RR Buildings Framing Hammer Hall of Fame

Maybe my hammers aren't cool enough to really make it into the real framing hammer hall of fame, but Definitely the RR Buildings Framing Hammer Hall of Fame!! A framing hammer is like any tool, they are there to help us complete a job. Each one of my hammers helped me at some point in my life, and I think it is always important to reflect on where we have been so that we may have a better understanding of where we are going. They may just be simple framing hammers to most, but to me, they are my hammer hall of fame.
Share your favorite of all time, or maybe a hammer story down below in the comments. I'd love to ready it. Thanks for the support.
Hammer Hall of Fame Affiliate Links Below
Stiletto 14 OZ - bit.ly/Stiletto14
Martinez M1 - bit.ly/MartinezM1
Estwing 28 oz - bit.ly/Estwing28
Stiletto T-bone 3 (newest Model..I own 2) - bit.ly/TiBone3
Dalluge 14oz - bit.ly/Dalluge14
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[@redbeard6111]

Started as a framer 13 years ago with a 22 oz estwing and swung that for 5-6 years and then I saw my first stiletto. The guy was another journeyman and I asked him about it he laughed and said he had a spare in his tool box and I could use it if I liked it he would sell it to me a week went by and he asked me what I thought I handed him a 100 dollar bill and he said no and gave me back 50 that same guy is dead an gone and that hammer rides around in my tool box everyday going from job to job I now own my own company and swing a Martinez m1 but always look back at that story

[@balaton1]

What a great story!!!! If you are a good worker out here, the old he coons (like me), will see your character and pay it forward. Now son, you are becoming what I call "the sheriff." Find a young man worthy of that hammer, tell him that story. If he is who you hope he is, he will tear up. Consider handing that hammer to him. WITH WARNINGS like "If I see you using it for demo, you must give it back." Maybe one day, he will become the sheriff, too.

[@itsslim5510]

Sell it to a youngin for cheap like he did. That’ll make him

[@jnblawnandlandscapellc]

@@itsslim5510 That's a hammer you keep forever.

[@cookdislander4372]

​@@jnblawnandlandscapellc agreed, that hammers too special to pass on

[@davidparker9676]

@@cookdislander4372 He can pass on a sweet Harbor Freight hammer instead.

[@riverbuilder2251]

My Dad was a master joiner, he used a timber handled 18 oz “ Cheney” hammer for over 60 years, and a timber handled 24oz “Keesteel” for the occasional framing jobs. When I bought my Stiletto t15, he thought it was strange and felt weird, after using it for a few hours, he was smitten. I placed his two hammers and his well worn 1&1/4” E.Berg chisel on top of his coffin when we laid him to rest 3 years ago. Those hammers, like him, earned a rest.

[@mcbridecreek]

That Berg chisel…masterpiece. Well done

[@cookdislander4372]

Beautiful.

[@kevinmaughan4290]

Nice story

[@mattrose4860]

Swinging the est wing 28oz just like my dad did and does. I always loved working with my hands and house remodeling. I bought my dads small business when I graduated from high school. I’m now 20 years old with three employees and am staying consistently 3 months or so booked and no signs of slowing down. God has blessed me. I have a video idea Kyle of maybe sharing things you wish you would have known when you first started your business? Hiring employees, taking your business to the next level, taking your skill to the next level, how to manage the business yet still be at the job site working, opportunity costs, etc. just an idea but I love your videos and they challenge me to become a better contractor. Thanks

[@steveranelli3992]

Have my Dads last estwing he partially wore the handle off. He was a carpenter almost 40 years and passed 6 years ago. He was a small but very stocky powerful guy and always swung a 16 ounce hammer. I also have his original true temper with a composite handle. I was always amazed how fast he could swing those smaller hammers and he was always faster than any guys on the job that swung heavier hammers. I also have his old wooden levels and all the tools he left behind. I miss him terribly and using his tools gives me a strong sense of connection to him. I’m not in the trades but still do a lot of work as I grew up working for Dad. Great video.

[@kientran5522]

For me, the ideas in kzbin.infoUgkxAfqpMLyFn37qcqUl0FAzqkkycQeXqrhP Plans were a starting point for building different sheds . Ryan gives ideas that allow an individual to draw nicest conclusions into the design and building of his or her own shed.

[@timothystivers6435]

I got a M1. I'm not in the industry anymore but it is the best on the market. I took me a few days to get used to it but i will never go back. Keep up the great content. No matter what people are gonna say something.

[@Moses55845]

I know the M1,however, I used a Titanium one.

[@billbeckett1021]

I started out using a 22oz Estwing and had developed a wrist injury. I switched to 20 oz Hart wood handle until I found a Douglas hammer. Ten years later I stumbled across a Stiletto 16 oz titanium. I loved it so much I bought the Stiletto TB2 and never looked back.

[@hunterwolfe9059]

My grandpa got me a 14oz titanium stiletto after I got him one. Not only my favorite hammer, it's my favorite tool hands down. Mine has a nice patina on the wood handle now. Love it.

