Titanium hammers up for grabs. Want one?

CJBradbury writes: I have been in the Carpentry trade now for twenyfive years. In 2005 I was framing houses/condos in Ft.Mcmurray Alberta, Canada. At that particular time in my carrer I was dealing with alot of pain/symtoms related to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). A result of many years of banging nails with steel hammers. Understand my plight,a fellow worker introduced me to the Stiletto hammer. A little skeptiacal especially considering the cost, I desided to give the Stiletto experience a try. I bought a 14oz hickory axe handle. Let me just say my CTS was immediately 92% gone. At least until it was removed from my pouch one coffee break. I purchased another, and by God they managed to lift that one too. Totally discouraged, I went back to steel. CTS came back worse than ever. Its been a few years now since I have drive a nail with a stiletto, but it wont be much longer. I am buying another this weekend. Never using steel hammers again, their no better than a railway spike in my opinion.
Posted: 8:44 pm on October 2nd

Woodbuilder writes: Thank you Rob.
My hammer finally arrived today. I love it. I got the 14 ounce smooth faced hammer with the fiberglass handle. The second one from the bottom in the picture. I've never had a hammer with a fiberglass handle but that one didn't take much getting used to. It just feels natural. You can't tell from the picture but the handle is really contured to fit your hand. If you hold it so that your thumb is in the depression for the thumb it balances just like my 20 ounce Estwing and if you hold it full length it balances just like my 22 ounce Estwing framer.
I was pretty skeptical about it hitting like a heavier steel hammer but it really does. With three medium hits I was easily driving 10 D commons home and probably could have done it in two if I really smashed them. Didn't have any 16s to try with it but 10 commons drive similar to 16d box nails. Hard as it seems to believe that 14 ounce titanium hammer hits just as hard as my 22 ounce steel estwing.
I have never owned a hammer with a nail starter, but it works great. In fact my four year old son can use it, and it may save a lot of sore thumbs.
Unfortunately, the hammer just missed the last addition that we did. For the next few months it looks like I will be doing nothing but roofing but I've got some big projects coming up later this fall.
Thanks again for the hammer. I may have to retire my Estwings as well. I still can't get over the way that hammer transfered the energy to the nail. You could easily see and feel the difference. As to whether they are worth 10 times what a comparable steel hammer is worth, I don't know. That would all depend on how much you use one. For a professional it would definately be worth the extra money just in increased productivity over a lifetime. When you consider possible health benifits and decreased down time in the future the extra $180 is very easy to justify. I'm not sure that I would have taken the leap to buy one if I hadn't won one but I'm sold on titanium now.
Posted: 12:17 am on July 31st

Snort writes: Whoa! I won a hammer! Got it yesterday. Looks like the one on the bottom of the pile... Stiletto TB II 15. I haven't smacked anything with yet, but it does have a nice feel.

I don't do much framing, but I will be back framing a house soon. This thing has a waffle face that's held on by an allen screw that has to be checked every day, right... never had a hammer I've had to maintain LOL.

Don't know if I can get a smooth face for it... I have a few scars from waffles over the years, ha.

So, thank you Taunton, I might just retire the Estwing.
Posted: 9:14 am on July 30th

supercoop writes: I got a hart woody and have benn eyeing the titanium hammers for a LONG time. I just got my issue of FHB and I see that the hammer winners have already benn selected. I guess I will have to make comments before I get my issue in the mail!!!!!
Posted: 3:55 pm on July 20th

Woodbuilder writes: Thank you for the hammer. I can't wait to try it out.(It hasn't gotten here yet). I am a 30 year old carpenter and everything still works great, but most of the older carpenters I know do suffer from shoulder and elbow pain. I hope to be an old carpenter one of these days and maybe this hammer will allow me to be an old carpenter with a good shoulder and elbow. I'll sure put it to the test.
Posted: 12:13 pm on July 18th

Artguy writes: Wow, that's totally amazing! Apparently F=MxA doesn't apply when we're talking about the wonders of titainum. I can imagine that a guy who knows how to swing a hammer doesn't need 20+oz. to pound nails with. I'd even be willing to bet that with a longer handle and 10oz. less, one might be able to get the head of the hammer going even faster than one that weighs more and thus be able to hit the nail just as hard or maybe even harder. I'll bet the size of the face and head of the hammer makes a difference too, a 14oz. steel head would be much smaller so that it would make it harder to hit the nail, a titainum head would be big enough that it's just as easy to hit the nail. The thing that bothers me is the claim that "A titanium hammer transfers 97% of your energy from swinging the hammer to the nail head, while a steel hammer transfers only 70% of your energy to the nail" -can somebody explain the Physics of how that can possibly be true? It all sounds bogus to me.
Posted: 11:34 am on July 18th

cmelsness writes: Expensive! Had one, liked it, had it stolen, could not afford to replace it. Sure do miss it!
Posted: 6:53 pm on July 16th

Clutchcargo writes: If, for some reason, one of the winners cannot fulfill his obligations as a randomly selected winner, I'd be happy to take on the responsibilities.
Posted: 10:43 pm on July 15th

rhfjr1940 writes: Being retired I do not have the money for a quality hammer.
Posted: 6:41 pm on July 15th

SawdustTechie writes: I could sure appreciate anything that helps preserve my body. My father has been in the trades as well and I can see the physical pain that's resulted from years of abuse on the body. While we still have to perform the work, I think moving to improve the tools we work with is a good thing. It will hopefully preserve our bodies a bit more or give us better capabilities of doing so. Using the tools correctly is still up to us. I think we'd want the same for our children. If there's still a hammer laying around, I won't be shy in requesting one!

Thanks and great topic!
Posted: 12:58 pm on July 15th

smirl writes: I say spend the extra money on a yoga class. Really, I'm not making fun of anyone here. I feel a kinship with all in similar trades and love you all in a professionally appropriate manner. But, if it's the health and well being of our arms we're talking about, why stop with our wrists and elbows? Let's take a holistic look at our bodies as tools. The extra time we're all spending on analyzing steel vs. Ti could be spent on analyzing the quality of food we eat and the types of stretching we could be doing before and after work. A Ti hammer won't do us any good if we can't anything other than fast food.
I agree with those of you who are crying fowl on the marketing aspect. A $250 hammer is pure marketing. Sure TI is more efficient at power transfer, but I don't think the whole hammer needs to be made of it to obtain the advantage. The embodied energy of TI as a material is WAY higher than steal. I bet two or three TI hammer heads could be made with the same material that a full TI hammer is made with. Put the extra heads on a wooden handle (a solar based product), sell them for cheeper and let us all have an easier time getting one.
All that being said, and I hope I don't reduce my odds of being picked, I finally gave in and bought one of these things. A new 12oz mild face Stiletto TI "Remodeler" with and 18" curved hickory handle for $50 on amazon. That's a "peoples'Price." I'll see you next time for the Titanium air nailer give away. Namiste
Posted: 2:59 am on July 15th

carolinian writes: I fully agree that the price is a bit steep, but when you consider the lifelong effects of using a substandard tool the price seems cheap.
One of my apprentices has a Stiletto that was handed down to him, and the difference is shocking between it and my Stanley Anti-Vibe.
Someday if I can scratch together the spare cash, I will own a Stiletto (And the Uber cool mini titanium prybar!)
Cheers!
Dan
Posted: 10:21 pm on July 14th

dugg writes: Interesting commentary, both the original report, and all the added comments above. I suspect that the added cost might very well pay off in the long run.... reduction of fatigue, injury, etc. That alone would make it worth while! Thanks for the revelation!! ;o)
Posted: 8:30 pm on July 14th

dzygadlo writes: I'm always looking for the "better" tools... looks like this is my next buy.
Posted: 2:46 pm on July 14th

Meemser writes: OMG! A free hammer :) My husband and I have almost identical hammers, but mine is lighter and a bit shorter. that's becaue my strength is less, so on so projects we do together, my nails do not go in as smoothly as his. but a hammer that transfers 97%!!! I am so there...
Posted: 8:45 am on July 14th

rvew writes: In April I fell and broke my femur. The surgeon inserted a titanium rod in the bone to stablize the leg. A titanium hammer would be a great compliment to the titanium leg. Seriously, I have had cortisone shots for a painful elbow. It is an expensive and painful process. If a titanium hammer could prevent a repeat of this treatment, I am all for it. The body is not getting any younger so I need to take advantage of new time, energy, and health saving technologies whenever possible. Rob, thanks for the chance to receive a titanium hammer.
Posted: 3:22 am on July 14th

olmanframer writes: Rob, I have been swingin' a framing hammer for a lot of years. I'll turn 65 pretty soon and if I can't get a little relief from the aches and pains I'll have to give up swinging my big hammer.
There have been many nights soaking my arm and using a lot of ibuprofen and ben-gay. With the economy the way it is I just can't afford that kind of cash for a hammer. I could sure use one of your titanium hammers! Hope to hear from you soon.
Keep up the great articles. Ol'man Framer
Posted: 1:02 am on July 14th

Good2bGreen writes: I am still confused by the whole cost discussion. Let's just say that you lose a day going to see the doctor with a sore elbow - that's maybe $240 in lost wages plus the cost of the Dr. visit. Let's also say that swinging steel slows you down a bit over the course of a month - or two - you lose another 8 hours. For a framer, this is the same reasoning that justifies a Paslode.

I have been a happy owner of a Hart Woody for more than a decade, and several Paslodes, but I would love the chance to swing a Ti - it would make the weekend honey-do list go a bit more quickly and with fewer aches and pains....
Posted: 12:30 am on July 14th

joytown writes: Although we had wanted one for sometime, we just got a flat screen tv last year. It was too hard to justify the cost when our old tv worked fine; so we waited until it bit the dust. Same thing with the Ti Hammer: until I lose or break the 3-4 hammers I have now, that expense is going to have to wait.
Posted: 11:44 pm on July 13th

pilgrim writes: pilgrim writes,

there simply is no contest..the elbow pain went away with the titanium..now for a titanium knee..
Posted: 10:59 pm on July 13th

mact60 writes: I would love to have one but would like to try one out on a display or something before laying out that much cash.
Posted: 10:48 pm on July 13th

TBB writes: I paid the big bucks and bought a titanium Dead On hammer in 2005 and its still going strong today. Everyone laughed at me for forking over the money but they are all jealous after swinging it. Light and packs a big blow. Reccomended to all. I sure would love to have a second one...hmm, that little one would be nice for my trim carpentry!
Posted: 10:43 pm on July 13th

boo2 writes: I'd really like to try one of the Titanium models,my right wrist and elbow could use all the help they can get and I'll pass it along to my 15 year old son when I retire in 3 more years.
Posted: 10:29 pm on July 13th

Elbow writes: My wife and I are just embarking on construction of a new lakeside home.Being both retired we will be assisting the carpenter for erection of the house and after the roof is on and windows installed will take over finishing.This hammer sounds like a good thing but the price is a little scary. However not as scary as when we had the original cottage moved last Thursday and the contractor broke the center beam and the floor collapsed,the plan was for it to be our home during construction.If there is a silver lining this hammer might relieve some of the stress.Construction is due to start within the week.
Posted: 10:25 pm on July 13th

lorencharter writes: yes, i want one. still have some use of my arm after framing my house with a 16oz Stanley.
Posted: 10:12 pm on July 13th

doubtingtomas writes: Show me the math!

The moment [force of impact] applied to the nail is determined by mv squared minus the recoil mv squared. Who determined the 97% verses the 70% and how was it determined. I think 97% of your statistics are made up on the spot. The whole thing seems like snake oil to me. There is a sucker born every minute. I want the science.

Send me the hammer and I'll take it to the lab.
Posted: 10:04 pm on July 13th

TBD writes: I've never tried a Ti hammer but it sounds like that may be a good thing. My wallet would likely be lighter if I had.
Posted: 9:13 pm on July 13th

roytheboy writes: A few years ago ,a fellow carpenter noticed my titanium hammer and wanted to check it out .He held onto it,swung it a few times and handed it back to me.After I told him It cost me 200 Bones he laughed a said he would never pay that kind of money for a hammer .I told him that I have about Three thousand dollars worth of ski equipment in my garage( I'm an avid backcountry,downhill and croos country skier )and I use that stuff on weekends about 4 months a year .I said $200 is nothing when you consider you earn a living using that hammer 8-10 hours a day your entire career.He reluctantly agreed .I don't know if he ever plunked down the cash to buy a Stilletto but I know this ; "it is never a waste of money to buy quality tools that save you wear and tear and make your job a little easier .
Posted: 8:54 pm on July 13th

loosedrag writes: "The Best" of anything varies widely in price. You can spend an extra buck and get "the best" AA battery, you can spend an extra $20K and get "the best" truck...

The idea of spending an extra $170 to get "the best" hammer, knowing that all your buddies will covet it all day, every day, just as they would "the best" flatscreen, generator, shotgun...is a slam-dunk in my book. What once was tedium now becomes an anticipated experience. If you swing a hammer even sometimes, treat yourself. Chances are, you DO deserve it. And if you don't think you do, all the more reason to buy one and realize that, yes, you are something special. Just like your hammer...
Posted: 8:46 pm on July 13th

345rite writes: Hello,

This is a barn burner topic. We all use a hammer and I bet we like to think the one we use is valuable. Personally I think the majority of hammers available are not very good. The benefits of titanium what they are the face seems to deform real quick. The task is what decides the hammer I choose to use of many. A straight claw works well on a lot of material. If you focus on nailing a pneumatic in a skilled set of hands is invaluable and deadly in the not so skilled. There was a day when hammers were crafted to balance, with soft faces that absorbed impact well,a Bluegrass hammer. The handles were made from alder. I would season the handle and soak it in castor oil. The oil is grippy and great for arthritis. An added benefit of treating the handle is that it gave the 18oz head a whip and 16d nails were a 'one time'. The leverage on long hammers today makes them awkward to carry.
Posted: 7:23 pm on July 13th

Good2bGreen writes: Technology and modern materials are great. Think of all of the time and "labor" savings ideas and products that have been introduced into the market over the years - or just look in the back of my truck, under the seat, behind the half a box of fries that my seven-year-old spilled last month. It's always easy to buy into the latest innovation - but we should recognize that much of what we read and see about products are the result of well-paid marketing folks doing their job. I am not trying to say that a Ti hammer is - or is not - better than steel, or wood, as long as the nail goes in the right way - a hammer is a hammer.

Cost is only one aspect of the evaluation - function and value are just as important. So, if hand and elbow damage is a concern, spend the $400 and use a power nailer and get on with it. If you choose not to pay $200 for a Ti, then keep using what you have and take your family out for a night on the town. But if the Ti fits your needs, and performs well, then by all means add it to your collection and let that Eastwing join the rest of the outdated gadgets hiding under the seat of your truck. We don't buy tools based on how much they cost, but rather how well they perform - and that include functionally and emotionally.
Posted: 6:00 pm on July 13th

yellowdogwood writes: I remember the days of my dad and grandfather who where carpenters. No power tools, table saws, skil saws, electric or battery powered drils, ONLY handsaws, hand miter boxes, chisels, and the trusted HAMMER. Today, I make custom furniture and cabinetry using power saws, sanders, routers, air nail guns, BUT I still use my hammer more that any tool I have.
I am always looking to new technology to a old standby tool.
Thanks...Yellow Dog WoodWorking
Posted: 5:50 pm on July 13th

wiruss writes: New technology like this is out there otherwise you would be using a rock tied on a stick. If $200+ is not worth a lifetime beating on your arms and shoulders. Then you’re not pounding enough nails. I have tried the titanium hammers and don't bend enough nails anymore to spend the money. If I still was making my income with my hammer I would certainly have one. Winning one would but one in my tool belt really quickly.
Posted: 5:44 pm on July 13th

laughingbear writes: In the last 35 years I have watched the world (and myself) become so dependent on power tools,cordless tools and many other tools that we didn't have the luxury of using when I started because they simply weren't available. That being said it does my heart good when i see a young carpenter that even thinks about a hammer let alone knows the energy transfer rate of said hammer. I'm impressed, If it would drive a 16d in one stroke that's all that really mattered to us, because then we could keep our $1.25 an hour job.
It looks like you found some good ones,please pass them on to people who are interested in the trade and not the keyboard players who will only see it as a trophy.
Posted: 5:01 pm on July 13th

chefcat writes: The long term bendfits to swinging a titanium hammer rather than steel are obvious. If your career includes swinging a hammer, the investment is worth it. Weigh the cost of the asset against the cost of medical expense, the cost of reduced performance and the cost of reduced quality of life.
Posted: 4:33 pm on July 13th

Doonie writes: A $200 hammer? Frankly for the amount of manual hammering I actual do anymore, I don't think she'd let me..I mean I don't think I'd be that interested in buying one...
Posted: 3:37 pm on July 13th

smallbrownbear writes: At the breakup of the USSR there was a military contractor who had a great quantity of titanium and no orders for anything made of titanium... He wanted to sell it for real money, which meant export. However, the bureau in charge of exports told him that titanium was a strategic material and refused him an export permit.

It would happen that he was in the same town as a manufacturer of agricultural tools, who also had men, machines and no orders.

The titanium sheet was sent from the first plant to the the second, and run through the drop forge, equipped with the die that they use to make shovels.

Problem gone... First plant has real money, second plant has work, export bureau issued export permit for a hundred thousand titanium shovels as the regular export item...agricultural implements.

Most went to a titanium processing plant in Germany, a few turned up on Ebay a year or two ago. I almost bought one to hang on the wall...I liked the story.

I have another 'international government bureaucracy is fun" story about a man who couldn't get a similar export license for peacock feathers from India (no raw materials---only finished goods permitted)...he had a man there loosely stitch them to cheap burlap and call them 'rugs', and another man in Chicago cut the running stitch and threw away the burlap...but I will save that one for later.

Best of day to all ... I could use the hammer...thanks.

Posted: 3:16 pm on July 13th

chewy61 writes: I hope I win one of these hammers. Otherwise, I dont think I can afford the monthly payments(haha). Thanks for the article. I think I'll give it a try.
Posted: 2:58 pm on July 13th

atelier writes: With the idea of reducing the shock to my arm, I've only ever used a wood-handled hammer for both finishing and framing- but after years of use I get some pain in my elbow. I find using a pneumatic nailer can be no better. I'd love to try one of these out- I hate the thought that 30% of my effort is being wasted...
Posted: 1:31 pm on July 13th

D11RDozer writes: Definitely seems like money well spent when a hammer is the main tool you use all day every day.
Posted: 1:19 pm on July 13th

ironandsteel writes: I'm 53 and every time I have to do a lot of hammering, I find that my arm wears out more quickly than it used to, and I tend to be sore the next day.

I have several hammer-intensive projects coming up, and could really use the improved efficiency of the titanium hammer.

pickmepickmepickme!

Cheers
Posted: 12:29 pm on July 13th

born2hammer writes: I have been a journeywoman carpenter since finishing my four year apprenticeship in 1980. I was always intrigued by the titanium claims. Swung a wooden handled 24 oz. hammer after giving up my framing hammer and rigging axe years ago. Two years ago I bought my first titanium hammer. I wish I had bought it thirty years ago. The difference is huge. Anyone who plans a lifetime of carpentry should drive straight to the store and pick one up. After a 20 year old on my crew tried my Stiletto, he bought one the next week. That was one of the best lifelong purchases he'll ever make. Stilettos are around $110.00 in my neighborhood. Way cheaper than some stiletto high heels, and way easier on the body joints.

Posted: 12:28 pm on July 13th

kphee writes: I have not tried a titanium hammer but it appears that the long term health benefits for one's joints make the price of the hammer not so expensive.
Posted: 11:40 am on July 13th

cvbritton writes: I'm not quite ready to shell out these big bucks but I AM quite willing to use one of these beauties AND to demonstrate to other physics teachers how this illustrates improved impedance matching for the hammering operation.
Posted: 11:30 am on July 13th

ccwenk writes: I would love to have one of these beauties and retire my $19 Stanley.
Posted: 10:58 am on July 13th

tek writes: Hey, is this one of those contests where the more you enter, the better your chances of winning? Anywho, I remember working at a truss factory in college that required you to have a 32-oz hammer to secure the plates. Didn't make much sense having a hammer that heavy, but I remember my entire right side killing me for like 2 weeks getting use to that hammer. By the end of the summer, I couldn't believe how much stronger my right arm was than the left. I know they would have mocked a Ti hammer, then it probably would have been stolen in like 2 minutes.
Posted: 10:55 am on July 13th

ljbuild writes: As much as I enjoy getting a new tool, I think that the greatest tool an individual has in any endeavor is the mind behind the body. Throughout time man (as a species) has created magnificent structures, art and invention that has been created by hand and with extremely primitive tools. Although I am sure that our productivity has increased, and we use our ever evolving technology to build bigger, faster and less expensively, I do not think that when our descendants look at all we have done they will try and credit an alien race, as we sometimes try to do with the Pyramids. It is the determination and brute will of the people that built the Pyramids we have a problem understanding. I would really like to have a Titanium hammer, as long as it does exactly what I want it to.
Posted: 10:41 am on July 13th

slapthefunkyfour writes: The last hammer I purchased was almost $60. I thought that was expensive at the time, but looking back, it was one of the most comfortable hammers I've ever used. $200 for a titanium hammer seems reasonable, but it had better feel good in my hands. If it helps with tendinitis, even better.
Posted: 10:13 am on July 13th

sewerrat writes: I have been looking for a hammer for about a week now. I just can't seem to find one that I really like. I have been to the big box stores and the so-called discount stores, but something seems to be lacking in just about every hammer I see. I believe your hammer might be the one. Since I am handicapped and on a limited, fixed income, it would be great to win it.

Thanks
Posted: 10:10 am on July 13th

BillDaCatt writes: I have owned a 20 oz Estwing for about 15 years now and still love it. But I also love it when technology makes my job easier. I'd be proud to give one a try.
Posted: 10:03 am on July 13th

KevinEM writes: Having swung a 22oz steel hammer for many years, I've paid my dues with arm problems - tendonitis, cortisone shots,PT etc. The weight savings and extra force would be a welcome change.
Posted: 9:17 am on July 13th

Rstu175025 writes: From a poor carpenter that doesn't even have an ESTWING or a PLUMB hammer. I would like the opportunity to use one of these HIGH TECH hammers. Thanks
Posted: 5:54 am on July 13th

bartelconst writes: After switching to titanium 4 years ago, it's hard to use my old steel hammers (now referred to as "demo" hammers). I do keep the steels around for demo work and using with a prybar. For me, the price of a titanium hammer is worth it. I've let other guys use a titanium, then they'll show up a few days later with a new titanium hammer. Once you use one for everyday framing you won't go back.
Posted: 11:23 pm on July 12th

dexcon writes: Had bad tendonitis in my elbow but since switching to titanium It's gone. Spend the money it's worth it.
Posted: 11:08 pm on July 12th

danybuild writes: The titanium hammer may be light, but in order t0 get the same nailing force as a similar steel one, it means you have to pound it with more speed in order to compensate for the less mass/weight of it. So, you should be feeling the bounce forces in your arm anyways. If you want to have your arm in good condition when you get older, stick as much as possible with pneumatic nailers, that's my opinion.
Posted: 5:19 pm on July 12th

danybuild writes: The titanium hammer may be light, but in order to get the same nailing force as a similar steel one, it means you have to pound it with more speed in order to compensate for the less mass/weight of it. So, you should be feeling the bounce forces in your arm anyways. If you want to have your arm in good condition, stick as much as possible with the pneumatic nailers, that's my opinion. Elbow joints do wear off, eventually, no matter how good is your hammer.
Posted: 5:16 pm on July 12th

danybuild writes: The titanium hammer may be light, but to get get the same nailing force from a similar steel one, it means you have to pound it with more speed in order to compensate for the less mass/weight of it. So, you should be feeling the bounce forces in your arm anyways. If you want to have your arm in good condition when you get older, stick as much as possible with the pneumatic nailer, that's my opinion. I think bone joints wear off eventually, no matter how gentle is the hammer.
Posted: 5:14 pm on July 12th

GJDY writes: While I have never used a titanium hammer I am interested in tools that can help me stay healthy longer. If anyone doubts the value of titanmium's abillity to transfer energy better than steel you can look to the field of golf. Drivers and irons both have been made from titanium for years for this very reason. I love my titanium golf driver and can't wait to put one of these nail drivers to the test.
Posted: 2:49 pm on July 12th

jamierichard writes: The less I use my hammer the better I like it. Most of my nailing is done by gun but I always fine a way to use my hammer for something. I stopped using those huge macho framing hammers years ago...I use a 16 oz. Plumb fiberglass hammer for everything short of a 5 lb. sledge. I have found,however, that money spent on quality tools, always comes back to me many times over. My advice is to go for as much quality as you can afford...not just in tools...but in everything. So,if you like the looks or feel of titanium, go for it. Tools will get you through times of no money, better than money will get you through times of no tools. (Apologies to "the Furry Freak Brothers)
Posted: 1:44 pm on July 12th

Rockhounds writes: As a physics instructor at the local university I am curious to read about the study. I am curious about the fundamental principle that would make these hammers more effective. I also would not mind doing the experiment myself at my own family room addition.
Posted: 11:43 am on July 12th

subfuel1 writes: You cannot put a price on something that ultimately will be beneficial to your overall well being. I am a cabinetmaker who suffers from Ankylosing Spondylitis and anything I can get my hands on (especially if it is lightweight) to make my job easier, more than justifies the cost.
Posted: 9:47 am on July 12th

Rick_P writes: I would have to agree that the health benefits would be worth more than the extra cost of a titanium hammer over a steel one. And I am certain that, over the long run, I would feel the unfortunate effects of the constant transfer of 'energy' to my hands and wrists. I would easily pay that price in hopes of heading off the potential consequences.
Posted: 5:12 am on July 12th

SlappyMartin writes: Wooooooo...NICE Hammer!

