I don't do a lot of framing purely with hammer, but me and my buddy did build his house last year just with framing hammers and nails and I have to say, sitting up on a ridge beam out in the PA back country and hearing the woodpeckers doing their own hammering, and ravens calling, autumn leaves turning and the cool wind blowing, while you joke with your friend and sink nails is a feeling that can't be duplicated. Sometimes it's good to remind yourself that you're a human, and not a production machine. Sure we took our time and spent five days doing what could have taken three; but I don't think it was time lost, it was experience gained.
I love story’s like yours man that’s the kinda shit i live for just busting it up with a buddy getting something done that needs to be done that’s what being a man is all about
Hell YES! I built a tiny house with my dad. One month, then he went home to hang out with mommy. Then another month. We were working slowly, and hauling ass at the same time. And it was so FUN! Zero stress!
Awesome 40 year framer here I use a lot of your tricks just by working all these years You learn from great teachers. Maybe if you're lucky you run into 3 in your lifetime. Then , you learn your own tricks . But your evolution of the hammer is basically exactly the road I lived. Great videos. All your string tying tricks I've done on my own and lots of stuff you show. I go awe Yeah
this channel, people... i am a law graduate, and this MAN has undoubtedly ignited a fire for work generally, but most of all, it introduced me into wood working/ carpentry/ etc and I know all you guys will probably be blue collar workers, and trust me, I admire you all, but let me just say that me, a person without much of a previous interest in manual labor, have began to work on myself in this aspect and this channel is SUCH a great influence, not only regarding working but life advice and habits and being a man driven to feed people that he cares about. I love being a part of this community, even though I know you guys, working hard, would eat me alive :D
I run the same hammer with a different handle (shaped more like an axe handle) and I agree that at the end of the day, my elbow feels great. I’m 58 and carpenters half my age are complaining about elbow pain but won’t take my advice on investing in their health by purchasing a stiletto. Love your content and your message.
I grew up framing with nails and a hammer. Today things have changed and I use a 15 oz titanium hammer for most of my framing work. With nail guns and screws we use today most of the uses for the hammer is finishing a nail that didn't completely drive or adjusting framing. One thing I really appreciate is the reduced weight that I carry in my belt. Everything in my belt is as lite as I can find.
I framed for 15 years before going back to school to become an engineer. The Stiletto was the best hammer I have ever owned. It once dropped out of my bag, between the floor joists, it hit the concrete floor below, and bounced up just far enough for me to reach between the joists and snatch it back into my hand.
@@mustafabashir8127 I stopped drinking and using drugs and got bored of what I was doing. As far as advice I would give... Live sober, be curious, raise your hand and ask questions. Finding the answer to something is often easy with digital copies of solutions manuals and Chegg, but sometimes they are wrong. As yourself how they got to that answer instead of just what is the correct answer.
@@mustafabashir8127 realizing you can make the same amount of money working 40hrs a week. less fights with your wife, more time to do what you want, less pain.
@@mustafabashir8127 Find someone that's older with a lot of experience. Look at his job sites, make sure they're clean when things are getting built. Pop by for a couple of hours and see what they're like with everyone on the jobsite. If you like how they work, ask if you can apprentice under them and help them with their projects in the future. The ay sucks at first, but you will learn a LOT in a short period of time
As someone who does not work in the trades, when I was building my 3500sf pole barn shop, I bought a Stiletto framing hammer and a finish hammer specifically because I knew I didn’t have the strength built up from swinging the heavy hammers every day. They were phenomenal and I still use them whenever I have a project that needs nails driven.
You are such a great communicator. The tone of you voice, the choice of words you choose, mixed with your video content. Amazing. I’d listen to a motivational talk or sermon given from you.
The Stiletto Hammer is a great Christmas gift for anyone in the trades. I was gifted one from my brother as a thank you gift and I think about that fact every time i use it...which is a lot.
I just noticed that Homedepot has a few models of Stilleto on sale. $90 each for both smooth and milled face 14oz models, and a little smooth face 10oz model. Lowes does not carry Stilleto.
Agreed--if your star young employee or handy hubby doesn't own one of these, nothing makes a better gift for any carpenter with enough experience to have seen these things but never dared to splurge. Certainly for any pro carpenter the benefits more than make up for the cost. Buy the all-titaium Ti-bone if you can afford it. The hickory handle, titanium head described in this video is super light and great for nailing, but it sucks for everything else (pulling nails and demo and using the hammer like an ice pick handle to pick up and transport window headers, etc.). About half of carpenters who purchase the hickory handle because it's much less expensive end up sinking another $300 later on what they really want.
The all-titanium Ti-bone (or other brand of your choice) are pretty, work greate for nailing in normal grip positions and obviously are better at pulling nails/demo BUT try using it when you're up in the trusses, setting hips/perlings-when you're swing your hammer sideways and super choked up on the handle (about the only way you'll see framers setting perlings on flat top trusses before sheathing is on. The all metal handles are terrible for out of posiition nailing, particularly when you have to choke up on the handle. At least that's my oppinion and experience with wood (or wood shaped) handles versus all metal handles. The all metal estwing, 28 oz, waffle or smooth face, is an AWESOME hammer, just absolutely terrible to choke up on the handle. Plus the skinny metal handle almost acts like an axe if it ever accidentally hits a finger (think out of position nailing, like putting on joist hangers on an elevated deck when standing on the joist/rim-joist) @@zacharyroyce
@@Ifishmo Interesting. I am trying to understand exactly what you mean by out of position hammering. I suppose you mean when you have to swing up or sideways or maybe at an oblique angle like for tight in work with hangers or whatever, but then I don't follow how that is different with a wood handle. I do see how my dad's old small (or normal sized, not framing) metal handle (with leather ring grips) and my 28oz Estwing (my first framing hammer) with their blade-like shafts between grip and head would be unpleasant for choked up grip and an edge hazard if you get either your grip or support hand in the way, but my Tibone (and I suppose the same applies to Martinez) is not nearly that narrow and sharp and I have not noticed issues with awkward hammering or hitting choked up. You might use your hammer more than I do and thus run into situations I don't. I don't use my hammer much setting trusses except for metal hangers. I do hit choked up all the time when no one is looking who might think less of my manliness. I am trying to understand what you mean about flat-top truss purlins--I wonder if you mean cross bracing on the underside in which you would be nailing up, or like barn trusses spaced too far apart to span with your stance so you have to maybe hammer down while standing underneath?? Forgive me, I've been doing this less than ten years and there's still lots of things I haven't done.
I splurged on a Stilletto, like that one, based on watching this channel. For general building and often just setting screws, I love my stiletto and for hard-to-reach spots, I really love that magnet nail setter. For demo work I still grab my weight forward Estwing as it is also an awesome nail puller and I don’t like beating up my stiletto, banging away on a cats paw.
I too similarly mimic Nicholas' comment. Bought the 14 oz Stilletto based on watching your video, and use a 20oz Bostitch Ripping Hammer for everything "dirty". I also recently purchased something new, that you will know- a 5lb. Formsetter. It's not a tool that I need, but will still get fair amount of use, and it's purchase is primarily due to my intrigue and desire to support the work you do and share with us, and the inspirational work ethic that Andrew Larson possesses. You guys are awesome. Keep up the good work.
if you bought a Ferrari would you park it in the garage or drive it like you stole it ? don't baby that stilleto treat it like a two dollar whore ! that's what it's made/designed for or don't then you have an expensive paperweight just sayin'
Started with a Estwing back when I poured concrete because they are tough and last forever. When I started framing, I went to a Cali style framer and used a 16oz Estwing for overhead work. Now that Im older I switched to a Martinez and my elbow and wrist thank me for it everytime I pick it up.
I used to hang siding where you must use a hammer. Buying a stiletto was life changing. I think it's a 10oz. Pain in my arm/wrist was gone and the weight on my belt greatly reduced. I don't work construction anymore but to this day it's one of my prized possessions.
Proverbs 22: 29 Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown men. Always a pleasure listening to your wisdom.
It might seem crazy to spend a ton of money on quality ratchet to do your job to an outsider. But as an auto mechanic my cushioned handle fine tooth long flex head cornwell 3/8 ratchet was life changing. Gives me confidence. Just works. Good tools help you do your job and sometimes I forget that. Every battery powered doodad will never be as reliable as that rachet. I totally get your point here. Eloquent and poetic video on tools.
When I broke into drywall in the mid-70's, I started off with a plumb ax. It worked because I didn't know any better. I soon tried a 14oz 'Wallboard' and never looked back. I've tried others on occasion but still use my wallboard. I've replaced the handle 3 times and resurfaced the face twice. I think it comes down to 2 things. The right tool for the job and what works for you. Might seem silly to some but I only use specific brands because others just don't 'feel' right.
I still have the Stilletto I bought in 1999. At the time I was just breaking into my commercial superintendent position, which I retired from nearly 20 years later. Consequently, the Stiletto still has the original handle, though the corrugation is nearly worn off. It is a very good tool. I’ll have until I am no more.
For the last 20 years of my commercial construction career, the hammer did not get much use. But, it was in the truck, with the nail bags. One of the carpenters helping me was getting s tool out of the truck box and noticed my nail bags in the box. He expressed surprise that they. were there, and asked me why I still had them with me. I told him that I might need to jump in and give a hand some time. And I on occasion, when the situation allowed.