[@jksconstructioninc.3396]

This is great! I have a beat up 14 oz stiletto hanging under my contractor license in the office. Was not my first hammer, my wife bought it for my birthday many years ago. We were so broke at the time just starting a business, and I would sit there and think how cool it would be to own what I thought was an expensive hammer at the time. Many blessed years later I found it in the shop and said to myself this has to go up on the wall. A simple hammer can remind you of all the hard work you put in and how far you have come.

[@RRBuildings]

So true

[@sparksmcgee6641]

yep, I realized i did over a million in work while standing on my 20' extension ladder. retired it to the shop wall.

[@Moses55845]

My apologies to you, I judged you by how clean your shop looks but once I saw your entire video I was like SO elaborated and honest you were. I have Titanium and other steel hammers, different weights and applications. I have fun messing around wood, my co workers do not enjoy it as much. THANK YOU!!!!!

[@daneboyd952]

This hit my heart Kyle. Super relatable for me. I remember graduating to the Estwing doing fences when I was 15, back in 98" it was top of the line tech. I remember guys telling me about the damage I was doing in 2000's and thought about the 14 oz woody. I'm back in carpentry now and was literally standing in lowes noticing the new millwakees. Anywho, thanks brother and God bless your family and endeavors

[@calebstevens4658]

I know this is a late comment but I have had the M1 for 6 or 7 months now probably, excellent hammer for general carpentry. First day I demoed a chimney with it and we pulled 5 inch nails out with the side pull on a remodel reframing the kitchen ceiling. Holds up incredibly well and after a week my tendonitis was gone.

[@HickSquatch]

I love the story of tools and the tales they tell. Watching this, I pulled out my old framer: 23 oz Vaughn wooden handle. The waffle is smooth, on the second handle, chipped claw: but it weathered the last thirty years better than I did. I started with a cheap finish hammer, and took a side job building a log home; shattered the cheap hammer. I bought an Estwing and liked it too, but oh wow did it transfer the vibration and shock running 16” spikes all day!!! I lost it on a shipyard job, along with my whole belt and kit. So I picked up the Vaughn. It’s served me well all these years, but it lives in the toolbox drawer now. Pneumatic replaced it years ago and I had to get out of the trades. I’m now 52 and permanently disabled. Started working full time at 12. Now I’m just going through a box of tools I inherited from my grandfather and am restoring them. Those videos popped up your channel: enjoying it!! Good to see another human D9 Caterpillar getting it done. 💪👍

[@travisvinson6917]

Most self employed will have a similar stories. Mine wont be about a hammer spacificaly, but tools in general. going from tools bought at a budget bin at a pawn shop to paying $30 for a socket. Even my work has evolved. I had a late start in realizing what I enjoyed doing can be a career. I'm glad I found your page, the videos are informitive to a DIYer.

[@aaronharapat5301]

I'm 4th year Union framer. I skipped the heavy hammer, started with a wood stiletto, and have gone through the same journey. Fukin love the Martinez M1. Game changer

[@danz190]

I get it! I was an automobile technician for 25+ years... I own mostly Snap-On tools... I didn’t always, but as I progressed through my career, I found out that you buy the best tools you can afford. I started out with the cheap craftsman tools and slowly replaced them with better quality tools. It definitely makes you more productive having the right tool for the job you are doing and like you said, we all have cars, and it’s more comfortable driving from point A to point B in a nicer car... Great videos, love your channel BTW!

[@alexens5061]

I'm a residential framer, I started with a 32 oz stanley that my boss gave me when I was green. Then I went to the 16 oz wood stiletto, and now I have an m1 martinez coming in the mail

[@Venumundo]

Aviation mechanic here watching the video staring at my Snapon tool box and tools, but not regretting buying them because that price definitely made my job easier worth every penny. Different trade same message.

[@philiparmand3534]

Just got a TBII from Stilletto as a birthday gift. After 25 years in the business I never thought I would enjoy using a hammer this much. I just purchased their 10oz finish hammer to complement the framing beast. It's truly worth the cost of you swing a hammer every day. I have been suffering from wrist pain and this has certainly helped my recovery.

[@jeffpowell8308]

My first hammer was a 28 once estwing. I was sixteen in 1985 and I rode my bike 5 miles to the hardware store to buy it while it was on sale. It wore out my arm the first year working full time as a carpenter. But my arm got stronger and then I loved it for years. Now I'm 50 and I love the stelleto.

[@anthonyhinen1367]

My old man got me a 28 Oz Estwing hammer. I've been using it for 16 years. I've taken it on multiple deployments (military carpenter). I've since bought another one. I tried a wood handle 14 and It felt to weird. I could no longer 3 hit nails. I've been using the Estwing so long it felt like I could never transition to something lighter. Still using the Estwing today. Who knows I may try one of the m1 or stiletto hammers next. Great video

[@bladerunner9646]

Your not alone. I started my joinery apprenticeship back in 1983. A bench joiner. The first hammer I purchased was a Stanley Steel Master. Soon after that I purchased a leather handled 20oz Estwing. These Estwing hammers are so nice! Made in the USA too and not China. I don't have as many hammers as you as I don't really need as many but I have lots of Estwings. 24oz Englisg pattern. 16oz 20oz 22oz and 24oz standard Estwings. I rarely use my 28oz or 24oz Estwings. Hammers are so personal. Thanks for the video.

