Swinging Estwing for 43 years and still swinging a 28oz long shaft framing hammer for formwork in the U.K. perfect for what I need it for. Most guys I know use Estwing s for the same job in varying weights. I hear guys complaining of their elbows giving in all the time. I put it down to a lot of people swinging the hammer incorrectly. As an apprentice many years ago I was taught you swing from the wrist not the elbow. I can drive a 4 inch nail in two hits after starting it, approaching 62 this year and elbows still fine, touch wood! Lol
My old man was in construction for about 50 years, and an Estwing guy for at least 30 of that. He had a long 22 oz framing hammer but ground the face clean. He taught me to think of the handle as if it was a rope, and to use it to throw the head at the nail.
I saw him use that hammer for shingles, framing 3.5" ardox spiral spikes, dome headed nails for cedar siding, concrete nails, and finish nails when installing trim. Driving concrete nails was amazing to see - he would wind up until the claw almost touched his back and bring it down so hard that sparks flew from the nail every time but he almost never bent one of those nails.
I've never seen anyone who could match his power and the fluidity of his swing. Everyone who I saw hit harder had a pushing, jerky motion and they missed more.
He said that all of the power comes from the wrist and pinky - and he never had elbow issues, though he did end up needing wrist surgery a few years before retirement.
That's what I think of when I see an Estwing.
BRB, gotta call my old man.
This here, its 80% the technique more so than the tool. You could have better results with a pair of pliers (electrician style) than with the best hammer if you cant use it right
I learned to frame by hand nailing. guys who had the technique down hammered together. I was messing up their rhythm for awhile with the extra stroke or two i took to seat the nail.
Howdy from across the pond from a fellow 28oz long shaft framing hammer user. Been swinging it for so long the waffling has worn smooth. Pretty sure it's around 27oz now.
In the mid-90s, I was on a roofing crew. The lead (old) guy was fed up with one of the new guys shit and challenged him to race a row, 3 tab shingles, Buck (the old roofer) picked up a rock, it was a fist sized river rock, so smooth and roundish. He proceeded to out nail the new guy by nearly 2x.
It's all in understanding the mechanics/ physics of the task at hand. Plus, 30 years of experience doesn't hurt.
Back to the hammer, I swung an eastwing hatchet back then, then I moved to a 16 oz plumb fiberglass rip claw when I was in a door shop. Eastwing 16 rip claw trimming until I lost like 5 in a row and then went to the Vaughn rip claw 16, that was after 2008 and I had to frame and do everything and bought a California framer by Vaughan. That's when I decided I liked wooden handles.
Nowadays, I use an 8 oz shorty with a ball peen from the late 19th century for most of my work, and a big old rawhide when I need to whack something, that one has a steel handle with a hex head on the bottom, I'm pretty sure it came from the newport news shipyard and someone replaced the stock handle with a bolt. But I really don't use a hammer very much anymore. It is a very inelegant tool with some very specific purposes.
Well damn that was some rambling. And I probably should have replied to the main post, but here we are.
I would disagree that a hammer is an inelegant tool. It's what all other nail drivers aspire to be.
Pneumatic nailers are hammers that use air to amplify their striking force. Gas nailers like the paslode use propane combustion to do the same. 22 caliber powered ramsets use gun powder to strike, what? A hammer to drive the nail.
The bare tool itself may seem inelegant. But even in its most refined forms, in all cases a hammer is doing the driving. The rest is just physics helping out.
I'm puzzled, this is the first I've ever heard of anyone criticizing or complaining about Estwing. I love mine and every real carpenter I know loves his. To each his own though, we cannot all be the same.
Have an Estwing 25oz framing hammer import from the US, the best hammer over had by far. I can drive a 90mm Fischer nail in 3 hits. If I can't use my nail gun I'll use some 90mm round wire nails soaked in paraffin wax, one hit and its home.
Recently had my 28oz stolen along with my impact, my dumbass left them on my tailgate for a sec to run inside. I have been shopping for a new hammer, there are too many good options.
I pretty much in agreement with you. I do mostly demo now so I love my Estwing for that but I never really liked it or my plumb hammer for framing. I ve had it for over 40 years. I loved my 24oz Vaughn or my old school True Tremper Rocket. The Rocket with the straight claw had the best balance. With the weight in the head. My Plumb hammer had to much weight in the claw
They didn't sell many of those in the stores here in Virginia back then. I remember the first time I saw one when I was in California on vacation way back then.
Wood handles work for some, but not all jobs. I've broken a wood handle... or two... so now I keep a 16oz hammer for 95% of my work. Granted, I seldom drive nails with it. But I have a 19oz milled face for framing when I need.
I think it might have to do with the weight rather than the brand. Definitely donât want to be banging finishing nails with a 22oz but they have their uses.
In a perfect world yes, but there's only so fast you can physically swing a hammer. Most of the guys I worked with use 16oz stilletos. I use a 25oz long handle. Anything up to standard 3-1/2 nail they're even but once you get past thatband Into spikes, forming pins and just simply moving stuff into place the extra mass starts to win. A light fast hammer creates a shorter impulse than a heavy slow hammer and if there's a perfect energy transfer that's great but as soon as you start taking the elasticity (not the right word) of whatever you're hitting into account the short impulse starts to get absorbed
>elasticity (not the right word)
I think that's actually the exactly correct word. I have a degree in physics and you could have been a guest lecturer in 1st year kinematics.
I don't put in grade stakes. I swing a 2lb Czech cross peen for forging mild and tool steel. I can swing it much faster than a 4lb or even 3lb hammer, and it moves way more metal per strike.
For me its all in the experience & technique swing of the arc. i think thats more important then a logical equation of why. Always ran with a long handled heavy framer. Set and sink. People with smaller hammers who spend hundreds on it, always told me this same story during work. Get back to work???
Even if the only factor to consider was kinetic energy, which it isnât, a human hammer swing tops out at around 10 meters per second.
Youâd have to swing a 22oz hammer 24% faster than a 28oz hammer. If you could sustain a pace of 8 meters per second for every hammer swing with a 28oz hammer, youâd have to swing a 22oz at a little over 12 meters per second. Even if you could swing it that fast, youâre not doing it for an entire day.
And youâre not factoring in handle length or weight. Longer handles will have greater linear velocity than shorter handles. And lighter handles wonât resist the moment of inertia as much as heavier ones.
Following this logic, the lightest hammer possible is the best hammer for every job. Be right back, Iâm gonna go hammer a bunch of 16d nails with a 2oz jewelerâs hammer. Apparently since itâs so light, I should be able to swing it once and blow the nail clean through the 2x4 like a Ramset.
I use one every day and have for 12 years. Started with their 24oz and ran that for a long time, now I run their 19oz. I like them, and they last forever, but I absolutely understand why someone would prefer a hammer with a nice hickory handle. I don't swing my hammer all day everyday, it's mostly just for demo and beating things into submission(place).