As a commercial electrician, i always buy the best for the tools i use all day everyday. Not only are they better quality, but they are a joy to use and you enjoy reaching in your bag for them.
Started with Plumb, Vaughn and Hart hammers. Still have most of them although I need about 6 new handles. Many sizes, types and smooth and corregated. 47 years, now retired. Thank you sir for all the great videos and the memories that they bring back.
purchased a Stiletto couple years ago Have a finish one that is absolutely wonderful The framer is great for driving nails,but as you pointed out has no power for moving plates or much else Also the magnet for holding nails fell out the first time I used it. Thanks BT
I bought my stilleto a couple of weeks ago , because of your advice on it and man , I love it ! I've nailed over 500 nails today and have no pain in my arms at all , thanks for the tip. Greetings from far away Brazil
I will never come close to using a hammer for a living. Unless I'm intent on getting hurt. But damn what a pleasure it is to hear a professional talk about his tool and profession.
"Unless I'm intent on getting hurt." That's just a part of the job. There isn't a single week that goes by that I make it without leaking a little "vital fluid" for my living.
Thank you! The first time you talked about the Stiletto on the channel i bought me one and have used it for some small stuff and building a workshop and it feels grate! I work all day in front of a computer and my hands, wrists and forearms are not harden for the use of a hammer for 20 h on a weekend. So this is a super advice for those of us who do some intense hammering, but far in between =)
I went from a 25oz estwing on a hickory handle to a stiletto about a decade ago when I started to get tennis elbow and haven't looked back. I don't regularly swing a hammer anymore but I am framing my own house right now, and I just decided to get a Martinez M1 solely because I feel like I'm going to rip the head off my stiletto pulling nails out of bracing, and I've almost thrown the thing across the jobsite multiple times wearing gloves (it's below freezing), so extra grip is needed. The milling on my stiletto is completely gone - it's a smooth face and has been for a long time. Ultimately, I was skeptical of the newfangled titanium hammer back then, which is why I took so long to adopt it, but it was a great decision that I don't regret.
As a Concrete guy I really like a 16 oz Estwing rubber handle with a 2" mark on handle for use in wall straightening faster than getting a tape measure out of a pouch. I also use as a pick and can use hammer side ways to put grade in a 8" wall. For $25 I get 10 years of use before claw wears out and doesn't pull nails.
I bought my stiletto in 04 and also started with a 28oz Vaughn that later created some serious tendinitis and switched to a craftsman 23 oz but I still had tendinitis until I switched to stiletto, I now have 3, a framer the original, the all purpose stiletto with the titanium body and a back up framer. I love these hammers and love the hickory axe handles, balance, nail set. Best hammer still!
They are nice but i'm partial to my Dalluge titanium made in the Douglas Tool hammer pattern. The handle connection is unique and the over strike protection they have along the side nail puller make it super useful.
This style of hammer was invented in the early 70's when we used to cut the axe side of a rigging axe off and then weld on claws that were cut off of a Vaughn framing hammer. The weight was customized to your liking. We did this because the rigging axe was uniquely balanced and was really great for that but lacked the claws that we needed for pulling nails. All this made sense because we were driving 75-100 lbs of nails a day by hand. I doubt any framer could do that today. When we showed up to the jobsite before dawn you would see several fires burning on the site. That was because we mixed parrafin with gasoline which made a milky soup that we sprinkled on the open box of nails which was then lit on fire. When the gas burned off, a light coating of parafin coated the nails making them easer to drive home with one swat. unfortunately, they would back out just as easy which obviously wasn't good so the nail manufacturers started coating the bright nails with a heat activated green glue film. We called them " green stinkers". Then someone invented the nailgun and the mohicans took over the trade and everything went to shit as far as quality was concerned. It was fun to watch. Glad I was part of it. Southern California track carpenters. Best in the world.
Your videos are an inspiration...and super informative. I buy and restore old hand planes, and using them is the best experience to be had. Good tools are like fine cookware for a chef. It doesn't feel like work when you have a fine tool in your hand.
My crew doesn’t do too much framing, mainly interior remodels. Every once in a while we get a bigger framing job, and I always love watching the younger guys realize that they are just as capable at driving nails with a 19-22 oz wood handle hammer as they are with their 28oz estwing. Because I did the same thing! I took the job and went out and bought an estwing and showed up feeling like I was ready to do some real work and then after the first large project we did I immediately went out and bought a lighter wood handled hammer like all the old hands were using! Still love my estwing and one day I’ll teach my kids about building and let them have it, but for now my elbows thank me every evening for the switch!
The 14 oz curved handle milled face Stiletto has been on my Amazon wishlist for over a year now. I don’t do enough framing to justify the purchase considering I already own a 19 oz Estwing, but I definitely know it will be more fun to swing given the opportunity to. I do however own the 10 oz smooth face Stiletto and it is a pleasure to set trim nails and little tappy things. I even used it as a framing hammer on occasion instead of going to the truck to switch to the Estwing.
In 1995 I bought a Hart 25 ounce California Framer. I loved the feel and the look of.the axe-shaped handle. After that, I never bought a straight-handled hammer again. They're just not as accurate, not as easy to swing, nor as effective at driving nails. I switched to a Vaughn 19 ounce framer in the summer of 2000. Its my favorite hammer, as such a tool of course becomes after decades of use. I use it every day, and I absolutely love it. But my son says the Stiletto actually drives nails BETTER than a steel hammer, and nowadays I have pain in my thumbs, so I'm seriously considering getting one. Your video might have been just the final push.
@W1ldt1m I did, in fact, spend $130 on a new Stiletto 14 oz framer. First thing I noticed was how the waffles immediately became smashed flat when I struck my cats catspaw. Very soft face. But the jury is still deliberating.
Yea titanium is softer than steel and the waffles don’t last as long. I’ve known guys to recut them with a grinder but I never bothered didn’t seem to make much difference once your old and hit square.
I remember back in the 70s framing in the Bay Area, we would take the rigging axe and cut the blade off it then weld claws on it. The main reason was, back then, most of the jobs were union and it was illegal to use the rigging axe. If the business agent came out on the job site, he could easily see that framers were using a rigging axe. And your right, they will do a number on your thumb.
As a framer/carpenter for the last 40 years i have always chased the weight of a tool, started with a 28 oz estwing for all day hand drives. When I could afford a framing gun droped down to a 19 oz blue max with a wood handle. I currently us a 12 oz Stiletto its more of a tap stick. Years ago I ditched the skil 77"boat anchor" for the milwaukee left hand tilt lock it was half the weight. I parked my leather OXYS for nylon bags saved several pounds, I run the Badger trimmers great bags and lite. Cordless saws are getting heavy so I will still run a cord if I can. The old body is not what it used to be, but I'm still out there with the young guys, watching them see who can carry the most studs and doing what I love building stuff!
Bought a TI bone in 2013 when I started doing more formwork until I snapped the claws off in 2018. Bought a 14 oz wood Stiletto after that and used it for about 6-7 months. The lack of a steel face just made it wear out crazy fast and mushroom and I'd have to file off the burr every month or so since it would get so sharp. Bought a Martinez M1 in 2018 and it's going to be the hammer I retire with unless it grows legs. A tool you use every day is something that deserves to be a tool of quality.
I have a wooden handle stiletto hanging on the wall in my garage. It was a gift from my father for completing Carpentry Trade school. Now as a Journeyman my daily hammer is the Martinez M1.
Your video "framing hammer hall of fame" was the first video I watched of yours, and I did end up getting a Stiletto, and if you can afford it, they are great.
We always choose the tools that get our job done with the least amount of effort, if you have your head on straight. We also have multiples of tools that are built differently and perform differently for the job at hand. I have my favorites too in my field of work. They are just an assistant to my hands. Whether hammers or something else, all the same. Good video. Thanks.
"It is the tools that I love that I use." What a profound and classic statement. I can not tell you how much I appreciated your video, and the words you used to explain all of this. I happen to be a Dental Surgeon, and I have used some instruments, that I loved, for 48 years as a surgeon. And when I sold my practice and retired, I did not sell all of my instruments. I keep some aside for myself, as old treasured instruments. You sir, are a great craftsman, a true "eye hand coordinated person," and an eloquent speaker. Thank you, Doctor George Whitehead D.D.S. (1972-2020)
As someone who frames something only every few years I still rely on my first 23oz Vaugn California framer and my Dad's 70's 16oz finish, but I do have an axe too, it is a great addition to the general construction kit. But if I did more I would love the side pull and magnetic nail holder, those are great improvements to the hammer!
The 23 California framer was my hammer of choice for almost twenty years. I still have my last one from before I changed professions. Every morning at the site I found some sap oozing out of a board and rubbed it on the handle, Florida heat and humidity keeps you pouring sweat. Having it slip out of hand at full swing can be devastating.