[@TokyoCraftsman]

Speaking for myself, I enjoy these videos. It is of interest to see how your hammer choices evolved. I'm not a framer but I've done some framing and I've got one of them big bad Estwing framing hammers, I'm sure that thing will out-live me! When I was about 12 or so we all helped my grandfather build his retirement house. My brother and I spend most of a summer at his place building the new house, digging ditches in the rain and lots of swinging hammers. I was old enough to get an old worn but serviceable tool belt and my very own first hammer, wooden handle. My grandfather would catch me choking up on the handle and tell me to NOT do that, you need to swing the whole hammer to drive in those spikes. After telling me maybe a million times, LOL one day at lunch, with my brother, father, uncles, and cousins sitting around he said to me "Hey, can I see your hammer?" I handed him my hammer and he pulled out his skill saw and cut about six inches off the handle and handed it back to me... He said, "Well you don't use it so I made it lighter for you..." I was mad and embarrassed as could be. Around coffee break, 3PM he called me aside and gave me some money and told me to walk down to the hardware store and get a new handle for my hammer. When I got back he showed me how to hang a handle on a hammer. To this day every time I swing a hammer I think of him and I never... EVER choke up on the handle. Cheers from Tokyo!

[@RRBuildings]

Wow great story man. Thanks for sharing

[@wadus89]

awesome story mate

[@scotttrigg6871]

We call it choking the chicken.......holding the hammer close to the head

[@Genesis-fy3cp]

L Just frozen you can't be

[@gman8260]

Great video Kyle. I built my house 35 years ago with a 20 oz Craftsman with a orange fiberglass handle for framing and a 16 oz Craftsman claw for interior trim. Still have those today. When my Dad passed, my brother only wanted one thing and that was my Dad's hammer because both my brother and I learned from my Dad how to build a variety of things using that hammer. I don't know of any other tool that evokes such passion like a hammer does.

[@RRBuildings]

Very true

[@revg2608]

Man knocked it out the park... hammers with a story-you should be a Pastor in Construction!!!! You could save lots of lives with a hammer story-😳🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽 I don’t want to say Martinez is the Christ of hammers but you see the analogy.

[@RRBuildings]

Haha love it man. Thank you

[@diegofletes3816]

Buy once cry once. You get what you pay for. The tools make your living. I fully support american made, quality tools.

[@taco6989]

Nothing beats the quality of a fine crafted American hammer as opposed to a Chinese photocopied wrist-wrecker.

[@ambersmith6517]

Brian said it all

[@jonathanpopham5483]

Buy 7 go to heaven

[@josecruz021]

I’m a part-time framer and my dad is a full-time framer and has been doing it for years. The hammer I swing is a 24 ounce estwing and after a couple days of hand driving nails I’m getting pretty tired of it and so are my hands 😂 so here I am looking for something good that I can use but also share with my dad on my off time. Great video love the way you give a little backstory for each hammer and your experience using it

[@ericsoumah7510]

Hey Kyle, I am a follower of your channel, I do love your videos, they are very informative, I live in Quebec, Canada, I've been a carpenter for 17 years, you sure are right, hammers do take a toll on our bodies. My journey started with an Estwing wafflehead 22 oz., also had the 28 oz, through the year went down to a smooth face 20 oz., stuck to 20 oz for the better part of 10 years. I graduated to an Estwing Sure Strike, then a Vaughn 999 smooth face and my latest change is to my 14 oz Stiletto milled face wooden handle. Tomorrow I plan on hockey taping the grip because in 0° weather with cotton gloves, the grip just doesn't cut it. Keep up your great videos and tools day. All the best Eric Soumah

[@diyVT]

I also bought a house that needed a ton of work. I started with a hammer similar to your first hammer that my dad bought me as a kid. I was working with my dad on the renovation and he noticed that some times his stiletto hammer would end up in my tool belt after a day of working by myself. He got me my own for Christmas and I have used it since then. That's been close to 10 years now and it has been a great hammer.

[@erikdeziel8069]

I have a huge collection of retired Hammers too. Not all great experiences. Experience makes a massive difference on your experience.

[@jordangosse9609]

I've only been a carpenter for about 3 years and I love it, started off using a 24oz estwing in trade school and loved it, used it for any and every task that I had to do, but I recently decided to make the purchase and get a 14oz stiletto and to say it's a game changer is an understatement. such a big diffefence

[@stir_stick]

I’m dropping the comment, props to Mark for making a quality product and charging enough to pay his people well. We need more of that in the world. Enough people are willing to pay for top quality, a real person standing behind the product, and I want us all to succeed… if that means paying more so Mr. Martinez’s people get some ribeye’s on the table occasionally, only makes it better to me.

[@elevatedarchives]

You don't need to apologize for your opinion! Much appreciated explanations on why you use every tool that you use. Always good to see and hear your real world critiques, keep it up man!

[@grafpeyton]

Im 21 and just got promoted to foreman. Saw your video a while back when you met up with Mark Martinez and have been wanting to get one ever since. Next paycheck I’m definitely putting the extra money towards a Martinez hammer.