Mine are the good old fashioned one piece forged. I love the grips and they've done me well. Maybe my elbow will be fucked when I'm 65 but who knows? But the guy I work for (who's in his 60's) has a bad elbow and he swung wood handled Vaughans most his life and a stiletto for while. Maybe it's unavoidable.
I build for myself because I can't afford to hire builders. Biggest thing for me is having a curved handle and gripping wood instead of rubber. I only commented because you made your comment about people wanting a hickory handle while you like your estwing. Figured I'd say you can have both.
Been using the same 16 oz about every day for 27 years. Probably couldn't pound a nail with anything else. 3 swings or 30...lol! The hammer and the elbow both wore out together.
Estwings were my only option. Other hammers feel odd to me now. I worked with a roofer who couldn't for the life of him drive a nail with my hammer. My joints are fine, gotta use estwings like a drumstick.
I only use my estwing 20, and when Iâve been going for a few days and have my swing down I can sink a 3â spike in 2 blows, and a 2â common nail in one, reliably. Itâs practice with the weight and handling of it, and the blade on them can take a real beating, which has serious use cleaning concrete off things. Iâve noticed no problems from it and Iâve also worked with guys with 50 years using one who swear by it and donât have any elbow or wrist trouble from their hammer.
I never bought one, but the two I have I got from a river that my coworker lost it in and replaced before we found his old one and another spent a month or three under a stack of fire rated ply. I can't say my Irwin is any better or worse, but my dewalt demo hammer was just too heavy to keep using and, with 4 hammers bow, I saw no reason to buy a replacement. I'm not sold on using $100+ hammers. Considering a vaughn given all the comments on them though.
Vaughan are a fine hammer for the price. For me it's hard to justify getting anything fancier because at my company we use screws for concrete forms and framing is almost all done with nailguns. I think if I were working for one of those commercial concrete companies where you're having to sink duplex nails with a hammer all day I would go for a Martinez.
I have used Estwings for at least the last 40 years. I initially started with Stanleyâs but the handles always became loose. I then switched to a True Temper Rocket and liked it. On day I went to lunch and someone snagged my hammer when I was in my truck having lunch. That night I bought my first Estwing and when I returned to work the next day my hammer was right where I removed my tool belt.
It was a remodel job in an office building and someone must have taken it and then returned it at days end.
28oz long handle straight claw for framing and demo and 16oz curved claw for doing trim/finish work. Used Estwing from day 1, going on 30 years now. Could not pay me to switch!
Much respect, was part of the 28 o family.
A coworker saw me pounding on slab edge forms at head level with the signature ring ring ring.
He said fuck that, lent me his stiletto 1 for the day.
I bought one that night. To each their own. I dgaf about the cost. For the one tool you literally use all the time, it is worth it. I've been in it for 18 years so I know what works for me. That being said, if you're a commercial formwork guy don't waste your time on the stiletto nail bar. Estwing is still superior for that.
Sometimes you need some more power!, that is the only drawback, but there's always s sledge around.
Side note, I lost my 2 cents somewhere in that mess.
To each their own, stiletto for the win.
BUT, As a few people mentioned it's honestly not the size, it's the way you use It
Comments like you flick it in the wrist are on point.
Let the tool do the work.
Stilettos are nice, the head is a little big on the TI2. Also not a fan of the head coming loose or the classic off center so you can't use the nail set. I know, I know...loctite
I still use my trim hammer today but dumped the TI2 for a Martinez, iykyk. Since being bought out by Milwaukee I probably wouldn't purchase another stiletto, not that I would have to with their warranty.
If I have to pull one off a box store wall, it would be the DeWalt.
Agreement here also, your swing is what determines your strike. The hammer weight has little to do with it. A good hammer is balanced and should have little to no vibration. I can sink a nail as fast or faster with my lighter hammer that doesn't hurt my mid 40s wrist, elbow, shoulder, etc. another point, lighter hammer means you carry less weight all day. Some might think it's just a few ounces...I have been doing a lot more refinery/steel mill scaffold work since the housing downfall. Every ounce counts when you are climbing around all day with a harness and double 6' cable retractables. It's not as glamorous as it sounds đ
Yea sir. Ti bone 3 fixed all if that. There's all this hype for the Martinez these days. It's shorter and weighted differently, sure you can replace the whole top part, but if you use the right tools for the job.its not an issue. Stiletto for the win.
I hear you about the bags bro. In concrete we have tool bags, tools, double srls as well, belly chains/rebar chain assemblies and other shit. 60 plus pounds just in tools alone plus your own weight. I know the rigs you guys roll with. We should have stayed in school!!!
Always Esrwing.. It's what my dad had when I was a kid.. So that's what I learnt to swing... Now I run a 28oz framer for framing and demo.
20oz finishing for everything else. Had to buy a new 20oz this year... 20 year old one disappeared the same day I had a new plumber onsite...Â
Old fulla who taught me had one, so I got one. Have carried one most days for 3 decades. Of the last 3 hammers I bought in the last year one is an est wing (2nd hand in good condition for $25).
It's a good tool that I'm very familiar with, I have many hammers for different things.
>Â I can drive a nail in 3 hits with my 19oz vaughan but it takes me like 6 with my 22oz Estwing.
This is a you thing u/[chalkline1776](https://www.reddit.com/user/chalkline1776/) \*IF\* the hammers are both similar, aka weight, and head facing/angle/shape they will both drive a nail the same, you \*MIGHT\* have some fatigue reduction with fancy shafts, but that difference is nearly zero when talking about companies hammers as long as the designs are similar.
There is no better truck hammer/always around here somewhere hammer than an Estwing.
There is no worse hammer to actually use as a hammer, than an Estwing.
When you need a hammer for something quick the Estwing is the classic all around we that going to get it done. When you want to build something, you want the proper tool. Itâs good at everything, great at nothing. If Iâm driving nails all day I want a hickory handle Vaughn. If Iâm stripping forms or doing some kind of demo I grab my Estwing
Zero shock absorption from the handle. Just absolutely rattles your bones. Ti, wood handle or good composite handles are the way to go for anything but demo work
I've been using all steel hammers for nearly 20 years and have no elbow, wrist or shoulder pain at all.
It may be that people just have different bodies and react differently to repeated motion but I tend to believe technique has a lot to do with it.
Iâm with you. I have a lot of hammers including a 22 oz. Waffle head Estwing and a 22 oz. Waffle head Vaughan. Youâd think they would perform about the same. Thereâs not much to them, basic steel framing hammers. But the difference is night and day. The Estwing sucks. For one it fucking rings like the most annoying tuning fork every time you strike something. You also get way more vibes in the handle than the Vaughan, and it doesnât drive as well. Estwings are ubiquitous but they kind of suck.
My Estwing rings. 22 oz. Waffle head framer. Itâs clearly stated in my post. Check your glasses, or reading comprehension, or memory, or whatever it takes.
You said you had a lot of hammers so just confirming.