But not for me. If won, it would be delivered next door to my father-in-law. I refer to my inlaws as "my construction crew". He's 71, about deaf, and with the direction of my mother-in-law, a hell of a hammerer! He's a fixer, and more than a little dangerous...
Posted: 1:41 am on July 12th

mkitchen44339 writes: As a first hand user of titanium I can only imagine how much better a hammer constructed from this material would be!You see, I am an amputee and my prosthesis and artificial foot both have large amounts of titanium in them.It is used for strength,light weight,near 100% transfer of energy and because the body accepts it internally(will not induce rejection and infection).I have it both externally and internally.In the near future it will be used to tie into and even replace bones.I hope to participate in a process called osseointegration which will help me build as well as I did before my accident!I am starting constuction of my new handicap accessable super insulated home soon and would love to be able to try a titanium hammer out!
Posted: 1:39 am on July 12th

memmittsr writes: The money spent is actually worth it!! I am still in construction but am going to college full time. Why is this you may ask, well it's not because I lost my love for building, the reason is -- I have had surgery on my right wrist (which needs to be redone), and surgery is planned/needed on both wrist, elbows, and left shoulder. Steel has played heck on my body, but finally technology is catching up and maybe I will be able to enjoy my love of building for another 40 yrs.
Be safe everyone and always do what you love!!
Posted: 8:37 pm on July 11th

pathdoc60 writes: I like others have numerous hammers of all varieties. I have read this and other articles on the value of the titanium hammers. Before I retired, and had a substantially higher income, I thought of purchasing a Stiletto hammer, but despite the claimed virtues of these hammers, I could not bring myself to spend that amount of money on non-power tool. Now that I'm retired I truly can't justify that kind of purchase. But if I win one, it would likely become my most used hammer. Thanks
Posted: 2:18 pm on July 11th

moodybuilders writes: I Think less weight in my tool belt would be great. My current Fat Max Hammer is just that Maxed out on Fat! After a long day my wrist and back feel it.
Posted: 2:10 pm on July 11th

canexican writes: I have used them and liked how they felt, but I could not bring myself on spending the price when I had a bunch of hammers that work just fine. But I would love to add one more to my toolbox.
Posted: 1:49 pm on July 11th

ADDJR writes: I already have over 20 different types of hammers.. Some I made myself for special functions... Having a titanium hammer to add to the collection would be just cool, very cool.
Posted: 12:48 pm on July 11th

Harwoody writes: Titanium makes a great deal of sense. Bodies come one to a customer. Joints (wrist, elbow, shoulder) are terrible things to waste. The right stuff is never cheap. Thanks for the research.
Posted: 12:22 pm on July 11th

2Mac1 writes: Dear, Comment,

Well, that would be nice to win one of these hammers. I am do it yourselfer around the house kind of guy, and enjoy working project's that really mstter. I will throw my hat into the ring and see what happen's. Good Luck Guy's.

Macjin P. McHenry
james-douglas@hotmail.com
Posted: 12:56 am on July 11th

tditter writes: As a young carpenter (30 years old) who has been in the trades for the past 9 years, I would to try a titanium hammer. Being treated for tendinitis after several years of swinging my Vaughn 21oz framing hammer in commercial construction convinced me there has to be a better way, I simply haven't been able to justify the $200 price tag yet.
Posted: 11:19 pm on July 10th

WoodBear508 writes: I'd be glad to review any of the titanium hammers -- and have just started restoring a c. 1928 Craftsman cottage. I spend weekends and evenings on it ans would give a true DIYer's perspective.
Posted: 4:24 pm on July 10th

KurtNielsen writes: While I don't use the hammer on a daily basis, any help on transferring energy would be appreciated. Have to work hard each day that any small amount of help is appreciated.
Posted: 3:57 pm on July 10th

fxdp writes: I'm curious where the 97% vs 70% efficiency-of-strike figure comes from. Is steel more elastic than titanium?
Posted: 1:12 pm on July 10th

rcking writes: When I built my current house I developed Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in my right wrist from swinging a steel hammer. I switched to a hickory handled hammer with some relief, however its weight still provides some discomfort with continued use. I am intrigued by titanium with a hickory handle and believe it would allow work without the discomfort. I checked the Stiletto website and noted that the a 14 oz titanium hammer provides the same striking power as a 22 oz steel framing hammer. I would like to try the titanum hammer, and even if I don't win I will probably invest since I have some extensive remodeling projects upcoming.

Thanks for the information.
Posted: 9:53 am on July 10th

McLovin writes: A Ti hammer? Send one my way. It won't be babied, polished or kept in a silk lined pouch. If it works as well as my Estwig, it will used hard, appreciated for a job well done, then passed on to my son.
Posted: 9:33 am on July 10th

JFoley writes: If it would save my arm I'd love to try one. These days $200 is not possible. Maybe my doctor could write me a prescription for one. What are the odds of that. You're my only hope Rob ;-)
Posted: 9:26 am on July 10th

fincarpenture writes: Although I think it's worth the money, I haven't been able to convince myself to shell it out. Although I do like my douglas 20 oz. framer, if the titanium one works as well they say I would probably like it even more.
Posted: 1:36 am on July 10th

Woodbuilder writes: As a professional carpenter, I appreciate quality tools, and the hammer is one of the few indespensible tools of the carpentry trade. You can frame a house with a hammer, a saw, a tape measure and a framing square. The framing nailer can easily be replaced by the hammer but the hammer cannot be replaced by the framing nailer. One carpenter friend of mine compares the hammer to a rifle in battle. Even as a professional carpenter complete with framing nailer, roofing nailer and two different sizes of finish nailers, it is the basic hammer that I turn to most often to drive the recomended fastener home. Hand driven nails have several advantages over gun driven nails. For instance, hand driven nails are seldom over or under driven which is very common for a nail gun. A nail gun fires every nail with roughly the same amount of pressure, which ideally would be the right amount of pressure to set the nail head flush and hold the two pieces tight together. This is not always the case. Wood is the medium being used here and wood is not always consistent. Hard or soft spots in the wood will cause nails to be over or under driven as well as the user holding the nail gun loosely or crooked. Furthermore, hand nails are often higher quality than pnumatic nails, the heads are stronger because they have to be able to withstand multiple hits while being set. I find it easier to tonail a stud to a marked line with a hammer and a nail than with a nail gun which due to the inconsistencies of wood and air pressure which sometimes moves the stud a small amount and sometimes a larger amount, (off of the line). By the way tonailing studs is stronger than face nailing them due to the sheer strength of the nail at an angle and across the grain of the wood as opposed to parallel to the grain of the wood. Even if one is using a nail gun one must always carry a hammer to correct an under driven nail, a misalined framing member, or to do basic demolition work. A skilled framer is not much slower with a hammer than a nail gun anyway, especially when most of the time spent framing is spent dealing with layout and cuts. Personally I have found that I can do better finish work by hand nailing than with a finish nailer due to the bounce of the finish nailer. It takes a little skill and finesse to use a hammer efficiently but it is a road well worth traveling down. Therefore a hammer is one of the most valuable and frequently used tools that a carpenter can own. When I started as a young carpenter I used two old steel wooden handled hammers which I had inherited, one for framing and one for general work, including finish work. The heads became loose, and because of that I would loose power in my swings and I was inacurate, resulting in a lot of bent nails and sore thumbs. So I upgraded to two Estwing hammers, a 20 ounce straight claw for general work and a 22 ounce framer for framing. I love the way they balance. Actually they balance a lot like my old wooden handled hammers, but the heads don't come loose as they are one piece with a rubber grip. If I tap them just right in my tool pouch they vibrate like a tuning fork and it gives me great joy to put them to work and hear them sing. And yes, I do enjoy my job this much. I am truly fortunate to be a carpenter. People think nothing of spending several hundred dollars for a power tool which they use a small percentage of the time, and yet will balk at the price of a hand tool that gets used a large percentage of the time. I would love to try one of those hammers out.
Posted: 1:31 am on July 10th

sea2build writes: Now this would make a nice birthday surprise. once you get to use the latest and greatest they will have us a new and we will be doing this again.
Posted: 11:02 pm on July 9th

chenks writes: I've enjoyed the light weight of a titanium hammer for the last three years, and have nothing but praise for them. But unfortunately after a while you tend to get considerable wear on the head of the hammer. It bacame a problem when i was replacing glazing on a house my company had built ten years prior. After hammering finish nails in the stops, I noticed that I had rubbed my hammer on one piece and had left an unsightly mark on it. Luckily it wasn't too bad, and I love my stilleto, but I grab a steel head hammer when doing similar work these days.
Posted: 10:52 pm on July 9th

toolmonger writes: I'm confused about all of this $200 hammer talk. I checked out the Stiletto site and what seems to be the most popular hammer they make (from previous post) is just over 100 bucks. As a woodworker/artist I rarely spend a full day swinging a hammer, but even I'd consider $100 hammer after reading all of these praises!
Posted: 8:41 pm on July 9th

elkwood writes: first you have to send the free hammer to me and then i'll be glad to comment on how great or not so great it is, thanks
Posted: 8:38 pm on July 9th

AAguy writes: I had trouble forking over the cash for what I thought was an overpriced calculator that worked with fractions. 200 bucks for a hammer... take a break! Additionally, I simply cannot see how a higher percentage of force from a lighter hammer material can be transferred to a nail. It's simple physics to me. f=m*a force=mass*acceleration. More mass, moving at the same speed and you end up with more force. Simple. Swinging a lighter hammer faster to get the same force does not make for a well driven nail to me. I'm still fond of the assortment of nail-guns and staplers that I've accumulated. Persuade me!
Posted: 6:10 pm on July 9th

sksews writes: I agree that a $200 tool for everyday use would be a good investment. I too, usually pound a keyboard though so it's out of my budget. Since I'm a weakling, having more of the force go to the *nail* would certainly be a plus!
Posted: 4:28 pm on July 9th

greenway writes: I think $200 is a lot to fork out, but well worth it if the tool would be used regularly. When you hammer as part of your living, you have to think about how much it will cost you in ibuprofin and/or tylenol, insurance deductibles/doctor fees, missed time, and misery to use one that is harder on your body. You would get to $200 pretty quickly.
Posted: 4:10 pm on July 9th

typo writes: I believe that a pro should always get and use the best tools he can afford and that the cost will always be returned.

Howere, This is not how I make my living and while I might spend $50-$75 for a hammer, $200 is way out of my budget.
Posted: 1:53 pm on July 9th

windburn writes: After four years of a major exterior remodel (siding, sheathing, foam insulation, windows, soffit and facia) all labored by myself, and every one of thousands of nails hand driven with an old steel hammer, I've developed a bad elbow and shoulder. The project is not yet complete and I've found all this discussion about Titanium hammers interesting. Could this be a tool I should invest in? Though a trifle late?
Posted: 1:45 pm on July 9th

zmaker writes: I'm just a DIYer and would likely not get the full medical or production benefits of this new hammer, but for a pro, what is $200 spread over 10 or even 20 years of daily work? I calculate less than $0.11 per day. Even as an amateur, though, I rarely buy anything less than professional quality tools. Working with good tools makes me feel good and actually increases the quality of my work. Would I buy a $200 hammer right now. Maybe not, but I'm sure putting one on my wish list. Until the "tooth fairy" smiles on me, I'll just keep on using my 30+ year old wood handled, waffle faced standby.
Posted: 1:17 pm on July 9th

bennerm writes: It is hard to believe that a hammer which costs nearly the same as a nail gun can prove its worth. I have carried a traditional and heavy (28oz.) hammer for years. Being one who appreciates all things new and better, I found myself feeling a bit conflicted with the pride and nostalgia for the hammer which has served me so well for more than 20 years. I borrowed a friend's Stilleto for a day during a Habitat for Humanity project and did appreciate the weightlessness both while using it as well as while hanging on my belt. At the end of the day the fatigue factor was lower and productivity throughout the day was much higher. For someone who makes his living on a daily basis, swinging a hammer, this is a premier tool. For me, I'm going to honor my old steel friend.
Posted: 11:36 am on July 9th

Dbuslee writes: I guess I can't understand how two hammers that weigh the same would have different performance sinking a nail. Unless, like a titanium driver in golf, the head is twice as big. But that doesn't transfer the energy more efficiently. I am very skeptical that this actually works! Unless the Gear Addicts just like having a cool titanium hammer cause it sounds cool, I don't believe the test data hinted to in this post. Seeing is believing, though.
Posted: 12:06 am on July 9th

tushambi writes: My neighbor Silas, who passed away about 10 years ago was a carpenter and construction supervisor his whole life. He told me that whenever someone applied for a job as a carpenter with the company he worked for, he would interview them. However, the first thing he would ask the applicant ,was to see his hammer. He said if they didn't have a good hammer he wouldn't even consider them for the job. I agree with Silas that a craftsman should have the best tools he can purchase and a titanium hammer is one of the best hammers on the market.
Posted: 11:13 pm on July 8th

Erik09 writes: a couple of weeks back while nailing up purlins on a pole barn, a buddy let me try out his 14oz titanium hammer to compare it to my 22 oz steel head.
wow.
I was actually able to sink a 16 penny ring shank faster and with less hand strain with the Ti hammer.
wouldn't mind having one, but like some others, $200 for another hammer isn't in the budget right now.
Posted: 10:45 pm on July 8th

jojojfl writes: I've read a lot of these posts. Unlike most of you, I'm a woman and am not a pro (carpenter, that is). But I do love my tools. A new, high-tech hammer would make me the envy of my friends and my husband jealous. I'd let him borrow it, of course. My only question is -- will the dings be any smaller???
Posted: 10:31 pm on July 8th

12BWhite writes: I've been in the business over 40 years and my son let me try his Stiletto and I immediately fall in love with the balance,the feel of it and how easy it stayed on target! when I got home I told my wife that I had to have one. She asked how much it cost I told her and she told me that if I bough a $200.00 hammer I'd better be ready to sleep with it. So please let me win one so I don't end up divorced.
Posted: 10:16 pm on July 8th

Aaron M writes: I don't think it's an unreasonable price either. It just conflicts with my "reasonable" budget! The wrist/elbow fatigue after a day of swinging a 28oz Estwing was not missed when a friend let me swing his Stilleto.
Posted: 9:50 pm on July 8th

mrsludge writes: My best framing hammer grew legs and walked away a while ago. I'm a light user, but lightweight is good. For the price, though, it almost needs to be flamed to give it some bling-tastic coloring.
Posted: 7:25 pm on July 8th

greenmind writes: Like we have already heard from several other post I used to swing an estwing. About a year ago I bought the stiletto 10 oz. trim hammer. I could drive framing nails with the ease of 24 oz. steel. My elbow quick clicking within 2 weeks of swinging this baby. It also helped my accuracy swinging in tight spots. I loved the hammer soooo much I got it tattooed on my right forearm. I will be swinging one of the stilettos for the rest of my life. I am on a tight budget and really in need of a 14 ounce waffle face straight stick from stiletto. Keep up the good work stiletto and fine home building.
Posted: 6:49 pm on July 8th

fdhicks_69 writes: I would like to see the supporting evidence on the energy transfer statistics. However, titanium does dampen vibration better than steel and as it is less dense, allowing for greater acceleration and head speed. It is the velocity which is squared to come up with energy, E = 1/2 mv*v (we'll assume a straight line) therefore, a little velocity can make up for more mass. Given the foregoing, titanium would likely be superior for a heavy user, someone with any kind of physical condition or anyone wishing to avoid future physical problems. The cost difference when viewed as a present value against a future cost avoidance of medical problems (this is where the heavy users and those with an existing problem fit in) is minimal to advantaged over other hammers.

I have used them, like them, but have not pulled the trigger on a purchase beacuse I am not a heavy user. If I were, I would have one (and probably more) not only for the benefits mentioned, but also to reduce my belt load.
Posted: 5:23 pm on July 8th

dentman007 writes: They are worth every penny!
Posted: 12:27 pm on July 8th

BigDaddyJT writes: A couple of times Stiletto had a $50 trade in promotion. Trade in your old hammer for a 14oz wood handled Ti Stiletto. So for about $40 you get to try one. Once you do you will never go back to steel headed hammers. You elbow will thank you every day.

I have a bunch of different hammers from Douglas, Hart, & Stanley, & Estwing and none even come close to the feeling of Stiletto.
Posted: 10:23 am on July 8th

JamesScott writes: There is much discussion around the value placed on our tools. Maybe the discussion should be about our values and the pride we put into our work. At what point do we say to ourselves there is no room for compromise?

Simply put our tools are a reflection of our values.
Posted: 7:20 am on July 8th

stwheels writes: Any repetitive motion will cause damage over time. I'd be willing to cough up the cash for a tool that will not only minimize the damage but also last a lifetime. Over the years my attitude towards new technology has changed, you only have one life, why not make the most of it?
Posted: 2:58 am on July 8th

TCombs writes: I switched to Titanium about one year ago. I've been a builder since 1974 and used a metal handle 22 oz Estwing for most of those years.

My forearms had developed tendinitous and my wrists were sore alot of the time.

Titanium is the way to go! No more pain and a great efficiency of motion.

True, the price was a factor in not switching sooner though. Why does the newest latest thing always have to be an opportunity for companies to gouge us, the consumer? A sad fact in our profit based economy, I guess.
Posted: 1:25 am on July 8th

turftamer writes: If you can't hit the nail you shouldn't be using a hammer! During 27 years of teaching building trades students, I have seen numerous hammer tracks--some don't matter.

Those that do get owner signatures. To prevent future tracks students place their fingers in strategic positions to protect delicate work (such as window frames). It is amazing how quickly students learn to just hit the nail. Never had a serious injury from a hammer on delicate work or student fingers since.

A few years back several of my students were lucky enough to get Stilleto hammers. They love them, although I wouldn't use a wood handled hammer for demolition or heavy nail pulling, save that for your estwing.

Contrary to some opinions--lighter is better and can drive nails just as fast. So why would you use a 22 oz. or heavier hammer when a 14 oz. will do the same? Go figure...

I am not in a race and prefer to save my arms from fatigue and wear received from steel handled hammers.
Posted: 1:05 am on July 8th

walkingdadog writes: I picked up a ring made of titanium at a street fair. It had been sitting in the sun soaking up the rays. I nearly burned my finger tips off!!
Do these hammers get scorching hot in the sun?
or just don't handle it by the head?
Posted: 12:59 am on July 8th

joe33 writes: I got tired of the club, now I've got a little finnesse on my belt, better hammer all round and lighter. A lighter hammer means a faster carpenter and with all the other junk I got rid of (nail puller, pliers etc) I'm way faster and more efficient. I dig it.
Posted: 10:36 pm on July 7th

sophijo writes: There's no "free lunch" re the force you have to generate to drive a nail. Since the Titanium hammers weigh less than steel you have to swing them faster to generate that number; or hit the nail more times.
Posted: 9:27 pm on July 7th

Tramp71 writes: I can't compete with the pro's but I am a tool freak and would love to try a titanium hammer. All of my carpentry is done without charge including helping on over 6O Habitat homes. At this point my favorite hammer is the Vaughan hammer with the square, milled face and the curve fiberglass handle. It hurts like ____ if you hit your thumb but it is great for pulling nails.

As I said, I would love to try a titanium hammer and maybe convince a few other amateurs to buy one!
Posted: 9:26 pm on July 7th

asthewoodturns writes: i was lucky enough that stiletto was offering 50 off on the 14oz framer with the wood handle (85 normally) with the trade in of ANY hammer. i traded my spare 20oz Estwing. at first i was unsure because the head was so much bigger than my estwing. but now i would not go back. i am considering buying the trim version. Stiletto rules!
Posted: 9:17 pm on July 7th

darkart1 writes: DeathRN, Vaughn makes one with a fiberglass handle. I have one and am happy using it, as well it has a changeable/replaceable steel head so you can change from a smooth head or use the waffle head on the same hammer. The reason I liked this idea is that titanium will pit if you use a nail set often, so the steel head takes care of that issue.
I also have the Stiletto 10 oz. finish hammer which I use all the time doing trim. I do use a nail gun but you always need a hammer, not only do they do a great job, save your arm and elbow, but they are much lighter and if you hang it on your tool belt or hammer loop in your pants, we all know less weight there helps out as well.
Posted: 8:43 pm on July 7th

Panna writes: OK, folks: how many carpenters swing a framing hammer ALL DAY?
I'd much rather shave 5 lbs. off my framing gun (or a few ounces off my 18v drill). But I sure wouldn't mind a free titanium hammer, though.
Posted: 8:36 pm on July 7th

Farmhouse_Geek writes: While i can see the need for this for pro who drives nails often, as a homeowner restoring my house and ameteur furniture maker, I find myself turning to screws far more often than nails these days.
Posted: 7:23 pm on July 7th

snyda88 writes: My college roommate and I are both construction majors and work in the field on the side. He owns both a 14 oz Stiletto framing hammer and a 10 oz finish hammer, both of which have wooden handles. He swears by them, I've tried them on occasion when he's willing to give them up. He received them both as gifts so the price didn't phase him. Personally I use a dead-on framer, the price is the only thing stopping me at $200 from getting one of these. I'm more apt to purchase a new power tool at that price than a hammer. I would still gladly accept one as a little present from FHB though.
Posted: 7:12 pm on July 7th

DeathRN writes: It looks like all the hammer handles are either metal or wood do the come with fiberglass handles. Which type of handle with which head seem to work the best in producing less stress to the arm and elbow?
Posted: 6:24 pm on July 7th

Jonijumpup writes: I am getting along in years, so the Ti hammer sounds great to go along with my collection of various sized hammers.
Posted: 6:06 pm on July 7th

invesgro writes: My only question is how where the following statistics you quote on force on the nail head determined? ("A titanium hammer transfers 97% of your energy from swinging the hammer to the nail head, while a steel hammer transfers only 70% of your energy to the nail. Titanium drives a nail more efficiently and there’s less recoil energy to travel back into your arm.")?
Posted: 5:59 pm on July 7th

hapyfishrmn writes: I am new to home building and construction, but I plan on building and framing my own home. Depending on how the reviews go I might consider investing in one of these. It they can hold up to years of use and can save my arm and goes easy on the joints in the process, since I'm a young guy I consider it a win win.
Posted: 5:28 pm on July 7th

JDSquared writes: My dad worked in the residential and commercial industry swinging the same 16oz steel finish hammer for every application known to construction. In addition, I can remember seeing him do things with a hammer that many others would have picked up one or more other tools to do the same job. However, after quitting a sales job last year and attending the local building trades program for the last 11 months, I have found myself more open to technology and all that it offers. The local tool sales rep came to our class last Fall and offered us the titanium framing hammers for over 100 dollars. At that point in my new career I was admittedly making fun of anyone who would spend so much money on a hammer. This spring when he returned and offered the same hammer with a rubber grip for 58 dollars, I broke down and ate my words. To make a long story longer, the new wind sheer codes have really increased the number of face nails needed in our area when building a garage wall and I gave my new titanium hammer a really good work out. Two others were nailing their sections of the walls and it was quite obvious that the lighter hammer allowed me to swing with as much intensity and accuracy for much longer. When it comes to driving any size nail, it hits in on the head and drives it home just as well steel without the unneeded extra weight in the tool pouch.
Posted: 5:15 pm on July 7th

mike_x21 writes: I am not much of a carpenter, but I enjoy working with wood and I appreciate good tools & am willing to spend the money for a good quality tool.
Posted: 5:05 pm on July 7th

vwtdinut writes: I am not a master carpenter ,but I appreciate good tools & am willing to spend the money that it takes to buy a quality tool. That way I only have to buy once instead of every few years.
Posted: 5:01 pm on July 7th

WWTeacher writes: After more than 25 years as a contractor I now teach HS Carpentry...Ti hammers are well worth their cost...
I have never met a pro who switched back to steel...
Posted: 4:41 pm on July 7th

j3cub writes: yea but does it help you hit the nail?
Posted: 4:39 pm on July 7th

geomorph writes: Anything that cuts down the shock damage is welcome, but don't take your eyes off the hammer for a second when on the building site.
Posted: 4:29 pm on July 7th

romanbull writes: I bought my first leather-grip hammer for $20 when I was 21 years old earning $5 per/hr and raised a family swinging that old friend all these years. As far as the "economy of scale" is concerned, $200 sounds about right. Perhaps the children will get "the old man" one for all the cars, insurance, books, and tuition, etc, etc, ... it'd be nice!
Posted: 4:21 pm on July 7th

Raleigh_Handyman writes: I may not be the oldest person around (75 this Nov) but after a day of driving nails with a steel hammer I feel like I was the one being driven. I'm always interested in new technoloogy and would love to try one of these beauties.
Posted: 3:45 pm on July 7th

PeterWR writes: Having spent $600 on a number of drivers to help my golf game I see no issue spending $200 on a hammer. If you want to perform well in any endeavour, don't cheap out on the tools of the trade.
Posted: 3:27 pm on July 7th

adkMarty writes: I can't wait to read the article. Last fall I had to go through physical therapy on my shoulder because of repetitive hammering. The titanium hammer will be on my wish list.
Posted: 2:36 pm on July 7th

erose writes: I am about to remodel our garden shed and a Titanium hammer sounds like an "E Ticket". My old steel hammer gets awful heavy in a short time. As others have stated, you get what you pay for. If you take care you should have it a lifetime.
Posted: 2:09 pm on July 7th

oldewood writes: As a handyman, I can't really justify spending that kind of money on a hammer. But my arm will really like it!
Posted: 1:38 pm on July 7th

ron123 writes: $200 for a good hammer is quite reasonable if you are using it a lot. It is easily justifiable when you think of the price of even simple medical care after 30 years pounding nails. Think of it a cheap health insurance policy for vibration related injuries.

Posted: 1:12 pm on July 7th

LordRyck writes: Based on the comments above, I'd like to test-drive a titanium hammer. Yes $200 is a lot for a hammer (and I wouldn't tell anyone what it cost! ) but some tools last a lifetime. If I like it, I'd buy it. I have five different hammers in my collection. All-steel, fiberglass, wood, etc. The newest is about 3 years old and the oldest is 35. Amortized over the years the cost is peanuts.
Posted: 9:42 am on July 7th

Mainewood writes: I have driven a lot of nails in my 65 years, but I would like to know why the titanium is better than the steel? In my book "An ounce is an ounce" whether you’re swinging 22 or 32 what's the difference unless the hammer head is made of a malleable material or the handle has recoil material between it and the head.

I have not tried a titanium hammer, but this has sparked my interest!

