The Framing Hammer Hall of Fame

[@Dreamster399]

When I was in college, I was pretty poor. I was an Army vet getting some assistance, but I couldn't make it on that alone. (Thanks, UCLA.) My brother hooked me up with one of his surfer bros whose dad was a big contractor in Santa Monica. The son was the foreman. It was summer of '84 when I showed up on a job site to build a restaurant in Beverly Hills. All these old pros looked at me and laughed at me. I didn't have nail bags or anything. The only thing I brought were brand new gardening gloves and a household Stanley hammer, one of those hollow-tube jobs for hanging pictures. I spent the day bloodying myself with that goofy hammer and 12p and 16p nails. The next day, the boss yells for me to get into his truck to go to Builders Emporium (classic Los Angeles place before the big box stores.) He gets what he needs and I'm following him looking like an idiot, and we stop at the hammers. He was 5-9, and I was a big dude, 6-2, 225. He grabs a Vaughn 32.oz framing hammer and says "Here's your new hammer. You can give the other one back to your mom." Thus began my lifelong love affair with Vaughn. His mantra when pounding nails was "one set, two strikes, one finish." The sound was like "Thwip, whawp whawp, thwoop!" Anyway, as I've gotten older, I mostly used the leather-handled Estwings. My working career wasn't in construction. But I've always fancied myself a decent carpenter. I remodeled a home on some acres in the Pacific Northwest, and built a large horse barn from scratch in my off time. I was building that barn, and there was just something "off" about the experience. I rummaged through my shop and I found that old Vaughn. My old boss had just passed and I thought about the day when I was just a pup and he gave that thing to me as a gift to make myself better. I used it to finish the barn in any instance where I couldn't use a nail gun (a luxury back in the day) and when I look at the barn I always think of that hammer and my old friend who gave it to me. It's still in my big rolling toolbox and everytime I see it I think of the time my boss said "you can give the other one back to your mom." Because that old Stanley is in that drawer, too. In fact, not a day goes by when I'm tinkering in my shop that there isn't a tool in my shop that doesn't remind me of family or friends or the things I've done along the way. I've been married twice, lived overseas, worked in 10 different countries, have two sons, put myself through college--twice--and served in the US Army for six years. The one constant is that I still have that Vaughn hammer. One set, two strikes, one finish.

[@ben-vf]

Great story, thank you.

[@mra95662]

Respect! Set and drive was the production sound of the 80s, just two contacts.Thip Whamp. Anything more, you're done. Fired

[@Dreamster399]

@@user-hd8ej8yx9p Thanks for reading!

[@riverbuilder2251]

Dreamster399 lovely story, good on you mate 👍

[@dbasiliere]

@@user-hd8ej8yx9p A bit harsh. You may be a young person.

[@myfathersbusiness3306]

if the world was right side up, boys would have posters of men like him hanging in their rooms and ask him to autograph their hammers. Grew up without a Father figure and really appreciate the calm expert advice from a genuine man like you. thank you

[@mstrshkbrnnn1999]

Sounds like you maybe should just get that poster you’re dreaming of and that autograph you want so bad lol

[@owenstewart1160]

@@mstrshkbrnnn1999 well I don’t want to be called gay lol and I don’t do carpentry or anything like that so it wouldn’t make sense for me to have a poster of him. He just has great advice and makes good videos

[@A.Goose_on_the_loose]

@@owenstewart1160 this is a man not a boy, and there's nothing wrong with having heros who exist, and there's definitely nothing wrong with letting others know who your influences are, chances are you've listened to "we are the champions" by Queen. Doesn't make you gay for listening. Just my 2 cents.

[@A.Goose_on_the_loose]

100% agree, posters should be made.

[@valleyquail1790]

Amen to that!!! I was in the same boat and at 42 now I still love learning

[@136donjuan]

You make me love my job as a framer. And see it with much more respect and honor. Thank you

[@johnkrim8377]

136donjuan , Every man who uses his hands to earn a living and feed his family deserves to be respected.👷🏻

[@DrAlexVasquezICHNFM]

Respect ✊🏼

[@canigetachannel]

I go home at night knowing that I didn't have to lie, manipulate or deceive anyone to get my provisions (for my family and I). Being a tradesman has been a blessing.

[@randallrogers8183]

Started framing with an Estwing and my fathers old nail apron. After a year, the owner surprised me with a 16 oz stiletto. After I bought new occidental pouches I LOOKED like one of the big dogs. I don’t frame homes anymore but am watching this content avidly so as not to screw up projects on my own property. Such superb content and actually.. incredibly therapeutic. This is what KZbin is for.