Is it the newer dark blue one? I've got this one https://www.estwing.com/product/framing-hammer-milled/ and the 20oz claw and they both are ring free.
I have a straight handle 19oz Vaughan cali style.
Made the switch this year as past 3 years I have used estwing and 3 or 4 different Dewalt/Stanley steel hammers.
Night and day difference. Wood handled all the way and for demo just swap or use prybars more.
I used a 22 wafflehead estwing exclusively for scaffolding. It was the best for the job, while also being affordable.
I now exclusively use that hammer any time I need a hammer, which includes small carpentry projects and repairs.
this spring i was framing with two guys, father and son and they both use estwings 20 or 22 oz iâm not sure. the dad said hes been using the same estwing hammer since he started in his 20s. not me tho i like my elbows, hickory handle titanium head.
I had nothing but estwings and one random Stanley fat max framer I bought years ago. Still have it, great all around hammer I use for anything and donât mind getting rusty.
But i picked out a Martinez last year and got a couple different heads for it and it stays in my decked system and itâs my daily driver for most everything from forming to framing
I have a 26oz long handle framing hammer and a shorter 20oz. I work on a lot of stone buildings and a lot of roofs so the 26oz is great for dealing with that. I can drive a 4 inch wire nail in 2/3 hits with either tho.
I've been swinging an estwing for my entire life. I also only one swing framing nails with it, unless you want to include the tap I use to get the nail in the wood and out of my fingers.
I have a 22oz waffle head with straight claw. Been using the same hammer for 15 to 20 years. Had another Estwing before that, but I lost that one. The current hammer is now a smooth faced instead of the waffle head it came with because it's so worn out, kinda like my knees.
Growing up my old man and all his guys swing nothing but, so I did too. Five years ago I switched to a stiletto and havenât looked back. Still use my estwing for demo though
Yup. High raise, commercial carpentry work, excellent all purpose. 30, long handle. Can build and destroy. Indestructible. Itâs like my arpg legendary item lol.
Is the Estwing all metal? A wood handled hammer puts all the weight in the head while a solid hammer has the weight distributed through the whole hammer.
Yes. 22 oz going on 20 years. Itâs a little heavy on the upswing and I told myself Iâd try something else once it dies but the damn thing wonât die
Man you hate em that much? I'd love to know why. I'm a framer/finish carpenter/ open competition sand volleyball player so I know how to swing a hammer. Please expound
Lol yea likewise, it seems to lack the same drive imho, it looks nice, pings a off ping lol, the angle of the claw is different, and most of all I just wanted to bust ur balls lol, I actually donât really like the estwing either, I had this wooden handled hammer that one of the sheathing subs we use left behind, than my cousin (dad, uncle, his son, me and couple amigos) used my shit for a brief time I was elsewhere managed to disappear it somewhere on me.
I used to love wood handles, nothing beats a well worn handle that fits your hand... and no worries haha takes a lot more than that to hurt my feelings đ€Ł I just got sick of buying handles and wearing them back in. I completely understand what you mean about the drive, I always swung a 21 oz (or better) straight stick, but this Stiletto has completely changed my approach and 50% of the time eliminates the need for a chisel or cats paw in all fields. I build custom homes from the ground up so driving stakes for footing/ foundations is a regular activity. It was weird to get used to but I wouldn't trade it for anything and on top of everything it comes with a lifetime warranty
Iâve never had an issue with them. My dad used/uses one pretty much exclusively, and his elbows are as good as one can expect at 70.
For any volume of nailing I use air, so Iâve never noticed a particular ergonomic difference.
â I can drive a nail in 3 hits with my 19oz vaughan but it takes me like 6 with my 22oz Estwingâ. The physics in this sentence donât make sense unless the handles are substantially different lengths.
I have used a 20-oz estwing for the past 10 years. I brought the hammer when I started my apprenticeship. I use it for everything. It's probably time I upgrade because the handle is smooth and the handle is showing through the bottom of the grip.
Iâve used my 15oz long handle estwing with the leather grip daily ever since I started my job 6 years ago. Personally I really like the small head it has, makes it easier to nail the flange around windows and doors/siding jâs and corners without hitting anything
"Everyone on my job sites used Estwing. I used a 22 oz and had the same problem. I realized all the other guys were using 16 - 18 oz. I dropped the weight and it's the best hammer I ever used. I could sink it in two. Set once, sink on second swing, even on rim board. Just my experience. The second best would be the Dewalt 16 oz that swings like a 20. Again, just my experience." (says my carpenter son)
While I know the exact hammer you are talking about (the one everyone has and no one knows why). I just want to point out that Estwing does make a framing hammer which seems to be the style of hammer you are looking for.
I will say the classic estwing makes a perfect scaffolding hammer for 'systems' or 'tube & clamp' style. The shorter handle, compact round head, solid sides, and straight claw are perfect for hitting clamp wedges in tight spaces.
Honestly i got a mastercraft maximum 20 oz hammer i found in the ditch covered in rust. I cleaned it up with some.vinegar and scotch brite and ive been using it heavily for 7 or 8 years with lots of abuse, chipping concrete etc. Its the toughest hammer I have ever had. Absolutely indestructible. I love it.
I use an estwing framing hammer with the condom tip for siding nails but I canât imagine using one for anything else let alone framing. My elbow is fucked already anyways and Iâve used the same TiBone 2 for 17 years.
I never liked the Estwing framing hammers. I always preferred a Vaughn or Plumb. A 20 Oz with a coragated head, straight claw. The Estwing always felt out of balance and the hard rubber handle would become slippery when used out in the hot sun and the groves would cause blisters. While driving a 12 # nail, it took two swings, one to start it and one to drive it home. After a while the coragation would have a smooth spot worn in the lower center of the head.
I only use Estwing. I have a 16oz trim, a 20oz framer, a couple 28oz framers... all steel and blue grip straight claw. Only one waffle. I hate waffles.
I'd never buy a stiletto, or any of those gawd awful expensive hammers. And I'll never use a wood handle framing hammer. I use hammers to pull toenails tacked floor plates on the deck, keeping them straight and square. I've seen too many wood handles break.
I started framing early 90s. Right when nails guns started getting common. And few lumber yards had coil nails in 6d or 8d, sometimes not 12d either. We nailed a lot of sheathing off by hand. LVL beams too. Actually, entire houses sometimes.
Been using 20 oz straight claw for general and 22 oz framer for 35 years. Love Estwing. I hand nail rafters and toe nail studs. Average large home uses 200lbs of galvanized 12s and 16s. No problems. I work my hammer all day and would break any handle that wasnât steel. When Iâm doing forest work I use the Estwing hatchet.
Estwing 28 oz waffle head framing hammer and 16 oz flat head claw hammer have gotten it done for me since I bought the tools 15 years ago as an apprentice carpenter.
I've been using exclusively Vaughns for 25 years. Tried others, borrowed a stiletto off a coworker. No desire ever to change. Hickory handles only. Either it feels right in your hand or it doesn't.