Posted: 9:31 am on July 7th

valkyrierider writes: just like everything else......constant improvements. if you want the latest and greatest, you're going to pay for it.
Posted: 8:07 am on July 7th

thecounselor50 writes: As I hammer away with my regular hammer I think of my Dad who taught me all that I know about woodworking. I can hear him saying (in Spanish because my Dad was a Cuban born American Citizen) "You are going to pay what? For a hammer?
I suspect that if he had access to one of these hammers in his cabinet making shop he would have thought differently.

Posted: 6:52 am on July 7th

sdicenso writes: I think I'm with most here in that if you use it every day, it is a worthwhile investment. Just the health benefits are worth the expense but when you think about it, you may never have to buy another hammer.
Posted: 6:33 am on July 7th

BA_WOOD writes: Anything that would make life better is always a good thing. Preserving the body is a must. The price yeah, it is what it is.You get what you pay for.Would love to have one, thanks.
Posted: 2:53 am on July 7th

OzSi writes: I have swung a number of steel hammers - but I'm willing to try titanium if it make the job easier. Working with timber framed houses constructed from seasoned hardwood downunder you need all the help you can get - they put the hard in hardwood.
Posted: 2:23 am on July 7th

OzSi writes: I have swung a number of steel hammers - but I'm willing to try titanium if it make the job easier. Working with timber framed housed constructed from seasoned hardwood downunder you need all the help you can get - they put the hard in hardwood.
Posted: 2:22 am on July 7th

PaulMcI writes: I first blew out my right elbow overcranking big drummed winches in sailing races, then found that, over time, I was losing control of the hammer whenever I worked with it overhead. In fact, in one downward swing, I actually cracked my 70-year-old Mum on the head. All that was enough to convince me of the value of finding easier ways to hammer, especially over my head.

Since then, some 35 years, I have cheated my way around the pain and fatigue that comes with using steel hammers by limiting myself to 16-pounders. Yes, it took me a long, long time to drive 6-inch spikes, which, in turn, caused my right arm even more fatigue and pain.

Of course, now that I am 60, I can add arthritis (base of thumb) and essential tremours (who knows from where) to the mix.

Right about now, $200 to counter the long-term effects of age and misadventure sounds like a heck of a deal. I would love to try a titanium hammer!

Paul McIsaac
Powell River, British Columbia
Posted: 1:09 am on July 7th

Jonovox writes: If it would make my life easier and extend my health, its worth a shot. I've spent a lot of money on many tools that seemed ridiculous at the time but in the end was a great decision. Balance in a hammer is everything; so if is balanced and saves my body--it's a no brainer!
Posted: 12:13 am on July 7th

chongylee writes: I don't have a titanium hammer yet, but from what I am reading and hearing about it; it seems like it's the ultimate hammer. Less strain, more power, what more can any carpenter want? If I did carpentry for a living I don't believe I would hesitate in purchasing one and just trying it out. What harm can it be, $150-$250 when you can try it and if you don't like it return it. In today's economy it may be very difficult for anyone to spend that kind of money for a hammer. But really what is more important: money or health? I am due for a replacement for a hammer and I think I will go out and try one.
Thank you for the article, I'll be sure to post a follow up with my findings.

Charles
Posted: 12:08 am on July 7th

Georgea2 writes: For the man using the hammer everyday, this is a good value, but for the occasional user I would find the price very hard to justify.
Posted: 11:21 pm on July 6th

toolguy101 writes: Whether or not $200 is unreasonable really depends on how frequently you'll swing that hammer. I agree that for a daily user, it's worth the price. But for someone like me who swings a hammer a few weekends a month, it's hard to justify.
Posted: 11:02 pm on July 6th

wcontracting writes: The titanium hammers are awesome. I was using a 24oz steel hammer for quite a while then one day i used my freinds titanium and i bought one that night. It is definitly worth the $100 i paid. I want to get the full titanium one which seems like it would last forever. Everyone I show the hammer to says they got to get one to. I love my job and titanium hammers make me love it more. I have only been framing for a couple years but I look forward to many more without joint pain by using the best hammers in the world.
Posted: 10:26 pm on July 6th

nwhitington writes: Just as you stated in your article...add up the hours, days, pain, medicine, $ for medicine, $ for doctor visits, sleepless or non-deep sleep due to elbow pain, inducing pain from non-work related tasks, etc... You could buy a truck full of titanium hammers and saved your self a lot of pain and discomfort. 3 cheers for titanium hammers and may the live forever!
Posted: 10:21 pm on July 6th

banjorex writes: I've never used one. I'm a bit skeptical. I love progress in man's ability to conceive and construct new technology. I want to believe that a hammer made from titanium will provide a noticeably improved experience on work which can be hard on the human body. I think at $200 I'd have to have a fairly long trial before endorsing what sounds like a marketing ploy for our consumerist society.
Posted: 10:20 pm on July 6th

RedfordHenry writes: $200 is a lot less than I spent on a Paslode gas framing gun which I bought thinking it would be the end of my elbow pain (due largely from swinging a 28 oz Estwing). I'd love to give a Ti hammer a try (and maybe save what hearing I have left after firing the Paslode for a few years).
Posted: 10:20 pm on July 6th

Ackyjr writes: How sweet it is. Back in the 90s i just happened to be at a woodworking store when i came upon a tim allen autographed titanium hammer which came in 2 sizes or weights... 14oz which i still have and also a 22oz i believe what a hammer. my 22 oz was used mostly it was a dream until handle which was wooden split 14 years i used this hammer i tried to get handle to no availe i still have that beauty in my shop. It was so comfortable and percise i never missed. have purchased many after that but not one could compare to titanium lite percise perfect and the sound was music to my ears.......
Posted: 9:58 pm on July 6th

coolredmudball writes: I may be old school but I like my regular steel 28oz Hart framing hammer. I've never used a titanium hammer and have never heard an adequate explanation on how they work. I always thought that it was the weight of the hammer on the nail head that created the driving force. A lighter hammer it would seem would require more human effort. $200 has seemed an expensive experiment, almost the cost of a pneumatic nailer, and so I have kept clear of the temptation. I would love to be proved wrong in my asumptions.

Dave
Posted: 9:57 pm on July 6th

MIke300cd writes: I've had two Ti hammers stolen. We work in some sketchy areas. I'm on number three now and keep a very close eye on it. But the thieves are very clever!
Posted: 9:54 pm on July 6th

ProjectTime writes: It would match my wedding band and cost the same price!
Posted: 9:33 pm on July 6th

marcuswestwood writes: I've been using a Vaughan ti-tech for years love Ti hammers buy one!!!!! and let me win a fresh one that would be awesome like the hammer.
Posted: 9:30 pm on July 6th

Duke's son writes: After 30 years of working as a carpenter, I recently purchased my second stilleto, a Mini 14.I already own a 14 oz. with a hickory handle, but I like the Mini 14 better. One of the reasons was that my lumberyard gave me an excellent deal on the hammer and another was that I had a $75.00 mail in rebate which brought the final price down to about $200.00 Cdn. I immediately had the hammer laser engraved with my name and BC Driver's Licence. Love the hammer. Reason for buying was primarily health reasons, none of us are getting any younger. Now I join the ranks of many carpenters like myself, who own a miriad of other hammers which we will probably never use again. I have one drawer in my tool chest just for my hammers.
Posted: 9:24 pm on July 6th

bayfly401 writes: A much younger framer friend of mine loaned me his Stilleto because he thought I'd like it...I loved it. So now if it gets nailed it either gets shot or I have room to use my Stilleto.At 66 ,this hammer helps keeps my arthritic thumb and elbow working and you don't need to spend $200to buy it.
Posted: 9:11 pm on July 6th

banginails writes: The 100 dollar hammer works. I've been struggling with elbow pain for the last couple of years and took a leap of faith by spending a ridiculous amount of money on a product that might reduce some of my pain and increase my productivity.The decrease in vibration has definitely had a positive result. I'm sure if I had picked it up sooner it would have prevented much of the damage done to my wrist, elbow and shoulder. No more pins and needles in my hand on the way home from work. FYI The hammer I purchase has the synthetic handle and is less than half the price of the top of the line. FYI #2 Titanium does not soften like my old hammer. The claws and any other edges stay sharp and will draw blood if not tended to.
Posted: 9:04 pm on July 6th

KingGeorge writes: I've been using a 22 oz steel shank framing hammer for a number of years. And I've got the elbow bursitus that goes with it, and more recently a torn rotator cuff. I'm not sure I can blame the rotator cuff on the hammer, but a lighter hammer that hits as hard would definitely help.
Posted: 8:48 pm on July 6th

Cho writes: When I was a carpenter apprentice, My instructor told me never use hammer heavier than 23 oz. Unfortunately I did when I saw a 24 oz. hammer that sold for Cad$10 bucks in home centre. I got a minor strain and finally quit using that hammer.

While I was on site watching a framer using a "metal shank" framing hammer, I queried him if that "metal shank" help to absorb vibration. He gave me a positive answer and told me this is a titanium head hammer worth $300 (Cad). He was so admired of it. About a year a later, I met another crew who inmigrated from Toronto to Calgary to frame houses in our site. Again I saw a similar "metal shank" titanium hammer. I was surprised. Chatting with that young fellow, he told me how he loved that hammer more than any others.

Co-incident! How come 2 different framers never meeting each other got the same idea, viz love to use such a "metal shank" hammer that has lots of "triangular holes" in the shank? I did try to pound couple of spikes and came up with "Wow, what a difference!"

Now titanium hammer has come up in my mind. By the time I've saved enough money, this for sure will be my must buy hand tool in my wish list.
Posted: 8:28 pm on July 6th

Timuhler writes: I've been using the Tibone since 2002 and wouldn't replace it with anything else. It is just too useful being all metal for pulling nails. I love the side puller that is on the newer models.

I feel it is worth the money. I like carrying less weight be being able to drive nails w/out a loss in power.

My experience too is that either you think it is worth the $$ or not. No one changes their mind. But only those who use them have an informed opinion.

Just my $0.02
Posted: 7:43 pm on July 6th

dwdjh writes: when it comes down to it i would be reluctant to spend 200$. one of my employees owned a stiletto and i occasionally used it and was pleased with it. i use a 19 oz steel mill face straight claw wood handle. i like it fine but when it goes i think i throw down the 200$ for the titanium.

hammer on!!!!!!
Posted: 7:40 pm on July 6th

hardin0341 writes: Well, from my experience of dropping hammers while hanging precariously over deep or raging rivers, for day-to-day use, I have to opt for my trusty 22oz hickory and steel. Now, if I win one of your fancy titanium hammers, I promise to try to keep it dry. I may even attach a lanyard!! I know I would if I paid $200.00 for it! ;)
Posted: 7:36 pm on July 6th

othereidea writes: I for one would purchase one strictly for the health benefits. Since I've got fresh experience with doctor visits and physical therapy, the cost of the hammer seems small in relation to the longer term benefits.

It's all about quality of life! Why be penny-wise and pound foolish? I can still hear my shop teacher's voices - use the right tool for the job!

From my perspective a hammer is a specialized tool. Right now, I make my living using a specialized tool - a computer keyboard, and I replace all of the ones I use regularly with ergonomic versions specifically for health reasons. I'm more efficient and I can work for longer periods of time without repercussions (carpal tunnel, tennis elbow, bursitis, etc) AND I don't have regular visits to the doctor.

Air nailers are great for production work and generally make me more efficient, but I can already see that for the varied construction work I do as a hobby, a titanium hammer would pay dividends quickly. It only takes one stress related injury to put a serious crimp in my wage earning ability.

I'm going to add the cost of a new titanium hammer to the budget for my new garage along with a couple of other specialty tools that will be more than paid for by my increased efficiency. Besides, my ex-wife already walked off with my favorite finish AND framing hammers.

Posted: 7:32 pm on July 6th

MadTreefrog writes: Guys (and gals), the physics is simple! Force = Mass x Acceleration. Sir Isaac Newton figured that one out long ago! That's why I always use a 30 oz rubber mallet to pound nails with. Sure the nails don't go in very far and the hammer has a habit of bouncing back and smacking me in the forehead, but I know, I really know, because I learned in high school physics, that F=MA. The materials involved can make NO difference because that was never mentioned in my HS physics class!

Of course with less mass maybe it will hurt less when that titanium hammer bounces back!

By the way, I do own a titanium snake hook with an aircraft aluminum handle that I paid $125 for 25 years ago. It's great for flipping tin or wrangling rattlers and much lighter that a steel hook. But that's a hobby. Who would spend that kind of money for day in and day out work?

Posted: 7:22 pm on July 6th

ericthedog writes: If I win that hammer, I'll hammer in the morning, I'll hammer in the evening all over this land. Whether it is a Stiletto titanium or otherwise.
Posted: 6:47 pm on July 6th

carmantl writes: I have a lot more money invested in my air compressors, nailers, & co2 rigs than a new 200 dollar hammer. I have a
vaughan titanium & love it. I would love another to compare it to!
Posted: 6:45 pm on July 6th

charisset writes: I loved my titanium Stiletto. I framed for many years with a Hart hammer, but the titanium beat it by far for many reasons. 1. It's lightweight (doesn't weigh down my toolbags and the faster I can move the more money I make). 2. My basic swing improved using it, I can drive nails quicker and more effectively. The balance of the hammer affords me more control, making it easier to get my pinky finger involved in the swing. 3. I'm a female framer/contractor and I really enjoy telling people my favorite stilettos are hammers not high heels. The only drawbacks were that I had to ask for it for my birthday to get my hands on one, you can't use it as well as a steel hammer to hit the edge of concrete with it in a pinch( it throws sparks and damages the head) and the stilettos are prone to being stolen a little easier (a homeowner took mine!).
Posted: 6:30 pm on July 6th

cb3 writes: I've used the Stiletto for at least 6 years now and would never go back to steel. I like the lighter weight hanging from my bags, It is much easier for overhead nailing and the few times I actually have to hand nail all day I still have a functioning hand and arm at the end of the day. I've replaced the wood handle once in the time I've owned it and it costs nowhere near $200 dollars.
Posted: 5:46 pm on July 6th

mtirsd writes: I'd like a titanium hammer/axe to match the rest of my spare parts. I was hit head-on by a pickup truck that broke off from the dolly that it was being towed on. Then the guy left me there.

I now have a titanium (T) nail (rod) in my left femur (and a few T screws); a couple of T plates and T screws in my left ulnar and radial bones (forearm); T screws and T staples in my right shoulder (rotator cuff repair) and some excellent xrays of the whole mess. I still have a chance to expand on my collection (as stated above), but am waiting for the spine surgeon to return from Ethiopia.

Before 23+ years of Govt. service (FBI), I used to teach Industrial Arts and have renovated buildings in Florida, Memphis TN, New Jersey and NYC. I still have (and love) my 16oz. leather grip Estwing claw and a nice Klein electrician's hammer with long rip teeth, but dropping a little weight and adding a little power would be nice now. I'm still renovating, just much more slowly.

MJDonnelly

PS After all the above, it's still an adventure (just like all our projects) even if I do feel a little like Wiley Coyote in the Road Runner cartoons.
Posted: 5:33 pm on July 6th

Bato writes: I have used a Stiletto since I first read about them in Fine Homebuilding several years ago. What a great hammer for pounding. The magnetic nail holder on the head is a great addition for reaching out another foot to place a nail you otherwise could not place. I noticed the difference in the tendonitis in my arms soon after I started using my titanium hammer. I could pound with the light hammer just as well as with the heavy steel hammer. I also really notice the weight on my belt. When I barrow a steal hammer right away I can feel the heaviness in my bag.

I bought stiletto hammers for my entire crew. All but one discarded there steal hammers. My insurance safety inspector was quite impressed that I had provided a safer hammer for my crew.

I realize I am in a minority here. Unlike most of you I do have to pull a nail occasionally. This is definitely a no no with a wooden handled Stiletto. Don't pry with it. The handle will come loose from the head. They should have never put claws on that hammer. I have replaced my handle many times. As careful as I am about not pulling nails with my hammer, I eventually break down and use it to pull nails. Then I run around for a month with a loose hammer head.

I was thinking about the physics of the lighter hammer. Why wouldn't a light weight steal hammer work just as well as a light weight titanium hammer? I am such a sucker for the latest gadget, even though I do still use my Stiletto.

For those of you on a budget, I would suggest getting a 16oz steel hammer. My guess is that it will work just as well as a 16 oz Stiletto. Do expect to be given a bad time about your pussy hammer though. The Stiletto will make you look like you have a real mans hammer. No one will give you a bad time about a big husky looking hammer like a Stiletto. Yes sir with a titanium hammer you can be a real man and have a light weight hammer too. That alone must make it worth at least $200.
Nail Bender

Posted: 5:22 pm on July 6th

gercon writes: Always used a 22 oz. Estwing hammer. However I wouldn't mind trying out this titanium hammer if I'd have a chance. The theoretical write up sounds pretty interesting. At $200 a hammer I wouldn't normally get a chance at a try out!
Posted: 5:13 pm on July 6th

bigswede69 writes: I agree with the fellow that said there is a right way and a wrong way to drive nails.
My partner & I were framing a 2800 sq.ft.house.
The owner had a ton of material left over from his business.
It was all fir.We made rafters(he didn't trust trusses!)All the rafters were placed 16inches on center as well as the wall studs!!
We had a crew of 6 men with 3 young apprentices.
The first day my partner and I were walking on 2 inches of bent nails!
I gathered every one around the saw horse.Put a couple of 2x10on the horses and had every body practice nailing.
Unlike the foreman from the 40s we paid our guys to learn!!
I love driving spikes!!!!!!!!! I could (and have) driven spikes all day ......14 hours sometimes.I used (and still do) a 36oz
framing axe.I never had sore arms or back.One tap to set and one blow to drive the nail home.All day long.
I have a ticket in plastering as well.
When I first started my apprenticeship,I spent 3 days on the mud board learning to pick up mud with my hawk&trowel.Mud is taken off the Front of your hawk,not the back.It takes a lot of practice to get this down right.My brother was my teacher and he was a marvelous plasterer.
Anyway I guess any trade there are little knacks you have to pick up.
I must say I would love to try one of these wonder hammers out.

Posted: 5:10 pm on July 6th

spooky8 writes: Dalluge and Douglas have been my favorite hammers for years. Convince me otherwise with a titanium if you can. Please.
Posted: 5:05 pm on July 6th

ajbendik writes: Just found out that I have carpal tunnel, and don't really know what it means. Always thought it was a repetative injury. And of course it strikes at a time when I'm doing very little hammering. A titanium rig would be awful nice for when things heat up again though...
Posted: 5:01 pm on July 6th

milwaukee writes: At 200 bucks for a Hammer. It may be worth it to some. But i am of the mind set that i have been using a 22 oz. for the last 20 years and i have never had any issues. You then say, this guy does not work hard, how can that be? Well the answer is very simple: i take my time and do it right and i have baught hammers with axe handles on them. I have found this little ergonomic difference saves ones body from under strain. And as for new people in the industry have to pick their tool of choice for framing, you can pick the Titanium, but with a little modifying of your handle you can make your tool perform. I also prefer the weight of a tool. I have found that titanium slips easier off the heads. Waffle headed or not!

Lastly, if i see guys going nuts on the jobsite to make their pay by killing themselves with the 22 oz hammers. I'll say, get the compressor and nailgun. Or even get the butane paslode. Either way, their are ways to save yout body from under strain. Just pick what is right for you! Just remember be safe and be respectful to your body.
Posted: 4:55 pm on July 6th

TheKelly writes: I still use the fiberglass handle 16 oz Craftsman hammer every day that I bought as a carpenter apprentice way back in 1979. I could sure use one of these modern marvels. Even nailing up molding all day takes its toll. Thank goodness I don't need one for framing (only metal studs in commercial work)!
Posted: 4:46 pm on July 6th

tjmegehe writes: With this hammer you will pay now monetarily or you will pay physically down the road. I would rather pay now.
Posted: 4:36 pm on July 6th

bill24 writes: after 30 plus years swinging asteel hammer the damage is done.at 200.00 I know I wouldnt buy one now but if you want to give me one toease the pain I will definitly put it to good use. as you can see I'll never be a typist.
Posted: 4:35 pm on July 6th

plammijr writes: Simply put, the brain considers a hand tool as an extension of the arm and adjusts for it. The more efficient the tool, the less stress on the body. Ask anyone in the trades and they'll say the body goes first. You put your money into the tools that you use most. This one is a no-brainer. Spend the money; get the best tool.
Posted: 4:30 pm on July 6th

Mr Beginner writes: After tendinitis surgeries on both elbows - maybe I might have saved money with a $200 investment. Who knows, but it would surely be fun to test a free one!
Posted: 4:23 pm on July 6th

jeffgrut writes: Even with a $200 titanium hammer, I'd still have problems driving in nails straight. But it would be cool to show off to my woodworking class mates.

Posted: 4:17 pm on July 6th

akropaol writes: $200 sounds expensive for the average Joe who drives just a few
nails on occasion,but a serious carpenter would greatly benefit from a Titanium hammer
Posted: 4:01 pm on July 6th

BOBBOO739 writes: GIVE ME FREE HAMMER
Posted: 3:59 pm on July 6th

Gomezmsp writes: I usually go with you get what you pay for. It would really be good if the energy transfer is as stated. It would be good to have the new hammer without having to lay out a goodly sum for the hammer. At 69 I already have arthritis and am turning into a wuss. Any and all helpful tools appreciated.
Posted: 3:57 pm on July 6th

halhoyle writes: Great review, Rob. It is amazing that such a basic tool has been upgraded to a 21st century instrument. Even if I do not win, it is nice to know it's available once my piggy-bank is full.
Posted: 3:48 pm on July 6th

Office_Monkey writes: My days of swinging a hammer are distant memory but I have two comments: First it is unfortunate that rarely are we taught how to properly swing a hammer allowing it to do the work, so much for the days of true apprenticeships. There would be far fewer "complaints" if more swingers understood the mechanics of driving a nail. I seen too many kids either not holding a hammer correctly or trying to drive a nail with their body to care to mention. Besides what small percent of nails are actually hand driven anymore? My second comment is directed at the manufacturer. I presume most of us understand that titanium is a more expensive metal and a little more difficult to produce tools from but when the "premium price" is four times or more that a good steel hammer I can't help but feel that I'm the one that's getting "yanked" in the wallet. If we as working contractors were to communicate the message to the manufacturers were smarter than that and won't pay a YUPPIE price" the price would be more reasonable. I would venture to bet that maybe half the hammers being hyped here spend more time on a wall in some weekend warriors garage than on a toolbag getting used on a daily basis.
Posted: 3:47 pm on July 6th

halhoyle writes: Fine review of what has to be a truly special tool. Thanks Rob for sharing your insights. Even if I do not win one, I am glad to know that it is available once my piggy-bank is full.
Posted: 3:44 pm on July 6th

ccocallas writes: I like my Stiletto for reasons in addition to the nice, light, powerful hit. I like the way the nail pullers are set up and I like being able to switch between finish and framing faces. I also like the support offered by the Stiletto people. When my new hammer's face wouldn't come off, they sent me another wrench to replace the one I'd candy-caned in trying. I don't use a manual hammer as much as some, so the lesser weight on my belt is a good thing. It was expensive, that's for sure. But now I watch out for my hammer, whereas before I didn't much care what happened to it...!
Posted: 3:37 pm on July 6th

harryhomeowner writes: What's a hammer?
Is it a replacement for a Pasalode or air nailer?
Posted: 3:33 pm on July 6th

Hammerarely writes: Apparently I've got it all wrong by having migrated from steel hammer to air-nailing versus that of the titanium hammer. Yes, at times I still find it more convenient to use my 16-ounce steel hammer, but for the amount of work I'm doing, it just "ain't" worth the investment in titanium.
Posted: 3:13 pm on July 6th

rhsview writes: I doubt that the lighter Ti hammer is more efficient than steel for energy transfer. If that were true,sledge hammers wouldn't exist. Also, a longer length handle gets more velocity into the hammer swing, but nobody pounds nails with a 3 ft hammer or a sledge.

A nailing hammer needs a hard head, a strong claw end & body, and a short enough handle length to control hit accuracy, but long enough to maintain the velocity.