[@hippiehillape]

Breaking in those leather bags takes years.

[@AJ-od7mv]

The hammer selection in that store is absolutely incredible. I wish there were something like there around my area

[@sparkoceanic]

Yeah true indeed. The hardware store in my town has a selection of about 3 hammers, and one if those is probably a rubber mallet

[@adrianmora6444]

Is probably every framer’s dream

[@grizzlycountry1030]

Yeah nowadays around me I have to drive to ace, menards, lowes and home depot to try most hammers out there. Now I find myself buying online from tool barn.

[@jubjubs1000]

@@grizzlycountry1030 scratch lowes and home depot off that list. they got them online only now. i got lucky and Ace had some in stock to try out

[@garethwilmut1549]

Been following you for ages, love the channel, I could sit and chat with you for hours about work, tools, and philosophy's about anything, you strike me as that type who cares, and educates. And I could learn a lot from you. You have an incredible work ethic and I've learned a lot from you, sounds silly learning something from KZbin, but you have educated me more than I realised! So thank you friend.

[@Tbonethompson8232]

The blue grip on a steel Estwing hammer can be chewed off by a Labrador at any stage in the hammers life. I agree that for the most part, with regular every day use, it is indestructible. Yet about ten minutes around a full grown lab and the blue handle coating is done for.

[@willburr5929]

My brother's doberman chewed up his small block Chevy motor.

[@amysparks17]

30’years ago my first hammer was an Eswing and I actually bent the steel shaft about 2” below the head trying to side pull a 16d nail and I eventually had the entire rubber handle slip off of the steel bar. I picked up a Death Stick ☠️ and have never turned back. 21 Oz waffle face hatchet handle.

[@colinwilliams615]

i have a 12oz estwing i used for roofing. and yes my labrador absolutely chewed on the handle

[@RenBobbins]

In the Estwing’s defense, a Lab would chew itself up if it didn’t hurt.

[@JM-jd7yp]

Every video has the quality of authenticity running through it. I learn from everyone of them. In a world where words are twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools these films are so refreshing and so honest. Thank you.

[@MrKerry98]

My brother gave me a brand new Estwing framing hammer 30 years ago, and it is still my go to hammer to this day. You are spot on about the handle aging...it looks great. Thanks for the tour.

[@edbigtruck]

The way you explain things and the honesty when you don’t know or not sure. Gives you such a relatable side. Really makes your channel enjoyable. I’ve really enjoyed your videos.

[@MrWigg1es22]

Its been a lot of fun not only learning from your videos, but watching them improve. You're really hitting your stride. Your delivery is on point, the editing is a lot tighter, the flow of the video is a lot smoother. You guys are doing a really great job at delivering quality content and I look forward to more.

[@HondoTrailside]

People seem to have crazy high content expectations from folks who are essentially amateurs. But no question you were born for video.

[@eriksalmon]

My father in law is Bob Hart, the founder of Hart Tool Co. who you mentioned Hart Tool who made the California Framer. The company was sold off in the early 2000's to a cutlery company who continued the Hart Hammers under Dead On Tools and then sold again at least in name to TTI and is now the Hart tool line you see in WalMart now.

[@denofearthundertheeverlast5138]

I got one of those HART 19oz framing hammers, I love it, but Im gonna try a Millwaukee framer sometime also. because I love hammers.

[@scottgould294]

And he walks out of the store without buying anything... More self control than i would have.

[@oobaka1967]

He already has all the tools. All of them

[@BrianDaleNeeley]

Not all. Just Every. One. He. Needs.

[@plasmathunderdx]

Also back up tools for the back up tools.

[@ATVmaniac50]

haha, yeah i just blew $492 at home depot tonight, needless to say, my mom wasn't very happy. At least it was my own money though.

[@merykk6608]

Scott Gould. You are not alone

[@CD-hc5ds]

Grew up with old school carpenters. I've watched many of this man's videos, his advice & knowledge are golden! A true craftsman.

[@bryanpinto4051]

old school carpenters would throw handfuls of hand nails at anyone who let their knees hit the deck, Never EVER kneel, always crouch and wear loose fitting pants.