Also, A few years ago someone on site shared a hammer trick, when you hold it rest your thumb up on back of the handle. You have a different range of motion then just your wrist and it honestly helps with power and balance too
@@Toyotaamazon80series I'm a Chippy in New Zealand, 35 years in the trade, as we call it here, & I've owned a fibreglas handled Vaughn 20oz for a very very long time & I worked out by observation many many moons ago that the hard rubber type handle grip has grooves in it for the side of your palm & for your trigger finger & Thumb for grip! Not many people like it as a Hammer, BUT I do & I'm the one using it!!! Personally, I don't like Eastwing hammers, I don't see or understand why people love them so much..... When I was a kid my Dad had a "Plumb" fiberglass handled 20oz Hammer (my Dad is 87 still has it 47 years later... he lost it for years!!!) & I grew up using that so perhaps that influenced me a lot.... I have bought 3 Eastwings over my 35 year time span in the construction though - I think a 25 & 28? oz 14" Framing hammers but don't like the long handles on them - too hard on my elbows ( I've had Tennis elbow in both arms probably 10 times or more ( & had 4 Quaterzone steriod injections in ea. forearm muscle to help heal it.... ) I really bought them for building/constructing timber/lumber retaining walls. The other Eastwing I bought is a 21oz Fiberglass handle are they ??? "Weight Forward" hammer, I bought it in excellent 2nd hand condition because it looked eye appealing, I liked the "weight forward" concept as that's what my Vaughn is exactly like I.e. all the weight is in the head of the hammer... & personally, I like a hammer in that style/format.... plus it has very flat Claws & also they're very tapered to quite a thin end & it's the same on my Vaughn & I also like that as a feature on a Hammer too. In New Zealand, 95% of Chippy's use Eastwings..... Very very predominantly we use 20oz in N.Z. rare to see higher weighted hammers in use.... I still use a 16oz, I have a "Bollox" a Japaneese made steel handled one for lighter duties..... bought it 2nd hand for $5.00!!! & My 22 year old 325 model Paslode framer gun is still going strong!!! I've still got my pneumatic "Senco" SFN70 Framing gun & SFN 40 Trim guns that I bought when I was 22 years old now I'm past a 1/2 century in age!!!
As an electrician for the first half of my life I gravitated toward the lightest head hammer I could get. I had a used 22 oz. Estwing with the metal handle covered in blue rubber and then bought a new Vaughan with fiberglass handle and I think 18 oz. head. What a difference. We always had to nail on boxes in wierd and tight spaces and had to learn to pound the nails using the tips of the claws in some cases. That's one reason I never buy curved claw hammers, always straight. I swung the Vaughan until it wore out and the neck chipped away so bad from it bashing into whatever I was trying to swing around. Now I have a Stanley 17 oz. I don't swing it much, but man, hammers have improved a ton since I started in the trades. Nothing beats a good hammer and when you make your living with one you can tell you will like it just by how it feels at the store.
Thank you for your recommendation sir, I've been looking at these hammers for about 6 months and been shy of pulling the trigger on one. The passion you show towards it has convinced me to try one for myself, and, I'm sure I will love it as much as you do. Thank you again and may God bless you and those you love.
…bought mine in 2001. Been through multiple handles (even tried the graphite handles twice). Framed starter homes to million dollar homes. Even did some bridge work for a few years. She’s been through it all. She’s always been there. But a couple of years ago, my shed burned to the ground. I lost 25 years worth of tools. My emotions were apparent as I sifted through the rubble. I saw her but I could not believe it! The head of my trusted hammer lay half buried in the remains of the hammer loop of my tool belt. I picked her up. Wiping away the black ash, I found she had been given a bright purple, gold and almost reddish sheen by the fire. I immediately ordered a new handle and in a couple of days, she was good as new. Perhaps, to some, even prettier than before. I don’t have any grandchildren yet but, hopefully one day, one of them will be worthy of a hand me down hammer such as my Stilleto titanium 14oz…
Your list is about right, been at it about the same, used a rigging axe until pneumatics, than switched to hart hammers, which had axe handles, got a ruger when they came out $65, still is my go to unless trimming than it’s back to a hart finish hammer, I have a top 5 tool list and the ruger is on it. 1. Ruger 2. Hydraulic impact 3. Cordless framing saw 4. Cordless multi tool 5. Multi plane laser, with plum dots All makita List changes occasionally but ti hammer always remains. Thanks for the videos, you remind me of a gentleman that I worked with for many many years.
Ive been a carpenter for 10 years, spending a large majority of my time framing large houses and additions. 3 years ago I bought a stiletto tibone III and i love it, its way easier on the body than a solid steel hammer and performs better than any other hammers ive owned
Pretty sure what brought me to this channel was the hammer comparison video years ago back when I got into construction. As a plumber now, a 20oz rip claw Estwing is the most versatile for me because it's also great for digging and trenching but I do feel tempted to get a Stiletto sometimes.
I used a...28oz? Stanley Fatmax wood handled framing hammer for years. I also had a Stiletto finish hammer for finer work. The heavier steel head framing hammer served me so well for most of my work, but the titanium head Stiletto became quite important. The right tool for the right job. That's what's most important.
Spinal injuries from a car rollover back in '96, been using a stilleto hammer for a few years now, one of the best purchases I've made, couldn't do any overhead work otherwise.
Iv been in construction 80 percent of my life, what you said brings back memories, I have used rigging ave because of it's balance and wieght, an I have the hammer, the titanium/ Ruger hammer, ( got it used for 10.00) a smooth face great for 'no waffle hammering/ finishing, it's been a while though sence the elites are killing are economy, good video!
It might seem silly but I have 2 Merlin titanium bikes and I can’t explain it but the feeling on poor surfaces of response and absorption of vibration is really great!😃. Probably not connected but there it is!
I was never a production carpenter, but i have but I have built on 2 room additions to my house. I used a 20 oz. flat faced Vaughan the entire time. I cannot foresee the need for me to buy a $150 Titanium hammer. But were I to be swinging a hammer 8 hours a day, 5 days a week for production, I would be happy to spend that money, and more, just to save my elbow and shoulder from repetitive motion damage and shock. Thanks for the video. Jon
I just bought a stilleto hammer and I liked the weight, but the factory handle was not well suited for my hand. I put in a mile of fence staples which normally doesn't bother me much, but that handle made my had so sore that I couldn't use it the next couple of days. I think if I shave the handle down it will be a winner.
Essential for any carpenter. I’ve had mine for about 15 years. 3rd handle, but that’s not a problem. I noticed right away the savings on forearm pain. If I hadn’t bought it then, I’d imagine I’d be one of those guys with a banded up arm, or not working. I’ve since convinced all of my co workers to buy one. Plus 1 electrician.
i got into a 25 oz california framer 25 or more years ago and still use it when i have the rare framing job that i can't use the gun for. the long handle and big flat head can really give me leverage for banging in the big nails, but it is hard on the elbow.
I use a 23oz Vaughn for framing, as I gave up on the 28oz when I switched from framing floors to general carpentry. With my elbow in the shape it is now, a lighter hammer is starting to be more appealing. I provide for my family with a hammer, and I want to keep them in good shape; anything that keeps me sharp keeps them fed.
Got a titanium dalluge 13 years ago, never looked back. I have a steel version I had for several years before getting the titanium version. Night and day difference.
I had a stiletto get stolen but I still have my vaughn I started with. I believe I got it when I turned 19 and I am 46 now. The steletto was a fantastic hammer. I am building my house now and may invest in the same style wood handle I had because I am not a fan of the metal handles
Vaughn 23 ounce with a fat head and curvy wood handle for power called the California Framer. It started as a waffle head but after 20 years is now like a smooth. For lighter work or overhead stuff I used a 19 ounce straight wood handled hammer with a semi smooth face that had sort of a texture like 180 grit sandpaper until a laborer used it to pry something and broke it the handle. After that I did everything with my Framer. For delicate work I used my grandpa's 16 ounce straight claw hammer that I restored. I get a good feeling every time I use it because I remember him and the time he spent with me when I was little. Same when I use my Dad's block plane.
My goodness after a 30 year career I finally splurged. A friend let me try his for the day about 6 months ago. The difference was immediate. I bought the Mini 14 which is all titanium. Heads can be changed out, and a nylon cover turns it into a dead blow hammer. I’m building a set of stairs right now, two things stand out. Way better precision with a nail set, and I have way more feel for tapping. Used that same Vaughn 20 Oz. Then moved to Vaughn fiberglass curved claw. The Stiletto is my last hammer. Was interested in a Martinez, but they are 400 clams. The framers I know love the Stilettos. Thanks for the review. !
Surprised you didn't address the TiBone I have and many others in commercial carpentry. If you're pulling dups, the side puller on that is superlative. But I can see if you are mostly using a nail gun, the 14oz framer you showed may be more comfortable to carry around all the time. I've felt one, and I always say it was like swinging a cloud :)
I’ve been doing construction and renovation for years have all my own tools, but when someone on site lends me they’re stilleto the odd time I feel the difference! Definitely not necessary for me my hammer is pretty great 50 dollar range but if you’re a framer or in the trades and want a cool hammer that will flex on people that’s the one!!
Ti hammer has less inertia so it drives fencing staples without flattening the curve. This makes the staple hold the fence wire without pinching making for longer lasting, less rusting fence.
