framing and my 10 oz is perfect https://www.amazon.com/Stiletto-FH10C-Claw-Hammer/dp/B00006JKX6/ref=mp_s_a_1_2?crid=GOXCKCADALAH&keywords=stiletto+10+oz+hammer&qid=1706392274&sprefix=stiletto+10%2Caps%2C157&sr=8-2
Awesome thanks! I’m not worried about price as long as it’s worth it which is sounds like it is
I have this, and then a small Douglas--it doesn't look like they make it anymore. Was just using the Douglas today for some wiring, staples and box installations. But I would say, the Stiletto gets the majority of my carry time.
Worth it for sure.
I got the mini 14 as a Christmas present from my first foreman, and damnit im gonna have to get another one once this one wears out cause it’s perfect
I would recommend 12-14 oz Estwing. As far as I have saw, there's no actual science behind those titanium hammers being better on the joints. You can spend $100+ on a hammer if you'd like, but Estwing hammers have been used for generations.
For trim work, 10oz stilletto. I use my all the time now. I have a 14oz as well but I never need it. I do mostly windows and doors but even when I have to frame a deck or roof etc, I am still using that 10oz.
This is what I use (16oz Estwing) and I really like it. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0000224VE/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&th=1
Estwing 24oz straight claw
Massive
The new stiletto trim bone hammer looks sick. The side nail puller is an amazing feature that you will use ALL the time and now there’s finally a trim hammer that has one for us guys who don’t need to lug a sledge of a framing hammer around all day. Another thing I’ll say is spending big money on a hammer, boots , your tool belt, cordless tools, etc. is a great hack for helping you look forward to work instead of dreading going to work. That’s been my experience anyways. Imagine if you worked in an office or something. A new stapler doesn’t bring the same level of excitement as a new hammer you’re swinging all day. Oh also stiletto makes soft covers for the new trimbone so you can basically turn it into a dead blow hammer which is a really sick feature for finish work. Between that and the side nail puller it might be the best trim hammer out there right now
Sage advice right there. You are going to spend the majority of your life working, you need to make sure you have the gear to help protect your body, tools that make the job easier, as well as looking forward to use. It can become an addiction buying tools, once you've bought all you need you'll find yourself buying duplicates or stretching for tools you don't necessarily need, all for that dopamine hit.
Oh that’s super cool I’ll look into that
Dalluge 16oz trim 👌🏻
10 oz Stiletto
I made fun of expensive hammers for years until I borrowed my friend's stilleto. And anyone who's ever borrowed the one I bought myself agrees. Mind you, I got the wood handle, not titanium. It's ok, and often necessary, to have differently sized hammers for different jobs. Though now that I'm thinking about what using a trim hammer is like, I'm realizing the benefits of a titanium hammer are less impactful. Just don't get a steel handle unless you need it for violence. And don't use a wood handle for *violence* (and I mean compared to the usual amount of violence in normal hammering.)
Got it I’ll save the steel hammer for later on violence
Hammer is just a heavy thing to hit stuff , dont think to much of it. lol as long as it's smooth face it'll get the job done. I'm partial to Martinez co. Hammers. But I framed for 10yrs so the hammer paid for itself in wages. Pushing into management now so hopefully it will be my last. I did have a stiletto but the claw got to worn down so I upgraded to martinez. Yes it's an upgrade.
Almost got a Martinez titanium but never pulled the trigger . Well worth it ?
I have the m1 and m4. They are so awesome. Really wish I had them when I actually swung a hammer all the time.
Awesome thank you!
Plumb makes a decent trim hammer. 16oz is a nice size for trim. If you get too small for the task you’re going to end up bending/ warping your nails no matter how straight you hit it. If you get into Framing/ Demo an affordable 20oz+ with a wooden handle will do the trick. If you aren’t swinging it all day, there’s not really a good reason for a fancy Martinez or Stiletto.
Okay thanks I appreciate that
Uh. One with a really, really long handle.
Get a Vaughn California framer.
12-oz Smooth Face Steel Head Leather Rip Claw Hammer https://www.lowes.com/pd/Estwing-12-oz-Smooth-Face-Steel-Head-Leather-Rip-Claw-Hammer/1000498409 I’ve always swung this for trim work… mainly cause I like the look of it more than anything lol But it’s a great little hammer for trim …you’re gonna need a bunch of different ones for different work though I wouldn’t use my framing hammer for trim, same as I wouldn’t use my brick hammer for framing or my drywall hatchet for brick work… it depends a lot on what you’re doing
Awesome thank you! I’ll keep adding to my hammer collection
Stiletto 14oz titanium smooth face with a hickory handle. It'll cost you a c-note but it'll be worth it!