[@chrisb5086]

I’m a hammer guy and really enjoyed this video. I’m pushing 60 and I’ve been having some pain in my arm when running an air nailer and I use an Estwing hammer. I decided to try a Stiletto. Picked one up at my local hardware store - 14 oz, axe handle type. Hammered numerous nails today framing a small shed for a friend. What a delight! No pain, 3.5 inch nails driven with 3-4 swings and just a beautiful tool! Very happy and looking forward to many, many years with this tool. Thank you.

[@brandonhoffman4712]

Ya I fell in love with stiletto long ago. I would grab my bosses when given the chance. I had a vaughn 23oz. My Vaughn disappeared a couple years ago and I've been "cheaping out" on crap hammers. I finally went and got the 16oz waffle head curve handle hammer. Such light action, so much power, I'm in love all over again. But now I want a smooth face too...

[@LifeinFarmland]

I am not sure what it is about your videos but I could listen to you talk about anything for hours. Found you from the chainsaw videos. Something I feel I know a great deal about, but for some reason I was sucked in. Lol, I guess what I am trying to say is I really enjoy your videos no matter the topic. Keep up the good work.

[@ken-mb5cp]

Life in Farmland Because he’s not trying to impress you with what he knows. He lives in Spirit so hes peaceful

[@williampriddy2601]

The hammers you mentioned were my favorites. I'm 67 now and I worked as a carpenter or super all my life. I have always felt that the Plumb rig fitters hatchet was the finest nail driving hammer ever made. I still have a the Vaughn waffle headed framing hammer and rigster hatchet in my van. When I did trim my goto hammer was a straight claw 20oz Estwing with the leather handle ( but I always hated how those plastic washers would crack and fall out ). Love your channel keep up the good work.

[@fulguralces750]

Won a stiletto in a competition. One of the happiest days of my life so far.

[@gerardorodruiguez5928]

Sounds nice actually

[@jeradlarsenjerad1732]

I bought a stiletto cats paw when I was a bachelor and still use it today but I just couldn’t justify the price for the full titanium hammer

[@jcdelacruz6040]

That is WOW..AMAZING thing to keep on

[@thomasbacon]

I bought my 28 oz estwing when I was 17. It's been everywhere I've built houses (New England, Georgia Oklahoma, Arizona, and Hawaii). I took it everywhere with me when I was a Ranger in the Army. It has earned its jump wings on multiple jumps and been to Afghanistan in multiple deployments. I don't build houses any more but it's still my most valued posession. I would give it to my son when he turns 16 but I'd rather him get his own and give it the story of his life.

[@VeritasSimRacing]

I'm 11 years into my trade and on my 4th estwing 28oz, only because the other 3 were stolen

[@pat9112]

You could say that the hammer got it's "estwings"

[@abdulelkhatib2674]

That's cool but of all things why did you take a framing hammer with you on parachute jumps

[@thomasbacon]

@@abdulelkhatib2674 because I'm a carpenter, just wanted too.

[@MrJruta]

That’s excellent!

[@callmeishmael7452]

I started framing as a summer job at 17. Erwin Seutter and Ernie Hildebrand taught me everything I know about framing. I started on a 16 oz Stanley and then a 20 oz waffle face estwing then a 22 oz Vaughn then finished up with a 22 oz Vaughn rigging hammer which I carried on using till today whenever I frame. I have them all still and wouldn’t sell any for a thousand bucks. They define me. I’m a retired architect now and have huge respect for a framer and his trade. During summer months I help friends build sheds and additions. I love sinking those spikes and building as true as i can.

[@anthonyman8008]

"Harder than a step-mothers heart!" So...they do have hearts?!!!

[@kenuber4766]

Only on KZbin!

[@VeritasSimRacing]

They seem pretty friendly on some of the "other" video websites lol

[@JS-bk2jl]

Exactly what I was going to comment. 😂😂

[@anthonyman8008]

@D K 😆😆😆

[@LightLord1870]

Haha that cracked me up.

[@michaeldougfir9807]

Gifts (so often tools) from special people whom I love and respect continue to mean a lot to me. My wife is amazed that so very often I can remember who a gift was from and maybe when and where it was given to me. Also I am old enough that some of these friends are gone now. In our society we place a value on remembering them.

[@jmyers9853]

i have driven my share of nails but i am always amazed that all these wood structures we build are held together with little steel pins and friction

[@martinmadsen4162]

just recently found your channel to watch your circular saw tricks, have now seen all your videos and i just want to say thanks for putting out such fantastic content. you remind me of my grandpa, as honest and hardworking as they come. and i am just happy that ppl like you still excist in this world and are willing to share your knowledge with the rest of us. Thank you.