As a noob, i used a old curved claw craftsman. Nailing up soffit gave me bad tennis elbow. I bought a stiletto 10oz trim hammer. My arm healed while doing the same work. I them bought the all titaniam t bone framer. The head kept coming loose and breaking. So i opted for the 14oz straight wood handle framer, words cannot describe how much i love that hammer
I have both the wood stilletto like yours and the all titanium horribly expensive stilletto. The wood handle one is the better of the two. I love it. I do grab my straight claw Estwing framer once a week because I’ve had it since I was 18 (30 years ago) and it’s a good old friend….. kind of like my occidental bags, a good old friend.
I know u love ur wooden handle. But the TB3 with the side nail puller is awesome. Especially when stripping out forms the leverage you get in that little side puller is truly impressive. For commercial work when duplex nails specified everywhere: it’s the perfect driver and puller
I got the stiletto ti bone 3 a couple years back I really loved it and I doubt I would ever replace it, then I heard about Martinez hammers and it just made sense. If a claw broke off on my hammer it’s pretty much done. Or if the grip brakes there’s no replacement. But with Martinez hammers you get replacement grips and heads and you can pick and choose the head and colors, I would recommend going with Martinez hammers titanium but with replacement parts
I love my martinez m1. I have tennis elbow and setting concrete anchors was really hurting. Haven't felt that twinge in my elbow since I picked up the martinez.
I think the worries about Stiletto durability are silly and I suspect they are a combination of Martinez marketing and forum fan boy tool fetish nonsense. I have had the Stiletto full-size Tibone for about five years as a framing subcontractor as well as for a good deal of roofing (especially tearoff) and demo. I have beat the living heck out of it and used it for everything so that others have winced at my risking a $300 hammer to demolish walls and concrete and steel and rock and rip off roofing shingles and pound in ten million roofing staples and dig holes in frozen ground. And still I haven't caused the slightest functional damage to the hammer. The original waffle head is still going strong, haven't chipped the claw or bent anything and the rubber handle is worn smooth but still works great. The magnetic nail slot goes out of alignment about once a year, and it just tap it back with a nail set and a second hammer like a castle nut on a motorcycle shock. I suppose Martinez is about equivalent with Stiletto to the extent it matches its design, but I don't see it as superior and would question whether any changes Martinez made to the original Tibone design is an actual improvement, or just a gimmick introduced in place of some patented feature they are not allowed to reproduce. Stiletto got it right the first time and usually the company owns the design not the engineer.
@zacharyroyce not knocking the stiletto, 99% of users will never wear it out. I've seen a couple worn out stilleto claws. If you've used it that much I think it's more than paid for itself.
What I mainly liked was the what if? If I baker a claw with concrete I can just buy a head and not a whole stiletto and the ability to change grips to your liking is grate. I love my stiletto but If I had to buy another one I would pick Martinez.
@@nutoriousclown4107 It looks to me that the Martinez head is all steel, which would make it heavier than Stiletto Ti-bone, which has a titanium head with a ~1/4-inch-thick steel hammer tip. I wonder if the head would become sloppy after years of hammering on those threads, and I wonder if that lip where the head sticks up proud over the V-notch in the handle would interfere with using the V-notch to scoop up your 1/4"-proud nail heads (which is how you use the V-notch to best advantage, like when you've levered apart sistered boards or pulled off wall braces and you have to pound out a bunch of nails--one little tap does it per nail---the same applies to pulling many nails with a catspaw---just start em all real fast and then pling em out like bullet casings all at once.)
This is such a timely video. Today my son and I were putting strapping up with a new Makita pneumatic nailer. We bought two new ones for this job, and commented on what a job putting in 2000. 2 1/2 “ ring nails with a hammer, “how did grand dad do it ?” My son says check out this “Stilleto “, framing hammer. I never liked framing hammers because of the weight, and if I had to DRIVE a bunch of 31/2, I prefer my hatchet hammer. Other than that I use a medium, leather handled east wing, the big east wing never gets used…. Till today I tried the stilleto hammer an liked it, and my son said “you are going to love the wood handled stilleto “, pay the 185$ and trust me. I was going to go tomorrow and get one, and then I saw this video,,, how timely….. is the internet listening to the ladder conversation happening this afternoon ??? And I didn’t do any internet tool searches on any hammers ever..Really weird.
I've heard many arguments about hammers. But as I look around, and from my own experience, if you're serious about driving a nail, the Stiletto is the preferred choice. Nail guns cover most things, but not all. Then one has to drive a nail. The lighter hammer still plunks those nails down in a hurry without overworking the elbow. As I get older and greyer, that is the difference. I still have a 20oz and a 2 1/2# plus a few other poundy things, but that Stiletto is the king of the hill. True, it's personal choice but my go-to is the Stiletto. I still can't justify the all metal one, but, oohh, shiny. =D
I still use an old 18 oz. Estwing. I also have a 24 oz Husky that I put in my belt sometimes. I just can't bring myself to pull the trigger on Titanium. I do remodeling by the way, so I need a versatile hammer.
I swung an Estwing 28oz warclub for 10 years, till my chiropractor informed me of just how bad my carpal tunnel issues were, asked what kind of hammer I used, and told me "Either change hammers or change careers". I switched to a Vaughan 23oz California framer and loved it. Flash forward 25 years to Sept. 2016: my nephew came down to Louisiana to help me clean up from the great flood of 2016 (4 1/2' of water in our house) and gifted me a Stiletto T15II (I was using an estwing 22 for many years at that point). That hammer changed my life and saved my career , without it I'd have had to retire by now, and probably needed surgery as well.
$35 Irwin 24 Oz demo hammer....feels light as a feather and I can build or take down anything with it...been pulling up a subfloor with it this week and my kneew are giving out but my arms and shoulders still feel fine
Just received mine today because of you, love my Stiletto and thank you 🙏🏼 Update: I now own a USA Stiletto Ruger 14 oz hickory handle! Loving my Stilettos and Thanks again
I’ve always wanted a stiletto hammer. But as a concrete guy that frames maybe five weeks a year I haven’t been able to justify one. I do have a full metal estwing that I am proud of. I hope to have this hammer for many years. The reality is concrete is you can lose any tool at any time to damage, abuse, or literally dropping it into a wall being filled with concrete. But as silly as sounds I look forward to trying to wear out a hammer that should last me forever. And I hope I can hang on to the hammer long enough to admire it’s patina.
If you don't lose it, that Estwing might retire with you, they're great hammers. I've got a Stanley 20oz which isn't made anymore, if anything ever happens to it, it'll be replaced by an Estwing.
I’m in the same boat as you, can’t justify the expense of titanium. Now that I’m retired, i really can’t justify it. My 20 oz estwing has been faithfully at my side almost the whole time and i’ll probably have it for the rest of my life. I do count my blessings that i’ve never had to deal with the arm problems that plague so many, even in my youth when spending lots of time nailing strapping on ceilings by hand. I don’t know who invented nailers but i hope he’s filthy rich, he deserves it.
I don't do a lot of framing purely with hammer, but me and my buddy did build his house last year just with framing hammers and nails and I have to say, sitting up on a ridge beam out in the PA back country and hearing the woodpeckers doing their own hammering, and ravens calling, autumn leaves turning and the cool wind blowing, while you joke with your friend and sink nails is a feeling that can't be duplicated. Sometimes it's good to remind yourself that you're a human, and not a production machine. Sure we took our time and spent five days doing what could have taken three; but I don't think it was time lost, it was experience gained.
I love story’s like yours man that’s the kinda shit i live for just busting it up with a buddy getting something done that needs to be done that’s what being a man is all about
All true I work in lake arrowhead ca mountains love hearing the nature
Hell YES! I built a tiny house with my dad. One month, then he went home to hang out with mommy. Then another month. We were working slowly, and hauling ass at the same time. And it was so FUN! Zero stress!
Awesome
40 year framer here
I use a lot of your tricks just by working all these years
You learn from great teachers.
Maybe if you're lucky you run into 3 in your lifetime.
Then , you learn your own tricks .
But your evolution of the hammer is basically exactly the road I lived.
Great videos.
All your string tying tricks I've done on my own and lots of stuff you show.
I go awe
Yeah
Respect
this channel, people... i am a law graduate, and this MAN has undoubtedly ignited a fire for work generally, but most of all, it introduced me into wood working/ carpentry/ etc and I know all you guys will probably be blue collar workers, and trust me, I admire you all, but let me just say that me, a person without much of a previous interest in manual labor, have began to work on myself in this aspect and this channel is SUCH a great influence, not only regarding working but life advice and habits and being a man driven to feed people that he cares about.
I love being a part of this community, even though I know you guys, working hard, would eat me alive :D
I run the same hammer with a different handle (shaped more like an axe handle) and I agree that at the end of the day, my elbow feels great. I’m 58 and carpenters half my age are complaining about elbow pain but won’t take my advice on investing in their health by purchasing a stiletto. Love your content and your message.
We call that shape a California framing handle.
I grew up framing with nails and a hammer. Today things have changed and I use a 15 oz titanium hammer for most of my framing work. With nail guns and screws we use today most of the uses for the hammer is finishing a nail that didn't completely drive or adjusting framing. One thing I really appreciate is the reduced weight that I carry in my belt. Everything in my belt is as lite as I can find.
Including the word light, you saved one letter there, ha ha. :-D
No vibration is good too.