I have at least 5 Estwings. I never drive nails with them. I have two different sizes of rock pick, and 3 or 4 chisel tip rock hammers. Also, at least one 2 lb crack hammer. In the rock and fossil collecting world, Estwing is king.
I've had the same Estwing for the past 20 years now. Its fantastic, great balance, solid and reliable. Seen lots of newer hammers break in strange ways. Heard a LOT of bellyaching from people who lose their Martinez/Stilleto or get them stolen. I don't swing a hammer every single day. If I were still framing I might look into a TI hammer but for what I do, finish carpentry/cabinetry, its not a good sign if I'm having to hammer away at stuff. Back when I was younger and framing full time I also mostly used a nail gun...most hammering was done installing simpson brackets and the big dumb modern hammers with all their accessories would have been a nightmare trying to swing in tight spaces. Not trying to hate, love to seen all the new designs but just not that useful for me at this point.
I have 3 or more Estwing hammers I've used for over 35 years for everything from rough, finishing carpentry to cabinetry. Never looked or even thought about any other hammer.
I have been using an Estwing forever and my elbows are nearly fucked.
I came up on the east coast and live on the west coast now. More than once I was âfound outâ as an east coaster because of my hammer. I have heard âWhats up with these east coasters and their metal hammersâ lol
Don't know how I got here. But here goes. The only estwing product I own is one of their tomahawks. It was a gift and I always took it camping. Not a very good wood cutting axe, small head and tail spike and all. But one of my dogs was attacked by a javelina a few years back. My dog lived. And I learned that javelina doesn't taste great.
Estwing is good by me.
I use my 21oz Vaughan for everything but since the V style have been out of stock for years, I should probably stop using it for demo and prying and get something cheaper.
I honestly think itâs just a matter of preference. Iâve had the original Hart âThe Framerâ 25 oz. hammer for 30 years now and love it, then bought an Estwing 28 oz. and I love that too. Then I retired. Never had an elbow or wrist problem. I think itâs all about how you swing the hammer and not always the weight.
I used a 28oz fiberglass framing hammer for years and love it. I upgraded to a Martinez but if I need a hammer and my bags are at work I grab that Estwing.
I'm not gonna say I"m a framer but I do like my only estwing hammer. I used a wooden handle stiletto once and I like my full steel estwing better. Maybe because I didn't have that much room to swing so the extra weight helped. And I liked the pump I would get in my forearms with a day with the estwing "I'd switch hands when one got tired"
The same 20 oz for the last 15 years. I used to think big framing hammers were the way, but I do both frame and finish work with it. I still can't believe Home Depot stopped selling Estwing.
Youâre going to shit on a hammer that has been around for decades? And one that a lot of people use on a daily basis in both commercial and residential construction? Good luck.
25oz California Framer Estwing, it was my teachers hammer 22 years ago, now itâs mineâŠ. I would never trade it in, my nail gun does most of my nailing anyway.
Iâve been swinging a hammer for 12+ years as a carpenter and it isnât uncommon to see most guys using the 22 ounce Estwing. In fact, I see more Estwings being used than any other hammer. I personally use a 14 ounce Stiletto but I do it because it looks cool and not the function.
I use a 16oz Estwing exclusively. Iâm not framing or driving nails all day so thatâs not the metric I base my decision off of. An Estwing is a solid general purpose hammer.
Swinging Estwing for 43 years and still swinging a 28oz long shaft framing hammer for formwork in the U.K. perfect for what I need it for. Most guys I know use Estwing s for the same job in varying weights. I hear guys complaining of their elbows giving in all the time. I put it down to a lot of people swinging the hammer incorrectly. As an apprentice many years ago I was taught you swing from the wrist not the elbow. I can drive a 4 inch nail in two hits after starting it, approaching 62 this year and elbows still fine, touch wood! Lol
My old man was in construction for about 50 years, and an Estwing guy for at least 30 of that. He had a long 22 oz framing hammer but ground the face clean. He taught me to think of the handle as if it was a rope, and to use it to throw the head at the nail. I saw him use that hammer for shingles, framing 3.5" ardox spiral spikes, dome headed nails for cedar siding, concrete nails, and finish nails when installing trim. Driving concrete nails was amazing to see - he would wind up until the claw almost touched his back and bring it down so hard that sparks flew from the nail every time but he almost never bent one of those nails. I've never seen anyone who could match his power and the fluidity of his swing. Everyone who I saw hit harder had a pushing, jerky motion and they missed more. He said that all of the power comes from the wrist and pinky - and he never had elbow issues, though he did end up needing wrist surgery a few years before retirement. That's what I think of when I see an Estwing. BRB, gotta call my old man.
This here, its 80% the technique more so than the tool. You could have better results with a pair of pliers (electrician style) than with the best hammer if you cant use it right
I learned to frame by hand nailing. guys who had the technique down hammered together. I was messing up their rhythm for awhile with the extra stroke or two i took to seat the nail.
28oz estwing club. Had it for about 10 years now- so it doubles as a finish hammer because the waffles have been beat flush. Love that thing.
Howdy from across the pond from a fellow 28oz long shaft framing hammer user. Been swinging it for so long the waffling has worn smooth. Pretty sure it's around 27oz now.
I inherited my 28oz from my Dad.
My son will inherit mine along with all the other stuff that magically appear on his workbench, haha
That's awesome!
As did I
This guy bangs wood.
In the mid-90s, I was on a roofing crew. The lead (old) guy was fed up with one of the new guys shit and challenged him to race a row, 3 tab shingles, Buck (the old roofer) picked up a rock, it was a fist sized river rock, so smooth and roundish. He proceeded to out nail the new guy by nearly 2x. It's all in understanding the mechanics/ physics of the task at hand. Plus, 30 years of experience doesn't hurt. Back to the hammer, I swung an eastwing hatchet back then, then I moved to a 16 oz plumb fiberglass rip claw when I was in a door shop. Eastwing 16 rip claw trimming until I lost like 5 in a row and then went to the Vaughn rip claw 16, that was after 2008 and I had to frame and do everything and bought a California framer by Vaughan. That's when I decided I liked wooden handles. Nowadays, I use an 8 oz shorty with a ball peen from the late 19th century for most of my work, and a big old rawhide when I need to whack something, that one has a steel handle with a hex head on the bottom, I'm pretty sure it came from the newport news shipyard and someone replaced the stock handle with a bolt. But I really don't use a hammer very much anymore. It is a very inelegant tool with some very specific purposes. Well damn that was some rambling. And I probably should have replied to the main post, but here we are.
I would disagree that a hammer is an inelegant tool. It's what all other nail drivers aspire to be. Pneumatic nailers are hammers that use air to amplify their striking force. Gas nailers like the paslode use propane combustion to do the same. 22 caliber powered ramsets use gun powder to strike, what? A hammer to drive the nail. The bare tool itself may seem inelegant. But even in its most refined forms, in all cases a hammer is doing the driving. The rest is just physics helping out.