[@MrWKU123]

When I was growing up I "helped" my dad doing concrete work during the summers, walls and flat-work. I packed a 28oz Estwing just to be different. The rest of his crew had curved claw 16oz Estwings or Bluegrass hammers. I still have my 28oz and pull it out for torture from time to time. The curved claws were great on wrecking days because YES we pulled A LOT of nails. Mostly 8 penny or double headed 16s, some cut nails for bottom nailers. Also now I know now why my Dad hated my hammer with a milled face, he had wood forms, need I say more. Now I work in an office and find myself longing for those hot summer days with his crew. My dad did concrete work for 20+ years and ended his career in construction framing houses with someone who started out working for him. Love the channel sir, you truly have been blessed!

[@thid1]

"...but if your pulling a whole bunch of nails when you're framing, you need to pay more attention." classic :)

[@MichaelColombo]

Or you're doing demo... I keep a fiberglass handled hammer with a curved claw for demo, and a stiletto for framing.

[@Mr.NEStalgia]

Hell yeah !! That part cracked me up !!

[@edwaggonersr.7446]

Through the use of saws-alls fixing mistakes is a lot easier. When you run a crew of eight or ten carpenters lots of mistakes are made.

[@darylg.4270]

if your pulling nails that much, your not a hammer your a puller!! not a welder a grinder ugh...

[@abdulelkhatib2674]

@@MichaelColombo straight claws are alot better especially for demo

[@curtisodom8040]

I absolutely love watching you. You’re an excellent carpenter and a brilliant man. Keep teaching us.

[@coreyp9951]

"Harder than a stepmother's heart" literally made me spit out my coffee laughing.

[@vevocack]

Well I went and bought the 14oz Stiletto off the back of your recommendation here and I have to agree, it's a game-changer for me. Light, fast and just so smooth compared to my old Stanley claw hammer. Now I want everything to be a nail! I'm a 44yr old tile setter (British tiler) by trade but have spent years framing my own walls and rebuilding and altering floors and walls with remodels. During lockdown I started watching your channel and I've come to realise I should have been a carpenter :-( Still, I'm loving what I'm learning and I am now swinging my Stiletto happily whilst building a new summer house for my kids using tips I've picked up here. Thanks!

[@downforwhatever67]

Did you get a 16 or 18 inch handle? I’m setting my son up with tools and can’t decide. Thanks.

[@lovelyhurlin6494]

I use a 22 oz straight claw, long shaft Estwing for everything ,framing, formwork etc. Love it.

[@707Johnson]

"Harder then a step mothers Heart" LOL Love this guy. I use the Dalluge Titanium

[@HenryDoohickeyII]

And you actually get the a side nail puller which has been a god send for me when I do demolition work.

[@theanswertois-fq7pd]

Same. My dd16 has lasted over ten years

[@milanroets9697]

I use a Dalluge as well. Bought it before the titanium was made in China. If I was going to buy again I would get a Martinez hammer. The creator of the Stiletto started his own company and everything is made in the USA. The parts are interchangeable so if the handle was to break you just order another and swap it out.

[@stevendouglas3860]

@@milanroets9697 Are those Martinez hammers really "light weight ....less than 16oz

[@milanroets9697]

Dont Ask they make a 12 & 15 oz titanium hammer as well as 19 oz wooden handle

[@Zelmel]

Watching you do the framing at the end makes me feel so much better about myself and my hammer skills. Not because I think I wouldn't need a pro for that type of work (which I absolutely would) but because I can see the difference between what I can do and what a pro can do and can see that I'm still solidly okay to do less precise and less critical work by hand if I'm slower than a pro and use appropriate care.

[@hoilst]

So, my old man used to build sheds as a kid, mostly because _his_ old man figured out that child labour laws don't apply if they're your own children, and he spent his time throwing up sheds for cow cockies and wheat cockies out on the plains of north west New South Wales and south west Queensland. (The cockies never paid their bills on time; his father was perpetually broke.) Irish Catholic family, so there were lots of worker- er, children. His left thumb is about twice the diameter of his right. And we're not talking softwoods here - like Douglas fir (which we call, simply, "Oregon": all Douglas fir is simply called "oregon" down here). We're talking those classic Aussie framing timbers like spotted gum and mountain ash and blackbutt and bluegum - mostly spotted gum. For a reference, spotted gum is about as third as hard again as hickory. It's the traditional Aussie tool handle (I wonder if I should send you a spotted gum handle as a thank you). Notoriously, the grain is interlocked and woven, and there might be a diamond-hard gum vein buried just beneath the surface. To that end, he figures standard American hammers are a bit light. I think the ones he used to swing were 28oz and above; you really needed that force and momentum to get a nail into the timber. Of course, that just made catching your thumb between 32oz of Cyclone Forging steel and a kiln-dried spotted gum beam a metric ton of pain.