Same
I framed for 15 years before going back to school to become an engineer. The Stiletto was the best hammer I have ever owned. It once dropped out of my bag, between the floor joists, it hit the concrete floor below, and bounced up just far enough for me to reach between the joists and snatch it back into my hand.
What made you want to go back to school? And the best advice can you give a young guy in the trades
@@mustafabashir8127 I stopped drinking and using drugs and got bored of what I was doing. As far as advice I would give... Live sober, be curious, raise your hand and ask questions. Finding the answer to something is often easy with digital copies of solutions manuals and Chegg, but sometimes they are wrong. As yourself how they got to that answer instead of just what is the correct answer.
@@mustafabashir8127 realizing you can make the same amount of money working 40hrs a week. less fights with your wife, more time to do what you want, less pain.
@@mustafabashir8127head down work hard earn your pay and you'll be the boss one day.
@@mustafabashir8127 Find someone that's older with a lot of experience. Look at his job sites, make sure they're clean when things are getting built. Pop by for a couple of hours and see what they're like with everyone on the jobsite. If you like how they work, ask if you can apprentice under them and help them with their projects in the future. The ay sucks at first, but you will learn a LOT in a short period of time
As someone who does not work in the trades, when I was building my 3500sf pole barn shop, I bought a Stiletto framing hammer and a finish hammer specifically because I knew I didn’t have the strength built up from swinging the heavy hammers every day. They were phenomenal and I still use them whenever I have a project that needs nails driven.
You are such a great communicator. The tone of you voice, the choice of words you choose, mixed with your video content. Amazing. I’d listen to a motivational talk or sermon given from you.
You said it much better than I could. Thumbs up to your comment.
I was thinking the exact same thing.
Yes
That tono of voice and personality
A gentleman
A person you want a conversation
10 years stick carpentry, we never used guns. I used Estwings then. Now I volunteer for habitat and swinging the Stiletto and love it.
The Stiletto Hammer is a great Christmas gift for anyone in the trades. I was gifted one from my brother as a thank you gift and I think about that fact every time i use it...which is a lot.
I just noticed that Homedepot has a few models of Stilleto on sale. $90 each for both smooth and milled face 14oz models, and a little smooth face 10oz model. Lowes does not carry Stilleto.
I was gifted my T15II by my nephew, best hammer ever!
*see my comment above
Agreed--if your star young employee or handy hubby doesn't own one of these, nothing makes a better gift for any carpenter with enough experience to have seen these things but never dared to splurge. Certainly for any pro carpenter the benefits more than make up for the cost. Buy the all-titaium Ti-bone if you can afford it. The hickory handle, titanium head described in this video is super light and great for nailing, but it sucks for everything else (pulling nails and demo and using the hammer like an ice pick handle to pick up and transport window headers, etc.). About half of carpenters who purchase the hickory handle because it's much less expensive end up sinking another $300 later on what they really want.
The all-titanium Ti-bone (or other brand of your choice) are pretty, work greate for nailing in normal grip positions and obviously are better at pulling nails/demo BUT try using it when you're up in the trusses, setting hips/perlings-when you're swing your hammer sideways and super choked up on the handle (about the only way you'll see framers setting perlings on flat top trusses before sheathing is on. The all metal handles are terrible for out of posiition nailing, particularly when you have to choke up on the handle. At least that's my oppinion and experience with wood (or wood shaped) handles versus all metal handles. The all metal estwing, 28 oz, waffle or smooth face, is an AWESOME hammer, just absolutely terrible to choke up on the handle. Plus the skinny metal handle almost acts like an axe if it ever accidentally hits a finger (think out of position nailing, like putting on joist hangers on an elevated deck when standing on the joist/rim-joist) @@zacharyroyce
@@Ifishmo Interesting. I am trying to understand exactly what you mean by out of position hammering. I suppose you mean when you have to swing up or sideways or maybe at an oblique angle like for tight in work with hangers or whatever, but then I don't follow how that is different with a wood handle. I do see how my dad's old small (or normal sized, not framing) metal handle (with leather ring grips) and my 28oz Estwing (my first framing hammer) with their blade-like shafts between grip and head would be unpleasant for choked up grip and an edge hazard if you get either your grip or support hand in the way, but my Tibone (and I suppose the same applies to Martinez) is not nearly that narrow and sharp and I have not noticed issues with awkward hammering or hitting choked up. You might use your hammer more than I do and thus run into situations I don't. I don't use my hammer much setting trusses except for metal hangers. I do hit choked up all the time when no one is looking who might think less of my manliness. I am trying to understand what you mean about flat-top truss purlins--I wonder if you mean cross bracing on the underside in which you would be nailing up, or like barn trusses spaced too far apart to span with your stance so you have to maybe hammer down while standing underneath?? Forgive me, I've been doing this less than ten years and there's still lots of things I haven't done.
I've used one 20 years as well. I was the only guy on the job with one. The guys would call me Stiletto. 😂
😂🤣
I splurged on a Stilletto, like that one, based on watching this channel. For general building and often just setting screws, I love my stiletto and for hard-to-reach spots, I really love that magnet nail setter.
For demo work I still grab my weight forward Estwing as it is also an awesome nail puller and I don’t like beating up my stiletto, banging away on a cats paw.
Haha. I do the exact same thing. I always carry both. Estwing is demo and overall beating on 😄
I too similarly mimic Nicholas' comment. Bought the 14 oz Stilletto based on watching your video, and use a 20oz Bostitch Ripping Hammer for everything "dirty". I also recently purchased something new, that you will know- a 5lb. Formsetter. It's not a tool that I need, but will still get fair amount of use, and it's purchase is primarily due to my intrigue and desire to support the work you do and share with us, and the inspirational work ethic that Andrew Larson possesses. You guys are awesome. Keep up the good work.
Get an all-titanium hammer and use only one hammer for everything. My full explanation in separate comment above.
if you bought a Ferrari would you park it in the garage or drive it like you stole it ? don't baby that stilleto treat it like a two dollar whore ! that's what it's made/designed for or don't then you have an expensive paperweight just sayin'
Started with a Estwing back when I poured concrete because they are tough and last forever. When I started framing, I went to a Cali style framer and used a 16oz Estwing for overhead work. Now that Im older I switched to a Martinez and my elbow and wrist thank me for it everytime I pick it up.
I used to hang siding where you must use a hammer. Buying a stiletto was life changing. I think it's a 10oz. Pain in my arm/wrist was gone and the weight on my belt greatly reduced. I don't work construction anymore but to this day it's one of my prized possessions.
Every video is more inspirational than the last. This channel is a jewel.
Proverbs 22: 29 Do you see a man who excels in his work?
He will stand before kings;
He will not stand before unknown men. Always a pleasure listening to your wisdom.
It might seem crazy to spend a ton of money on quality ratchet to do your job to an outsider. But as an auto mechanic my cushioned handle fine tooth long flex head cornwell 3/8 ratchet was life changing. Gives me confidence. Just works. Good tools help you do your job and sometimes I forget that. Every battery powered doodad will never be as reliable as that rachet. I totally get your point here. Eloquent and poetic video on tools.
Like AvE said (quoting someone else) "Quality isn't expensive, it's priceless"
1000000% worth it.. working with a guy this week up in N Dakota and dang they are so light, yet powerful. Get one; never look back.
When I broke into drywall in the mid-70's, I started off with a plumb ax. It worked because I didn't know any better. I soon tried a 14oz 'Wallboard' and never looked back. I've tried others on occasion but still use my wallboard. I've replaced the handle 3 times and resurfaced the face twice.
I think it comes down to 2 things. The right tool for the job and what works for you. Might seem silly to some but I only use specific brands because others just don't 'feel' right.
I still have the Stilletto I bought in 1999. At the time I was just breaking into my commercial superintendent position, which I retired from nearly 20 years later. Consequently, the Stiletto still has the original handle, though the corrugation is nearly worn off. It is a very good tool. I’ll have until I am no more.
Not sure what use a hammer is for hosting meetings and submitting for hot work permits.
For the last 20 years of my commercial construction career, the hammer did not get much use. But, it was in the truck, with the nail bags. One of the carpenters helping me was getting s tool out of the truck box and noticed my nail bags in the box. He expressed surprise that they. were there, and asked me why I still had them with me. I told him that I might need to jump in and give a hand some time. And I on occasion, when the situation allowed.
As a commercial electrician, i always buy the best for the tools i use all day everyday. Not only are they better quality, but they are a joy to use and you enjoy reaching in your bag for them.
Started with Plumb, Vaughn and Hart hammers. Still have most of them although I need about 6 new handles. Many sizes, types and smooth and corregated. 47 years, now retired. Thank you sir for all the great videos and the memories that they bring back.
purchased a Stiletto couple years ago Have a finish one that is absolutely wonderful The framer is great for driving nails,but as you pointed out has no power for moving plates or much else Also the magnet for holding nails fell out the first time I used it. Thanks BT
I bought my stilleto a couple of weeks ago , because of your advice on it and man , I love it ! I've nailed over 500 nails today and have no pain in my arms at all , thanks for the tip. Greetings from far away Brazil
Fala cara, onde você comprou seu martelo Stiletto? Estou de olho em um na Amazon Brasil, mas está o olho da cara. Mas vou encarar ele assim mesmo!