It's all defined by M x V squared, but it's been worked out over a few centuries. Since we live in an imperfect world, somewhere between a steel finishing hammer & a steel framing hammer, there's an opportunity for marketing Ti to perfectionists.
Posted: 3:10 pm on July 6th

dfrwt writes: I would be interested in the technical results from your testing that shows titanium transmitting more of the force than steel.
Posted: 2:53 pm on July 6th

beater writes: I started in residential carpentry 14 years ago and since then have moved onto commercial carpentry because of the pay increase. I still do residential work on the side for extra money and also because I love working on houses! About 3 years ago I made the switch to a wooden handle 16oz. stilletto replacing my 24oz. estwing. I primarily made the switch because my forearm and elbow were experienciing some pain. Since then I have never looked back, I use my hammer every day to drive many different fasteners and I have to say the decrease in pain and fatigue was tremendouse,while at the same time I think I gained a little power in my swing!! I also am a strong supporter of anything made in the good old USA, which the stilletto brand proudly calls home. In short I hope this review helps shed some light on the debate of steel vs. titanium. p.s., I shore could use a titanium trim hammer(preferably a 10 oz. strait claw stilletto)
Posted: 2:48 pm on July 6th

minnieme writes: I like the thought of having a hammer that doesn't cause joint problems but still is as efficient as the "older" models. I'm sure that swinging a hammer all day long would cause a lot of elbow problems. I work in an industry where I have to sit at a computer all day long, and having an ergonomically correct chair to sit in really helps my back.
Posted: 2:45 pm on July 6th

Rocco68 writes: I've been using Estwing steel hammers for years. If the titanium hammer performs as described it would be worth the cost. I'd like to try it out for myself.
Posted: 2:41 pm on July 6th

putwll4 writes: Who would have thought you could have improved on a hammer. If only this hammer was available years ago when I could have convinced my wife I needed a new tool. This would be a great tool to past on to my grandson. Keep it up guys we all need new tools to buy.
Posted: 2:39 pm on July 6th

putwll4 writes: As you get older and use a hammer one a month you will notice where the shock/tension is in your arms. Who would have thought you could have improved on a hammer. If only this hammer was available years ago when I could have convinced my wife I needed a new tool. This would be a great tool to past on to my grandson. Keep it up guys we all need new tools to buy.
Posted: 2:39 pm on July 6th

putwll4 writes: As you get older and use a hammer one a month you will notice where the shock/tension is in your arms. Who would have thought you could have improved on a hammer. If you play any kind of ball you want the best bat which also helps with wear and tear on your body and helps get those get hits. If only this hammer was available years ago when I could have convinced my wife I needed a new tool. This would be a great tool to past on to my grandson. Keep it up guys we all need new tools to buy.
Posted: 2:38 pm on July 6th

jackster16 writes: My dad and grandfather were both carpenters. We only had Stanley Jobmasters in the house. It's what I swung because it's what we had. Both my dad and grandfather have passed on now but I still like to do light remodeling and handy work for friends, my church and myself (as time allows). A few years ago, we were remodeling and reshingling a building which would become our Nursery School. A buddy of mine lent me his titanium hammer. I was amazed at how light it was and how effortlessly I was able set and sink the nails. I couldn't believe it! I am now actively involved in our church Youth Group and we leave this Friday for Puerto Rico to build homes there with other churches. Last year we built in Philadelphia and the year before in Memphis. I would love to win this hammer and be able to pass it on to one of the youth who excels at or shows a real interest in the trade. Anyway, keep us in your prayers. Thanks.
Posted: 2:29 pm on July 6th

bila writes: I switched from a Vaughan SteelEagle 6 years ago when I imported my Stilleto from America. It was the talk of every site I worked around Greater London. I felt the balance difference straigh away and my Stilleto became my best work friend. Unfortunately I had it stolen 5 months ago and had to get back to the SteelEagle. But I am saving to get a new titanium and then I will keep an close eye on it. By the the way, its worth mention, nothing else was stolen from my tool box, only the Stilleto...
Posted: 2:28 pm on July 6th

sledge writes: A friend of mine apprenticed as a carpenter back in the early 40's. He was working on a job building barracks for armed forces personnel in Calgary, Alberta. He told me about his first days as an apprentice on the job being unpaid until he learned the proper way to hammer nails into the fir lumber being used in the construction of the barracks.
He was given a handfull of nails and a few boards and told to learn how to nail properly. He was shown how it was to be done and then sent to practice. It took him 3 days of hammering nails in, then pulling the nails back out,then straightening them, all unpaid, to finally satisfy the foreman. Any nails he wrecked were docked from his first pay as was the cost of the few boards he practised on.
I think these new hammers would be appreciated by the likes of my old friend.

Ed
Posted: 2:21 pm on July 6th

deancp1 writes: I built a deck for my mom over the 4th weekend using any old hammers she happened to have around. No planning because she didn't tell me about it before I arrived!
We had wooden handles, steel tube handles (!!), cast steel, etc. One guy was even banging nails with a 2 lb sledge... Needless to say - lots of bent-over nails and sore arms and thumbs.
I've been in the trades since the beginning - and I will always buy the most expensive tool if it does the job better. In my experience, the pleasure of using the finest tool is worth the extra money. My deck-building experience this weekend just put another nail in my position!
Posted: 2:18 pm on July 6th

lilarry writes: I don't swing a hammer for a living, but have been known to do "some" work around the house. I am doing a major renovation and as a birthday present, decided to get the 14 oz Stiletto for my birthday present to me.

I'll never go back. There is no doubt in my mind - and my arm - that the titanium hammer is "deader" then a steel one. The nails drive more quickly and my elbow/forearm doesn't hurt at the end of the afternoon. As to energy, the formula is very simple as I recall, it's .5M*v*v. So momentum varies as the mass and the square of the velocity. There's no doubt there's less mass, but I also think that I am swinging faster, which more than makes up for the mass loss. It's the same concept when aging golfers transfer to fiberglass to increase the speed of their swing...

just my opinion...

Larry
Posted: 2:14 pm on July 6th

swdstmkr73 writes: I've used at 20oz curved claw Estwing for the past 10 years with good results. It's a good all-around hammer that I can use for both framing and finish work. The titanium sounds terrific, but I think I'd have to take out special insurance on it if it ever needed replacing. I'd feel a lot more comfortable, though not happy, about replacing a $35 hammer vs. $200. I hope I win one since there's not much chance I'd be able to afford one. Good luck to all.
Posted: 2:07 pm on July 6th

mdpatsr writes: I am starting to reach some of those later-in-life years when the things I did when I was young cause me pain. I am doing a great deal of remodeling on my home and while air tools help, I still swing a hammer a lot and this causes a great deal of pain in my elbows and forearms. I see a titanium hammer in my future and will probably be recommending them to my children also. Anything to keep the cost of medical expenses down, as well as the pain minimized, has to be worth the cost.
Posted: 2:03 pm on July 6th

terryrandal writes: I haven't read the article so I don't know where the 97 % efficientcy comes from and how it was measured. As an engineer I suspect that number until I read how it was arrived at. Titanium is a lighter alloy but my guess a 22 oz hammer weighs 22 oz. It is the momentum of the head that is providing the energy to drive the nail. So what does the titanium alloy do in this equation. The head can be larger for the same weight of hammer. The name is sexy but is the weight distribution different to give it more effect. It must feel different to the user, I would have to feel it to know why. Till then the test is suspect to me and the claims inflated. It sounds like the law of conservation of energy is not in effect. Put me in the interested but doubtful column!!!!!!
Posted: 2:00 pm on July 6th

MtnClint writes: In my late life new wood career pursuit I buy quality equipment that performs. Spending $200 on a lighter but more effective hammer is a far better special gift then fish ties and some battery powered wrench. Kids are you listening! Thanks for the headsup and keep these kinds of tips coming.
Posted: 1:57 pm on July 6th

mrlipostick writes: The original wood handle Stiletto is a great hammer. I volunteer for Habitat 3 days a week, and most everything is done by hand because of the safety of the many volunteers. This hammer give you the swing strength of at least a 22oz hammer while only swinging 16 oz. I have never had arm or elbow soreness since I began using this hammer 5 years ago. I am looking forward to the purchase of one with a titanium handle and interchangeable heads. I have also thought about the 13 oz version. These hammers are truly amazing, and they fulfill their promise even though the price seems high. One only has the one elbow, and suffering from using the wrong hammer so that you can not enjoy other activities later in life is crazy. I am 66 and I am still able to do everything because I have not been debilitated by wrist and elbow damage. I must say, it is a great talking piece when people see me using it at Habitat.

God Bless
Posted: 1:38 pm on July 6th

shornbuc writes: If there is one rule I follow these days it's that I only buy expensive tools that I have read reviews good about. Gone are the days I buy cheap tools. Waste of time and money.
Posted: 1:19 pm on July 6th

SpookyMe writes: I agree with a lot of the postings, the cost might be the biggest draw back . But if this hammer can cut down on the physical pain from hammering, I'd like one please. I'm builing a shed for my father, and I could use a little relief from the effects of hammering. If I had a $200.00 hammer, I'd make sure I use the hammer enough to get my money's worth from the hammer. If you spend that much on a tool for handywork, make sure you get your money's worth from the tool. For Professional builders, I'm sure that's a necessary tool, but for everyday people, use the tool enough to justify spending that mount. But then again, you might saving that much by not buy so much pain medicine !
Posted: 1:12 pm on July 6th

fireater writes: My wife bought me a titanium framing hammer for Christmas. I don't do much framing, but I've discovered that I keep using the hammer, because it feels so good. I think that there will be a family of these hammers over time.
Posted: 1:09 pm on July 6th

Dusty1 writes: If it is a tool you will be using regularly, $200.00 is a small price to pay. If you're a weekend warrior doing an occasional remodel job and already have a good steel hammer, I'd spend the $200.00 on a tool you don't already have.
Posted: 12:58 pm on July 6th

SETaft writes: Don't know whether I want to transfer that much energy to my thumb but it's worth a try for free.
Posted: 12:56 pm on July 6th

mivos writes: I enjoyed framming with a Vaughn 32oz in the 70's. Despite the weight, it was almost effortless letting the weight of the hammer drive the nails(a tap to set and one to drive). I haven't framed much since then so I went down to a 28oz. Always being interested in trying new and hopefully better tools, I looked at titanium hammers a few years ago, but was leery spending that much on a 22oz hammer, especially since I favored heavier hammers. Instead I started using Paselode cordless nailers along with the 28oz for my projects. It's time to replace my Vaughn, I'd love to try a titanium framer. Every tool has it's place. Has anyone moved from a heavier framer to a titanium, I'd be interested in your comments.
Posted: 12:43 pm on July 6th

pattny writes: I would like to try for myself. Thanks
Posted: 12:40 pm on July 6th

mickeyt1232 writes: Hi,

I would like to win one one those wonderful hammers for my son.

he is an excellent carpentar, he appreciates good tools, takes very good care of all his tools, and I know he would love to own one of those hammers.

Mary Thornton
Posted: 12:40 pm on July 6th

Dock1 writes: I have three hammers. One is the one I use most of the time and I have had it for 30 years. It cost me about $30.00 at the time but from what I have see of these Titanium hammers I would trade and purchase a Titanium one but $200 for a hammer is a lot of money. I would need a special place to keep something like that. I would have to build a special a box just for the hammer. I would love to have one.
Posted: 12:37 pm on July 6th

Kent_seattle writes: I have been using a titanium hammer for a couple of years. I really appreciate the lighter weight, whether in my hand or hanging on my tool belt. Many of the carpenters who work with me have also purchased one. I do feel because of their lighter weight that i have to put more force into driving a nail but if we have a lot of nailing to do we use a nail gun and i wouldn't go back to using a steel hammer either. The one drawback is the softness of titanium. My waffle faced head has slowly become smooth. Their is a brand that sells the head separately from the shaft (i have one of these.) You can change from a waffle head to a smooth head by means of a set screw which allow you to use it for finish work. I think the hammers are in the $150 range in this area. All in all, i definitely like them.
Posted: 12:33 pm on July 6th

altamer writes: How long will this hammer last? For $200 it better be a long time. I usually got through a steel hammer in about 3 years. Then the head is rounded off, Will titanium last longer?
Posted: 12:32 pm on July 6th

kanemiya writes: If I could get the all titanium hammer for $50 and a trade in I would trade all 3 of my present hammers for 1 all titanium hammer. Borrowed one from a friend and will definitely be getting one as soon as I save enough pennies (dollars)

Posted: 12:28 pm on July 6th

WLDWOOD writes: WHAT A FANTASTIC IDEA!!! I HAVE A TOUCH OF ARTHRITIS IN MY HANDS AND THIS LIGHTER MORE POWERFUL HAMMER WOULD BE A FANTASTIC ADDITION TO MY LIMITED SUPPLY OF TOOLS. THIS SHOULD MAKE MY WOODWORKING ENDEAVORS LESS PAINFUL. WHO WUDDA THUNK IT??
Posted: 12:07 pm on July 6th

michael2160 writes: "A titanium hammer transfers 97% of your energy from swinging the hammer to the nail head, while a steel hammer transfers only 70% of your energy to the nail."

Sounds like hype to me. Remember F=MA: Assuming the handle is the same for each hammer, if the weight of the hammer head is reduced, then the head must be swung faster to accomplish the same (F)orce.

Can you show me the math?

Michael
Posted: 12:04 pm on July 6th

Gabriele H writes: Any tool that can perform better, last longer, and saves injury is well worth the extra money. I';ve always been in favor of paying a little bit more to get a better product.
Posted: 12:04 pm on July 6th

MashedThumbs writes: You cite some very specific values for the difference between titanium and steel (A titanium hammer transfers 97% of your energy from swinging the hammer to the nail head, while a steel hammer transfers only 70% of your energy to the nail.); could you provide the source for those numbers? If this is from an independent source, that's one thing, if it is from the company selling the hammer, that's another. If I recall correctly, kinetic energy = 1/2 mass time velocity squared. And I suspect that energy transfer would be effected by the elasticity of the hammer face. Is there a materials engineer or physics type out there would like to weigh in with some facts?
Posted: 12:00 pm on July 6th

C_W_W writes: I'm looking forward to the full review. For the working carpenter, they sound like innovative tool. It would be interesting to see how many sales go to gear heads vs. work sites. For those who think "green", titanium comes with a bigger environmental price tag than steel. Lots of sulphuric acid used in the ore extraction process.
Posted: 11:56 am on July 6th

Huckle_Cat writes: Like Season, I'm a woman who was taught by my dad, who built the house I grew up in, to be self-sufficient. I am now a stubborn DIYer who does my own Honey-Do list, mostly guided by the last 15 years of Fine Homebuilding, especially Larry Haun ("and you can cut that by eye."). My husband and I have replaced a shake roof, remodeled an entire kitchen, built an addition, rewired two homes, and installed several thousand square feet of flooring, among dozens of smaller projects. He brags to friends that he never has to beg me for new tools, although I always research and save to buy a top-quality tool that has been vetted by other users, and he'd probably be happy with a lower-priced version.

Until I read this post, I was puzzled by the idea of a Ti hammer -- isn't the goal to have a well-balanced *heavy* hammer? It almost seemed like a toy, like the Lincoln Mark LT pickup ;-) . But now I'm anxious to look at and try one myself. As smart as I am as the next male FH reader, I admit that I'm not as strong, and this kind of tool looks to be as tailor-made for me as it is for the guy who is framing an entire house.
Posted: 11:56 am on July 6th

KirkG writes: I started with a 25 oz hammer because I was "told" that is was the right sized hammer for framing. I am not a big man, so after struggling to nail overhead, I moved down to a 21 oz. hammer.

I have lower back pain so I want to reduce the weight on my hips and since I use nail guns to drive most nails nowadays, I went to carrying a 16 oz finish hammer. The 14 oz Titanium hammer my friend loaned me was even lighter than that and drover the nail even better. Not having to fight the weight of the hammer improved my accuracy as well.

This was brought even more to my attention when my kids, two boys (10) and girl(14), were helping me to build a shed for my property. Each of them preferred to use the Titanium even to the point of using the 10oz finish model, that my dad bought, to drive framing nails.

So while my arm still hurts after a lot of nailing, my back feels better and a lot more work gets done.

Posted: 11:53 am on July 6th

ssanthuff writes: I've had alot of arm problems over the last couple years swinging framing hammers. I've tried all different hand positions and different weights. It hasn't fixed the tingling in my hand. I'd like to try a titanium model but havn't yet due to the price. Now that I've read this recomendation, I think It's time to buy one.
Posted: 11:53 am on July 6th

mwalter writes: It would be interesting to find out how many hammer blows a typical contractor applies nowadays. My guess is that 95% of all nailing is done with nail guns. Nonetheless, you still have to hang something on your belt, so lighter is better. You get what you pay for. If $200 lasts you your whole life, then it is really not that expensive.
Posted: 11:52 am on July 6th

broncofan1 writes: As a carpenter of 33 years and a titanium hammer owner for the past 7 years, (magnesium skilsaw owner also) I really wanted to save some wear and tear on my right elbow. Unfortunately, I am having surgery in Vail this week to repair my wrecked right elbow. It seems perfectly clear what the problem is and wanted to share this info with your readers as to help them avoid similar problems. USE YOUR LEFT HAND!! My left arm is in fine shape. Doesn't hurt at all. Right arm hurts all the time. I wish I would have thought of this sooner.
Another tip for saving the wear and tear on your elbow is to avoid using a hammer at all. I find that having a cell phone and construction calculator handy is a must to get out of all that elbow wrecking activity. As soon you sense that something needs to be nailed, grab your calculator and a set of blueprints and start calculating, (Cursing and looking frustrated helps) Keep doing this until all the nailing is done by the other guys. Your elbow will feel just fine come beer thirty. The same strategy works with the cell phone. Just pretend to be talking to the lumberyard when any nailing is going on.
Anyway, hope these tips help. I really hope I win one of these hammers. My Mom keeps calling hoping to get me do some free remodeling on her house and I was wanting to send her this hammer and maybe she'll figure it out on her own. I'll send it with a note "left handed" so she wont wreck her elbow.
Posted: 11:44 am on July 6th

BetsynRy writes: My husband has been drooling over titanium hammers for awhile. I should have gotten him one as a gift when he became a journeyman carpenter, but I forgot... If I win one of the hammers I'll make sure to let him use it every once in awhile.. or at least let him hold it! :-D
Posted: 11:43 am on July 6th

motherof11 writes: I would love to have a hammer that gives more bang and less recoil. I love my driver drill for this reason I do not have much upper body strength,so any tool that gives me the advantage of working more effectively is great.
Posted: 11:38 am on July 6th

jorylan writes: Dear Rob;
Thank you for your article. As a "handyman" I am always looking for better and easyer ways of doing projects. A friend of mine and I were doing a kitchen together . He had a titanium hammer that he let me use. WOW what a difference. The next day my elbow did not have it's usual stiffness.

I went to my local tool broker to buy titanium hammer. $225!!...While I was in the store I saw a used compresser and three nail guns for $200. The compressor won out.

I STLL WISH I HAD THAT TITANIUM HAMMER.

Business has been soft for the last year. I hope I win the hammer you are offering..Either way I look foward to your article.

Either way win or loose I look foward to your article.

Jory Lannes
JORLA Home REPAIRS
Evanston, Illinois
Posted: 11:35 am on July 6th

colleenmelita writes: Living on a farm, means there is always some place to swing a hammer. I'd just have to mark it so the boys wouldn't take it.
Posted: 11:32 am on July 6th

firemo451 writes: While I am on a movie set, I wear my tool belt around all day ready to reset walls, ceilings, floors, etc. for the next scene. I am always looking for a way to reduce the weight of the belt as we work 12-14 hour days. One of my co-workers mentioned the titanium hammers and said it was a bit lighter but still solid striking. I can write my tools off but I would like to try one out first. Sounds like a winner. Buy once, buy right has always been my mantra.
Posted: 11:23 am on July 6th

WydRynner writes: I have become a big fan of titanium, very little rebound, much less fatigue and saving your elbow and wrist. Any one of these is worth $200!

Posted: 11:22 am on July 6th

BC_at_UNH writes: I'm all in favor of buying the best tool for the job; buying cheap tools is a false economy. But with my luck I'd lose the damn thing!
Posted: 11:19 am on July 6th

kitsarus writes: I have always used steel hammers, either 16 or 20oz, and managed to build or remodel several houses with them. I recently borrowed a 14oz stilleto while building my last house. I was astonished at how much easier it was to accurately drive nails. I still haven't worked out how it is possible to get more driving force with such a light hammer but I want one!
Posted: 11:18 am on July 6th

kitsarus writes: I have always used steel hammers, either 16 or 20oz, and managed to build or remodel several houses with them. I recently borrowed a 14oz stilleto while building my last house. I was astonished at how much easier it was to accurately drive nails. I still haven't worked out how it is possible to get more driving force with such a light hammer but I want one!
Posted: 11:17 am on July 6th

AAHR writes: Since I work as an electrician, my hammering skills get a little rusty sometimes and my hammering muscles aren't as toned up as a carpenter's are. At the same time accuracy and reduced stress are really important - denting a set of conductors can really slow the job down (or create a fire hazard if you don't realize you damaged the wires), and a sore arm is never good for productivity. I need to replace my 22oz. Klein hammer that someone needed worse than I did, so I'm looking for a titanium hammer, starting now.
Posted: 11:17 am on July 6th

JJLaValley writes: I worked for a tool company in Washington for 3 years as an outside salesman. A framing contractor turned me on to titanium hammers. I thought he was crazy to spend the money, but boy did I change my mind. He bought his stiletto to save the wear and tear on his arm. After talking to the rep I changed my mind and approach. I worked with guys in the field every day and I sold a lot of them. I never had one guy regret the $200 he spent on the TiBone. I did find that wooden handled models from the all manufacturers needed handle replacements more frequently than steel, buy I can't back that up with any scientific reason, just my experience.
Guys really like the way they "swung" and the way they felt when hitting a nail. I have used them many times in demo's and there is nothing like them. I even bought one even though I don't make my living with a hammer.
The price is all in justification. Most guys who did want to pay the price drove $50k pickups ???? You wouldn't regret the choice.
Posted: 11:17 am on July 6th

solarboy writes: Most people don't think all that much about hammer-swinging technique, but there is a right and wrong way. Talk to a physical therapist or even a yoga instructor and put some time into practicing correct methods and you'd be amazed -- even previous injuries aren't a problem. A $200 hammer won't save you from hurting yourself.
Posted: 11:11 am on July 6th

mstephenj writes: When I was younger I never gave much thought to swinging steel. Now with elbow pain I'm really tempted to start up the compressor if I have to use a hammer for more than a few nails. I had the opportunity to use a titanium hammer a while back and there was no comparison to steel: it was easier to use and no elbow pain. Wow, I hope the prices come down before I have to hang up for hammer for good!
Posted: 11:10 am on July 6th

remodel51 writes: The high cost of a titanium hammer is a small price to pay compared with the wrist and elbow pain I have seen in older framers over the years. One less visit to the doctor will recoup the cost. The energy transfer efficiency reported is amazing. I look forward to reading the FHB article in mid-July.
Posted: 11:09 am on July 6th

bamadoc writes: I think $200 is cheap compared to the problems that you can get from Tennis elbow with a 22 OZ steel hammer. I would love to try one of these out.
Posted: 11:09 am on July 6th

ridgebeam writes: I've been using a titanium hammer for about two years now. I love it. When friends pick it up, they laugh, but I get the last laugh when at the end of the day my elbow still feels fine.

The only downside is that the waffle face wears down quickly and becomes very slippery, sliding off the nail head. If you're thinking about purchasing a titanium hammer, buy one with a replaceable head. Once you swing this lightweight beauty, you'll never go back.
Posted: 11:05 am on July 6th

Volmaster writes: Being at the age of 70 and can't remember what I forgot, I would be interested in trying something new. My hammers are probably old as I am but I have wield them faithfully for a lot of years. Now that doesn't mean I knew what I was doing I just had to have something to hammer with. You all know about building a house and especially those Honey Dew projects when you are so tired after nailing all day.
What more can I say. It is a new day when I get up in the morning or is it in the after noon? what more can I say?
Posted: 11:03 am on July 6th

Calvinmiller writes: I use a hammer over half the day. Like everyone said you get what you pay for. With Cancer stage 4, many day, I have a hard time to move. The weight of a hammer, is very imporant to me, with this hammer, I'm still able to go to work, before I get fatigue, and need to go home. It's one day at a time - tomorrow might be better. Enjoy Your Day, Smile,and be Happy.

Take Care,
Cal
Posted: 11:01 am on July 6th

fantejq writes: using a hammer is a commitment - a dedication to a craft - where as a screw is an opportunity for error - hammer on
Posted: 11:00 am on July 6th

misuite writes: Well Rob - you are late to the Titanium party. Perhaps you should spend more time online in Breaktime?
Posted: 11:00 am on July 6th

dmarks writes: I enjoy doing things the "old way", so I guess swinging a hammer, rather than using a nail gun is right up my alley... If swinging a $200 hammer is less impacting on your joints over the long run because of the efficiency of energy transfer, that makes sense to me. I'd definitely consider the costs if I had to swing a hammer all-day, every-day.
Posted: 10:57 am on July 6th

kjohnso5 writes: I worked in a shop that sold titanium hammers along side conventional hammers. Everyone picked up the Stiletto and everyone put it down when they saw the price. These are pros I'm talking about who would use it every working day. Were it not for the price (even half would maybe push more buyers), I'm sure it would reach a greater market penetration.
Posted: 10:53 am on July 6th

Unwired writes: Weight of a hammer is indeed crucil as one ages. I find that working on "habitat homes" has become more difficult with advancing age. We still use a lot of elbow grease in our "builds". A lighter weight hammer would be a definite plus.
Posted: 10:51 am on July 6th

bca1313 writes: I think that they are well worth the price. You can argue either the health benefits or the increased efficiency of the tool. Any time you can get both of these in one item it is a winner in my opinion. I first found out about titanium hammers when I was trying to find a gift for my groomsman. I wanted something that really showed something about me so a tool seemed to fit the bill. I was definitely set back a little by the price but hey...these guys are important to me so I looked for a good price and then asked for a discount if I bought 5 of them. They were not $200 and I think they were actually about half of that when I got them. I can say they all loved them and they get a lot of use out there. The only down side is that with the price being what it was and a tight budget I am the only one who did not get one. I use my brothers at times and love it. Just as an FYI for those of you that have them or are going to get one...WATCH them at all times on the site. If you think regular tools walk away easy then these will run away. I know of a few people that have had theirs stolen.
Posted: 10:49 am on July 6th

RedOak1 writes: 30+ years of swinging hammers has taught me good tools save time and pain. Fortunately, I've moved up the ladder and don't have to use one daily anymore but am more than willing to try one if will save me some some of my chiropractor copays on the days I'm helping the crew!
Posted: 10:47 am on July 6th

Detroit_wagon writes: Like many of the posters above, I don't feel that $200 is a lot to spend on something that will last for decades. I had no idea that a titanium hammer could convey these types of benefits. Thanks for the article!
Posted: 10:40 am on July 6th

Season writes: I'm a middle-aged woman (57) who grew up with a dad who taught me and my sisters (no brothers) how to be self-sufficient. We are all do-it-yourselfers because of his mentoring and there's virtually no home fix-it or build-it project we are unwilling to tackle. I confess I was unaware that titanium hammers existed, and having relied on my good old-fashioned steel hammer for years there was no reason to shop for a replacement. Yet I can wield a golf club and I recognize the difference between titanium and steel, so what you say makes a lot of sense.