[@satchmodog2]

In 95 when I started my business I bought that same Estwing but with the smooth face and an 18 ounce with a curved claw. I always called the 28 oz the Man hammer. I guess all my hammers are Estwing except one. The Riggers Axe and Drywall hammer are both Estwing as well. I did get a 22 oz Milwaukee to help cut down the vibrations and knock some weight off, but that's obviously not the answer. I'm 53 and a fourteen oz titanium hammer would probably be ideal. I'll look into the Martinez and the Stiletto.

[@MaryJaneismyGF]

i got my brother a tb2 and he got me a martinez m4 12oz we build decks. The thing is a game changer like you said! We both had been talking about them but never justified them lol we both had been using whatever Dewalts best antivibe option at the time for the last 7yr and before that it was the good ol estwing!!

[@TTBTV]

I went from a 22 estwing waffle, too a tb2 too a red headed step child and now I own my own framing company I love you're videos man, you should do a gable lift without a lull or pump jacks.

[@areabum]

I started 16 years ago with that same estwing hammer. I still have it and use it. But I rarely nail anything since I'm a finish carpenter. Just setting the occasional finish nail. Pretty much all I use now are rubber mallets for assembling furniture and such. My framer friends have Martinez hammers and swear by them. In all fairness you "could" drive in a nail with a dozen frozen bananas for a few dollars. But craftsmen take pride in their work and their tools. I've been eyeing the 12 oz for finish, but I just can't justify it since I wouldn't use it often. I believe in getting the best tool for your trade if you are using it on a daily basis. For my line of work, most of my purchases have been festool lately.

[@ShanepxII]

Who would have thought a hammer video could be so cool and interesting. Nailed it!!! 🔨

[@RRBuildings]

Well thank you

[@bannockchief]

I got a 150 lb box of hammers that people just love digging through. Like, who tf really cares about hammers. But, who am I to judge, I got a box of 'em.

[@westy2701lol]

Hall of frame

[@zachpel1923]

Me

[@BigPapaJ01]

😂

[@kadamwilliams8742]

A testament to your abilities. How many people have and will dedicate 13:25 mins of theirlife to watching a video about your hammers.

[@timdraughon5897]

I swung the 14 oz titanium stelleto for a few years but I have recently gone back to the 21 oz dalluge I love them both

[@mcbridecreek]

I personally think the 21oz Dalluge with a straight handle is the best framer I’ve ever used. I have a customized 24oz plumb ax for rafters and beam work.

[@timdraughon5897]

@@mcbridecreek I can't do the straight handle it always has to be an axe handle

[@ibrazeau3044]

I still have all my hammers from when I was a kid till now. Many of them are Estwing. Even though I now use Martinez for most work, I still always carry an Estwing for any demo or forms. They have there place.

[@RRBuildings]

Good call for sure

[@noahmcconochie3201]

As a kid (probably 4-5) I got a small trim hammer to play with in the shop, moved to up a proper framing hammer when I was 8 and eventually got a 22oz eastwing but now that I'm an electrician I just use my klein's!

[@alancroft6928]

You made some extremely good points about a tool that we all use and don’t really take much notice of. It maybe just a hammer but as you say Kyle it’s an excellent tool that needs to feel good in the hand as well as looking after your body.

[@joshuasutton2163]

I’m new to the carpentry trade. I started with a $7 finish hammer from Home Depot when I was 10. I still have that one, but I recently upgraded to a wood handle 20 oz Vaughan 999. I’m loving it so far. Maybe there is a stiletto remodelers hammer in my future, but that’s where I’m at right now.

[@michaela5261]

25 years of carpentry, still love what I do, I started the same way. Way to big. 28oz East wing to a 24oz. Then 22+ years ago I discovered stiletto, they were relatively new on the scene and people though I crazy for spending the $$$. I still use that same hammer to this day, it went from a waffle head to a smooth but still swings and hits like a work of art. I'm currently looking at the boss hammer as a replacement. Your right, every carpenter has a journey and the hammer is definitely one of those tools you get attached to.

[@jeremiahcoles2378]

Can't even remember my first hammer lol It was probably 15 years ago also. Second hammer was a Stanley, third was a dewalt and sold it very shortly after buying because the neck bent (straitened before selling lol) then I got a stilleto tb2. Loved that hammer. Share the same frustration with the face twisting but it got lost by my helper(long story). A friend gave me a Vaughn master framer, which I still have and love, but missed that titanium. Bought a second TB2 and the handle broke the exact same way yours did, So annoying! Still rocking it maybe one day I'll try an M1. Thanks for sharing the story!!! God bless and work safe!!!

[@D5moke]

Started with an 28 oz est wing too haha stood by it for a long time, I bought an M1 Martinez and man it was worth every dollar I love it !