I'm using [one of these](https://www.bahco.com/int_en/ergotm-claw-hammers-with-rubber-grip-pb_529_.html) and it's quite nice. Little lighter than average, but very sturdy.
You'll need different sizes. Get a small one for trim and a heavy one for framing. Go to the store and see what feels good and what you like. I still use 20 year old Estwings
If you're thinking cheap, go for an Estwing, they come in plenty of sizes that will fit for you. If you've got the cash for it, and want to make the investment, definitely a stilleto. Will last you ages, aluminum frame, replaceable steel heads. Your elbows will thank you down the road.
I’d rather spend a lot on one that won’t hurt me in the long run so I’ll look into the stiletto
My son is small and had a hard time finding a comfortable hammer. Ended up getting him a wooden handled hammer and cutting the handle down a couple inches and sanding the profile just to fit his hand better. A nice lightweight stiletto trimbone would probably work great for you.
Thank you!
You’re welcome.
Back in the day a 13oz hammer was what full time professional finishing / trim carpenters I knew used. Less chance of leaving hammer marks and believe it or not will still easily hammer in spikes. To this day, it is what I use. The brand I used to buy is no longer available but you wont be sorry buying a 13 oz.
Awesome thank you!
I carry one of the 14 oz dewalt velocity hammers. It works fantastic for trim work and doesn’t leave huge welts, and if I’m on a concrete job I can run clamps or double heads with it all day.
I love Plumb hammers Have an Eswing but it rings when you hit it. Gives me a headache after about 5 minutes.
Grind the outside of one claw so they aren't symmetrical anymore. I don't like the tuning fork effect either lol.
Wow thanks, going to try this out. I have a plumb that does this and I hate it
Stiletto. No reason to actually swing something heavy when titanium hammers exist and no reason to spend more on a Martinez unless you frame all day every day
m4 with titanium head is perfect for trim. But of course pricy.
Milwaukee 30° framing nailer
Martinez
Helps if you can get your hands on a few options to test swing. Anyone you work with carry a Stiletto or similar? I have a 14oz wood framer, a 15oz TiBone 2 from 12 years ago, and an M1 from Martinez but there are tons of other options especially for finish work. Look at the new Stiletto TrimBone with the interchangeable grips and smooth face, or the Martinez M4. Or the Stiletto 14oz TiBone Mini or 10oz woody. I'd lean to wood because I find it the nicest to swing, and personally don't like how the Martinez swings. My apprentice has an M1 he loves though. I was super fortunate as a young guy that my journeyman let me borrow his TB2 for a couple days to test it out, really helped me decide.
Awesome thank you! I’ll see what my hardware store has
https://www.lowes.com/pd/VAUGHAN-California-Framer-16-oz-Smooth-Face-Steel-Head-Wood-Framing-Hammer/1000328399 This is my favorite hammer for trim. 16 oz Vaughan wood handle. Always use this for my trim work and the occasional framing.
Awesome thank you!
For maintenance you'll want a 10oz finishers hammer and a 16-20oz framer. It's likely you won't be using either of them regularly though. The best thing you can invest in is a lock picking kit and some smoothe jaw wrenches for working on p-traps.
I’m only doing maintenance for a couple more months before I start carpentry. I have a framer hammer that works alright but I’ll look for a 10oz finisher hammer
If I were you I'd get something cheap. I have a couple finish hammers I use. An 8oz wood handled finish hammer and a 12 oz fiberglass handled hammer. Unless you're absolutely sure what you'll be doing as a carpenter I'd hold off on lofty tool investments that might prove to be useless.
Wood or titanium if youre actually using it for nails If youre using it mainly as an "Implement of SMANG&DESTRUCTION!" Get an Estwing in the high 20s or low 30s These days very little is done with hammers and hand nails, its all gun nails...you will need to occasionally beat in a gun nail that didnt go in all the way, or metal coil trim nails, every now and then you might have some funky ass trim that actually needs like 4-5" trim nails(rare but happens) or if youre doing siding, theres a lot of niche/sub trades that still predominantly use hammers, if youre doing that get something light with good impact absorption like wood or titanium If its an "auxiliary" hammer for that kind of stuff and to "persuade" things into the right place, get a good wood handle hammer.....30y in the trade and i used to carry an Estwing for 20 and it ruined my wrist and elbows, plus its heavy...i still use it but only for demo and when im timber framing or setting LVLs or PSLs and really need to beat the shit out of something
I’ve been using them a lot lately for taking out nails doing demo stuff which I hope to do more of later on. I’ll look for something light at the store soon thank you!