During my youth, our grade school had a carnival each year and one of the games was to hammer a nail into a 2x4 with as few strokes as possible, competing against whoever was at the other end of the board. Because I was young and had the confidence of Dad's training, I always thought I could pound that nail and beat my opponent, adult or child. I seldom won, even though I hit the nail heads squarely. I just didn't have the strength in my small body. Reflecting on that, I realize that the transference of energy as you describe would really benefit those of us who need that extra oomph to get the job done. Now that I know about these hammers, I realize I need to spend a little more time in the tool department checking out this and other innovative products. I always learn something from you guys at Fine Homebuilding. Thanks. And thanks to those dads who teach the daughters the same as they would the sons.
Posted: 10:33 am on July 6th

AFSJeff writes: between my assorted nail guns and my impact driver (for screws) I can barely remember the last time I actually drove a nail with a hammer. I still use a hammer all the time so it has a permanent place on my belt but I use it for alignment, tapping things into place, pulling nails, demolition etc. So I think a titanium hammer would be great because it would make my tool belt lighter.
Posted: 10:30 am on July 6th

Teakster writes: In this day and age of fancy nailers and ever more efficient ways building, it is so incredibly reassuring to see improved versions of timeless classics. There is nothing like the sound of a hammer as it joins two pieces of wood. My son will learn the "old" ways of doing things. I have nothing but respect for the craftsman that can perform so much with so little. Thanks for continuing to upgrade the basics. So many companies these days pass by the mundane in search of some fancy gadget when all that is truly required is to teach the basics. The rest will fall into place.
Posted: 10:22 am on July 6th

fteo88 writes: I was just wondering if titanium will cause more spark than regular steel hammer when nailing. Titanium golf club and snow machine (mobile) wear bar tend to spark.

I'd love to own one but I don't use it enough to justify the price or injury prevention.
Posted: 10:17 am on July 6th

ArseneLupin writes: I can't imagine that the $200.00 price tag would be that much of a deterrent to anyone who has to use a hammer to make a living. Admitedly, most weekend DIYers aren't going to pay that but most carpenters have hopefully already learned that you get what you pay for and quality tools are almost always worth the cost. With that much of a difference in energy transfer, it seems to me that the hammer would easily pay for itself in the about of time saved in the first month alone.
Now if only they would come up with a Titanium keyboard! :-)
Posted: 10:16 am on July 6th

BobMc writes: I'll never be able to afford a great car like a Ferrari, but there's no reason to not own great tools. I would love to have a titanium hammer, even though I don't do a lot of hammering. The hammer I currently use came over on the Mayflower with an ancestor, but because of good maintenance is still in its original like-new condition. According to the family records, the handle has been replaced 47 times, the head has been replaced 14 times, and both have been replaced together 5 times, most recently about 4 years ago. It's amazing what a good maintenance program can do to prolong the life of a working tool.
;>)
Posted: 10:14 am on July 6th

Bark writes: My first week on a job sight so many years ago I used a rubber handled steel hammer from my Dad's garage...I thought I would die. Tried a 22 oz Estwing and bought one the next day, still own it, and my elbow knows it on sight. Would love to try titanium as I know the benefits from riding a bike made from the stuff and I can only imagine how much my elbow would appreciate it. Added benefit, it won't rust either.
Posted: 10:11 am on July 6th

Fiddlecat writes: Your newsletter has given me many ideas for gifts for my husband over the years. I don't usually buy tools so having your expertise to guide me is helpful. If this hammer makes him a happy camper I might get that "Honey Do" list taken care of sooner! He loves high tech and practical things and as a rule the price tag isn't the deciding factor for him.
Posted: 10:06 am on July 6th

JanetRagonese writes: I am a 55 year old woman - a weekend warrior when it comes to hammers, which is exactly why I spent the money to get a titanium hammer when I was 49 and graduated from our local community college with a construction management degree. I was constantly suffering from tendonitis in my elbow, which put extra strain on my arm and never was able to heal. It has been well worth the investment. The tendonitis has been gone ever since. I love the reduced vibration and the added hammering strength I get from swinging a lighter weight hammer. I would recommend a titanium hammer to every woman I know. There is no need for women to have to swing a heavier steel hammer. I love my 14 oz. stiletto and hope someday to get a 10 oz finishing hammer.

Janet Ragonese
Posted: 10:02 am on July 6th

travus writes: Seriously, Stilletto hammers are extremely enjoyable to look at, but I have not used one enough to understand why somebody would spend that much money on a hammer. Most of my nailing is done with a nail gun so I've had a $16.00 22oz. hickory handle Stanley for about one year and it works fine. And then, when the waffle gets bad, I don't hesitate to go get another one cuz it's only 16.00.
Posted: 9:57 am on July 6th

crusobuilder writes: Finally a better hammer. High tech meets low tech, I can't wait to try one out . Hopefully one of the ones you are giving away
Posted: 9:56 am on July 6th

macnet writes: In a perfect world I would use a real hammer instead of a pneumatic nailer far more often than I do, however that numbing hand syndrome that I suffer for weeks after a framing job prevents me from doing that. I haven't used a titanium hammer but am interested in giving one a good home!
Posted: 9:56 am on July 6th

JoeSpec writes: My 22oz eastwing is my baby and it will take a REALLY good hammer to seperate it from me!

Posted: 9:53 am on July 6th

michaelmouse writes: "If I had a Hammer...."
Posted: 9:53 am on July 6th

fernisland writes: After reading the comments & article, I want one. I am one of the minority of female carpenters in my area, over 50, and my wrists & elbows are not what they used to be.
Posted: 9:53 am on July 6th

Marvin_S writes: It will take a while for companies to see the cost benefit of a $200 hammer, but with OSHA looking at reviving the ergonomics standard it may not be that big of a reach. Dealing with Work Comp injuries, I see what a career of swinging a traditional hammer can do to some workers. $200 is a small price to pay to save a shoulder or elbow.
Posted: 9:52 am on July 6th

rick42wood writes: I wasn't even aware that Titanium hammers were available. $200 is pretty pricey. I could never justify that much money for the amount of hammering I do. I mostly rely on pneumatics. But for a young professional framer it sounds like it would be a worthwhile investment. We are all more aware these days of the damage a lifetime of exposure to certain workplace habits an do.
Posted: 9:48 am on July 6th

MechanicalMusicMan writes: I have several hammers, including an Estwing, a Stanley (with a tuning fork in the handle) an old standard and one with a head that adjusts to any angle. But my favorite is the Craftsman with a fiberglass handle and a rubber grip. I can understand the mv2 logic but the increase in efficiency escapes me. Any explanation?
Craig
Posted: 9:47 am on July 6th

Fonzie writes:
I have had my hammer so long I have forgotten about the idea of getting another one. And actually, I don't know if I actually can't drive a nail any more (out of practice), or the hammer head is worn.

I don't know anything about the new hammers, haven't ever even seen one.

After breaking 3 steel handle Craftsman hammer handles (the last driving in a ground rod in the late 60's in frozen ground on a Friday night) - they gave me a fiber glass handle straight claw which I never broke.

Posted: 9:46 am on July 6th

Dennis32 writes: I am a remodeller. Now we mostly use the compressore/nail gun. The hammer is not used nearly as much. For framing we use California framer with heavy wood handle as it is easiest on the arm.

We have used framing hammers with fiberglass handle. They are head heavy, without good balance and tiring in use.

I have not used a Titanium hammer but it does sound attractive. The price is high but if it sames your arm then the price should not be objectionable.

Posted: 9:45 am on July 6th

rick42wood writes: I wasn't even aware that Titanium hammers were available. $200 is pretty pricey. I could never justify that much money for the amount of hammering I do. I mostly rely on pneumatics. But for a young professional framer it sounds like it would be a worthwhile investment.
Posted: 9:45 am on July 6th

Ed_Z writes: Although swinging a hammer is a hobby for me, the advantages of titanium are clear to me every time I play golf. The combination of light weight and, in the case of my driver, a graphite shaft leads to longer drives with much less shock to my arms especially when miss-hit. The cost of titanium clubs has come down substantially now that they are pretty much the standard. As several others have said, the cost of a titanium hammer isn't really that high when you consider how long one lasts as well as the down-the-road avoidance (or at least reduction) of doctor's visits.
Posted: 9:44 am on July 6th

Pashcal writes: 1/2 my work now is on a remote island in Panama and hand tools have re-entered my daily routine. I would love to try a titanium hammer, so sign me up
Posted: 9:31 am on July 6th

KennHammerMaster writes: I suffer from tendonitis in my elbow. Some days it is so painful, I can't even shake hands with you without breaking a sweat. Any hammer that can help prevent any further injury would be great. I'll gladly accept whichever one you send me!
Thanks!

Posted: 9:26 am on July 6th

speedo57 writes: I have a hard time swinging a regular hammer any more, the Ti hammer seems a good choice. Add a carbon fiber handle and that should take care of the shoulder pain and impact damage.
Posted: 9:22 am on July 6th

dtheory writes: titanium with a hickory handle... state of the art
Posted: 9:21 am on July 6th

Houghton123 writes: I'm a weekend worrier, and haven't even considered titanium. I AM very aware of the effect of the wrong hammer on the body, though - I've got a steel-tube-handled hammer, purchased when I did sheet metal work for a bit, that I reserve for demolition only. My nail-driving hammers all have wood handles to absorb shock.

When I'm trying to drive a 16d nail into the dry framing of our house during a remodel, though, I still feel it in my elbow at the end of the day.
Posted: 9:19 am on July 6th

arandrews writes: A 71-year-old hobbyist learns quickly that a good tool able to lighten one's energy effort may be as valuable as medicine or life insurance.
Posted: 9:14 am on July 6th

hammerhead2000 writes: As an older remodeling contractor and having swung a hammer for many years I would appreciate a hammer that was easier on the joints. I haven't teied one , but would be willing to try it out and give you my opinion. Sign me up.
Posted: 9:13 am on July 6th

JerryinWis writes: I am always ready for try something new.
Sign me up.
Posted: 9:12 am on July 6th

BCbuilder writes: $200 is nothing to pay on something that is going to save yourself long term damage, I swing a 23oz Douglas day in and day out. Some days I feel like a nail gun by the end of the day.I just take more more advil after work.
Posted: 9:09 am on July 6th

KrMaloney writes: I've never been terribly accurate with a hammer and have insulted many a 2x4 with unsightly bruises and denting. Perhaps the solution is titanium? Lighter, stronger, and more efficient; titanium could just be the salvation of all my future lumber piles.
Posted: 9:08 am on July 6th

JerseyGrl writes: As a so-called "information worker" who unfortunately sits at a desk all day, I can relate to the need for good tools. That's why my company pays $800 for a good chair -- so I don't end up with the back pain from a cheap, bad chair that they end of paying the health care costs for. I haven't yet tried a titanium hammer, but if it helps you avoid pain and disability as you get older, it's well worth the cost.
Posted: 9:05 am on July 6th

SBerruezo writes: I switched to a Stilleto about 5 years ago, and won't go back to steel. I still have the steel for demo, but even at my young age I've realized that the Ti helps avoid elbow pain at the end of the day. The waffling is now gone on the Stilleto and the handle is replaced, but I can't see going back to steel at any point.
Posted: 9:04 am on July 6th

dancardenas writes: With my compressor and 3 nail guns recently stolen, using a hammer will be necessary. A titanium hammer might be the answer now that my tools are gone.
Posted: 8:55 am on July 6th

jpswood writes: During most jobs and projects, the hammer is the first tool I reach for. A durable, well-balanced and finely constructed hammer will last for decades, and will perform reliably on any project! There's no substitute for great quality tools that last a lifetime. Sign me up.
Posted: 8:54 am on July 6th

Tall_Pete writes: Years ago I read an article in a tennis magazine that stated that if you lost ten pounds of body weight you would effectively be lessening the pounding on your knees by 5 G's (gravities). I don't recall all of the math and all of the reasoning behind the statement, but the moral of the story was that you could significantly improve the lifespan of your joints by going on a diet.

I would like to see the numbers behind the improved efficiency of the hammer. First off, I'm not certain that I believe 97% of the energy gets transferred. Is that only if you make the perfect strike on the head of the nail, or is that for your average strike? Also, what kind of usage would you need to get out of the hammer to make it worthwhile? In the years when your father swung a hammer on the job site I assume that pneumatic nail guns were not available. Today, would that money be better spent on a lighter wieght nail gun because you aren't likely to use the hammer enough to get a repetative motion injury?

All that said, I would still love to win one of your give-away hammers! :-)

~Peter

Posted: 8:50 am on July 6th

easternbob writes: I still swing a 20 oz. Estwing. Well actually most of the time it rests in the loop while I use the nail gun. I guess I'm too cheap to lay down that kind of cash, but then again at the end of the day that tool belt feels like a boat anchor and I'm looking for ways to lighten it up. Maybe some day...
Posted: 8:48 am on July 6th

jvoorhies writes: I'm not a pro, just a hobbyist and sometimes supervisor on site for Habitat, so I don't swing a hammer daily, just every once in a while. You'll have to pry by Stiletto titanium out of my cold, dead hands, though. I love it. It sinks nails really fast and it's light enough that I can swing it all day long. I got mine from Amazon for around $100 a few years back and have no regrets. Good tools are worth the money.
Posted: 8:46 am on July 6th

ktwoodfitter writes: After 35 years of "pound'n nails" I bought a Stiletto titanium an immediately noticed the difference. The nails went in seemingly faster and with less effort. If you watch the sale ads at your local hardware or "farm store" like I did, you can get one at a very reasonable price.
Posted: 8:43 am on July 6th

Stew_wood writes: I have used a 24 oz Eastwing (leather handled) hammer for 28 years with no ill effects, although of recent times not all that frequently, compared to 1980-1995, when it was used almost daily. The only problem is that the handle has become slippery, but the hammer has enver slipped from my hand.

I wouldn't pay $200.00 for a hammer, although buying quality planes like Veritas for $100's is in a similar vein, and I have one of those.
Posted: 8:41 am on July 6th

mklcolvin writes: I never would've thought about the effects over time of all that pounding would have on my joints... When I think of the energy that was wasted in the rebound, I wonder what happens to that energy with a Titanium hammer? Does it become heat? I know that it seems to show that more of that becomes a force in driving the nail, but does it mean that Titanium hammers can drive a nail in fewer blows?
Posted: 8:39 am on July 6th

wwwhomeequitycarecom writes: i paid 50 dollars plus a trade in hammer i didn't like for a nice stiletto titanium. i like it because it allows me to be more precise and hit harder with the same tool. the reduced weight is easier on my body. a more precise control encourages more effective and precise work.
Posted: 8:38 am on July 6th

39er writes: Unlike many above I actually have a Titanium hammer from Stilletto. Not sure how long the patent lasts but I am certain if Stanley and Plumb or others could follow the lead they would. I am a framer and very fussy about my work and tools. I made my living as a Pilot since age 20, 40 years ago. Framing has been an Avocation I suppose; but one that I have used as a way to make retirement productive.

The first time I picked up a Titanium was in a local (Mom& Pop)lumber retailer 9 years ago. I gladly forked over the 52 Bucks and went to the Job site to try it out. It changed my thinking about nailing instantly. The Estwing, Vaughn, and Plumb went into the Shop to wait for demolition jobs and my wife's tomato stakes. I bought another Titan that had an Aircraft Aluminum handle and man was it sweet. Perfect balance and grip with reverse curved handle. 2 years of constant use and a crack developed near the point where aluminum met titanium at the base of the head. Couldn't find a replacement ( they quit making that type) so I emailed the company. Soon prepaid fed-ex envelope took both hammers to Sunny Cal and in days both were back with new wooden handles, new milling on faces and a full credit toward the purchase of the new I-Beam style hammer. Some Hardcore guys were waiting on me at a site where we were building an addition on a church. To a man they asked if my hammer was borrowed from my wife or if it was a father's day gift I had to carry??? I tossed it to them one at a time and they shut up about my hammer. Need one with a smooth face for Cornice work. Regards Blair
Posted: 8:32 am on July 6th

39er writes: Unlike many above I actually have a Titanium hammer from Stilletto. Not sure how long the patent lasts but I am certain if Stanley and Plumb or others could follow the lead they would. I am a framer and very fussy about my work and tools. I made my living as a Pilot since age 20, 40 years ago. Framing has been an Avocation I suppose; but one that I have used as a way to make retirement productive.

The first time I picked up a Titanium was in a local (Mom& Pop)lumber retailer 9 years ago. I gladly forked over the 52 Bucks and went to the Job site to try it out. It changed my thinking about nailing instantly. The Estwing, Vaughn, and Plumb went into the Shop to wait for demolition jobs and my wife's tomato stakes. I bought another Titan that had an Aircraft Aluminum handle and man was it sweet. Perfect balance and grip with reverse curved handle. 2 years of constant use and a crack developed near the point where aluminum met titanium at the base of the head. Couldn't find a replacement ( they quit making that type) so I emailed the company. Soon prepaid fed-ex envelope took both hammers to Sunny Cal and in days both were back with new wooden handles, new milling on faces and a full credit toward the purchase of the new I-Beam style hammer. Some Hardcore guys were waiting on me at a site where we were building an addition on a church. To a man they asked if my hammer was borrowed from my wife or if it was a father's day gift I had to carry??? I tossed it to them one at a time and they shut up about my hammer. Need one with a smooth face for Cornice work. Regards Blair
Posted: 8:31 am on July 6th

Farmall450 writes: I was working on a fire restoration when I learned about stiletto hammers. They are turly amazing hammers. It's hard for me to comprehend that such a light weight can hit so hard with such a little effort. I can't wait until I have one. One of my coworkers got one cheap from ebay, maybe I'll get lucky someday.
Posted: 8:31 am on July 6th

Irukandji writes: My 22oz eastwing is my baby and it will take a REALLY good hammer to seperate it from me! PERSONALLY, I think people are fooling themselves if they think they would drop $300 on a hammer. Though, there is a reason that most golf drivers (even the cheap ones) are made from Titanium these days. hmmm...........

Posted: 8:28 am on July 6th

Tim540 writes: After suffering through months of elbow pain last year ,I made the plunge to purchase a titanium hammer and now I would have no second thoughts about replacing it if something were to happen . The cost of the hammer was possibly lower than the medical costs to keep swinging my previous hammers. Love it!
Posted: 8:28 am on July 6th

windwaterwood writes: It's the BEST... I wouldn,t swing anything but my Stilletto. It makes and 8 hour day feel like 4. It enables me to have enough energy left at the end of the day to go home to the shop and carve or work on the shave horse. Spend the money... Buy two... It keeps on giving!
Posted: 8:27 am on July 6th

Filbert2 writes: For all the f=mv2 discussions, note that the velocity squared term in the force equation means that any increase in velocity will have a much grater effect on force than an increase in mass of the same size. Thus for the titanium hammer, the loss in mass is overcome by the potential increase in velocity using this hammer. Also, the elasticity of titanium is much lower than that of steel giving a higher transfer of energy to whatever (or whoever) you are beating on! It looks like a great tool.
Posted: 8:27 am on July 6th

Whacko writes: I am interested in learning how a lighter weight hammer can deliver a more powerful blow without increasing the speed of the swing which I can see would be possible with this hammer. I am intrigued but would sure like to try one out before spending that much on a hammer. Then I might because I love to use tools that not only improve my work but make it more pleasant at the same time
Posted: 8:27 am on July 6th

Chisel54 writes: My days used to go; coffee, hammer, sandwich, hammer, beer.
Now they go; painkiller, coffee, hammer, sandwich, hammer, I'm home dear.
Looks like it's time to hang 14 ounces of titanium over my rear.

P.S.
Will this thing still crush my thumb?

Posted: 8:26 am on July 6th

lacknothing writes: How much does Uncle Sam pay for their hammers? $800 each for the steel "impact devices?" From that perpective $200 is a bargain. And I suppose if you use a hammer all day, then you could easily save $200 is Dr's bills. For the rest of us who just use one a few times a day, that much money just doesn't make sense.
Posted: 8:26 am on July 6th

carpenterscraft writes: When i first started framing 10 years ago, i went out and bought the 44 oz. Estwing (biggest hammer you could find - of course bragging rights - gotta have the biggest hammer on the site, right?). It only took about a month before i realized why nobody else had a hammer anywhere close to that size. I have since settled on a 22 oz. california framer, what i have found to be the best of all the worlds (balance, weight and "leverage") that didn't leave my arm feeling like a wet noodle at the end of the day until i messed around with a titanium one last fall. The Stileto had a great feel to it, the impact resonation from pounding nails was much reduced and there did seem to be more "power" in the swing - obviously attributed to the increased efficiency in the energy transfer. Why don't i own one today? Well, as with many other things, i still cannot bring myself to spend $200 on a hammer. But then again - maybe in another 10 years my elbow and shoulder will be telling otherwise.
Posted: 8:23 am on July 6th

bnjobob writes: It's counterintuitive. I've always used a 22 Oz framer. My favorite is 40 years old, fiberglass-handle True Temper. I've just turned 60 and can't wait to try a Titanium hammer.
Posted: 8:20 am on July 6th

bobkronberger writes: Lighter weight, higher efficiency translates to using the hammer instead of loading the nail gun for those small to medium size tasks.
Posted: 8:14 am on July 6th

urthlng writes: I'm falling in line with the skeptics who have posted here. Like a lot of todays "inventions" the cost far outweighs the benefits. Keep it simple, make it accessible to everyone please.
Posted: 8:13 am on July 6th

SAMinOK writes: My wife got me one from a catalog company several years back. They had it on clearance and I marked it on my wish list thinking, "There is no way she will ever pay that much for a hammer."

Then on Christmas morning, I opened a box and what awaited my unbelieving eyes? Yup. A titanium hammer! It was like I got my official Red Rider, 200 shot, range model, air rifle, with a compass in the stock, and a thing that tells time. My wife just scratched her head and said, "It was on your list. I don't understand the excitement, but Merry Christmas."

Since then, I have gone through NUMEROUS remodel and building projects and that hammer always is with me. If I have people helping me on the job and I go to reach for that hammer and it's not there, all work comes to a halt until the hammer is back in my posession.

Just last week I was building a deck and my father was using it to knock some boards in place. After using it for about 10 minutes, he looks up and says, "Boy this thing packs a whop!" That's when I got to explain to him about the titanium head.

My advice is to look online and on auction sites. Sometimes you can find them for under $100. Pay the money, because it is one tool that will serve you well.

-S.A.M.
Posted: 8:11 am on July 6th

chuckheastings writes: Don't question the cost! I'm 56 years old and a year and half ago underwent partial shoulder replacement surgery. I can now swing a hammer again, but the pain keeps me from doing it often. I've seen a few 'high tech' approaches to creating the ultimate hammer and every one deserves a look. Future generations of tradesmen and hobbyists can lessen the physical effects that come with time by being open minded to new tools.
Posted: 8:09 am on July 6th

M32003 writes: I agree with your logic. An efficiency improvement of over 38% is significant enough to consider the expense, especially considering the ergonomic potential.
Posted: 8:08 am on July 6th

CEDARWERKS writes: This sounds good. I have a titanium dental plate in my mouth but it's up to you if I am to be so lucky as to have a titanium hammer in my hands . I am looking forward to your upcoming article . From TEXAS-JIM at THE CEDAR WERKS in Cedar Creek, Texas
Posted: 8:07 am on July 6th

TNTraveler writes: Since I've been stuck in time with my two 40-year-old steel hammers, maybe it's time to try something new!
Posted: 8:03 am on July 6th

JSCHFP writes: I have used a Sears Crafsman 16 oz red fiberglass type with black rubber handle for many years...mind you I am the owner of the GC firm and not a framer... even in my youth I did not frame that much but always liked the $20. Craftsman hammer. I have hammers from the 1950's from my fathers day, I have swung many a brand in my life and would like to try out the Titanium. I would have thought that one would need the mass and weight of a steel hammer, if the titanim hammer is a 16oz then what is the benefit of titanim a pound is a pound... as for being hard, well my steel hammers do not seem to wear out. I like the material titanium for my boat, there titanim has a great advantage...never rusts. It also does not conduct electrical current. I for one would love to give it a try and give it to one of my crew members to try out.
Posted: 7:59 am on July 6th

ecklement3 writes: I'm all about efficiency. I can imagine a contractor swinging a hammer all day. But in my case I do finishing work where a gentle touch is key. Transferring the energy at 97% sounds like a lot fewer dings in my projects!
Posted: 7:51 am on July 6th

Monti_Man writes: Just for the energy transfer, lighter weight and improved balance would be sufficient enticement to go for one. The cost is something to reckon with. Definitely would reduce daily fatigue depending on how much you use it.

Thanks.

-- Jeff
Posted: 7:47 am on July 6th

John_in_Nepal writes: I work in Nepal building homes and I can tell you, almost anything is better than a stone tied to a stout stick for pounding nails into wood. If I had one of these four modern-age hammers I am positive that my fellow Nepalese builders could see the benefits of using the proper tool for the work at hand even if it cost a whole years wages to have it.

Posted: 7:34 am on July 6th

Harley_Girl writes: Got tired of swinging the hammer with all the remodeling and roofing to do, so I went out and bought me a neumatic nailer. I'd still love to try one out. Now, I just use my hammers for small jobs or to get rid of unwanted people.
Posted: 7:34 am on July 6th

eastdallasguy writes: I'll ask Santa for one at Christmas. Like many, I use a hammer for work that can't be done with an air powered tool.
Posted: 7:26 am on July 6th

dmpieper writes: I am about to build a 10 x 20 shed for storage. I'll be using an air nailer for framing but it would be nice to have a titanium hammer for the rest of the nailing. So I am submitting a comment for a chance to win since I am such a "tool nut". I have not tried using one so I am anxious to see and try one. Titanium is used in aviation construction for its strength. When I flew the T-38 in pilot training we were told not to land gear up because the titanium could potentially catch fire. That was proven wrong when an unintentional gear up landing did not start a fire. Of course you would not intentionally land a T-38 without the gear unless a malfunction of the gear extension prevented it in which case you would request foaming of the runway. What does all this have to do with a titanium hammer?
Posted: 7:17 am on July 6th

Fiddlecat writes: The right tools do make a difference no matter which job or hobby we choose. Your newsletter helps me decide on gifts for my husband, so this hammer sounds interesting. As for the price of it, I think most things are priced high these days. You have to weigh all the pro's and con's and see if it meets your needs's. Less wear and tear on the joints is a real factor,so is the lighter weight of the hammer.I replaced a violin bow recently and paid $300+ for it,and it was not a top of the line model. The price of the hammer, while high, doesn't shock me. I'm hoping the novelty and high tech specs of the hammer might encourage a certain someone to tackle that 'Honey Do' list !The bragging rights alone would be fun for my husband of 37 years.
Posted: 7:14 am on July 6th

Nudi writes: Have tried many hammers over the years from when my grandfather gave me my first at 10yrs old (Now near enough to 50). Titanium, never would have guesed, I have a titanium dive knife that feels very light to the point where I wounder would if it would stand up to some serious leverage should I ever need it. How do you get enough weight into a hammer? What weights do they come in? Does the head need to be bigger? I do a lot of odd jobs and find myself hammering back hand and over head quite a bit, so if they save energy when hammering overhead that would be fantastic.
Posted: 7:02 am on July 6th

joehammer writes: It would be superb to be able to swing something lighter with even more force and make the job easier by utilizing the Titanium Hammer you are giving away. Definitely would make the job so much easier and fun again. Thanks for the opportunity you are offering!
Posted: 6:58 am on July 6th

Twobolt writes: In addition to the other benefits, I feel that the potential improvement in accuracy is more than enough to get me to try one of these hammers at a local store or trade show.
Posted: 6:57 am on July 6th

cinderbaby writes: I make jewelry and a fine hammer with more power with a smaller hit just might take the cake.
Posted: 6:51 am on July 6th

SkippyOKC writes: F=MVsquared therefore as I can swing this hammer much faster, I would like one.
Posted: 6:51 am on July 6th

schindlr writes: I tried one at my local supplier, and though I liked it, I couldn't justify the high price tag. I don't swing a hammer enough to justify the cost.
Posted: 6:47 am on July 6th

OzSi writes: I have used a number of steel hammer's in my time - but would be happy to give a titanium hammer a go. The 50yr old seasoned Australian hardwood used in the house frames downunder here would certainly give any hammer a good work out and test its mantel.
Posted: 6:46 am on July 6th

robillard writes: I'm looking forwar d to reading your article. I've had my fair share orf injuries, aches and poains and setbacks.