[@rafaelfreire1286]

Ive been a carpenter for 7years in Canada Ive started whit the Vaughan CFB2LM 19-Ounce Blue Max High Performance and still have to this day just love the hammer one day im going to get the Martinez M1 Great vid bro 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼

[@wcsd9577]

In my hammer journey I started off with whatever I could get, I used a cheap no-name claw hammer in the beginning of my career and bought my first framing hammer 14 years ago. It was a Husky brand California-style framing hammer (either 21 or 22oz) and I beat that thing like it owed me money, everything from framing to demolition and masonry work, yet it still worked like a charm despite looking like it had been draggged behind a truck. I still have it somewhere and occasionally use it for demo. The next hammer I bought was a 32oz Vaughan classic framing hammer with a skinny wood handle. I was young and stupid and thought I was hot shit with a big ass hammer and all my gear doing comemrical work, however it turned out that all it did was tire me out and the skinny handle shattered one day when I tried to pull out a finish nail of all things so I went back to using the old reliable Husky. In the mean time I hadn't given up on the bigger-is-better mentality, and one day bought a 28oz bare head from a framing hammer that was originally made by True Temper, for $1 at a garage sale and added my own hickory handle. Again, I thought I was hot shit with my big old heavy hammer that I restored myself, this one didn't break like the Vaughan yet it still sucked to use all day so I went back, again, to the Husky. Then about 5 years ago I took a good long look at Stiletto and began to change my mind about expensive hammers and the science behind the lightweight titanium versus steel, and chose the 14oz Stiletto with the black fiberglass handle. The rest is history. I still use the other traditional hammers for demo and beater work, but for swinging all day and trying to keep my elbow intact I use the Stiletto. Fancy hammers may cost $100, $200, $300 or more but if you think about it, that's a lot less than surgery and rehab and loss of income if you use them all day every day.

[@offroadchevy4x496]

Started with a 3 dollar harbor freight 16 ounce, moved up to a 22oz estwing when I got in the apprenticeship, once I became a 3rd term we were driving 9” spikes and tried a wood 14 stiletto. Definitely knew I needed a lighter hammer so I bought the mini 14. Best purchase of my career so far.

[@andyvetter8672]

I posted on your IG post but ya I have had my far share of hammers . After having the first Tbone for 15 yrs I got the Martinez m1 . Had elbow issues as does a lot of framers . Ultimately the Martinez the elbow pain went away . It’s crazy but the Martinez is simply the best ! Great video Kyle . 👊🏻💥👊🏻

[@reecedejong8770]

Earlier this year at my age of 17 I bought an m1 as a controls tech lol. Although financially a stupid decision I have no regrets. The sledge hammer head that showed up at more door a couple days ago definitely for me, makes it all worth it. It's amazing how you can beat metal with a sledge hammer and it feel like dead blow.

[@fredbird408]

I’m a 1st period carpenter apprentice in San Jose California, the m1 is legit glad I bought it this early in my apprenticeship

[@markcreamer4649]

I've been framing for 42 years Stilleto is king I've tried em all

[@jimleesur5610]

Marintez is now king

[@reeferdogbassin7909]

The 32oz is king of the hammers, like the CR500 is king of dirtbikes!

[@cfcreative1]

titanium is crap

[@markcreamer4649]

@@cfcreative1 lol its the best on the planet, nothing compares, try swinging one for years and years Best hammer on the planet

[@cfcreative1]

@@markcreamer4649 no chance if u do heavy work titanium is more brittle little science fact but those who really use hammers know

[@michaelprosperity3420]

Awesome story about your journey with hammers. I'm an Army Soldier and it makes me think of my combat boots and all the ones I purchased and the miles I walked and worked in them. The issue boots or lowest bidder boots always sucked. My favorites were Matterhorn Boots, the old jungle boots were good because you could wear them dry in about 4 hours. I.e. put them on wet and walk them dry. Leatherman multi tools also have many iterations from there inception.

[@georgetuider654]

I've got your hammer line up through the fourth one. So true on the limitations of the wooden handle as a nail puller but I do like it as a nail driver. Amen about that Estwing! I've left plenty of blood on lumber from that waffle face. It's wicked. Not like New England "wicked good", but as in evil wicked! It does drive a sinker though. Oh yeah, one more thing. I've never built a pole building but I bought a piece of property last fall with one on it. After watching your work, I'm going to take it down and re do it. Your craftsmanship and attention to detail is awesome. Since I started getting schooled by you and can see the difference in quality, I am embarrassed to tell people that building is mine!

[@paullarsen4554]

Been swinging the tb2 for 6 months now. I love it wont change for along time

[@josearredondo2251]

Just getting started in remodeling. And went from a cheapo fiberglass handle framing hammer to the 14 ti dalluge. Huge improvement! Love it. Don't know that I'll ever make it to a Martinez but they sure look amazing. Awesome vid. 👍

[@beaubroshomesconstruction7295]

I still swing the 28 oz. Estwing in my early fifties and my two sons are a heck of a lot smarter then me they both already transitioned to the stiletto14 in there early twenties, well that means they will for sure out last me . Or just maybe I will get a real nice birthday present this year. possibly a MartinezM1, one can only hope the boys love there dad enough.

[@RRBuildings]

Tell your boys to step it up

[@nicholashollow9410]

My dad has 30 years on his estwing hammers. They are pretty much indestructible I like them and I'll probably use them for another 30 years.

[@YankeeWoodcraft]

@@nicholashollow9410 My old man bought a Sears Craftsman hammer ONCE 50 years ago and used the same one for 5 decades. Every year, he'd wear it one down, take back to Sears and they'd give him a brand knew one knowing full well they'd see him back there the following year with another worn out hammer.