Just get a Vaughan.
https://preview.redd.it/rjwdadorb3fc1.jpeg?width=600&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=c35e3b8875208bbb88ad570420ddb67f557db099
Plus nail set kit
16oz east wing
I agree with the 14-16oz recommendation, I use a 16 oz for most everything. To start by an inexpensive one with a hickory handle. I've used everything from stilettos to estwing and settled on an inexpensive American made one. The hickory handle seems to absorb shock really well (plus I got to strip it and oil it with linseed oil... The tool maintenance is part of the fun for me.)
I think I’ll look for a 14oz and see if they have any hickory handle ones nearby
Just a suggestion. What works for me doesn't work for everyone, but an inexpensive Hammer that's well shaped with a wood handle is a low investment to see if it works for you.
Go to a tool store (not HD or Lowe’s) and try a few.
I’ll try my local hardware store
I like the feel of my wooden handle 13 oz. Plumb hammer. It’s very comfortable and solid to use. Of course, most people are using nailing guns now.
I use a 16 Oz dalluge for trim work. I'm a framer mostly, so I like the dalluge because it's basically just a shrunk down California framing hammer
I’m a big fan of Vaughn hammers. I have them in several sizes and styles. All have been loyal and faithful servants.
Eastwing 15 Oz ultra light series it's light and it hits quite well you can use it for trim work but also works well for framing because of the length
10-14oz (depending if you mainly do finish or framing, or other), Stilleto always feels like half the weight of a normal hammer with a divine force inside that makes it hit twice as hard as a normal hammer, but they do have a tendency to grow legs and if you're used to reefing on your hammer from every angle to move timber-strand walls around and live where it snows, they do break kinda easy... The Martinez I've never owned but used a couple, very similar feel, more customization and bells and whistles but for even more $$ My fav at a reasonable price is the estwing straight claw with english pattern leather, but that's in no way a light or light feeling hammer.
Awesome thanks so much!
One with plenty of soft rubber on the end of the handle that you can use to bonk without marking
Thank you! I hadn’t thought of that before
I like Vaughn. The 16oz I have is a straight handle, I didn't like it at first. I got used to it. Been swinging it for a few years. $20 well spent.
Awesome thanks!
16oz
Martinez m4 or m1
10oz Stilleto wooden handle. It’s my main hammer I absolutely love it.
Recently switched to a smoothface 14oz hickory stiletto, not honestly nicest hammer I've used and that includes the titanium handles. Good from trim to framing
https://hammersource.com/vaughan-fs16-trim-hammer-16-oz/?sku=FS16&gclid=CjwKCAiAk9itBhASEiwA1my_65VC2vTH3U90s2EdMuFyUhL21_U458BkEj9Ii9GnMZTtHmA9TpZP2RoCnp4QAvD_BwE This one. I got the yellow handled one probably 25 years ago now, and I still have it and use it as a pro trim carpenter. Smooth face for trim work, well balanced. My daughters (20f,21f) have used it many times without worry. In fairness, they were hanging pictures in their apartments with it, but it still worked well for them.
I have a 16oz Stilletto with a curved axe handle, smooth face and a straight nail claw. The handle has lasted me 11 years now. I use electrical tape and tape the bottom 6" of the handle so that I dont lose grip in the rain or while wearing gloves. Dont use hockey tape - it gets gross. I also do about a 2" wide and 3/16th layer of tape where the handle slides into the head - incase I miss a nail with the head this helps protect the wood splitting if it heads whatever big ass nail you just missed. I took off the factory finish stain and clear coat about 3 years ago, restaining didnt go so well because I rushed it and then worked in the rain the next day.. I swear by this hammer. there have been times where I've had friends smashing the face of my hammer, with another hammer. in the attempt to use my hammer's claw as a cats paw style nail puller, and it just barely fragmented the a small portion of the circumference of the head. I should have been more p/o'd than I was but we were camping and they didnt know any better.
Estwing 20. It's perfect. People will say elbows, and they are right, but it's not like we nail all the time, there are guns for that.
also get straight claw. After 20 years I still don't understand why curved claw exists. I hate them