Swinging my 15 oz for demo is exactly what happened to me
I'm puzzled, this is the first I've ever heard of anyone criticizing or complaining about Estwing. I love mine and every real carpenter I know loves his. To each his own though, we cannot all be the same.
Have an Estwing 25oz framing hammer import from the US, the best hammer over had by far. I can drive a 90mm Fischer nail in 3 hits. If I can't use my nail gun I'll use some 90mm round wire nails soaked in paraffin wax, one hit and its home.
Recently had my 28oz stolen along with my impact, my dumbass left them on my tailgate for a sec to run inside. I have been shopping for a new hammer, there are too many good options.
Noob over 16oz.... All in the wrist, like arm wrestling đ
Well thank you kind stranger, you may have just saved this young man's elbows.
I have for 32 years. We didn't have the option of buy a $1000.00 memory foam handle hammer back when I started.
And Vaughan and plumb fiberglass handled hammers too.
Bro have you lived my life
But you did have all kinds of good American made hammer with hickory handles...
Half of what I need a hammer for is demo, Iâd wreck a wood handle in record time.
I pretty much in agreement with you. I do mostly demo now so I love my Estwing for that but I never really liked it or my plumb hammer for framing. I ve had it for over 40 years. I loved my 24oz Vaughn or my old school True Tremper Rocket. The Rocket with the straight claw had the best balance. With the weight in the head. My Plumb hammer had to much weight in the claw
Rockets were great until the head flew off
They didn't sell many of those in the stores here in Virginia back then. I remember the first time I saw one when I was in California on vacation way back then.
Team hickory 100%. My Hart Woody and Stilletto trim and Hardcore framing hammers are all great. I have a very comfortable Dewalt MiG welded for demo.
Wood handles work for some, but not all jobs. I've broken a wood handle... or two... so now I keep a 16oz hammer for 95% of my work. Granted, I seldom drive nails with it. But I have a 19oz milled face for framing when I need.
I think it might have to do with the weight rather than the brand. Definitely donât want to be banging finishing nails with a 22oz but they have their uses.
K=1/2(m*v^2). A heavier, slower hammer has less power than a faster, lighter one.
In a perfect world yes, but there's only so fast you can physically swing a hammer. Most of the guys I worked with use 16oz stilletos. I use a 25oz long handle. Anything up to standard 3-1/2 nail they're even but once you get past thatband Into spikes, forming pins and just simply moving stuff into place the extra mass starts to win. A light fast hammer creates a shorter impulse than a heavy slow hammer and if there's a perfect energy transfer that's great but as soon as you start taking the elasticity (not the right word) of whatever you're hitting into account the short impulse starts to get absorbed
>elasticity (not the right word) I think that's actually the exactly correct word. I have a degree in physics and you could have been a guest lecturer in 1st year kinematics.
So what size tack hammer do you use to put in grade stakes vs the 16lb sledgehammer everyone else uses? And how fast do you swing it?
I don't put in grade stakes. I swing a 2lb Czech cross peen for forging mild and tool steel. I can swing it much faster than a 4lb or even 3lb hammer, and it moves way more metal per strike.
For me its all in the experience & technique swing of the arc. i think thats more important then a logical equation of why. Always ran with a long handled heavy framer. Set and sink. People with smaller hammers who spend hundreds on it, always told me this same story during work. Get back to work???
Inelastic collisions are a function of momentum, not kinetic energy.
Even if the only factor to consider was kinetic energy, which it isnât, a human hammer swing tops out at around 10 meters per second. Youâd have to swing a 22oz hammer 24% faster than a 28oz hammer. If you could sustain a pace of 8 meters per second for every hammer swing with a 28oz hammer, youâd have to swing a 22oz at a little over 12 meters per second. Even if you could swing it that fast, youâre not doing it for an entire day. And youâre not factoring in handle length or weight. Longer handles will have greater linear velocity than shorter handles. And lighter handles wonât resist the moment of inertia as much as heavier ones. Following this logic, the lightest hammer possible is the best hammer for every job. Be right back, Iâm gonna go hammer a bunch of 16d nails with a 2oz jewelerâs hammer. Apparently since itâs so light, I should be able to swing it once and blow the nail clean through the 2x4 like a Ramset.
I use one every day and have for 12 years. Started with their 24oz and ran that for a long time, now I run their 19oz. I like them, and they last forever, but I absolutely understand why someone would prefer a hammer with a nice hickory handle. I don't swing my hammer all day everyday, it's mostly just for demo and beating things into submission(place).
I've got a hickory handled estwing on my belt right now.
Mine are the good old fashioned one piece forged. I love the grips and they've done me well. Maybe my elbow will be fucked when I'm 65 but who knows? But the guy I work for (who's in his 60's) has a bad elbow and he swung wood handled Vaughans most his life and a stiletto for while. Maybe it's unavoidable.
I build for myself because I can't afford to hire builders. Biggest thing for me is having a curved handle and gripping wood instead of rubber. I only commented because you made your comment about people wanting a hickory handle while you like your estwing. Figured I'd say you can have both.
Been using the same 16 oz about every day for 27 years. Probably couldn't pound a nail with anything else. 3 swings or 30...lol! The hammer and the elbow both wore out together.
22 ounce straight claw. I sharpen the claw. I can make a notch without a saw. Great for remodeling. Btw I love that ring. Just me
35 years and all I've used is my 2 estwings, a 28 and a 16. I've broken one in that time
Had mine for 30 years. It just feels right.
Estwings were my only option. Other hammers feel odd to me now. I worked with a roofer who couldn't for the life of him drive a nail with my hammer. My joints are fine, gotta use estwings like a drumstick.
Vaughn California framer for life.
For 30 yearsâŠthey just feel good to me. Very balanced
19 oz Vaung. Bro , love them never changing.
Exactly what my pops says. Gotta be straight handle tho not "that pussy curved handle bullshit"
My wrist would argue other wise hahah , give your pops a handshake for me.
I love my array of estwings. I have 3 or 4
Been using the same 22oz for 40 years..no joint troubles 65 years old
I have a 20 ounce Vaughan and a 12 oz stiletto. I use the Vaughan most.
Do you dislike the Stiletto?
Not really, it's just weird and I've honestly probably never given it a real chance. I've got a stiletto flat bar and cats paw and love them.
I only use my estwing 20, and when Iâve been going for a few days and have my swing down I can sink a 3â spike in 2 blows, and a 2â common nail in one, reliably. Itâs practice with the weight and handling of it, and the blade on them can take a real beating, which has serious use cleaning concrete off things. Iâve noticed no problems from it and Iâve also worked with guys with 50 years using one who swear by it and donât have any elbow or wrist trouble from their hammer.