[@buzzkill8214]

@@YankeeWoodcraft and you wonder why Sears went out of business 😅

[@shaunnelson4627]

I’m still swinging my Estwing. 25 years of hammering and still going.

[@travisramage5446]

I always told my guys with wood handled hammers when i seen them pulling nails, "hammers are for driving nails not pulling nails" lots of them would scoff untll they ended up on their butt after there handle broke. I always carried a cats paw for pulling nails (or for a paper weight) after I switched to a stilletto i still found my cats paw usefull.

[@DarthGandalftheBlack]

I’ve had my Martinez for about 8 years now. Been through landscaping, scaffolding, and marine industrial supply. Best damn hammer I’ve ever had. I’ve used Stilettos, Eswings, and the like. Nothing beats my Martinez 🤘🏻

[@drewsmall4160]

Just ordered my first Martinez hammer, m1 I've been watching so much about his product I just knew after 6 years it was time to invest. I started with a 28 oz. Vaughn mill face framer then moved too a 20 oz bostich then 2 a 22 oz est wing framer. Cant wait for the next journey with the m1!

[@thejlew8556]

I’ve been thinking about picking up an M1. This video helped push me to do it. Thanks!

[@davidallen803]

Great video. It reminds me of the stories of my Grandfather on my Dad's side. I have all of his tools, and I know there are stories behind all of them. Unfortunately, I never got to hear them because he died before my Dad graduated from High School. KZbin is great because they say nothing ever truly dies on the internet and your story will go on to inspire others for years to come. Keep up the good work.

[@oldaxehead655]

I had a Husky framing hammer for over 10 years that was by far my favorite. They don't make that model anymore, in fact I lent it to someone who swears they gave it back, but I know they didn't, and now I'm searching for a replacement. That Husky hammer put in work for 10 years with no problems at all.

[@kickyourfaceandlaugh607]

You did not use that husky for 10 years straight. Working. When I used Vaughn hammers framing everyday they only lasted 5 months. The head gets loose, waffle goes smooth, if it was a steel shaft the shaft would come out the bottom and the grip would fly off. So stfu about having a husky for 10 years. Yeah I believe you if it sat in your wife’s boyfriend’s nightstand.

[@lukeenns4111]

I work in concert construction building box culverts and we still use wood forms so I fully understand swinging a hammer day in and day out. On that note I use a Vaughn 23oz California framing hammer that I've had for roughly 4 years now and I love it. When the waffle is almost gone I just pull out the files and put a new waffle on the head.

[@Whthppndu]

I hope you get this comment. What kind of hammer are you using 3 years later?

[@chrisfyfe4047]

Good Vid , I’m a Sparky gone wrong , I’ve don a lot of tetrofits in existing structures . The imperitive for me was , “ No trace left behind “ . My default hammer is a 6 Oz. Crosspien/ Warrington carried in the back pocket , a pair of pincers ( Knipex ) , and a squad of small prybars . I get involved in trim removal , and reinstallation , incident on wire fishing . I also have a Stilletto Mini 14 , and a couple of their Ti prybars . Martinez is the next logical upgrade ! I’m also an addict when it comes to squares , and layout tools !

[@lokigames5091]

I've been wanting the M1 for a while now, but like you in your early years I just can't justify it. Like the video🤘🤘

[@moseslloyd6944]

One year ago and a couple of months I started working construction I had a fiberglass cheap hammer. I knew right away that it was no good! I got a cheap framing hammer. Worked good for the demolition stuff. I was at that job for 1/2 a year and the the owner got covid and died. Company got shut down. That hole time there I knew about Martenz hammers because I seen your KZbin shorts. Did my research knew it was the hammer to have, but I had to go back to factory life. But only for a short time. I got a job at Pacemaker pole building. First day I see the crew all have Martenz They know about RR Buildings. They tell me to get a Martenz. I did get one but I got a m4 with a titanium head. ( I got a estwing first) I thought it would be easier. After two weeks of using what is a really nice finishing hammer, I ordered a m1 with that green grip. Great videos, they inspired a lot of people like me to do this kind of work! So a big thank you! For the people on the fence about getting a Martenz do it 100% worth it!

[@gfidd]

buy once, cry once. Bought a stiletto 15oz 12 years ago. loved it, still love it

[@mitchketron]

Kyle, As always, your videos hit the proverbial nail on the head. I've been roofing for going on 7 years now, so framing hammers aren't my tool. I've tried all the hatchets from big box stores, and a few from online. Can't beat that trusty ol' 35oz 12.5" estwing. One hit and done with our teeny 1&1/4" nails :D

[@RRBuildings]

Haha so true

[@happinessjoyandlaughter6584]

I just bought an M1 for my Bday. I look forward to trying it outs. Thank you for your videos. They are very informative.

[@jarett484]

Just wondering why you chose to go back to a steel head from titanium if you were using a stiletto?

[@carysimpson2651]

I’ve thought about doing a video similar to yours Kyle but I just didn’t think anyone would be interested. But after enjoying yours maybe someday I will? It’s awesome to see how someone else feels sentimental about their hammers the way I do. I’m currently on a Stiletto “Musclehead” 16 oz. with the wooden handle. Keep up the good videos!

[@markfritz315]

I do not use framing hammers really, but when the Stanley Antivibe came out I picked it up, and it is still going strong. I have plenty of trim hammers and mallets for the wood working I do.

