An elementary but important carpentry technique offers the correct way to extract a “frozen” nail with a claw hammer. With the recalcitrant nail held firmly between the claws, lever the handle down toward the work at right angles to the hammer head.
This method offers greater leverage and control than the more common practice of lifting the handle up and away from the work. The claws have to be sharp and the handle has to be strong — requirements for any good hammer.
Dick Haward, Nehalem, OR