I will never come close to using a hammer for a living. Unless I'm intent on getting hurt. But damn what a pleasure it is to hear a professional talk about his tool and profession.
He could talk about making Jell-O and make it sound interesting.
"Unless I'm intent on getting hurt."
That's just a part of the job. There isn't a single week that goes by that I make it without leaking a little "vital fluid" for my living.
@heman5954 As my wife tells me I put a little piece of me into everything I make
Every thing we enjoy in our day to day life that most don’t think about; is the guys with hammers either building or maintaining everything.
I'm a carpenter you do hurt yourself but you get used to it and it stops hurting as my h when you do
Thank you! The first time you talked about the Stiletto on the channel i bought me one and have used it for some small stuff and building a workshop and it feels grate! I work all day in front of a computer and my hands, wrists and forearms are not harden for the use of a hammer for 20 h on a weekend. So this is a super advice for those of us who do some intense hammering, but far in between =)
I went from a 25oz estwing on a hickory handle to a stiletto about a decade ago when I started to get tennis elbow and haven't looked back. I don't regularly swing a hammer anymore but I am framing my own house right now, and I just decided to get a Martinez M1 solely because I feel like I'm going to rip the head off my stiletto pulling nails out of bracing, and I've almost thrown the thing across the jobsite multiple times wearing gloves (it's below freezing), so extra grip is needed. The milling on my stiletto is completely gone - it's a smooth face and has been for a long time. Ultimately, I was skeptical of the newfangled titanium hammer back then, which is why I took so long to adopt it, but it was a great decision that I don't regret.
Stiletto hammer and Vaughan rigging axe are my everyday carry as a carpenter. I love them both. Love your videos. Keep up the good work!
As a Concrete guy I really like a 16 oz Estwing rubber handle with a 2" mark on handle for use in wall straightening faster than getting a tape measure out of a pouch. I also use as a pick and can use hammer side ways to put grade in a 8" wall. For $25 I get 10 years of use before claw wears out and doesn't pull nails.
Learn something every time l watch one of your videos. Now l want a Stilleto hammer.
I bought my stiletto in 04 and also started with a 28oz Vaughn that later created some serious tendinitis and switched to a craftsman 23 oz but I still had tendinitis until I switched to stiletto, I now have 3, a framer the original, the all purpose stiletto with the titanium body and a back up framer. I love these hammers and love the hickory axe handles, balance, nail set. Best hammer still!
They are nice but i'm partial to my Dalluge titanium made in the Douglas Tool hammer pattern. The handle connection is unique and the over strike protection they have along the side nail puller make it super useful.
This style of hammer was invented in the early 70's when we used to cut the axe side of a rigging axe off and then weld on claws that were cut off of a Vaughn framing hammer. The weight was customized to your liking. We did this because the rigging axe was uniquely balanced and was really great for that but lacked the claws that we needed for pulling nails. All this made sense because we were driving 75-100 lbs of nails a day by hand. I doubt any framer could do that today. When we showed up to the jobsite before dawn you would see several fires burning on the site. That was because we mixed parrafin with gasoline which made a milky soup that we sprinkled on the open box of nails which was then lit on fire. When the gas burned off, a light coating of parafin coated the nails making them easer to drive home with one swat. unfortunately, they would back out just as easy which obviously wasn't good so the nail manufacturers started coating the bright nails with a heat activated green glue film. We called them " green stinkers". Then someone invented the nailgun and the mohicans took over the trade and everything went to shit as far as quality was concerned. It was fun to watch. Glad I was part of it. Southern California track carpenters. Best in the world.
I’ve had my stiletto for 8 years. Absolutely love it
What an absolute legend. Such a nice way to end a video. Everything all true
Your videos are an inspiration...and super informative. I buy and restore old hand planes, and using them is the best experience to be had. Good tools are like fine cookware for a chef. It doesn't feel like work when you have a fine tool in your hand.
My crew doesn’t do too much framing, mainly interior remodels. Every once in a while we get a bigger framing job, and I always love watching the younger guys realize that they are just as capable at driving nails with a 19-22 oz wood handle hammer as they are with their 28oz estwing. Because I did the same thing! I took the job and went out and bought an estwing and showed up feeling like I was ready to do some real work and then after the first large project we did I immediately went out and bought a lighter wood handled hammer like all the old hands were using! Still love my estwing and one day I’ll teach my kids about building and let them have it, but for now my elbows thank me every evening for the switch!
I remember saving to buy my first stiletto. 20 years later, I have four and have gifted numerous others to the brothers I have served with.
I have that exact same hammer and have carried it for years. It's always with me on the job.
The 14 oz curved handle milled face Stiletto has been on my Amazon wishlist for over a year now. I don’t do enough framing to justify the purchase considering I already own a 19 oz Estwing, but I definitely know it will be more fun to swing given the opportunity to.
I do however own the 10 oz smooth face Stiletto and it is a pleasure to set trim nails and little tappy things. I even used it as a framing hammer on occasion instead of going to the truck to switch to the Estwing.
In 1995 I bought a Hart 25 ounce California Framer. I loved the feel and the look of.the axe-shaped handle. After that, I never bought a straight-handled hammer again. They're just not as accurate, not as easy to swing, nor as effective at driving nails.
I switched to a Vaughn 19 ounce framer in the summer of 2000. Its my favorite hammer, as such a tool of course becomes after decades of use. I use it every day, and I absolutely love it.
But my son says the Stiletto actually drives nails BETTER than a steel hammer, and nowadays I have pain in my thumbs, so I'm seriously considering getting one. Your video might have been just the final push.
Get one! I used a 19 oz. California framer for years and going titanium made my swing more accurate and harder hitting with less body wear.
@W1ldt1m I did, in fact, spend $130 on a new Stiletto 14 oz framer. First thing I noticed was how the waffles immediately became smashed flat when I struck my cats catspaw. Very soft face. But the jury is still deliberating.
Yea titanium is softer than steel and the waffles don’t last as long. I’ve known guys to recut them with a grinder but I never bothered didn’t seem to make much difference once your old and hit square.
@W1ldt1m the hammer in the thumbnail looked like it has a steel face.
I remember back in the 70s framing in the Bay Area, we would take the rigging axe and cut the blade off it then weld claws on it. The main reason was, back then, most of the jobs were union and it was illegal to use the rigging axe. If the business agent came out on the job site, he could easily see that framers were using a rigging axe. And your right, they will do a number on your thumb.
I did some rough framing in my early 20's before joining the military... I still have my stiletto in the tool box over 10 years later, just incase!
As a framer/carpenter for the last 40 years i have always chased the weight of a tool, started with a 28 oz estwing for all day hand drives. When I could afford a framing gun droped down to a 19 oz blue max with a wood handle. I currently us a 12 oz Stiletto its more of a tap stick. Years ago I ditched the skil 77"boat anchor" for the milwaukee left hand tilt lock it was half the weight. I parked my leather OXYS for nylon bags saved several pounds, I run the Badger trimmers great bags and lite. Cordless saws are getting heavy so I will still run a cord if I can. The old body is not what it used to be, but I'm still out there with the young guys, watching them see who can carry the most studs and doing what I love building stuff!
Bought a TI bone in 2013 when I started doing more formwork until I snapped the claws off in 2018. Bought a 14 oz wood Stiletto after that and used it for about 6-7 months. The lack of a steel face just made it wear out crazy fast and mushroom and I'd have to file off the burr every month or so since it would get so sharp. Bought a Martinez M1 in 2018 and it's going to be the hammer I retire with unless it grows legs. A tool you use every day is something that deserves to be a tool of quality.
Man I love watching your videos. As weird as it may sound, your voice is so soothing and relaxing. I watch you videos when I am a little upset :)
I have a wooden handle stiletto hanging on the wall in my garage. It was a gift from my father for completing Carpentry Trade school. Now as a Journeyman my daily hammer is the Martinez M1.
Your video "framing hammer hall of fame" was the first video I watched of yours, and I did end up getting a Stiletto, and if you can afford it, they are great.
We always choose the tools that get our job done with the least amount of effort, if you have your head on straight. We also have multiples of tools that are built differently and perform differently for the job at hand. I have my favorites too in my field of work. They are just an assistant to my hands. Whether hammers or something else, all the same. Good video. Thanks.
"It is the tools that I love that I use." What a profound and classic statement. I can not tell you how much I appreciated your video, and the words you used to explain all of this. I happen to be a Dental Surgeon, and I have used some instruments, that I loved, for 48 years as a surgeon. And when I sold my practice and retired, I did not sell all of my instruments. I keep some aside for myself, as old treasured instruments. You sir, are a great craftsman, a true "eye hand coordinated person," and an eloquent speaker. Thank you, Doctor George Whitehead D.D.S. (1972-2020)
As someone who frames something only every few years I still rely on my first 23oz Vaugn California framer and my Dad's 70's 16oz finish, but I do have an axe too, it is a great addition to the general construction kit. But if I did more I would love the side pull and magnetic nail holder, those are great improvements to the hammer!