[@ravinbuilders]

Great experience explanation of the Martinez. I had a similar route from estwing to stiletto wood/14 to tb2 to Martinez.

[@alanh2077]

Cool story man! I have one similar to the one you said you may have gotten from your dad. I got mine from my dad, and it's my favorite hammer. I'm not in the trade, so it doesn't make sense for me to get anything nicer, but those Martinez hammers are nice. If anyone says anything negative about this video, just ignore them. It's your journey, not theirs, and your builds are inspiring. My current shop is a 40'x60' metal frame building, but my next will likely be a post-frame. Keep doing what you do!!

[@draytonPW]

Me(non-carpenter) buying a $300 hammer would be idiotic. But, for someone like you I am all for it. I am a huge supporter of spending extra to ensure the tools you use everyday are nice.

[@david.leikam]

Everyone has bills to pay and quality tools are essential for good work, so it’s good to pay and support those who construct them well, for you. 🛠

[@gregwalker4236]

the two best carpenters i ever met both carried 14 oz hammers with wood handles, had arms like popeye and could sink a framing nail with three strikes. big hammers are good for demo. for me hammers were a backup for a framing gun or an oscillating sawzall. short hammers don't beat my knees to death, or catch as easily on ladder rungs. my hammering today is at the skeet range.

[@josegutierrezb.1154]

I 'M HOOKED WITH YOUR VIDEOS I AM FROM COSTA RICA AND I LOVE ALL ABOUT BUILDINGS AND CONSTRUCTION I AM A CABINET MAKER SINCE I WAS 13 YEARS OLD.

[@markuskrogen4111]

i bought my first hammer last week and it is a martinez m4 handle with an m1 head. so far i am happy with it.

[@mickp1978]

At first I thought I was strange having more than 1 hammer but as a builder it is our number 1 tool so it’s nice to try different models. Like driving nice cars it’s nice to try many.

[@jojot03]

I had a 20 ounce Stanley hammer throughout my apprenticeship, it was fine it did the job but I noticed whenever I was doing demo work my hand would get really sore even tho the hammer said it was anti vibration which in fairness I couldn’t really feel much vibration but my hand will always get sore after long periods of use. I saw your videos about the matinez hammers and I bit the bullet and bought one, the cheapest one of course but after the currency conversion and shipping it ended up costing $530 AUS. I use it everyday and I don’t regret buying it best hammer I have ever used

[@harveyroad6]

Good video. Made me look a my hammers dufferently. We are on similar journeys. You nailed it.

[@JohnAeon]

Got cleaned out in resent separation so I'm stuck trying to rebuild my shop and my life lol. Thanks for sharing. I've been considering the stiletto as the framer I pick up. Think you may have swayed me to the m1 now. Like the full head replacement and not just the face.

[@tamugrad2007]

I have large hands. I like the thicker, heavier handle in the wooden axe-handle style hammers. I don't do it for a living though (maybe I should have). I'm just a guy who likes to build stuff. I have since I was big enough to hold a hammer. My dad would give me a can of nails and a block of wood and I'd drive them til the can was empty. Anyway, I enjoy all your videos and will be starting my post frame building soon. Appreciate you sharing all of your experience and wisdom. Keep it coming.

[@ibrazeau3044]

After military service, I started my career with an Estwing 16oz curved claw which was perfect for the home but not for pounding nails everyday. I changed my hammer for a multitude of other Estwings and settled on the 22oz straight claw. Used it for years until I started getting major elbow swelling and leakage. The hammer really didn't help but the elbow problems were mostly a result of the infantry... abusive on the knees and the ELBOWS. I knew Estwing hammers were not part of my future anymore. I then used Vaughn California framer type hammers with wooden handles, and they failed. Others followed and failed. I eventually got an amazing Stiletto titanium hammer, which I loved very much, but I broke an ear off. I bought another and it failed also. I loved these titanium hammers because the elbow was OK and my shoulders didn't feel so stiff at night. Titanium was "it" for me but I feared breaking another one. At that price, I feel they should be warrantied properly and as strong as an Estwing. I eventually fell upon a Martinez which one of my employees was sporting. We're in Canada and at the time Martinez was not visible in stores at all. He had gotten it from the US. I thought it was a gimmick at first but I borrowed it and tried it for a week or so. Steel head and titanium handle!?!... It took me about two days to appreciate the different head balance, the thinner handle and the shorter length. I was used to an 18" hammer and this M1 was 16" long. Those differences were unsettling to me at first. I didn't care about the modular system it was marketed for, I just wanted durable and light enough to drive nails. Modular was just an option for me if I ever needed it. Well, 3 or 4 years later I have two M1s (waffled and smooth) and two M4s (dimpled and wide claw smooth) all with curved black and titanium colour handles. I am not a fashionista like you Kyle! Green... NOT for me and all black gets lost real fast in mud, the site box or when the sun goes down ;). My employment and business are very good to me financially so I can afford these expensive perks. I love the feel these hammers have in hand and how they drive nails. My elbow will always be a problem, always, but these hammers make my bread winnings a lot easier and less painful and they are durable. I still carry Estwings for demo and form work (I do almost no more of that though so I lend these to my employees) and they perform like monsters. I will not use Martinez hammers for these types of work. I should retire within the next 5 or 6 years if all goes well and I will use these hammers till then. I will probably pass them on to my son but I am not sure he will like them because he is right handed and I am left handed... dunno how he will feel about getting them left handed hammers! What do you think? Good video.