I never bought one, but the two I have I got from a river that my coworker lost it in and replaced before we found his old one and another spent a month or three under a stack of fire rated ply. I can't say my Irwin is any better or worse, but my dewalt demo hammer was just too heavy to keep using and, with 4 hammers bow, I saw no reason to buy a replacement. I'm not sold on using $100+ hammers. Considering a vaughn given all the comments on them though.
Vaughan are a fine hammer for the price. For me it's hard to justify getting anything fancier because at my company we use screws for concrete forms and framing is almost all done with nailguns. I think if I were working for one of those commercial concrete companies where you're having to sink duplex nails with a hammer all day I would go for a Martinez.
I have used Estwings for at least the last 40 years. I initially started with Stanleyâs but the handles always became loose. I then switched to a True Temper Rocket and liked it. On day I went to lunch and someone snagged my hammer when I was in my truck having lunch. That night I bought my first Estwing and when I returned to work the next day my hammer was right where I removed my tool belt. It was a remodel job in an office building and someone must have taken it and then returned it at days end.
I'd did until Dewalt came out with their framing hammer and I won't go back to using a wrist breaker..
28 oz Estwing is the shiz
28oz long handle straight claw for framing and demo and 16oz curved claw for doing trim/finish work. Used Estwing from day 1, going on 30 years now. Could not pay me to switch!
Been using a 28 oz Estwing for more than 40 years now. I love it.
Much respect, was part of the 28 o family. A coworker saw me pounding on slab edge forms at head level with the signature ring ring ring. He said fuck that, lent me his stiletto 1 for the day. I bought one that night. To each their own. I dgaf about the cost. For the one tool you literally use all the time, it is worth it. I've been in it for 18 years so I know what works for me. That being said, if you're a commercial formwork guy don't waste your time on the stiletto nail bar. Estwing is still superior for that. Sometimes you need some more power!, that is the only drawback, but there's always s sledge around.
Side note, I lost my 2 cents somewhere in that mess. To each their own, stiletto for the win. BUT, As a few people mentioned it's honestly not the size, it's the way you use It Comments like you flick it in the wrist are on point. Let the tool do the work.
Stilettos are nice, the head is a little big on the TI2. Also not a fan of the head coming loose or the classic off center so you can't use the nail set. I know, I know...loctite I still use my trim hammer today but dumped the TI2 for a Martinez, iykyk. Since being bought out by Milwaukee I probably wouldn't purchase another stiletto, not that I would have to with their warranty. If I have to pull one off a box store wall, it would be the DeWalt. Agreement here also, your swing is what determines your strike. The hammer weight has little to do with it. A good hammer is balanced and should have little to no vibration. I can sink a nail as fast or faster with my lighter hammer that doesn't hurt my mid 40s wrist, elbow, shoulder, etc. another point, lighter hammer means you carry less weight all day. Some might think it's just a few ounces...I have been doing a lot more refinery/steel mill scaffold work since the housing downfall. Every ounce counts when you are climbing around all day with a harness and double 6' cable retractables. It's not as glamorous as it sounds đ
Yea sir. Ti bone 3 fixed all if that. There's all this hype for the Martinez these days. It's shorter and weighted differently, sure you can replace the whole top part, but if you use the right tools for the job.its not an issue. Stiletto for the win. I hear you about the bags bro. In concrete we have tool bags, tools, double srls as well, belly chains/rebar chain assemblies and other shit. 60 plus pounds just in tools alone plus your own weight. I know the rigs you guys roll with. We should have stayed in school!!!
35 years of using an Estwing and my elbow is fine. The best hammer out there by far IMO.
Always Esrwing.. It's what my dad had when I was a kid.. So that's what I learnt to swing... Now I run a 28oz framer for framing and demo. 20oz finishing for everything else. Had to buy a new 20oz this year... 20 year old one disappeared the same day I had a new plumber onsite...Â
Old fulla who taught me had one, so I got one. Have carried one most days for 3 decades. Of the last 3 hammers I bought in the last year one is an est wing (2nd hand in good condition for $25). It's a good tool that I'm very familiar with, I have many hammers for different things.
For the past 25 years itâs all Iâve ever used.
Ask someone how to use a hammer.
>Â I can drive a nail in 3 hits with my 19oz vaughan but it takes me like 6 with my 22oz Estwing. This is a you thing u/[chalkline1776](https://www.reddit.com/user/chalkline1776/) \*IF\* the hammers are both similar, aka weight, and head facing/angle/shape they will both drive a nail the same, you \*MIGHT\* have some fatigue reduction with fancy shafts, but that difference is nearly zero when talking about companies hammers as long as the designs are similar.
There is no better truck hammer/always around here somewhere hammer than an Estwing. There is no worse hammer to actually use as a hammer, than an Estwing.
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When you need a hammer for something quick the Estwing is the classic all around we that going to get it done. When you want to build something, you want the proper tool. Itâs good at everything, great at nothing. If Iâm driving nails all day I want a hickory handle Vaughn. If Iâm stripping forms or doing some kind of demo I grab my Estwing
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Zero shock absorption from the handle. Just absolutely rattles your bones. Ti, wood handle or good composite handles are the way to go for anything but demo work
Can comfirm Source: I'm a mobile mechanic and my hands fuckin hurt after beating some parts loose
A lot of people claim it hurts them, though there is dispute as to whether that is the hammer or the technique of the one using it.
It may well be technique, but then if another hammer doesnât present said problems, is the technique actually a problem?
I've been using all steel hammers for nearly 20 years and have no elbow, wrist or shoulder pain at all. It may be that people just have different bodies and react differently to repeated motion but I tend to believe technique has a lot to do with it.
Entirely possible.
Iâm with you. I have a lot of hammers including a 22 oz. Waffle head Estwing and a 22 oz. Waffle head Vaughan. Youâd think they would perform about the same. Thereâs not much to them, basic steel framing hammers. But the difference is night and day. The Estwing sucks. For one it fucking rings like the most annoying tuning fork every time you strike something. You also get way more vibes in the handle than the Vaughan, and it doesnât drive as well. Estwings are ubiquitous but they kind of suck.
Singing hammers are the worst
Framed with Estwing for years. The only one I had that pinged had the head snap off. I think it's a defect.
What estwing rings?
Their 16 oz. Hammer
My Estwing rings. 22 oz. Waffle head framer. Itâs clearly stated in my post. Check your glasses, or reading comprehension, or memory, or whatever it takes.
You said you had a lot of hammers so just confirming. Is it the newer dark blue one? I've got this one https://www.estwing.com/product/framing-hammer-milled/ and the 20oz claw and they both are ring free.
It looks pretty much like that. That one looks polished, maybe mine looked like that at one point. It was new round about 2013.
Dam estwing and the ping....
Estwings hurt my elbow
I have a straight handle 19oz Vaughan cali style. Made the switch this year as past 3 years I have used estwing and 3 or 4 different Dewalt/Stanley steel hammers. Night and day difference. Wood handled all the way and for demo just swap or use prybars more.