I’m with you my friend but I use a 19 oz. California framer
The 23 California framer was my hammer of choice for almost twenty years. I still have my last one from before I changed professions. Every morning at the site I found some sap oozing out of a board and rubbed it on the handle, Florida heat and humidity keeps you pouring sweat. Having it slip out of hand at full swing can be devastating.
i have a t bone 15 once and its saved my elbow so much doing scaffolding.
I have one of these I inherited from my uncle. I was just searching the internet to find out what it’s all about. Very cool.
This channel and project farm is where I go to for an opinion
Also, A few years ago someone on site shared a hammer trick, when you hold it rest your thumb up on back of the handle. You have a different range of motion then just your wrist and it honestly helps with power and balance too
I use that technique, it gives one much more control and I find it less stressful on my wrist.
Another trick is to extend one's trigger finger down the handle, it works well when driving small nails and pins.
@@Toyotaamazon80series thanks!! I’m gonna try this!
@@Toyotaamazon80series I'm a Chippy in New Zealand, 35 years in the trade, as we call it here, & I've owned a fibreglas handled Vaughn 20oz for a very very long time & I worked out by observation many many moons ago that the hard rubber type handle grip has grooves in it for the side of your palm & for your trigger finger & Thumb for grip! Not many people like it as a Hammer, BUT I do & I'm the one using it!!! Personally, I don't like Eastwing hammers, I don't see or understand why people love them so much..... When I was a kid my Dad had a "Plumb" fiberglass handled 20oz Hammer (my Dad is 87 still has it 47 years later... he lost it for years!!!) & I grew up using that so perhaps that influenced me a lot.... I have bought 3 Eastwings over my 35 year time span in the construction though - I think a 25 & 28? oz 14" Framing hammers but don't like the long handles on them - too hard on my elbows ( I've had Tennis elbow in both arms probably 10 times or more ( & had 4 Quaterzone steriod injections in ea. forearm muscle to help heal it.... ) I really bought them for building/constructing timber/lumber retaining walls.
The other Eastwing I bought is a 21oz Fiberglass handle are they ??? "Weight Forward" hammer, I bought it in excellent 2nd hand condition because it looked eye appealing, I liked the "weight forward" concept as that's what my Vaughn is exactly like I.e. all the weight is in the head of the hammer... & personally, I like a hammer in that style/format.... plus it has very flat Claws & also they're very tapered to quite a thin end & it's the same on my Vaughn & I also like that as a feature on a Hammer too.
In New Zealand, 95% of Chippy's use Eastwings..... Very very predominantly we use 20oz in N.Z. rare to see higher weighted hammers in use....
I still use a 16oz, I have a "Bollox" a Japaneese made steel handled one for lighter duties..... bought it 2nd hand for $5.00!!! & My 22 year old 325 model Paslode framer gun is still going strong!!!
I've still got my pneumatic "Senco" SFN70 Framing gun & SFN 40 Trim guns that I bought when I was 22 years old now I'm past a 1/2 century in age!!!
As an electrician for the first half of my life I gravitated toward the lightest head hammer I could get. I had a used 22 oz. Estwing with the metal handle covered in blue rubber and then bought a new Vaughan with fiberglass handle and I think 18 oz. head. What a difference. We always had to nail on boxes in wierd and tight spaces and had to learn to pound the nails using the tips of the claws in some cases. That's one reason I never buy curved claw hammers, always straight. I swung the Vaughan until it wore out and the neck chipped away so bad from it bashing into whatever I was trying to swing around. Now I have a Stanley 17 oz. I don't swing it much, but man, hammers have improved a ton since I started in the trades. Nothing beats a good hammer and when you make your living with one you can tell you will like it just by how it feels at the store.
Harbor Freight has a 14 oz titanium hammer you’d love for a great price. It’s made by Doyle
Does anyone else get old Warren Miller ski video vibes when listening to Essential Craftsman? Great memories.
im interested in hearing you talk about rigging axes since i dont know anything about them. Great video as always
Thank you for your recommendation sir, I've been looking at these hammers for about 6 months and been shy of pulling the trigger on one. The passion you show towards it has convinced me to try one for myself, and, I'm sure I will love it as much as you do. Thank you again and may God bless you and those you love.
…bought mine in 2001. Been through multiple handles (even tried the graphite handles twice). Framed starter homes to million dollar homes. Even did some bridge work for a few years. She’s been through it all. She’s always been there. But a couple of years ago, my shed burned to the ground. I lost 25 years worth of tools. My emotions were apparent as I sifted through the rubble. I saw her but I could not believe it! The head of my trusted hammer lay half buried in the remains of the hammer loop of my tool belt. I picked her up. Wiping away the black ash, I found she had been given a bright purple, gold and almost reddish sheen by the fire. I immediately ordered a new handle and in a couple of days, she was good as new. Perhaps, to some, even prettier than before. I don’t have any grandchildren yet but, hopefully one day, one of them will be worthy of a hand me down hammer such as my Stilleto titanium 14oz…
Your list is about right, been at it about the same, used a rigging axe until pneumatics, than switched to hart hammers, which had axe handles, got a ruger when they came out $65, still is my go to unless trimming than it’s back to a hart finish hammer, I have a top 5 tool list and the ruger is on it.
1. Ruger
2. Hydraulic impact
3. Cordless framing saw
4. Cordless multi tool
5. Multi plane laser, with plum dots
All makita
List changes occasionally but ti hammer always remains.
Thanks for the videos, you remind me of a gentleman that I worked with for many many years.
Forgot one that edges out laser, cordless track saw,
Got a stiletto 14 oz 15 yrs ago, a 100$ hammer ! , and yes , if it gets lost I'd get a new one immediately.
Ive been a carpenter for 10 years, spending a large majority of my time framing large houses and additions. 3 years ago I bought a stiletto tibone III and i love it, its way easier on the body than a solid steel hammer and performs better than any other hammers ive owned
Pretty sure what brought me to this channel was the hammer comparison video years ago back when I got into construction. As a plumber now, a 20oz rip claw Estwing is the most versatile for me because it's also great for digging and trenching but I do feel tempted to get a Stiletto sometimes.
I used a...28oz? Stanley Fatmax wood handled framing hammer for years. I also had a Stiletto finish hammer for finer work. The heavier steel head framing hammer served me so well for most of my work, but the titanium head Stiletto became quite important.
The right tool for the right job. That's what's most important.
What a story teller.. felt like listening to old radio program
Spinal injuries from a car rollover back in '96, been using a stilleto hammer for a few years now, one of the best purchases I've made, couldn't do any overhead work otherwise.
Iv been in construction 80 percent of my life, what you said brings back memories, I have used rigging ave because of it's balance and wieght, an I have the hammer, the titanium/ Ruger hammer, ( got it used for 10.00) a smooth face great for 'no waffle hammering/ finishing, it's been a while though sence the elites are killing are economy, good video!
It might seem silly but I have 2 Merlin titanium bikes and I can’t explain it but the feeling on poor surfaces of response and absorption of vibration is really great!😃. Probably not connected but there it is!
I was never a production carpenter, but i have but I have built on 2 room additions to my house. I used a 20 oz. flat faced Vaughan the entire time. I cannot foresee the need for me to buy a $150 Titanium hammer. But were I to be swinging a hammer 8 hours a day, 5 days a week for production, I would be happy to spend that money, and more, just to save my elbow and shoulder from repetitive motion damage and shock. Thanks for the video. Jon
I just bought a stilleto hammer and I liked the weight, but the factory handle was not well suited for my hand. I put in a mile of fence staples which normally doesn't bother me much, but that handle made my had so sore that I couldn't use it the next couple of days. I think if I shave the handle down it will be a winner.
Essential for any carpenter. I’ve had mine for about 15 years. 3rd handle, but that’s not a problem. I noticed right away the savings on forearm pain. If I hadn’t bought it then, I’d imagine I’d be one of those guys with a banded up arm, or not working. I’ve since convinced all of my co workers to buy one. Plus 1 electrician.
i got into a 25 oz california framer 25 or more years ago and still use it when i have the rare framing job that i can't use the gun for. the long handle and big flat head can really give me leverage for banging in the big nails, but it is hard on the elbow.
I use a 23oz Vaughn for framing, as I gave up on the 28oz when I switched from framing floors to general carpentry.
With my elbow in the shape it is now, a lighter hammer is starting to be more appealing. I provide for my family with a hammer, and I want to keep them in good shape; anything that keeps me sharp keeps them fed.
Got a titanium dalluge 13 years ago, never looked back. I have a steel version I had for several years before getting the titanium version. Night and day difference.
I had a stiletto get stolen but I still have my vaughn I started with. I believe I got it when I turned 19 and I am 46 now. The steletto was a fantastic hammer. I am building my house now and may invest in the same style wood handle I had because I am not a fan of the metal handles
Vaughn 23 ounce with a fat head and curvy wood handle for power called the California Framer. It started as a waffle head but after 20 years is now like a smooth. For lighter work or overhead stuff I used a 19 ounce straight wood handled hammer with a semi smooth face that had sort of a texture like 180 grit sandpaper until a laborer used it to pry something and broke it the handle. After that I did everything with my Framer. For delicate work I used my grandpa's 16 ounce straight claw hammer that I restored. I get a good feeling every time I use it because I remember him and the time he spent with me when I was little. Same when I use my Dad's block plane.