My new motto is work smarter not harder.

ROB
Posted: 6:14 am on July 6th

cncgirl00 writes: I've used different styles of hammers but never a titanium one. I would love the chance to try one--and to get tool envy from my husband!
Posted: 6:12 am on July 6th

SPBBUILD writes: In my business it is hard to teach an old dog new tricks.
As a fifty year old second generation builder. I remember the difficulty I had placing a nail guns in my elders hands.
These guys never put the nail gun down after that.
I find the Titanium hammer to be a similar situation. There are a couple of stuborn guys my age that still hold on to a steel hammer. Even though most of us are swinging titanium weapon's today.
In my opinion the invention of the Titanium hammer rank right up there with the nail gun and the speed square.
Posted: 6:07 am on July 6th

HappyNappyChanger writes: I was lucky enough to buy a Stiletto 14 oz, waffle framer several years ago ('96? '97?) for around $60. I watched the price double as all the titanium got sucked into the desert. What if all those humvees and missiles and stuff had been beautiful titanium hammers instead?

I love it, I did have to cut off the pointy end of the handle so it'd fit in my bag. If it was stolen or went missing from under my pillow, I'd pay $200 bucks to replace it right away. The magnetic nail set slot on top is awesome, but I wish it set duplex easier.
Posted: 6:04 am on July 6th

Domix writes: Hello,

I'm using a good old Eastwing with this so warm leather handle and I love it despite its weight.

An hammer is supposed to be heavy and it's difficult for me to trust a titanium head can give the same efficeiency.

So I feel so curious about it that I've decided to be a participant in this tool bingo. I am even ready to pay for the posting fees... and if I am not satisfied I will send it back to you.

Good luck to everybody

Domix
Posted: 6:01 am on July 6th

StrawBale_guy writes: They're nice, but since Force=mass times velocity squared, how does a 15 ounce titanium hammer have the same impact as a 28- ounce steel one?

I certainly would be willing to test this in the field, of course :-)
Posted: 6:01 am on July 6th

StrawBale_guy writes: They're nice, but since Force=mass times velocity squared, how does a 15 ounce titanium hammer have the same impact as a 28- ounce steel one?
Posted: 6:00 am on July 6th

raw67 writes: I've always been looking for an alternative to the big heavy steel hammer. Through the years many types have hung from my pouch, straight clawed and curved, fiberglass, steel, wooden, and graphite handles. I've had 28 oz. to 16 oz. and lots in between, but I have to say the best by far has to be my current hammer, a 16 oz. titanium stilleto. I must admit to being lured by it's bright shinyness and the "bling" factor, I mean come on if you can afford it there is a certain amount of prestige involved. It wasn't until after that I began to appreciate the lightness, the sweet curve of the axe style handle and the way it pounded nails as well as any hammer I've owned, without the fatigue and soreness that accompanied so many of my other choices. After the sticker shock wore off I found myself pulling nails and prying and hitting anything, even using the claws to dig with and the edge to scrape away at rough concrete, in other words treating it like I would any other hammer. It's not so shiny anymore but I wouldn't have it any other way. I also had to have the matching nail bar a bargain at about half the cost of the hammer.
Posted: 4:53 am on July 6th

ghosttrain writes: I bought a 14 oz. Stilleto waffle faced California framer over three years ago. The waffling wore off within the first year. I am in the habit of tapping all the nails out rather than wrenching on the cat's paw; another way to save your wrist and elbow. Unfortunately, the waffling suffered, which suprised me because I was told titanium was harder than steel.

The weight was hard to get used to at first. I found that I had to swing it alot harder than the 21 oz. Deluge (my previous hammer, stolen)to get the same driving force. My own experience makes me skeptical of the proclaimed 97% energy transfer. It felt lighter in my bags and, therefore, was easier on my hips.

At first, the $80 price tag was the only reason I kept it; I didn't want to look like an chump at work. Especially with all the heckling my titanium hammer got from the old timers:, "Now you can hit your thumb everytime!"

In spite of this critique, I am still swinging it. It's time to re-grind the lopsided face and sharpen the claws again, my handle is pretty tired too. I thought about getting a new one, but I bought a positive placement nailer instead. I use a pneumatic nailer for most of my framing. When I do use the stilleto it is usually to hit the cat's paw or nail off facia. It now performs remarkably well as a smooth faced framer. Worth noting that it has lasted longer than any other hammer I have owned. This might be more of a testament to Stilleto's workmanship than the titanium, maybe a little of both.

To sum it up:

If you want to drive a lot of 16 lb nails by hand, a 21 oz. steel hammer is king. If you want to save your body, use a nail gun and get a titanium hammer. As an aside: I would never spend $200 on a hammer, nor would any building professional I know of.
Posted: 4:39 am on July 6th

grammy13 writes: being an older woman with arthritis who is still handy around the house; the idea of having a lighter weight hammer is fantastic.
Posted: 4:32 am on July 6th

whizkid writes: sounds great to me, just wondering how it will sound when someone asks to borrow your "tit" hammer????
Posted: 4:21 am on July 6th

whizkid writes: sounds great to me, just wondering how it will sound when someone asks to borrow your "tit" hammer????
Posted: 4:20 am on July 6th

missingWa writes: Owning a titanium wristwatch I always saw its lightness as the main benefit of that material. In turn, this seems to contradict directly to the main requisite for a hammer. In the other hand, the 97% vs 70% of force transfer means that you probably could do with a hammer that is some 20% lighter for the same job.

Am I wrong or this seems like a real joint saver?

One thing is for sure: you better put a sting and attach it to your belt because I wouldn't like to "lose" such a tool on a construction site!
Posted: 3:21 am on July 6th

marjan writes: I am a woman in a man's world. I work hard to hit the nail harder so that it can glide into the wood with the same elegance as my male counterparts. Any help I can get would put a smile on my face. Although everytime I get the money saved for a Ti hammer, something comes up that requires a chunk of change and the hammes gets put on the back burner. My day will come and I will walk on the job site with a big grin and everyone will look at me with envy, Ti envy.
Posted: 3:08 am on July 6th

jimb7777 writes: Hi I want to get the smooth face one. I want to use it in my shop and to do finish trim work. It is going to be a fine addtion to my collection.
Posted: 3:02 am on July 6th

Steddy writes: Wow - I doubt there'd be so many posts without a giveaway!
I'm convinced enough to have bought a 15 oz. waffle for framing and a 14 smooth for everything else, plus nail pullers - yes the all ti. health in swinging and carrying around less weight make price easy to justify. the side nail pullers on these are awesome, too.
Posted: 2:52 am on July 6th

johnclark writes: To a man with a Titanium hammer, everything looks like a Silver Nail.
Posted: 2:50 am on July 6th

just wanted to know writes: Ti is a sexy metal, bottom line. I am currently using my grandad's old leather wrapped steel job. She has seen better days. I am curious if the feel is better than steel. Hey one added bonus-No Rust, not like you would leave a $200 hammer out in the rain.
Posted: 2:34 am on July 6th

ctmcontracting writes: after many years of using a 22oz steel hammer I was starting to develop multiple problems in my wrist, arm and shoulder that would leave me in constant pain. After working with a guy who had one I bought a 14oz wooden hatchet handled stilletto hammer,without that silly waffle face that makes a mess of everything from your thumb to the material you are nailing. Right away my arm started to improve until there was no pain at all and none of the conditions have returned in the 8 years since. It is money well invested if you wish to have full use of your hammering arm later in life.
Posted: 12:11 am on July 6th

sjsharpe writes: I've have titanium golf clubs and a titanium dental implant. Love both. I'm sure I'd love a titanium hammer. Would love to try one!!!!
Posted: 11:38 pm on July 5th

DiegoGrant writes: I will probably never spend $200 for any hammer as "exotic" as these TI hammers sound. It is not a "significant" time saver like going from a hammer to a passload, a screw gun to a Quick Drive, or a saw to a recipricating saw. I'm sure it is more efficient, lighter, and puts less stress on your body, but in an era where pneumatic nailers and such cost about the same as the as the TI hammer it makes since to just go automatic and save the heavy nailing for the guys whose body can take it. Besides, overall, did the a good hammer really need further improvement? How much will they start selling a more aerodynamic pencil for? LOL.
Posted: 10:02 pm on July 5th

askjeffro writes: I got to use a titanium hammer just over a month ago at a friends; clearly they are in a class of their own.

I intend to save up for one now that I've experienced one. (seeing is believing kind of thing) Hope to have one by this time next year.
Posted: 9:51 pm on July 5th

RAC21 writes: Pound wise, penny-nail foolish.

Tools are like women: The better looking they are, the more likely they are to walk off with someone else.

And that's just one reason to laugh at the idea of an arm-powered hammer that costs as much as many air-powered ones.

But while I like my tools plain and cheap (Please note that we have dropped the tools-as-women metaphor), my perspective on value recently has changed.

You see, this year I've suffered two fairly serious hand injuries. You know the drill: lost workdays, big medical bills, and the fear that you may never be 100% again (Particularly scary, since my 100% was most folks' 85%).

Once you consider the value of a pain-free day, the often overlooked downside of permanent nerve and joint damage, and the cost of single hospital aspirin tablet, you attain a slightly different perspective on a $200 hammer.

So, if a titanium hammer can, indeed, reduce wear and tear on my arm, I'll take the hit to my wallet, and consider it a bargain.

Posted: 8:14 pm on July 5th

Edola writes: I've been using a wood handled Stiletto about two months ago. I bought mine during a promotion for only $35, the same price of other quality hammers so the decision was easy. I'm younger so I cannot comment on the pain relieving effects of these hammers but I have noticed that it much easier on my back than my usual 28oz. All around my Stiletto is a better hammer for regular nailing. Where it comes up short is when you are in a confined space, and you can't get the speed required to drive nails home. Another shortcoming appears to be in the hardness of the titanium head, it had a tendency to slide of the nail on impact, a waffle face is a necessity for any framers considering these hammers. I love this hammer and would buy another in a heartbeat, but steel hammers will always have a place on my site.
Posted: 5:03 pm on July 5th

spazapple writes: Got to agree with those who say that ti hammers are better for finish work and assembly. Better hang on toolbelt, better control over depth of set like when nailing claps or wood shingles. I also like the Stiletto's curved handle and how easy it makes it to slide hand to end of grip. I made mistake of trying to pull deeply set nails with the claw...broke right off. So I use other bars and pullers for that.
Posted: 5:01 pm on July 5th

ajhsieh writes: whats the one tool every person has in their home? A hammer. Whats the one tool that has the greatest chance of survivability ove the long run and maybe even being passed down? A hammer. the life of a hammer is not a glamorous one so why not bling it up? why not use some modern materials and add a little bling to the blah? Personally, thumbs up to the titanium hammers for all those that swing one for a living. The benefits outweigh the cost - and at a minimum, at least now maybe your hammer can now sleep in the same box as your Lie nielsen block plane....

andy

Posted: 3:18 pm on July 5th

jg_cool writes: Gotta agree on some things here. I too am fifty and need help making it to retirement. I can't hardly swing a hammer any more as my wrists are disintigrating it seems. All my nails are sunk via an air nailer now. I did have the opportunity to use a hammer similar to this and it is an improvement over the old style and materials. If I had this, yeah I'd use it more than I do this type now for sure, but I'd probably rather have the framing nailer if I could (which I don't have in my collection).
Posted: 3:09 pm on July 5th

totalwod writes: Come on, confess, your favorite hammer is the same as mine, it has an air hose attached. However, sometimes a hammer is required and I thought that the Estwing was high end. Guess I'll have to save my $$$$ for this one.
Posted: 2:44 pm on July 5th

brenshaw writes: But is it worth the price? a basic hammer is only worth five bucks.I don't know were $200 comes from.the technology and design are worth value, then add the cost of raw materials "titanium" and a quality handle that holds up and does not pass on vibes.somehow this still does not add up to $200. I would love to have one.But can't get myself to give the tool thefts that kind of money.How about a story on how these guys come up with these prices? the saw stop guy seems to have a justified price.does lighter and fancy have to cost this much. all you guys that think its fine to give them your $200 send me $20.00 because i have ideas too!and i like lots of money also.Thanks for the cool hammer and the 20 bucks!!!
Posted: 12:44 pm on July 5th

Kx5okc writes: When construction is your life, its hard to say "I'm not paying $100 for a hammer, but I will pay over $300 for a wizbang mobile phone". Sometimes the logic is blurred by desire for gadgets and necessity. Hmm, save my arm or get that app for my new phone?
Posted: 7:50 am on July 5th

max63 writes: Hey Rob,
Havent tried out this technological wonder but my tec-view is always try out the new stuff! People ask me "should I upgrade to Office 2007"? Naturally, some drawbacks can exist but we aim to move forward and most new offerings are "improved" and show some renovation. New is not always better but should almost always be tried out! Titanium is a cool material and will probably be around more than it presently is. Id be happy to test one out if I come out lucky! Thx for the article...
Posted: 7:31 am on July 5th

NoonDog writes: I use a Titanium hammer because of the health benefits. I am in the same boat as alot of other fifty-something year old builders. I've got a long 10 years to go before any kind of retirement. Anything I can do to that will help my body make it to the finish line is worth the finacial investment. Since I started using a Titanium hammer 2 years ago, I have noticed a marked improvement in some symptoms I was having in my right hand and wrist. I recommend a Titanium hammer for every professional builder.
Posted: 7:14 am on July 5th

davereeve writes: You can get a wooden handled 16oz for under $100usd! I have 2 stilletos a 14 and a 16(both wooden handles) To be in a career that requires you to be driving nails on a daily basis and not be able to justify spending $90us(or 200ish on a full Ti)....?! Think about how much you spend eating out for lunch in a month. $100 or $200 dollars is nothing for avoiding the 'tennis elbow' syndrome, the physio, and all the other grief from the abuse a steel hammer dishes out. I cringe everytime I lift a steel hammer from a friends belt or from the lumber store shelf. It seems to be an ego thing with a lot of guys I have come across, the "I dont need no wimpy feather hammer, I will have to hit the nails twice as hard" and the "what, you cant handle a 26oz framer?" If you're in the construction field to make money and have a painfree(in the arms anyways)career, buy yourself a stilleto. You will thank yourself later. oh by the way 3 wouldnt make a crowd in my toolbox..thanks
Posted: 1:34 am on July 5th

VickyGrainger writes: I bought my 20 yr. old son one when he finished his first year of apprenticeship and he loves it
Posted: 12:06 am on July 5th

VickyGrainger writes: I bought my 20 yr. old son one when he finished his first year of apprenticeship and he loves it
Posted: 12:01 am on July 5th

maiznblueguy writes: I would find it hard to justify $200 for the small amount I use a hammer these days. Mostly building furniture and using a pin or trim gun. Still use a steel hammer when framing large items.

If I were using a hammer for a living it would be a great investment and terrific for the health benefit!
Posted: 7:57 pm on July 4th

McKinnon writes: The benefit to me is keeping the weight down in my bags. I have struggled with a bad back for many years and a light bag helps a lot. If I had one of these I would most likely keep it in my bags more often and thus reduce how often I have to get up off my knees and go get it.
Posted: 7:03 pm on July 4th

oranges writes: Some simple physics I heard when I first got a Stiletto: If you double the volume, you only double the force, but if you double the velocity, you quadruple the force. So, in theory, since the stiletto is lighter than steel hammers, you not only saving your arm w/ every swing, you are applying more force per swing w/ the lighter hammer.

I started framing in 2002 and picked up a stiletto in 2004. I feel pretty lucky to have started using a titanium hammer so early on in my profession. Here's to the next 50 years of swinging my stiletto!

Posted: 6:57 pm on July 4th

mmoto writes: I have tried my brother's titanium hammer and really liked the feel and efficiency. I would have bought one but couldn't afford the price. I really would like to have a titanium hammer and reap the benefits of its light weight and nailing power.
Posted: 4:31 pm on July 4th

gobucks12 writes: I've never had a problem with a steel hammer, but I would sure like to try the new titanium hammer. I am always interested in trying new and improved tools.
Posted: 2:53 pm on July 4th

chetkloss writes: Though I can't justify the price, I want a titanium hammer.
Posted: 2:29 pm on July 4th

cmdawest writes: How many of us spent hundreds, even thousands of dollars on a diamond ring for that someone special hoping that would be the last diamond ring we would have to buy for 50-60 years? Money that we hoped would make our life 'swing' better? So, what's $200 for a hammer that will guarantee to make work easier every time we pick it up to swing it? I spend this much and more on many good tools that promise me a lifetime of faithful precision! I’m special, too. I can’t wait to swing one.
Posted: 1:37 pm on July 4th

ricardoscott writes: this reminds me of choosing an aluminum pipe wrench some years ago. the pipe wrench has definitely worked out fine and the light weight much appreciated when upside down inside a sink cabinet. there's nothing as classic as a wood handled claw hammer though, I don't see them disappearing anytime soon.
Posted: 11:46 am on July 4th

BenchBrush writes: If true, the 97% Ti / 70% Steel assertion can be proved with a test. Set up with a steel hammer head vs. a Ti hammer head. Drop each to to produce equal energy at the nail head (M x V squared). If the steel head drives the nail 0.70", the Ti head will drive the nail 0.97".

Has anyone seen such a test result?

Until testing is done, this energy transfer claim is marketing BS.

Posted: 11:18 am on July 4th

troyb_78 writes: I have been swinging a Vaughan Ti-tech hammer for the last 3 years and absolutely love it. The nice feature on the Vaughan is the interchangeable steel caps. I can go from smooth to milled in minutes. Plus it uses the same handle as the California framer which are available about anywhere.
Posted: 10:38 am on July 4th

Ramps writes: I love quality hand tools bu tI think I'll have to put the titanium hammers on my "one day" list or "when I turm pro" list. just the steel estwing hanging from the belt for now ... but one day....
Posted: 9:31 am on July 4th

AussieDan writes: G'day to all my woodworking mates in the USA. I am a keen Aussie (Australian) woodworker and have recently subscribed to Fine Woodworking magazine and online services. I recently watched a show on cable about how they make the Titanium hammer and it amazed me how much better it would be to use and how it can save wear and tear on your body over the years. I am also a big fan of tools that you can have for your entire life because I believe that in the end they have a good story to tell. I would REALLY love to give one of your Titanium hammers a good Aussie home. Aussie Dan.
Posted: 3:15 am on July 4th

mdgarnett writes: I bought a titanium death stick several years ago and have found it to be an awesome hammer. But after using it on one building "for the experience," I went back to a framing nailer. Still use the hammer but not daily.
Posted: 12:51 am on July 4th

Clifton4 writes: I would really like to give a titanium hammer a home -- it would be a good home, where it would be treated well and appreciated by a self-professed tool geek. Count me in!
Thanks!
Posted: 12:38 am on July 4th

red65mustang writes: I love the feel of the titanium hammer in my hand, but the price tag is a bit stiff for me, since I only frame very rarely at present. I had framed custom homes for many years and would buy one in a second, if that was still the case. I'd still be very happy accept one for free! I prefer a wood handle, but beggers can't be choosers.
Posted: 12:25 am on July 4th

d_h66010 writes: I have looked at titanium's so many times, I just can't bring myself to spend that much on a hammer...I am now using a Duglas and I am pleased with it, but know that I would love a titanium for the fact that you can use a lighter hammer and get the same effect. I have bought a lot of different hammers over the years and I always go back the the good old wooden axe handle hammers. Sure would love to win one of these.
Posted: 11:56 pm on July 3rd

ThreeBean writes: All my hammers are rusty, can i get in the drawing please?
Posted: 11:44 pm on July 3rd

borntobuild writes: I frame for a living, hammers are a needed every day despite air tools, I dont know anyone that simply hammers all day anymore. infact air tools are on the way out and more and more people are using paslodes now, i havent tried a titanium hammer and probably wont do to the price. i use a stanley fatmax graphite hammer with the axe type handle. Used steel for a while but to much vibs, wood dont last, this works well as i am shorter the 18" handle and nail set work awesome. and there is no pain at the end of the day. thanks.
Posted: 11:23 pm on July 3rd

RClack writes: This article made me think. I never even considered health risks of swinging a hammer. I got to look into this a little more. I have no problem spending money on a good tool. And I can use all the extra help driving those nails. Good conversation starter guys!
Posted: 11:06 pm on July 3rd

nargd writes: I have always used a heavy steel hammer - for the pounding power. I nail with my right hand and now at age 46 my right elbow is toast - and I don't even hammer for a living. I'd love to try a lighter and comparatively more powerful titanium hammer.
Posted: 11:06 pm on July 3rd

ReneePaul writes: In addition to my earlier post
The ti hammer has no bounce back. It hits and sinks all that recoil into the force of the hit. I am a 58 year old woman with bad arthritis that could frame all day every day with this tool. Before my Stiletto I slept every night with my hands in those arthritis heat wraps so I could come back for more the next day. With my 14oz ti I can quite easily keep up with the spunkiest HFH volunteer and still not be in numbing pain the next day.

I know many folks who use these hammers. Most name the health benefits as the main reason. You don't really need to use that much force with the ti. If you can get some distance for your swing the hammer weight and balance will do all the work.
Posted: 9:54 pm on July 3rd

GLKeeney writes: I've has my eye on one of these for a few years. Have not had the opportunity to do more than pick it up, but I liked the heft and balance. I would be interested in seeing the data on their energy transfer though. I imagine it is a matter of energy used to overcome inertia, but am intrigued.
Posted: 9:30 pm on July 3rd

piperman writes: I have been a builder for years and I have swung steel framing hammers and now titanium. Titanium wins hands down, less elbow pain and more power, also unbreakable almost.
Posted: 9:27 pm on July 3rd

mschell writes: We are doing a job right now replacing cedar siding on a 100+ year old house and while I love my 20oz estwing swinging it all day long does give my elbow a workout. I would not mind giving a titanium hammer a test drive.
Posted: 9:23 pm on July 3rd

bhechtman writes: Driving ring shank nails into hardened and aged pressure treated deck wood wears out one's elbow and can be quite challenging especially if your framing nailer doesn't drive the nail home. Transferring additional energy to the nail head has to be satisfying when doing a lot of nailing by hand and has to be a relief for the carpenter. $200 seems a reasonable price for a tool so helpful.
Posted: 9:16 pm on July 3rd

wasserman writes: A free titanium hammer, I'm in the running.
Posted: 9:08 pm on July 3rd

gewing writes: I am very intrigued by the increased energy transfer. I know that titanium tends to be springy, in addition to about 1/3 lighter than steel for a given volume.

Hmm, this gives me some ideas.