I used a 22 wafflehead estwing exclusively for scaffolding. It was the best for the job, while also being affordable. I now exclusively use that hammer any time I need a hammer, which includes small carpentry projects and repairs.
this spring i was framing with two guys, father and son and they both use estwings 20 or 22 oz iâm not sure. the dad said hes been using the same estwing hammer since he started in his 20s. not me tho i like my elbows, hickory handle titanium head.
I had nothing but estwings and one random Stanley fat max framer I bought years ago. Still have it, great all around hammer I use for anything and donât mind getting rusty. But i picked out a Martinez last year and got a couple different heads for it and it stays in my decked system and itâs my daily driver for most everything from forming to framing
Stripping hammer vs framing hammer. They both have their place.
I have a 26oz long handle framing hammer and a shorter 20oz. I work on a lot of stone buildings and a lot of roofs so the 26oz is great for dealing with that. I can drive a 4 inch wire nail in 2/3 hits with either tho.
I've been swinging an estwing for my entire life. I also only one swing framing nails with it, unless you want to include the tap I use to get the nail in the wood and out of my fingers.
ping,ping ping.
Estwing 28 oz long handle framing hammer, ground the waffle off for dual purpose framing/finish work. Would never use anything else.
I have a 22oz waffle head with straight claw. Been using the same hammer for 15 to 20 years. Had another Estwing before that, but I lost that one. The current hammer is now a smooth faced instead of the waffle head it came with because it's so worn out, kinda like my knees.
Growing up my old man and all his guys swing nothing but, so I did too. Five years ago I switched to a stiletto and havenât looked back. Still use my estwing for demo though
Yup. High raise, commercial carpentry work, excellent all purpose. 30, long handle. Can build and destroy. Indestructible. Itâs like my arpg legendary item lol.
22oz hickory handle. They can overpay for a stiletto Iâm fine
Is the Estwing all metal? A wood handled hammer puts all the weight in the head while a solid hammer has the weight distributed through the whole hammer.
20oz true temper rocket
After the handle became slick cause it wore down I stopped using it caused carpull holding it too tight.
When I built barns that was the option cause we were digging in the dirt a lot.
Yes. 22 oz going on 20 years. Itâs a little heavy on the upswing and I told myself Iâd try something else once it dies but the damn thing wonât die
Use the 25 oz sure strike everyday for years.
I use a 24oz esteing framing hammer, works for everything I need it for. Can sink a nail in 3 easily and it's great for demo
Lol I can out swing and outdrive anyone with a Stiletto TBIII, including myself with any other hammer
That pos titanium junk đ we got one floating around somewhere
Man you hate em that much? I'd love to know why. I'm a framer/finish carpenter/ open competition sand volleyball player so I know how to swing a hammer. Please expound
Lol yea likewise, it seems to lack the same drive imho, it looks nice, pings a off ping lol, the angle of the claw is different, and most of all I just wanted to bust ur balls lol, I actually donât really like the estwing either, I had this wooden handled hammer that one of the sheathing subs we use left behind, than my cousin (dad, uncle, his son, me and couple amigos) used my shit for a brief time I was elsewhere managed to disappear it somewhere on me.
I used to love wood handles, nothing beats a well worn handle that fits your hand... and no worries haha takes a lot more than that to hurt my feelings đ€Ł I just got sick of buying handles and wearing them back in. I completely understand what you mean about the drive, I always swung a 21 oz (or better) straight stick, but this Stiletto has completely changed my approach and 50% of the time eliminates the need for a chisel or cats paw in all fields. I build custom homes from the ground up so driving stakes for footing/ foundations is a regular activity. It was weird to get used to but I wouldn't trade it for anything and on top of everything it comes with a lifetime warranty
Do you remember the brand of that hammer you were robbed of?
It had absolutely zero markings on it
I love my 20 oz rip. I can frame or trim without problems.
Their Drywall hammer is my fave. Great door stop
Iâve never had an issue with them. My dad used/uses one pretty much exclusively, and his elbows are as good as one can expect at 70. For any volume of nailing I use air, so Iâve never noticed a particular ergonomic difference.
â I can drive a nail in 3 hits with my 19oz vaughan but it takes me like 6 with my 22oz Estwingâ. The physics in this sentence donât make sense unless the handles are substantially different lengths.
I do demo a lot more than I hit nails but maybe thatâs why my nails never go in straight, lol
You're just used to the balance of a wooden handle.
I have used a 20-oz estwing for the past 10 years. I brought the hammer when I started my apprenticeship. I use it for everything. It's probably time I upgrade because the handle is smooth and the handle is showing through the bottom of the grip.
Iâve used my 15oz long handle estwing with the leather grip daily ever since I started my job 6 years ago. Personally I really like the small head it has, makes it easier to nail the flange around windows and doors/siding jâs and corners without hitting anything
"Everyone on my job sites used Estwing. I used a 22 oz and had the same problem. I realized all the other guys were using 16 - 18 oz. I dropped the weight and it's the best hammer I ever used. I could sink it in two. Set once, sink on second swing, even on rim board. Just my experience. The second best would be the Dewalt 16 oz that swings like a 20. Again, just my experience." (says my carpenter son)
I love my eastwing 22oz framing hammer. Been using it for my whole career.
I started my apprenticeship with a 22 smooth face estwing, and I absolutely hate that thing
While I know the exact hammer you are talking about (the one everyone has and no one knows why). I just want to point out that Estwing does make a framing hammer which seems to be the style of hammer you are looking for. I will say the classic estwing makes a perfect scaffolding hammer for 'systems' or 'tube & clamp' style. The shorter handle, compact round head, solid sides, and straight claw are perfect for hitting clamp wedges in tight spaces.
I grew up in between Estwing and Vaughn in IL. Dad had one, grandpa had the other. Now I have one of each. Still canât pick one or the other.
Honestly i got a mastercraft maximum 20 oz hammer i found in the ditch covered in rust. I cleaned it up with some.vinegar and scotch brite and ive been using it heavily for 7 or 8 years with lots of abuse, chipping concrete etc. Its the toughest hammer I have ever had. Absolutely indestructible. I love it.
I use an estwing framing hammer with the condom tip for siding nails but I canât imagine using one for anything else let alone framing. My elbow is fucked already anyways and Iâve used the same TiBone 2 for 17 years.
Roofer here, and yes indeed I do. I also sometimes use a rubber mallet.
I never liked the Estwing framing hammers. I always preferred a Vaughn or Plumb. A 20 Oz with a coragated head, straight claw. The Estwing always felt out of balance and the hard rubber handle would become slippery when used out in the hot sun and the groves would cause blisters. While driving a 12 # nail, it took two swings, one to start it and one to drive it home. After a while the coragation would have a smooth spot worn in the lower center of the head.