[@RRBuildings]

Great story

[@rafaczyz8510]

I believe that the first one is Stanley 16 oz. 52-416 My journey also started with it and I also get it from my father's tool box. The hammer came from Sweden to Poland in early 1980' where my dad worked. I love this hammer. Its heavy and not so practical....but I love it. Greetings from Poland.

[@TJB1510]

HEY NOW ~ YOUR FIRST HAMMER - WAS ALSO MY FIRST HAMMER. A FIBERGLASS STANLEY. STILL LOVING IT. NICE VIDEO.

[@gavinstone3769]

Great story mate ,i swing a stilleto 10 oz ,hits like an 18oz for glazing , best thing ever for your arm and wrist joints would highly recommend

[@stevearmstrong1430]

Spent 25 years in the trade. Always used ESTWING. 22 oz. waffle head for forms and framing and 16 oz. for finish work. It always worked for me. The upside to ESTWING is the nearly indestructability. Maybe not the best but, certainly will getthe job done.

[@mattiasfond]

Ordered 2 of them to be send to Sweden, one M1 and one M4...I will never ever go back and use another hammer again...thank god for mr Martinez

[@steveklampe7574]

My hammer journey is very similar ! M1 is my go to after 17 years !

[@eriksmith5950]

I have been a framer for 25 + years. My hammers are all a part of me as well and have a story to tell. I started with a random 24 oz hammer. It was heavy and not balanced for nothing. Then I went to a heart 21 oz. Loved that hammer. Used it for over 5 years. Went through about a handle a year. Then I broke the claw. I went out and got a Eastern 28 oz. As you said, " THE MEET CLEAVER" it was a strong man hammer for sure. One day I was nailing off a top plate and I was in a weird spot. My hand was on the plate holding it flush. The thin part of the handle hit my hand at full swing. It ended up out in the farmers field next to the job and I had a broken hand. At lunch I went down and got a Stilletto 19 oz and loved it. Used it for 8 years or so. But hated the handle because it would brake over and over again. So one day I went out and got a Fiberglass handle 24 oz. Loved it till I got a fiberglass sliver for the handle. I knew at that time it was done. So one day I went to a yard sale and seen a brand new Heart 24 oz framing hammer that might of hit 20 nails. I got it for $20. The guy said he hit his finger with it and took the meet off his finger and never used it again. I knew at that time I had to have it. So I went full circle with the hammers and I'm back to my favorite hammer. It is a very long journey to come back to the hammer I loved. Never thought about it much till I watched your video. But the hammers in my life is part of my love hate of my job and passion for framing. Now with me being the owner of the company for a very long time now almost 20 years. It has been a life long story with hammers! Thanks for sharing yours.

[@mcbridecreek]

I had a similar arc in hammers. I use Dalluge with a hart handle. 21 oz head. I pray I never break the handle as it is irreplaceable. I had a plumb rigging ax with a straight hart handle and after years I turned my head and another guy used it to pry and broke the handle. I guess I will have to use a draw knife and duplicate a new one.

[@frankreed5885]

Good video, as always. Honest presentation, as usual! Your journey, your story not everyone works doing the same thing, at the same stage of their career or the same stage of their life! One of the things I enjoy in your videos is your work ethic, attention to detail. Giving your client/customer the best end result for their project and the best value for their budget. That speaks volumes of your character, your of pride of ownership,not only the job but also of your business, Thanks for your videos. They're great!

[@redleffert4]

I started with several 16 oz claw hammers. Now i bounce between a 21oz California Framer and my grandfather's rigging axe that i refinished and made a handle out of a 100 y/o tree that fell in my parents front yard. Currently cant justify a Martinez but damn im looking forward to that day

[@rayrogers136]

My dad got me a Plum 16oz and used it for years then someone stole it and I got an EstWing that I still use. Great video about your hammers, really like your channel keep it up.

[@cmc02888]

Good video man, these are the types of videos I watch for entertainment sometimes, we love tools man and opinions are great when you want to step up your arsenal, right now I have a husky 22 oz. Framing hammer, hickory handle, it's got the recurved handle , great for nailing and it's like a mini sledge, estwing 24 roofing style is my backup now, I keep a light very pristine hammer for any finish banging so I don't get rust stains on finish, if I could get an exact husky like I have I'd buy it again in a second, but they changed the damn design, so when it breaks I'll be sad, thanks for all the knowledge, I've changed careers from cooking to carpenter so I'm soaking up as much as I can to catch up, your detailed videos are my homework and I appreciate the hell out of them! Doing a Reno on a hotel built in 1876, learning a ton

[@RRBuildings]

Awesome best of luck

[@stuartmcmillan5109]

Had my 20oz curved estwing going on 18 years...can't see me changing anytime soon....thing is a tank,!!!

[@717UT]

I have a fancy hammer, but I will admit that 20 oz is a sweet spot for an all round tool