My goodness after a 30 year career I finally splurged. A friend let me try his for the day about 6 months ago. The difference was immediate. I bought the Mini 14 which is all titanium. Heads can be changed out, and a nylon cover turns it into a dead blow hammer. I’m building a set of stairs right now, two things stand out. Way better precision with a nail set, and I have way more feel for tapping. Used that same Vaughn 20 Oz. Then moved to Vaughn fiberglass curved claw. The Stiletto is my last hammer. Was interested in a Martinez, but they are 400 clams. The framers I know love the Stilettos. Thanks for the review. !
@ @casterman2, I'm a Chippy in N.Z. & use a 20oz curved claw fiberglass handled Vaughn!!! Had it for many many years, I'm 35 years in trade!!!
Surprised you didn't address the TiBone I have and many others in commercial carpentry. If you're pulling dups, the side puller on that is superlative. But I can see if you are mostly using a nail gun, the 14oz framer you showed may be more comfortable to carry around all the time. I've felt one, and I always say it was like swinging a cloud :)
As a siding installer, I can definitely say YES.
I’ve been doing construction and renovation for years have all my own tools, but when someone on site lends me they’re stilleto the odd time I feel the difference! Definitely not necessary for me my hammer is pretty great 50 dollar range but if you’re a framer or in the trades and want a cool hammer that will flex on people that’s the one!!
Ti hammer has less inertia so it drives fencing staples without flattening the curve. This makes the staple hold the fence wire without pinching making for longer lasting, less rusting fence.
I love your videos-- I could watch paint drying if it was on this channel, but, (humbly) going to finish your gate soon?
Gate got put on hold because of a huge project.... and both are coming soon
As a noob, i used a old curved claw craftsman. Nailing up soffit gave me bad tennis elbow. I bought a stiletto 10oz trim hammer. My arm healed while doing the same work. I them bought the all titaniam t bone framer. The head kept coming loose and breaking. So i opted for the 14oz straight wood handle framer, words cannot describe how much i love that hammer
I have both the wood stilletto like yours and the all titanium horribly expensive stilletto. The wood handle one is the better of the two. I love it. I do grab my straight claw Estwing framer once a week because I’ve had it since I was 18 (30 years ago) and it’s a good old friend….. kind of like my occidental bags, a good old friend.
I know u love ur wooden handle. But the TB3 with the side nail puller is awesome. Especially when stripping out forms the leverage you get in that little side puller is truly impressive. For commercial work when duplex nails specified everywhere: it’s the perfect driver and puller
My elbows hate framing nail guns but I like them. Good ole' estwing blue fits me. Thanks for the insight.
Good choice for a video. Enjoyed watching.
Great video enjoyed listening to you talk about hammers.
I got the stiletto ti bone 3 a couple years back I really loved it and I doubt I would ever replace it, then I heard about Martinez hammers and it just made sense. If a claw broke off on my hammer it’s pretty much done. Or if the grip brakes there’s no replacement. But with Martinez hammers you get replacement grips and heads and you can pick and choose the head and colors, I would recommend going with Martinez hammers titanium but with replacement parts
I love my martinez m1. I have tennis elbow and setting concrete anchors was really hurting. Haven't felt that twinge in my elbow since I picked up the martinez.
I think the worries about Stiletto durability are silly and I suspect they are a combination of Martinez marketing and forum fan boy tool fetish nonsense. I have had the Stiletto full-size Tibone for about five years as a framing subcontractor as well as for a good deal of roofing (especially tearoff) and demo. I have beat the living heck out of it and used it for everything so that others have winced at my risking a $300 hammer to demolish walls and concrete and steel and rock and rip off roofing shingles and pound in ten million roofing staples and dig holes in frozen ground. And still I haven't caused the slightest functional damage to the hammer. The original waffle head is still going strong, haven't chipped the claw or bent anything and the rubber handle is worn smooth but still works great. The magnetic nail slot goes out of alignment about once a year, and it just tap it back with a nail set and a second hammer like a castle nut on a motorcycle shock. I suppose Martinez is about equivalent with Stiletto to the extent it matches its design, but I don't see it as superior and would question whether any changes Martinez made to the original Tibone design is an actual improvement, or just a gimmick introduced in place of some patented feature they are not allowed to reproduce. Stiletto got it right the first time and usually the company owns the design not the engineer.
@zacharyroyce not knocking the stiletto, 99% of users will never wear it out. I've seen a couple worn out stilleto claws. If you've used it that much I think it's more than paid for itself.
What I mainly liked was the what if? If I baker a claw with concrete I can just buy a head and not a whole stiletto and the ability to change grips to your liking is grate. I love my stiletto but If I had to buy another one I would pick Martinez.
@@nutoriousclown4107 It looks to me that the Martinez head is all steel, which would make it heavier than Stiletto Ti-bone, which has a titanium head with a ~1/4-inch-thick steel hammer tip. I wonder if the head would become sloppy after years of hammering on those threads, and I wonder if that lip where the head sticks up proud over the V-notch in the handle would interfere with using the V-notch to scoop up your 1/4"-proud nail heads (which is how you use the V-notch to best advantage, like when you've levered apart sistered boards or pulled off wall braces and you have to pound out a bunch of nails--one little tap does it per nail---the same applies to pulling many nails with a catspaw---just start em all real fast and then pling em out like bullet casings all at once.)
I agree 100% Vaughn 999 20 ounce was my favorite but a rig axe is a marvel and used a fair bit.
This is such a timely video. Today my son and I were putting strapping up with a new Makita pneumatic nailer. We bought two new ones for this job, and commented on what a job putting in 2000. 2 1/2 “ ring nails with a hammer, “how did grand dad do it ?”
My son says check out this “Stilleto “, framing hammer. I never liked framing hammers because of the weight, and if I had to DRIVE a bunch of 31/2, I prefer my hatchet hammer. Other than that I use a medium, leather handled east wing, the big east wing never gets used…. Till today I tried the stilleto hammer an liked it, and my son said “you are going to love the wood handled stilleto “, pay the 185$ and trust me. I was going to go tomorrow and get one, and then I saw this video,,, how timely….. is the internet listening to the ladder conversation happening this afternoon ??? And I didn’t do any internet tool searches on any hammers ever..Really weird.
I don’t build houses any more, but I still have my Stiletto that I bought new from Parr Lumber in 2006. Worth every penny.
I've heard many arguments about hammers. But as I look around, and from my own experience, if you're serious about driving a nail, the Stiletto is the preferred choice. Nail guns cover most things, but not all. Then one has to drive a nail. The lighter hammer still plunks those nails down in a hurry without overworking the elbow. As I get older and greyer, that is the difference. I still have a 20oz and a 2 1/2# plus a few other poundy things, but that Stiletto is the king of the hill. True, it's personal choice but my go-to is the Stiletto. I still can't justify the all metal one, but, oohh, shiny. =D
I still use an old 18 oz. Estwing. I also have a 24 oz Husky that I put in my belt sometimes. I just can't bring myself to pull the trigger on Titanium. I do remodeling by the way, so I need a versatile hammer.
I swung an Estwing 28oz warclub for 10 years, till my chiropractor informed me of just how bad my carpal tunnel issues were, asked what kind of hammer I used, and told me "Either change hammers or change careers". I switched to a Vaughan 23oz California framer and loved it. Flash forward 25 years to Sept. 2016: my nephew came down to Louisiana to help me clean up from the great flood of 2016 (4 1/2' of water in our house) and gifted me a Stiletto T15II (I was using an estwing 22 for many years at that point). That hammer changed my life and saved my career , without it I'd have had to retire by now, and probably needed surgery as well.
$35 Irwin 24 Oz demo hammer....feels light as a feather and I can build or take down anything with it...been pulling up a subfloor with it this week and my kneew are giving out but my arms and shoulders still feel fine
Last week I scheduled shoulder surgery for January. Just bought a Stiletto to use when I am back to normal duty.
Just received mine today because of you, love my Stiletto and thank you 🙏🏼
Update: I now own a USA Stiletto Ruger 14 oz hickory handle! Loving my Stilettos and Thanks again
Thanks for all the awesome content and amazing videos!!
I’ve always wanted a stiletto hammer. But as a concrete guy that frames maybe five weeks a year I haven’t been able to justify one. I do have a full metal estwing that I am proud of. I hope to have this hammer for many years. The reality is concrete is you can lose any tool at any time to damage, abuse, or literally dropping it into a wall being filled with concrete. But as silly as sounds I look forward to trying to wear out a hammer that should last me forever. And I hope I can hang on to the hammer long enough to admire it’s patina.
If you don't lose it, that Estwing might retire with you, they're great hammers. I've got a Stanley 20oz which isn't made anymore, if anything ever happens to it, it'll be replaced by an Estwing.
I’m in the same boat as you, can’t justify the expense of titanium. Now that I’m retired, i really can’t justify it. My 20 oz estwing has been faithfully at my side almost the whole time and i’ll probably have it for the rest of my life. I do count my blessings that i’ve never had to deal with the arm problems that plague so many, even in my youth when spending lots of time nailing strapping on ceilings by hand. I don’t know who invented nailers but i hope he’s filthy rich, he deserves it.