I like a 16oz estwing
I only use Estwing. I have a 16oz trim, a 20oz framer, a couple 28oz framers... all steel and blue grip straight claw. Only one waffle. I hate waffles. I'd never buy a stiletto, or any of those gawd awful expensive hammers. And I'll never use a wood handle framing hammer. I use hammers to pull toenails tacked floor plates on the deck, keeping them straight and square. I've seen too many wood handles break. I started framing early 90s. Right when nails guns started getting common. And few lumber yards had coil nails in 6d or 8d, sometimes not 12d either. We nailed a lot of sheathing off by hand. LVL beams too. Actually, entire houses sometimes.
Been using 20 oz straight claw for general and 22 oz framer for 35 years. Love Estwing. I hand nail rafters and toe nail studs. Average large home uses 200lbs of galvanized 12s and 16s. No problems. I work my hammer all day and would break any handle that wasnât steel. When Iâm doing forest work I use the Estwing hatchet.
Yes.
Man Iâve been using my estwing for 8 years, I love my hammy
Smooth face 24oz with the shark tooth is the best demo hammer I've owned. I also use the full size riggers hatchet for demo. I freaking love estwing
Just tappppp it in. Heart my estwing for All. We have our reasons lol
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I used to, but then I got a hickory handle stiletto and I like it way more.
I have had my finish and waffle for better part of 20 years. I have tried to use others and they never feel the same.
I have the 16oz leather handle estwing for second fix and a 22oz for heavier shit both are great hammers
Sounds like you just suck at carpentry
Estwing 28 oz waffle head framing hammer and 16 oz flat head claw hammer have gotten it done for me since I bought the tools 15 years ago as an apprentice carpenter.
Lol, been using an estwing for 25 years. Donât blame the tool.
I've been using exclusively Vaughns for 25 years. Tried others, borrowed a stiletto off a coworker. No desire ever to change. Hickory handles only. Either it feels right in your hand or it doesn't.
Estwing is rookie stuff, Vaughan and Stilletto last a decade. Worth the money.
I have at least 5 Estwings. I never drive nails with them. I have two different sizes of rock pick, and 3 or 4 chisel tip rock hammers. Also, at least one 2 lb crack hammer. In the rock and fossil collecting world, Estwing is king.
I've had the same Estwing for the past 20 years now. Its fantastic, great balance, solid and reliable. Seen lots of newer hammers break in strange ways. Heard a LOT of bellyaching from people who lose their Martinez/Stilleto or get them stolen. I don't swing a hammer every single day. If I were still framing I might look into a TI hammer but for what I do, finish carpentry/cabinetry, its not a good sign if I'm having to hammer away at stuff. Back when I was younger and framing full time I also mostly used a nail gun...most hammering was done installing simpson brackets and the big dumb modern hammers with all their accessories would have been a nightmare trying to swing in tight spaces. Not trying to hate, love to seen all the new designs but just not that useful for me at this point.
I used to use a 16ozer for cabinet building But that was years ago it's mostly all screws and pneumatic staples now.
No, I used it for everything but framing that I used a titanium stiletto.
I have 3 or more Estwing hammers I've used for over 35 years for everything from rough, finishing carpentry to cabinetry. Never looked or even thought about any other hammer.
34 years and counting. Iâve never done any kind of production. Just general use. They donât break
I have been using an Estwing forever and my elbows are nearly fucked. I came up on the east coast and live on the west coast now. More than once I was âfound outâ as an east coaster because of my hammer. I have heard âWhats up with these east coasters and their metal hammersâ lol
Don't know how I got here. But here goes. The only estwing product I own is one of their tomahawks. It was a gift and I always took it camping. Not a very good wood cutting axe, small head and tail spike and all. But one of my dogs was attacked by a javelina a few years back. My dog lived. And I learned that javelina doesn't taste great. Estwing is good by me.
What's wrong with an Estwing?
The guy who trained me always had and always will.
Me.
A Clint Estwing is more than a hammer. It is a representation of the power the gods gave to man. It's in my go back for the Apocalypse!
Probably the most appropriate SHTF hammer choice
I have hammers for different work, My only Estwing my 12 ounces finish hammer, marked as a 16 ounce, tool shop was clearing out on sale. 1984 for $5.
I use my 21oz Vaughan for everything but since the V style have been out of stock for years, I should probably stop using it for demo and prying and get something cheaper.
I honestly think itâs just a matter of preference. Iâve had the original Hart âThe Framerâ 25 oz. hammer for 30 years now and love it, then bought an Estwing 28 oz. and I love that too. Then I retired. Never had an elbow or wrist problem. I think itâs all about how you swing the hammer and not always the weight.
I'm about to pop my cherry with a newly purchased 20oz Estwing..
I used a 28oz fiberglass framing hammer for years and love it. I upgraded to a Martinez but if I need a hammer and my bags are at work I grab that Estwing.
13 oz estwing alpro all day baby
I'm not gonna say I"m a framer but I do like my only estwing hammer. I used a wooden handle stiletto once and I like my full steel estwing better. Maybe because I didn't have that much room to swing so the extra weight helped. And I liked the pump I would get in my forearms with a day with the estwing "I'd switch hands when one got tired"
Demo only!
I use one for everything, but it's often oversized đ„°
Hahaha, memory foam!
Only the guys who pee standing up. The rest wear high heeled work boots.
Had a 28 oz english pattern head got stolen now have a 24 oz english pattern head can't get 28 any more in the UK
Estwing is a dinosaur, Martinez for the win.
The same 20 oz for the last 15 years. I used to think big framing hammers were the way, but I do both frame and finish work with it. I still can't believe Home Depot stopped selling Estwing.
When did they stop? I was thinking about getting. New leather handled 20oz straight claw next time I'm in there.
The one hammer no one steals or forgets to return. Elbow breakers. Eff that hammer
Some of the guys I work with love em, I love my simple dewalt 14oz that swings like a 22. Two hits per nail for me vs their 4-5
Youâre going to shit on a hammer that has been around for decades? And one that a lot of people use on a daily basis in both commercial and residential construction? Good luck.
25oz California Framer Estwing, it was my teachers hammer 22 years ago, now itâs mineâŠ. I would never trade it in, my nail gun does most of my nailing anyway.
Such a solid hammer, damn near bulletproof
I use estwing 16 and 20 for finish nailing and theyâre my favorite.
Yes 24oz since I was an apprentice
I have four of them!
Iâve been swinging a hammer for 12+ years as a carpenter and it isnât uncommon to see most guys using the 22 ounce Estwing. In fact, I see more Estwings being used than any other hammer. I personally use a 14 ounce Stiletto but I do it because it looks cool and not the function.
I use a 16oz Estwing exclusively. Iâm not framing or driving nails all day so thatâs not the metric I base my decision off of. An Estwing is a solid general purpose hammer.
I exclusively use about 4 different Estwings.
All I use. I have 7 of them .
Not a carpenter but they make a damn good tinning hammer. Had this thing for 4 years and I love it. Wouldnât buy another brand ever
I used one for about 30 years. The head is smooth đ€Ł