Posted: 7:42 pm on July 3rd

awlright writes: I've been a carpenter for 25 years. I primarily use pneumatics these days, but it's always nice to have a great hammer! So I'm in for the drawing.
Posted: 7:35 pm on July 3rd

ubc writes: I never leave the shop without it. I have 20oz and 22oz steel hammers. The Stiletto wins hands down.
Posted: 7:30 pm on July 3rd

Statbuck56 writes: I tried out a titanium hammer and have to admit that it is a real advance in technology. If you swing an hammer for your living, it is worthwhile investment.
Posted: 7:27 pm on July 3rd

applejuice writes: I'm a carpenter by profession and i frame houses. I used to own a steel hammer and am i glad i bought the titanium Stilleto. The 'old' steel hammer lack balance and the weigh of the hammer head make it front-heavy and not balance, thus your arm hurts after a day of working with the hammer...like tennis elbows. The Stilleto is worth every penny.
Posted: 7:18 pm on July 3rd

cfchipps writes: Wow, I could make two good joints at the same time - one wood, one bone!
Posted: 6:54 pm on July 3rd

arnie00000 writes: I would very much like to try out these titanium hammers you talk about. I am a wood truss assembler and part of my job is to pound steel plates in place on the wood top and bottom chords and webs before they are rolled or pressed into place.
I presently use a 28 oz. steel framing hammer for sheer strength but over time it has been hard on the wrists and elbows. Any factor that will minimize health risks would be beneficial in my job and not always related to product cost.
I can anticipate my work would become much less of an arm strain if given the oppurtunity to try this titanium hammer.
Thanks in advance for the chance for this giveaway.
Posted: 5:56 pm on July 3rd

bh55 writes: I have helped build 5 Habitat for Humanity homes in addition to working on my own home and two flip houses and my cheap ergonomic hammer has made my elbow sore. While I don't see myself paying $200 for a hammer, it might be worth it if it saves your joints.
Posted: 5:42 pm on July 3rd

jchas writes: Man, I just came out of the really dark ages and bought a Stanley anti-vibration hammer. Now I discover that this is caveman technology compared to what's out there. Doh!
Posted: 5:41 pm on July 3rd

tauntonut writes: as long as we keep shooting nails, this will be a hard sell.. but we purists will still like to "2-whack" a 16d once in a while.. tho seriously this energy transferdeal could be a terrific help for fine detail work and trim..
Posted: 5:31 pm on July 3rd

DelmarF writes: So this item moves up near the top of my must have list. Not only would it save my (old) joints, it would be a great talking point. There is always some one claiming a better product; this hammer appears to actually deliver.
Posted: 5:28 pm on July 3rd

icarusting writes: Having read some of the comments, I would agree that energy transfer, although higher w/ Titanium, still requires kenetic input to a level appropriate for the job at hand. Nobody "taps in" a roofer. That said, I look forward to my own tests. With more transfer, maybe less swing will still do the job - saving the stress on arms and elbows. Great article, thanks...
Posted: 5:18 pm on July 3rd

pcd3476 writes: I am like all the other people in this great country of ours, suffering from the downward spiraling economy. I have been swinging a hammer for many years which covers the steel headed hammer with a wood handle to a fiber glass handle and have broken quite a few in the process of so many projects and jobs. I have had the opportunity to handle the new titanium head and love it to death. Only one problem, my wife seems to control of the financial aspect of this Corporation. No, I am not whipped. I just have to save for my new toy as she puts it. What a bummer.
Posted: 5:14 pm on July 3rd

jeffsmyth1950 writes: i thought i would never buy one because of the price but i decided to buy myself a smooth stilleto framer . but it changed my mind and i gave away my trusted vaughn .
Posted: 5:12 pm on July 3rd

jim's trim writes: I would love to replace my eastwing with a stiletto.
Posted: 5:09 pm on July 3rd

Bretski writes: I'm sure the Stiletto is a fine product, but even if the energy transfer is greater than that of a steel hammer you will have to swing it harder to generate the same amount of rotational kinetic energy and momentum. Having said that, I would still love to try it. I love to experiment.
Posted: 4:15 pm on July 3rd

yamato writes: I've borrowed several titanium hammers from friends while working on Habitat homes in the Gulf states. Great hammers! I wanted one immediately but the price is too high for me. Durability is an issue that no one has mentioned. My impression is that titanium hammers are not as rugged as other hammers. When it breaks, you're out $200. No warranty if the head or shaft breaks. Damage a couple of hammers and that Paslode starts looking a lot cheaper.
Posted: 4:13 pm on July 3rd

jbred writes: i have a 20 ounce bluegrass wood handle i would love to compare with a titanium hammer.
Posted: 3:40 pm on July 3rd

Pacb writes: I have had many hammers over the decades, but the titanium Stilleto I currently have is my favorite. It started with tendonitis (tennis elbow) in my hammer arm. Going to a lighter hammer that still had the leverage (in terms of swing) of a long handle and the large head, improved things greatly. I could still use another one, however, as this one is seriously showing its mileage.
Posted: 3:24 pm on July 3rd

wolfie009 writes: I bought a Stiletto 14 oz framing hammer about three years ago when I decided that my shoulder and elbow and wrist had had about enough abuse after about 25 years being a carpenter. They work great. I think I paid about $120 or so and I figured this would be the last hammer I would own. It really made a huge difference in how my shoulder, elbow and wrist felt; ie no pain. I'm mostly an office carpenter now, estimating and project management. Unfortunately I loaned it to someone on one of our jobs and failed to remember to get it back. (should never loan tools unless you are working right with the person you loan it too)
Would love to replace it but I don't use a hammer enough to justify buying one again.
so put me in for the drawing, I'd love to have one again.
Posted: 3:02 pm on July 3rd

tgillesp writes: When not using a nail gun I use my dads old 16 oz 1950's Stanley steel shaft, rubber handle hammer instead of the 22 oz framing hammer I used to use. It keeps on going and seems to do almost as much damage as the ol' 22 oz.

The news would be when they make lighter nail guns that will not take your nail belt to the floor. Just as magnesium worm drive saws replaced steel saws, we need lighter nail guns, more than lighter hammers. Maybe I missed the point, but it's the weight of the hammer that drives the nail. If you want lighter, use an 8 oz hammer and see how long it takes to drive a 16d.
Posted: 2:41 pm on July 3rd

burad writes: I love technology and I love how it can advance our society. However I think that sometimes marketing can get in the way of our checkbook more than it can improve our lives. This may not be true for everyone but in this case, I am not a professional carpenter but simply have wood working as a hobby. And yes, I pound the keyboard more than I pound nails too. And I understand the small expense no matter how large it may be to improve a repetitive task that is done every day or a thousand times a day. But for me to spend 200 dollars on a hammer would be a waste and if I did, I can already hear my father saying, "You spent how much?"
Posted: 2:28 pm on July 3rd

rpc1 writes: I hurt my forearm and had surgury, using steel hammers is quite the challeng these days, I'm all for Titanium.
Posted: 2:20 pm on July 3rd

jjcpa2 writes: Looks like a great hammer. But I would have to say for the amount of time I spend hammering, it would be a tremendous expense.
Posted: 2:18 pm on July 3rd

Hidden_Potential writes: I always look for more ways to be efficient and enjoy trying new things out. If a titanium hammer delivers 17% more efficiency than a steel one, I would consider purchasing a titanium hammer. I would expect that the titanium hammer would be lighter therefor not pulling on my tool belt as much. I would also be interested in understanding any differences in the handles as well. With a lighter head, the handles would have to be lightened up as well to maintain proper balance. I look forward to learning more from your article.
Posted: 1:53 pm on July 3rd

Tristate writes: Its interesting to read how many people say they don't think they are worth it. But I can tell you from experience that they are. I bought my first one about 6 years ago and haven't looked back. As a professional carpenter I have lots of different hammers. A couple years ago I bought all my employees a titanium hammer for Christmas. I know it was expensive but they sure were proud of them. The only thing I can say is that the ones with a composite handle and rubber grip are better. After several broken wooden handles from trying to pull the occasional nail that gets buried at the wrong place, some of my guys opted to upgrade to the composite handle and like it alot more. Bottom line if you do any type of construction for a living, you owe it to your self to give em a try.
Posted: 1:52 pm on July 3rd

master01 writes: I have several hammers collected during the past 50 plus years. An old Stanley leather handle steel shaft, wood framing 22 oz framimg hammer, fiberglass handle hammers, rubber covered steel shafts. The one I like the best is a 16 oz green rubber covered steel shaft that I found on the road. I just rub the head on concrete before using it on finishing nails. I haven't had a new hammer in 25 years, and a nice titaniam might make using a hammer a joy again. Nail guns can sure be nice, but there is a certain satisfaction banging a nail home.
Posted: 1:43 pm on July 3rd

buoyd writes: Never tried titanium, but I'd like to give it a go. I own many steel-headed hammers, with wood, fiberglass, and steel handles. Sorry to hear about your father's health problems. I can relate.
Posted: 1:33 pm on July 3rd

Hyytekk writes: I'd love to have one. Using a Nasa inspired metal to beat in nails seems like delivering newspapers with the space shuttle. A nail gun could be had for a similar price and is far more rapid and efficient, but admittedly overkill for a small project. The only drawback, besides the price, is that you'd need to install a Lo-Jack on it so it didn't mysteriously wander off when you put it down!
Posted: 1:28 pm on July 3rd

MDFContracting writes: I'm still using a wood handled steel hammer (paid about $40)
this is partially because the bloody thing will not die, and partially that i cannot ignore the fact that 98 percent of the nails I drive come from a gun. When I've got a couple hundred bucks lying around it's just hard to ignore the long list of other tools I don't have. That said they sure are a beautiful Tool.
Posted: 1:18 pm on July 3rd

girth writes: $200 is reasonable if it saves your joints-but the operative word is if. without being able to try one out for an extended time, it's hard to know if it will work for you, and $200 is a bit much to experiment with.
Posted: 1:15 pm on July 3rd

GBCM writes: Whatever happened to my Stiletto Titan 14 0z is a mystery. Another tool of mine taken by the lil' green job site goblin.
One of these days goblin.....
Posted: 1:12 pm on July 3rd

PapaRoss writes: I have always wanted to swing a titanium hammer. All the professional carpenters I know use nail guns almost 100% of the time and see no need to lay out the cash for anything more than a steel hammer. I would consider buying a less expensive titanium mallet if I had a clearer understanding of their durability. I would hate to tell folks who asked to use it, "You can't. It's a very delicate hammer."
Posted: 1:03 pm on July 3rd

RobertGroh writes: I love good tools and I think it is well worth while buying quality and performance for both the short and the long haul. I have some tools that I bought more than 40 years ago and, although my useage as a hobbyist and amateur woodworker is low, those tools are still trucking along. Since I don't use a hammer for my livelihood and my finances are a bit too scant to permit buying a titanium hammer, I probably won't. But, boy, I would sure love to have one!
Posted: 1:01 pm on July 3rd

Clipped writes: Unfortunately, many people are short sighted and only think of the price. If I had to work with a hammer every day, I would definitely invest in one of these hammers to avoid aches and pains. You are going to pay one way or the other, whether it be your wallet or you body (and wallet for the doctor and pain relievers).
Posted: 12:51 pm on July 3rd

MrDoug writes: Why are you only giving a chance to win one of these hammers to people who already have one? Is there some way for us that don't have any experience with titanium to be able to enter to win one of these cutting-edge tools?
Posted: 12:50 pm on July 3rd

CCI_RENOS writes: I don't swing a hammer all day, but when I do, I feel it in my elbow for weeks. If I have a project that requires a lot of framing I will consider picking one up. The pain in my wallet will be easier to take than the pain in my elbow.
Posted: 12:49 pm on July 3rd

jtcrea writes: I am sure that titanium is the cat's meow, but I tend to reach for my grandfather's old hammer most of the time.

John
Posted: 12:45 pm on July 3rd

dirtriderdan writes: The first time I saw these I immediately dismissed them based on price. Being in my twenties I don't have the appreciation for the medical benefits the way you older guys do either. However, I then looked at shelves and tool boxes full of tools in my garage that I nearly never use and are quite expensive. Even if you aren't a framer what gets used more than a hammer? $200 is a lot for a tool but then again we all own more expensive ones that get used much less. Perhaps one of these Ti hammers will find their way into my tool box someday...
Posted: 12:42 pm on July 3rd

dustystuff2 writes: I have been a self employed carpenter for over 40 years. And since you all know if you work alone you can never invoice enough to pay for a $200.+ hammer, that is unless you work in Fairfield - Wallingford.
Posted: 12:39 pm on July 3rd

climbd writes: Considering the constantly rising costs of health care, people really need to focus on preventative care in all aspects of their lives. I'm a safety advocate -- I wear safety glasses and hearing protection when necessary, but the difference is the benefit of those are often seen immediately. More often it is the unseen things that add the most safety (like airbags and the safety glass in windshields) as they are present but don't change your behavior to increase risk. (A person with a seat belt on may knowingly take more risks driving than they would without a seat belt on)

Point being that if titanium transfers the energy more efficiently, that is saved wear and tear on your body. Like airbags it might be taken for granted and largely go unnoticed, but it makes a difference.
Posted: 12:36 pm on July 3rd

NeilF writes: I am tired of my elbow and wrist being so sore at the end of the day! not to mention the extra weight of my 21 ounce hammer on my belt.I do loft conversions in the u.k. so that means that I do alot more bending and kneeling down than I did as a carpenter when I lived in Canada and with all of the extra weight my back takes quite a beating too. I have thought long and hard and I know that I must change to titanium!
Posted: 12:34 pm on July 3rd

W_Turner writes: Well, I'm a 40 year old girl who likes to swing a hammer a bunch. I'm not a professional, but my hammers have had lots of use both at home and other projects I’m constantly volunteering to help friends with. I've noticed lately that my joints just aren’t the same as they were a few years ago, and after a weekend full of hard work I will undoubtedly suffer for a couple of days after with joint pain. I’ve read some reviews regarding the titanium hammers and for the most part people suggest these expensive hammers, although worth every dime, are more suited to the professional contractor. My personal belief though is that besides being beneficial to the full time builder, anyone with joint pain and/or any female would benefit greatly from the lightness of this hammer. I also enjoy golf and my clubs are titanium. Titanium golf clubs are not designed just for the professional golfer anymore, and the reason is simple, the clubs are lighter and can be swung faster. The energy stored in a moving mass is proportional to the velocity squared. For a girl this is especially important as we just do not possess the brute strength most of you guys do and need to compensate for it in other ways. The weight of this hammer combined with the diminished recoil affect makes it a very interesting and desirable tool, even (or especially) for a DIY girl :-)
Posted: 12:31 pm on July 3rd

jeffvalentine writes: I haven't used one of the hammers but while reading about them i notice that the fancy ($249) flat bar with all the bells and whistles that do look awfully nice has a replaceable steel hammer surface. If titanium is a better hammer material why would it need a steel hammer face? I hope to try one of the hammers.
Posted: 12:25 pm on July 3rd

tsiragusa writes: First off, I really enjoy the comments here (especially vs political trash talk on news sites) from 'real' people with stable sensibilities. In particular, I liked the comments from hareynolds who, as a disbeliever, seemed to actually convince me of the science behind the Ti. While Ti is hyped for everything and has especially made fortunes for golf club manufactures, the science of speed vs mass is constantly debated. Right now there is a movement in baseball to bring back heavier bats because the lighter bats are breaking, but the quicker bat speed produces arguably better results. Now imagine if a wood bat is replaced by Ti. HRs would skyrocket and players would get hurt from the speed of the ball.

Th bottom line is that if the *lighter* Ti only allowed more speed, then a lighter steel hammer would suffice, no? But if the *energy* is transferred to the nail (or golf ball) more efficiently, then .. SOLD!

Thanks!
Posted: 12:18 pm on July 3rd

snorro writes: I've been swinging a Stiletto hammer for 3 years now; will never go back! It all started with my first job doing concrete forms. Within six weeks I would wake-up in the middle of the night and have to get up and swing my arms around to get blood flowing again! It hurt so bad! I thought I had to change careers... Then I saw a friend with a 14 oz. Stiletto. I laughed, he laughed back and asked how my arms felt... I spent 225$ and never looked back! Of course I both the 16 oz. milled face, a guy as his pride!
Posted: 12:16 pm on July 3rd

Speed101_Weaver writes: One last comment - after all the techno-blab I did prior about the Ti properties and how they are likely to play favorably with the nail head impact shock wave/coupling within the hammer head... the HANDLE matters significantly too. The handle/handle-padding should be stiff enough so you can keep the head directed precisely to the nail and transfer the smooth acceleration of you wrist/arm to the head, but it should be like "mush" to the shock wave coming back from the head. In geek terms again the handle should be like a low-pass filter - passing the "low frequency" slow wave of your arm/hand, but rejecting the "high frequency" ring/shock front from the nail impact. There are various viscoelastic rubbers that are significantly better at this than other rubbers. The Ti properties as noted before are very likely to put more into the nail for the same amount of kinetic energy in the head - which means less work, or a lighter head at the same head velocity and so on, but the handle should not be ignored either. OH - and the placement of the grip relative to the nodes/antinodes of the natural ringing "modes" of the handle - that aspect of the handle is big too! Think of a tuning fork - portions oscillate and others sit still - you want your hand located on a handle where it "sits still" more. That has to do with mass distribution, stiffness distribution and a bunch of stuff easier to just model on a computer directly now.
Posted: 12:15 pm on July 3rd

Carl49 writes: I'm not a professional contractor or carpenter,but I've built sheds and renovated my home enough to know the pain caused by hammer vibration. Talk about "tennis elbow"! Also, I have spent a few dollars (and have several hammers in my tool chest as prove)trying to find a hammer that would allow me to work pain-free on my projects - currently I'm planning a detached garage - but I would be whipped if I spent so much for a titanium hammer - no matter how good!
I would love to have such a hammer, but until I begin bigger projects there's not way I could swing such a purchase pass the "family accountant" even though I am currently having physio for a 'frozen shoulder' and tennis elbow that caused it!
But if I was a pro, I wouldn't think twice about putting one in my tool box. Whether 22oz. or lighter,it's not the weight but the vibrations that cause tennis elbow and any hammer that saves your physical health would certainly be worth every penny. Now, if I could only convince the BOSS!
Posted: 11:50 am on July 3rd

eelslake writes: As a teenager, I spent summers working for my Dad, who was a carpenter/house builder.
All the crew loved framing, of course. As one master woodworker once said to me "Everyone loves framing".
It was a game to frame the house as quickly as possible, and a game to pound the most nails. I swung my claw hammer as hard and as fast as possible.
The problem came at night while sleeping. My upper arm would ache incredibly; I would be in agony.
The next day, I'd be back at it, swinging that hammer as hard and fast as I could. And the next night, my arm would ache again.
Sounds like a titanium hammer would have been the answer. Not only could I have pounded more nails, but maybe my arm would not have kept me awake.
Posted: 11:46 am on July 3rd

Speed101_Weaver writes: Oh, By the way - in clarification further of my first comment moments ago - it has nothing to do with the "weight" of the hammer head - in fact I was assuming equal-weight hammer heads. The three differences in material properties in steel versus Ti are significant and point in the direction of Ti probably tranferring noticably better. Also, the lower stiffness (Young's modulus)has nothing to do with how "dampening" the Ti is - both steel and Ti are very efficient "springs" and "dampening" is not the issue. The issue is does the shock from the impact at the nail head "couple" better with the distributed volume/mass of the hammer head rather than travel down the handle and to your arm. Ti fits. And mind you, I'm totally unmoved by "high tech" materials - I've worked with them all so much I don't care if something is Ti, Carbon fiber, Al, Steel - unless there are real-world merits to the differences in the particular application. As for former USSR wanting to dump Ti - yes - it is dirt cheap, and USSR has been wanting to promote use of the stuff strongly for over 10 years - not a new thing. As for mass of hammer head - it is true that "speed trumps mass" - as to kinetic energy - but you may/may not see the speed depending on how fast your muscles are and how long the hammer handle is - you really have to match the head to the user's arm (and handle) - try a few and you may eventually find what works best for your physical structure - again, real differences there.
Posted: 11:40 am on July 3rd

hareynolds writes: Further on the subject of kinetic energy:

Before armories around the world understood kinetic energy, they thought that MOMENTUM (M x V) was most important thing in a ballistic round. Consequently, they designed weapons with BIG bullets for what was called "stopping power".

Hence, for example, US Civil War rifle rounds (e.g. Minie balls) were around 0.50 caliber. By the 20th century, most militaries used calibers around 0.30 caliber (0.303, 0.30-06, 9mm, etc) The M-16 and derivatives OTOH use a tiny (but relatively long) 0.223 round with big muzzle velocity and relatively low twist (so that the projectile is meta-stable in flight).

This round has VERY high kinetic energy, and "tumbles" when it hits something, so it is remarkably deadly (even if it arguably isn't as good as a heavier round for hunting deer in heavy cover, for example). Plus, an infantryman can carry many more rounds for the same weight of 0.30 cal ammo.

Energy is conserved, momentum is not. Energy grows with the square of velocity. Fast bullets (and fast cars) are therefore more deadly, and a lighter, faster hammer is better.
Posted: 11:34 am on July 3rd

Beurer writes: Looks like the should have named it
the "Baby Boomer" Hammer. It should
help the vast majority of them with wrist
and elbow pains. I've used too many steel
hammers over the years. It's time to try a
"Space Age" hammer.
Posted: 11:34 am on July 3rd

bionicbooma writes: My husband has his favorite hammer, and he makes it known to everyone who touches it. It was his grandfather's hammer, with old curled tape around it. He is 64, so this hammer must be REALLY old. He comes from a family of Swedish woodworkers. After retiring 2 yrs ago, he was able to purse his woodworking hobby more seriously. We are a team, have raised 5 children, have 9 grandchildren, and 1 greatgrandchild on the way. So I do the woodworking as well. My skills are mostly painting, both latex and milk paint, but I do use the hammer a lot. This past March, I broke my wrist falling over our son's lab dog. The dog was fine. I however, suffered a serious break, immediate surgery and possible nerve damage, but won't know for about 6 more months. In my wrist is a $6000 titanium plate, as well as 9 titanium screws.....it would be so nice to have a matching light hammer to do my work! My hammer is an old left over, one that Jim gave me after he inherited his grandfathers upon his father's passing last August. We make farm tables, step-side cupboards, bookcases and whatever comes our way that we think would sell. This past Christmas, we made small memory boxes for all our children, with a poem that reflected on past Christmases. We found spalted sycamore and walnut to create the boxes. We used a plan from FINE WOODWORKING. We rent a little space at a local antique mart. We love our life, are thankful for every day, but finding something to make my work easier would be great! Thank you for your consideration. God Bless America and Our Freedom!!!!!!
Posted: 11:34 am on July 3rd

starryNight writes: For a professional who swings a hammer all day $200 sounds reasonable to me. Over the years it will pay for itself easily.
Posted: 11:30 am on July 3rd

BrianSmith writes: I agree with everyone else, the idea of using a hammer that is engineered to prevent or at least minimize health problems is a great idea. But like everyone else I cannot easily afford one. I may look back in a few years with 20/20 hindsite and a bad arm and kick myself, but for now I have to make do with an standard steel hammer with an impact absorbing handle. However, if I could get one I would just for the health benefits.
Posted: 11:29 am on July 3rd

steelbuilder writes: Have used Titanium hammers before. Good feel, and excellent for the elbow. Amazed at how many guy's bring a $200 hammer to a job site and then leave it out at lunch. Many boo-hoos over their missing hammers on larger jobsites. I'll take one for free. Thanks.
Posted: 11:25 am on July 3rd

ReneePaul writes: I have owned and used a 14oz Stelleto for about 5 years. It started with a milled face but is now mostly smooth. I use this hammer primarily at Habitat for Humanity builds. My experience has been that 75% of the Habitat house and crew leaders (the Habituals) use these hammers.

As a woman I find this hammer to be way easier to pound, particularly over head. The longer handle make it easy to reach higher and comes in handy as a pointer or to whack some siding that has come loose.

Being a volunteer organization HFH has more than its share of re-dos. I can assure you that this hammer works great with a catspaw and chisel.

I bet I help sell at least 10 of these hammers a year. All I have to do is hand it to someone to use and they are sold. And this particular hammer is way closer to $100 not $200.
Posted: 11:23 am on July 3rd

Speed101_Weaver writes: This 97% Ti / 70% Steel assertion fascinates me. Easy to dismiss as marketing hype given the "precision" of such claims, and I have no first-hand experience, BUT - I can see a possible "HYPOTHESIS" - Tell me what you think. I think you may be fascinated too.

Steel is roughly (just shy of) 2X the "stiffness" and 2X the density of Titanium. By "stiffness" I mean "young's modulus" in engineering terms - 30 million PSI for the likely steel alloy versus 16.5 million PSI for the likely Ti alloy (6Al4V). Steel also has a lower Poisson ratio (0.25-0.30 for steel versus a rather high 0.342 for titanium). What does this all mean/how to translate? For a given load pressure, titanium squishes inward (like a spring) nearly 2x as much as steel, and bulges sideward from the impact axis more too than steel (look up poisson ratio). The hammer head mass - which carries the kinetic energy that gets transferred to the nail head at impact - is more "spread out" due to the lower density. So... when a nail hits a hammer head - a sonic/shock wave of sorts propogates through the spring/mass. The issue is how much of that shock wave transfers to the hammer head and how much makes it out to the handle and your arm. I'll assert the lower stiffness, density, and higher Poisson of the Ti all work in favor of transferring the kinetic energy of the head to the nail and less of the shock out the head and "lost" to our "lossy" viscoelastic arm/hand. Ever drive bumper cars with good bumper versus bumb bumper? Somewhat similar idea. At this point, I think I want a Ti hammer - at the right price, that is!
Posted: 11:19 am on July 3rd

Kevin_B writes: I agree on the health benefits. I think anything one can do to minimize the long term health issues associated with any Tool of our Trade is a must. The Hammer as we all know is one of the most trusted and loyal friends on any construction site. Greater driving force and less energy transfer back into hand, wrist and elbow.....sounds all to good to be true. Time for me to get serious about looking into these hammers further.
Posted: 11:19 am on July 3rd

cjorg writes: I’ve got carpel tunnel and it sounds like this could really help. I’ve been suspect so far but now it makes more sense.
Posted: 11:17 am on July 3rd

jptort writes: I would like to see an article that lists the cost of the hammers in one table and the cost of the medical procedures under an average plan listed in the article above in another table. Without even considering the pain involved, it could become an easier decision based only on the costs involved.

Now we just need the manufacturers to get the hammers certified as approved medical devices so HMOs will cover part of the purchase.
Posted: 11:11 am on July 3rd

Lakelady100 writes: I am a female who has tools in my laundry room so they are immediately at hand and then I don't have to borrow from my husband's garage. A new titanium hammer would be great. I have enjoyed the Fine Homebuilding Magazine for many, many years. I don't think I have every thown one away and I am presently going through the magazines to get ideas about remolding a cabin on the lake.
Posted: 11:11 am on July 3rd

plshrk12 writes: I personally have not had the opportunity to try a titanium hammer yet but I can sure see the benefits of it. I am a 60 yr old female that has arthritic joints and it sure would have been nice to have one over the past years while doing my woodworking. I have used wood, steel and fiberglas in the past. Well I hope they come down in price so I can afford to get one to use building my grandkids different things.

Posted: 11:07 am on July 3rd

hareynolds writes: Yet another aerospace material (like carbon fiber composites) showing-up in a consumer product because it's "high tech".

The "secret" of titanium is that kinetic energy is proportional to the SQUARE of velocity, but only linearly related to the mass (the common formula is 1/2MV^2).

A lighter hammer can be accelerated by your arm more easily, and will have higher kinetic energy at impact than a conventional steel hammer.

In addition, Titanium has a modulus of elasticity (Young's modulud, or "E") roughly HALF that of steel (~17MM psi versus 33MM psi for steel) which means that it will dampen the shock wave from impact a lot better.

I suspect that one reason we are seeing titanium hammerheads is that the Former Soviet Union used to control a very high percentage of worldwide titanium "sponge" production, and with the Cold War at least temporarily called-off, they desperately need another outlet for the material.

