dpbellus

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!!).