Frankly, however, titanium is a horribly inefficient way to lower the weight of a hammer head, since the material is so expensive. A better solution from an engineering standpoint would be to remove weight from a steel hammer head (e.g. by making it like two parallel rails connected only at the head and claw). I'm sure that somebody patented something like that at least 100 years ago, but nobody would likely buy it because it doesn't look like a hammer is supposed-to.

Furthermore, you can't sell it with a one-word "high tech" pitch like "TITANIUM!!!" Oooo, high tech!

I suspect that you could get 3/4 of the benefits in a framing hammer just by drilling big transverse holes in it (use a diamond drill, the steel is HARD, and radius the edges of the holes to prevent stress risers. Better, do it before the heads are heat-treated.)

In short: Bah, hambug.

Posted: 10:55 am on July 3rd

ACRemodel writes: I didn't believe the difference myself until I borrowed one from my lead carpenter for an hour. I generally swing a 26oz. hammer and quite frankly, my forearms get pretty sore after about an hour (that's why we use pneumatic framing guns!). I like the weight though because I get more control in moving and adjusting things. You have to swing a lighter hammer harder to do the same thing and then you have more of a chance of marring an adjacent surface or over correcting an alignment problem. When I used the titanium hammer I got the same results from a much lighter hammer. Have I bought one? No. I still carry the old one around since I couldn't see investing $200 in a hammer I use to "adjust" or sink a couple of nails.
Posted: 10:53 am on July 3rd

Lair writes:
Amazon has this one for $83.38

Stiletto Ti16MC Ti 16 Milled Face Hammer with a Curved 18" Hickory Handle

Others models range from around $80 to $220
Posted: 10:51 am on July 3rd

Celsed writes: I bought a 14-oz Stiletto a couple of years ago for $100 and it has been a pleasure to use. It has some limitations of course--use it for nailing and not other tasks we often use hammers for. I believe the length and curvature of the handle have as much to do with the success of this tool as the head material.

Posted: 10:49 am on July 3rd

G1ville writes: I have a straight handle titanium 14 oz. that I got in '99 (got my wife one the next year for doing Habitat). I paid a little over $60 at the time.

It swings much easier for me. It made nailing for my wife much easier than a steel 16 oz. I think for women, this thing is a dream.

I saw some at Meek's the other day. Well over $100 ( and securely fastened to the display - you couldn't even hold it, only look at it).
Posted: 10:39 am on July 3rd

BenchBrush writes: I do not believe that the claims are true.

Your opening statement claims that a titanium hammer transfers 97% of input energy to the nail head, while a steel hammer transfers only 70% to the nail. Those are very precise numbers, which must be backed with independent tests if they are to be believed. Where does the "lost" energy go? Lacking independent validation of energy transfer, the 27% claim is marketing BS. Possibly your complete article will provide proof.

In wine tasting, most panelists greatly prefer the $45 wine to the $15 wine, even when the bottles contain the same wine.

Most nails are steel, should we find a Ti nail source?

Posted: 10:37 am on July 3rd

badoyn writes: The only way I could get one of those is to win it!

Will it hurt just as much when I slam my thumb?

Posted: 10:30 am on July 3rd

cwppwc writes: "Can a hammer said to be beautiful"? The answer is is "YES"!
Posted: 10:29 am on July 3rd

larryren writes: If I had a Titanium Hammer, I'd hammer in the morning, I'd hammer in the evening all over this land, I'd hammer out danger, I'd hammer out warning, I hammer out the love between my brothers and my sisters o o all over this land!
Posted: 10:29 am on July 3rd

aravere writes: I guess I'm not the only one that would appreciate almost 50% more power and efficiency. Enter me into the drawing, please!
Posted: 10:29 am on July 3rd

tim2183 writes: I'll take the TiboneII, looks great! Thanks.

Tim

Posted: 10:26 am on July 3rd

metal writes: Interesting concept and good use of technology, but doesn't justify the price tag of $200 in my opinion. Also, I don't believe this is a wise investment for the manufacturer from a marketing perspective. A non-professional framer, such as myself, would most likely never consider spending this much on a hammer. Professional framers will probably opt for pneumatic nailers, and go with a cheaper steel hammer for the occasional needs.
Posted: 10:17 am on July 3rd

tombres writes: I've used my present hammer SO much that its now concave.It certainly needs a replacement and that Titanium is so very tough.It would fill the bill beautifully,[can a hanner be said to be beautiful?]
tombres
Posted: 10:15 am on July 3rd

countrybanker writes: I've mainly used titanium for lightweight backpacking gear, never even knew they made it into hammers. It sounds expensive, but is $200 for a hammer more expensive than $40 for a mug?
Posted: 10:11 am on July 3rd

Cragganmore writes: Ahh... yes!... but can it make you HIT the nail 97% of the time instead of only 70%? That's what I need.
Posted: 10:11 am on July 3rd

Willly writes: I teach Building Construction and Cabinetmaking in a high school, I have a few 16 20 and 22oz Steel Estwing hammers that the students use.
I think it would be valuable for students to experience
the feel of a titanium hammer as a number of them do go on
and start an apprenticeship.
Knowing the future health benefits, I then believe students would consider this option in the future.

Posted: 10:08 am on July 3rd

JayTX writes: Rob, I have tried a freind's titanium hammer and agree that it makes a great framing hammer. I have not brought myself to fork over the cash yet to buy one. Perhaps with this note, I'll just win one.
Posted: 10:08 am on July 3rd

jessi_joe writes: My hubby is the builder in the family and this would be just what he would need for some of the real heavy duty projects. Thank you for the chance to win one.
Posted: 9:55 am on July 3rd

shannon_billy writes: My husband would love to have this hammer. He does most of the building and what not. This would be an AWESOME gift for a just because gift. Thank you for the opportunity to win something this cool!!
Posted: 9:51 am on July 3rd

WillyJack writes: Sounds like it's sure worth a try. I'd have to see if a 67 year old dog can learn the new tricks required. I also have a 50 year old contractor buddy who's starting to fall apart; it might be just the thing for him.
Posted: 9:51 am on July 3rd

RARW writes: Since I am in the shop mostly this is the first Iv'e heard of them. Sounds great, particuarly the power transfer. I would love to have one.
Posted: 9:43 am on July 3rd

daveo writes: i've used my stilletto for the past 9 years, bought it for what seemed to be an outrageous price. it felt better than any hammer i'd swung before, that's why i bought it. i've noticed guys around me going through new hammers every few years or having to replace handles. not mine. i think it cost around $100, so that breaks down to $10 a year = better quality, swing, and with the hatchet style handle better ergonomics. i'll never swing anything else. nuff said
Posted: 9:32 am on July 3rd

BigO writes: Already suffering from elbow problems I think I will be forced to try one of these hammers despite the costs. Its cheaper than the deductibles to a specialist for sure. I just hope its not to late for me.
Posted: 8:00 am on July 3rd

gonuts writes: I do use the Stilletto just for health reasons! After two years of fighting elbow and wrist extensor problems and swinging one that a friend had, I threw down for one myself. It was less than the price of 2 accupuncture treatments. The magnet starter is neat too. You can pick nails off of the ground without stooping

The only time my wrist bugs me is after a day of hanging drywall with the screw gun, I use a 12v lithium ion for fencing instead of the 18v dewalt drill. I feel that it is easier on me also, not to mention you can set screws in cedar pickets from the start of the day to lunch time without changing a battery.

Posted: 2:24 am on July 3rd

ebwolf writes: I've never been a hammer-man - always looking to the cordless screwdriver. This is mostly because my hand-eye coordination isn't up-to-snuff with my steel hammer. I wonder how much the titanium would correct that!
Posted: 2:00 am on July 3rd

tek writes: I've only swung a Ti at a trade show, but that brief experience is an eye opener. I know it's a very durable material, but something so light just seems like it would be delicate. I've never heard anyone with one regret the decision.
Posted: 11:04 pm on July 2nd

btuftee writes: I've played around with the Ti hammers at the local Farm & Fleet store, and I was just amazed at the weight and swing characteristics. I was also amazed to see no less than three anti-theft security devices on the hammers, which is what actually caught my eye in the first place - a stick-on anti-theft tag, and two cable-connected units with a flashing LED! Count me in with the group of people who probably can't justify a $200 hammer, since they don't swing it for a living, but I can certainly appreciate the ergonomics.
Posted: 10:55 am on July 2nd

michaelb1478 writes: Sounds like a really great tool. I don't think I could spend 200 bucks on a hammer though. My question though is how does it transfer more energy. I know titanium is lighter and stronger but steel is generally heavier ie.. denser and it seems a heavier denser hammer would transfer more energy. Just curious.
Posted: 8:07 pm on July 1st

mikemorrison writes: After only about ten years of swinging an Estwing steel hammer, and at the ripe old age of 34, my right elbow is just about toast. I have three different Estwings and I love them but the steel does seem to take its toll. I spend more time now building furniture and teaching woodworking but if I was going to go back to full time carpentry I'd definitely consider spending the money on titanium so that I could work with less pain.
Posted: 5:18 pm on July 1st

Fyrzowt writes: I just purchased my first titanium hammer last week. I haven't given it too much work yet, but so far I like the feel. I got the wood handle model because it was closer to my price range. I still got quizzed about the price when I got home... :-)
Posted: 12:38 pm on July 1st

zimmerdale writes: Yes, I'd like to try a titanium hammer. No, I don't have money to spend on one. So your offer sounds great.
Posted: 9:53 am on July 1st

stpatrick writes: I bought 2 Stiletto's approx 5 years ago when I was starting to re-roof my house. One was for me and the 2nd was for my neighbor and buddy who was helping. He has always been half animal and insists on using an Estwing steel or another i do not recognize, but seems to have a yellow hard rubber/plastic or ? handle. Ihad read alot of comments abotu the new titanium hammers and the benefits, etc, so I got him one as a "thank you" in advance. He would use while I was watching, but kept going back to the old steel one . . . and to this day the titanium justs sits hanging above his bench (hext to an unused Hart). . . . whereas mine has gotten alot of weekend warrior work. I do not understand it, but i have come to accept that you just can't teach new tricks to some old dogs.

Mine is not worn out, just broken in . . . . but my son is getting to the age that if i don't get him one, mine might just get hard for me to find in my garage, as hr "borrows" it.

Cheers.
Posted: 1:02 am on July 1st

meinecke writes: i sent a comment but i think it got lost in the ether

Sadly, my Hart framer laid its head to rest in my shop, replaced by a wooden handled titanium wacking stick. It is one of the best decisions I have made since unicorns walked the land. My elbow likes me again, especially in the winter. On my tool belt, my lower back likes me again. The Hart framer sat heavy, I tried to make it lighter but the helium balloons got in the way...
My biggest regret was that i did not purchase the solid titanium one, better grip in the winter, potentially more durable and the handle matches my tuxedo...

Posted: 10:45 pm on June 30th

meinecke writes: the theory is placed aside when you actually use a titanium hammer. going from a thunderclub to a titanium hammer you find the initial swinging force employed to use a framing hammer is replaced with more of a "snap" at the finish. My Hart framer is basking in retirement at the shop.
When I first got the titanium hammer i found myself wanting to baby it, just cautious that it might get damaged- being an unfamiliar metal and all. The actual metal survives abuse. I only wish I got the solid titanium number (mine is wood handled)- at the outset it might seem expensive but in contrast to technology or fashion that people in office jobs drop serious dollars on, 200 bones for a T-bone is a pittance. You use it everyday- it reduces damage on your body- no brainer. I just wish it did something for the knees....

Posted: 10:22 pm on June 30th

elink001 writes: I have been looking them over at the local outlets, very nice! Just can't believe the price. But as always you get what you pay for.
Posted: 10:19 pm on June 30th

xxPaulCPxx writes: I got a Stiletto for my Mother in law for her work with Habitat... I wanted to prevent any injuries for this now retired woman. I warned her that her hammer would be coveted by the pros leading the team - and I was right! She loves the hammer.

Me, I do a lot of different stuff but I never got good enough with the swing of a hammer. While I CAN sink a 16d in two whacks (I only bend or bounce 25% of the nails!)... I can only do a very few... but my impact driver can drive a #10 screw over and over again.
Posted: 9:52 pm on June 30th

seres writes: I started with steel hammers on a steel handle, like the Rocket and Estwing, back in the 70's and continued through the mid 90's. Then I bought my first titanium, a Stiletto 16oz with a wood handle. I had heard all the good remarks about titanium, and I just wanted to give it a try. What an amazing tool! I would never go back to a steel hammer.
Posted: 8:20 pm on June 30th

purplerays writes: I bought an axe handled Stilletto about three years ago. I thought $80 was a lot for a hammer, but within a short time my elbow pain went away. That, and the lighter weight in my pouch made it worth the money. I have rehandled it 4 times, and the milled face is smooth, but I would never go back.
Posted: 5:19 pm on June 30th

part-timer writes: As a burly young framer I thought that rigging axes were the only way to heaven. 20 years and many injections later, a lighter and more ergonomic hammer gets the job done almost as well........
Posted: 3:54 pm on June 30th

TroutMullins writes: Intersting product. Seems like it would be worthwhile trying. I always thought that the mass of the hammer (momentum) helped drive the nail. I assume the titanium hammers are lighter, so less momentum. They may drive nails well, but what about other things hammers are used for?
Posted: 2:51 pm on June 30th

Proclive writes: I was able to use a fellow carpenter's 10oz stiletto for a couple of hours on the work site a while ago. It is incredibly light and has one of those "Wow, am I actually holding it or is it floating?" feelings. I hated giving it back to him at the end of day, but I will march on with the heavy feel of my Douglas 18oz wearing me down.
Posted: 2:48 pm on June 30th

wwinter writes: My neighbor loaned me his Titanium hammer to try for a few days. Because it was so light I had some doubt, I had read about them and they sounded good but at the price I knew that I couldn't buy one. How do you convince your wife that you need a $200 hammer.With the first nail I drove I was amazingly surprized with the sheer power. I have been swinging a steel hammer for 30 years and yes I have had problems with my elbow,shoulder and wrist. After the first day with the Titanium I could tell that there was less fatiuge in my arm. The only problem I had was the head was bigger than my steel hammer and it took a while to dial in so I was'nt bending nails. After having my neighbors Titanium for over a year I guess it is time to give it back to him.
Thanks Willy
Posted: 2:03 pm on June 30th

holtzlou writes: Just got my first cortisone shot!. Doc says I have to go easy on it. Let him make my mortgage payment! Sounds like a perfect time for a lighter hammer. Send me a hammer while I still have a house!

Posted: 12:58 pm on June 30th

JoeH writes: I have a Hart framer and a bad elbow.

Got a cortisone shot a couple years ago, and it worked!!

Worked so well I thought I was only 50 again and ruined it again.

Tried the $38 Stilleto trade in offer & found my local dealer wasn't participating, so still don't have one.

Sad story, please send my free hammer.

Joe H

Posted: 12:45 pm on June 30th

sandinsnow writes: After 23 years of climing ice and seeing the change in ice hammers and how easier the new ones are to use than the old. I would love to try out a new fangled hammer and my 5 year old son could have my old steel hammer to build his tree house.
Posted: 11:14 am on June 30th

JerraldHayes writes: Was just lamenting the demise (crack in the handle) of my ancient Hart and was thinking of maybe trying out titanium one to replace it. Even if I don't win one I will probably look at getting one anyway,
Posted: 10:30 am on June 30th

tjr10 writes: I am curious at how well the titanium hammers work for hitting other things, besides nails... bars, cat's paws, coaxing plates into place, etc. Pounding nails all day (even with a big hammer) doesn't necessarily irritate me. But i definitely feel it in my arms after doing a lot of remodeling/demolition that involves hitting bars and working in tighter quarters, without room to get a good swing. To me it seems like that is where the wrist and elbow pain comes from, and i dont know if i would be real eager to subject a $200 hammer to that abuse. I would give it a try though, or save it for days when we are just framing.
Posted: 10:14 am on June 30th

glatt writes: I've used steel hammers, mostly with wood handles, all my life. They have worked just fine. I don't do a lot of hammer work any more, but when I do, I grab a tried and true steel one. Are Titanium hammers better? I'd really like to see for myself, but I've never had a chance to use one. $200 for a hammer is too much for me and my current needs.
Posted: 9:49 am on June 30th

brigilbert writes: I don't believe that Titanium hammers have made their way downunder. At the current exchange rate they would retail for about $240 AU. A lot of money for a tool but nevertheless if you use it everyday still worth considering in my book.
Posted: 8:57 am on June 30th

dpbellus writes: I've always used steel hammers. When I bought my first home I used a 20oz Stanley to frame the upstairs, install trim, build cabinets, sheds, etc. It did the jobs, but looking back I think it would've been smoother with different hammers. Since then I've collected a few different hammers; a 16oz, a 21oz Stanley framer, a 12oz Estwing, a 24oz Estwing framer, and a Dalluge framer. I found the big Estwing too tiring for framing, the small 16oz is good for trim. Now whenever I drive framing nails I go for the Dalluge. It has a milled face which grips really well, and I can swing it all day without tiring my forearm. The lighter weight of titanium really makes a difference. The higher cost of these types of hammers is tough, but I'm very happy with mine. The best thing would be to try one out. If you can find someone with an extra, try borrowing it for a day. If you have an extra, lend it to someone for a day(although they'll probably like it, and you may not get it back!!).
Posted: 8:16 am on June 30th

hipaul writes: I've only picked up a titanium hammer once, it just felt a little weird swinging it. I'm sure like anything it probably takes a little bit of un-training to get used to it.

I use a 20 oz Douglas framing hammer for my main hammer. It's light enough that I don't put anything out of whack swinging it around for a while, but heavy enough that I can still drive home some 16d's when I'm not air nailing. With the inverted waffle face I can still use it (lightly) on trim and fascia and moving wood into place if it's the hammer that's on my belt. Otherwise I use an 18 oz Douglas for a lot of trim work, or a 16oz Dalluge or 12 oz Dalluge for lighter trim work. And then a 20 oz dalluge decking hammer that I still haven't actually used yet.

I've got a leather wrapped 18oz estwing that I only keep because it was my first "real" hammer, and then a 22oz steel estwing that I use just for demo because it won't die.

I'm a big fan of using what feels best for each particular job, so it doesn't make
make me feel too weird to have 6 or 7 hammers in one of my bags.

On one of my last extended projects the first thing I did was pound in some nails for hanging cords and hoses, and then put up a board with a bunch of nails so that my hammers were organized and at quick reach. The homeowner, who is a bit of a neat freak, loved that my hammers were hung up and organized from small to big. I think that that may be one of the real reasons they keep calling me back for more jobs!

Posted: 2:04 am on June 30th

robby686 writes: I swing a wood handled steel framer all day. My Boss swings a stilleto (when he actually puts the phone down and takes the hammer out of the belt ;). I sure am envious of his stilletto. I love the feel of the titanium over the steel. It really is a superior tool if you ask me.
Posted: 12:53 am on June 30th

aaronharmon writes: I used a titanium hammer once, and I was really impressed, but for the little amount I use my current framing hammer, it would be tough to justify the cost. If I was a carpenter for a living, I would certainly own one.
Posted: 10:25 pm on June 29th

TimMcn writes: I have a titanium framing hammer and use it almost everyday. I was able to purchase mine used so it was reduced in price some, which helped me justify the cost in my mind. I can't imagine going back to swinging a regular hammer now after almost three years of daily use. I am in my thirties and health was a factor in deciding to purchase a $200 Stiletto. One of the smaller trim hammers is on the list of future tools to be purchased.
Posted: 10:05 pm on June 29th

Clutchcargo writes: A titanium hammer doesn't make intuitive sense to me. It might make sense if the handle was titanium but the hammer head?
I would love to prove myself wrong so maybe if I win, I'll find out first hand but I don't think I'll shell out $200 clams for a hammer.

Posted: 9:20 pm on June 29th

CMaddox writes: I worked with a bunch of guys who swore by their Stilettos, but I couldn't afford it. I did a bunch of research, read a ton of reviews, and found the hammer I wanted to buy was also one of the cheapest. I use a Stanley Antivibe. I really like it. Smack something dense with it and you can tell the difference from the standard Estwing. I don't know how it would compare to a Stiletto everyday, but I'm probably more abusive to a cheap steel hammer than I could let myself be with a pricier one. I find the fact that titanium transfers more energy very interesting. I would consider giving Stiletto a second look now. It would be wise to be proactive about the wear and tear of construction work on the body. Thanks for the tips!
Posted: 9:03 pm on June 29th

andrew1989 writes: I currently have a fiberglass hammer that works great. How ever I know a few framers who swear by them. Ill give one a shot.
Posted: 8:13 pm on June 29th

calvin writes: Like Snort, I've used wood handled steel since I parked my Rocket in the 70's. The advent of air nailers probably has done more to preserve the wrist and elbow than my hammer selection. However, after I switched to a wood handle, fatigue from impact seemed to lessen. I've never given a thought to switch to titanium. After well over 30 yrs maybe I'm too stupid to notice the difference.
Posted: 7:35 pm on June 29th

renosteinke writes: Hammer? What's that?

I do electric work. As such, it's pretty rare for me to use an ordinary hammer. Yet, I have a few thoughts ...

First, the physics of swinging a hammer seem to be similar to swinging a bat; everyone has their own compromise between weight and speed for the most effective hits. Apart from simple weight ("mass") there is also something they call 'cross sectional density' in the shooting sports. That is, you want all the weight lined up in a straight line right behind the point of impact.

Titanium is softer than the hardest steels, so I'm not surprised to see steel faces on titanium hammers.

There is something to be said for having less weight hanging from your tool belt, and the no-rust part is nice as well.

For all the hoopla about the hamer head, I suspect that the handle is what really matters. We saw this when Hart departed from the usual hammer handle, preferring an ax handle instead. In my own experience, changing to a different handle on my hammer has made a world of difference in my hit/miss ration (especially in awkward positions), and I suspect the handle has more of an effect on the sore arms than the head.
Posted: 7:29 pm on June 29th

DonCanDo writes: I don't use hammers much anymore, but my favorites are steel with a fiberglass shaft which I feel helps absorb vibration better than a steel shaft and is more durable than wood.

$200 is too much for a hammer that's used occasionally. If I swung a hammer every day and my tennis elbow returned, I would definitely consider titanium.
Posted: 6:40 pm on June 29th

clinkard writes: I am thinking about getting one for my business partner as a present for christmas. He has been framing with the same 22oz Steel estwing that he was given by another carpenter when he was 24, its waffle already smooth as syrup. He is experiencing severe elbow pain as well going for acupuncture, (no surgery yet), but we need his elbow to last for another ten years until all he does is sign cheques!
Posted: 6:34 pm on June 29th

Snort writes: I've always swung steel, mostly wooden handles... but I'd sure give a free titanium baby a try!
Posted: 6:00 pm on June 29th

EileenAtBeach writes: After two years of cortisone shots, physical therapy and a lot of pain, I finally went ahead and had the elbow surgery I have needed since a long session of framing and sledgehammering. I'm told I'll be able to return to work, but will need to be extremely careful not to push it. I have been thinking about a titanium hammer for a while and would love to give it a try. After all the pain and money this injury has cost me, $200 seems a very small price to pay.
Posted: 5:44 pm on June 29th

ronbudgell writes: I have never used a titanium hammer, but I do usually use a hammer lighter than anybody else does, a 16 for framing, a 13 for trim.
I believe that technique trumps weight.
Weight in a hammer trumps physiology. The result is damage to your body and then pain.
This is so often compounded by hopelessley bad design in hammers, hammers that give you no grip, so you have to cling to it hard enough to squeeze the blood from a stone - all day! Then there are hammers that transmit every vibration from the head into your hand. There are hammers that ring like a very high pitched bell with every stroke. And there are hammers that are designed unbalanced in such a way that every time you hit something with it, it transfers a torque to the handle which you hav e to absorb with your hand.
There's a lot of bad hammers around.
I also believe that good design and good materials can trump technique.

Posted: 4:46 pm on June 29th

GregGibson writes: I'd love to try a titanium hammer ! I've never even handled one. My Son and I are building a 12 x 16 elevated cabin on our creekfront property in southwest Georgia. I'm up 7 feet on telephone poles, because the creek floods every 4 or 5 years. The bottom of my 2 x 10's are 7 feet above grade. On March 28, we had about 20 inches of rain in about 24 hours. The water came up five feet on my poles !

We are completely off grid, so there will be a lot of hand nailing. I have a generator, but for a short work session, it's a lot of trouble to load and take to the woods.

I'd like very much to give one a test drive. I'm 52 years old, and the wrists and elbows have a lot of miles on them.

Greg
Posted: 4:32 pm on June 29th

rps52 writes: During a period of extensive framing, I developed severe elbow pain that required well over a year to heal completely. After a year of a throbbing elbow, several cortisone shots and reduced productivity, $200 doesn't sound like a bad deal if I could have avoided.
Posted: 4:16 pm on June 29th

jayhav writes: As an avid tennis player, I have a lot of experience with elbow and joint injuries. I'm still trying to build up to the DIY quality of FineHomebuilding, but I think given my injuries from other causes the investment could be worth it. In my mind the comparison isn't necessarily between the $200 hammer and the $10 hammer. If the $10 hammer causes pain for the user, they are going to find an alternative -- maybe even an expensive air-powered or electric drive solution. If a $200 hammer lets them perform the same work with no pain and without the complications or air-hoses, battery packs or power cords then I think its a no brainer.
Posted: 4:09 pm on June 29th

Skyboy writes: Frankly, I would love a titanium hammer, but alas, I don't have $200 to spend on one. I have hurt my hand and elbow way to much over the years, but hope that doesn't happen anymore after this comment.
Posted: 4:02 pm on June 29th

19000mike writes: If it saves the elbow and wrist damage then I will buy one. We don,t get younger.........
Posted: 3:59 pm on June 29th

JohnDPoole writes: I don't think that $200 is unreasonable at all, if I had to swing a hammer all day (e.g., a framing hammer). If the efficient transfer of energy provided by the titanium head saves me from injury, then I think it's well worth the price.
Posted: 2:24 pm on June 29th