[@717UT]

hoilst Thank you for that story. So much history and character in so few words. Excellent sir.

[@utester7505]

Don't do a lot of work with wood, but I'll second you, Australian wood is damn tough. I mainly have red gum, red box, grey box and stringy bark, with a bit of iron bark where I'm from.

[@Mr.WS6]

I work with pine. Its soft like my hands...lol

[@kirkkeller]

I currently have two hammers that have served my needs for many years. First is a Merit Vanadium 16 oz claw hammer that I inherited from my great grandmother. It's the most well balanced general use hammer I've ever owned and I've covered the gambit trying fiberglass, composite, polymer, etc. I've rehandled it once some 30 years ago. I also have a 22 oz Hart California Framer that I've used for the heavy lifting hammer chores. Both hold memories and special places in my heart based on trust and familiarity with the tools. I've finally caved, given my advancing years, and purchased one of the 16 oz Stiletto milled titanium hammers with the curved handle, per your recommendation. My birthday is coming in a couple of weeks, and why not treat myself. I'm getting ready to build a cabin, workshop and outdoor kitchen and I think all three will get a serious workout. Thanks for putting this channel out here. I enjoy your videos more than you can imagine.

[@Krispy1011]

I also have a Hart hammer that I love - the hammer has Hart Framer on the handle and Hart Trimer embedded on the head?? I've had that hammer over 15 years and love it, done a lot of work with that hammer I got to tell ya!

[@timdouglass6491]

As a a carpenter for over 50 years, I've seen the evolution of framing hammers. I haven't got on the 14 oz bandwagon. You make well made videos. I wish I had KZbin when I was starting.

[@CBob357]

I must have blinked. When did you demonstrate the nail holder?

[@HypnologicQualm]

Essential Craftsman I'd love to see a demonstration of the rigging axe too!

[@johnwildermuth3136]

CBob357 It's for overhead reaches and tight spots where you can't use the other hand to hold the nail.

[@CBob357]

so it holds the nail securely enough to set it with a light tap and then you sink it?

[@ryanbroadfoot1307]

CBob357 that is exactly what it does yes.

[@brokeasdope]

CBob357 If you haven't seen a magnetic nail set you haven't been on a framing job in the past 10+ years. It's not just for tight spots, all you do is set your Nain in the head of the hammer, give your top plate a smack where your stud lands and drive away, it will allow you to bend less, move faster and miss your fingers more, they're great

[@levibruce8322]

I love my Stilleto 14 oz on a 16 inch hickory handle. First hammer I was proud of. 7 years and counting 4 handles

[@steely755]

I started framing in 1972. I passed the carpenter's union apprenticeship entry exam and was hired to stand walls. The first day on the job the boss gave me a used 20 Oz Vaughn framing are. I still have it. It is perfectly balanced and can be swung with ease and it produces extremely energy. I used it 17 years, all of my framing career. It was fun driving 16 Penney vinyl coated nails...a 2 hit operation. 1 set nail 2 drive it home. I liked driving nails so much I'd practice driving nails in the floor of my apartment. But yes, if you want to be proficient framer get a framing ax.

[@escomag]

I also. Started framing ib 1983. A 20 oz. Vaughen was my hammer. I loved set, strike. Two things we did after work(well, three) was hammer speed and showing off our dogs.(third was having a sneak beer and a joint)

[@darquedantequick8551]

This video really helps. At work I never knew what the name of each hammer we were using and I always grabbed a random one hoping it was the right one. I can finally grab a framing hammer and not be embarrassed.

[@fatdiesel44]

I love the Stilleto too, however I did not have the same longevity from the wood handle. As a framer we often have to pry boards apart, most often braces that have we lapped. Driving the claws between boards then rolling the hammer (perpendicular to it's normal use axis), caused about 7 handle replacements. I upgraded to the full titanium handle with replaceable face (have both waffle & smooth) and I have been happy ever since.

[@raymyhill2277]

Larry Haun was a nail driving machine his Skil saw handling was awesome.

[@thedude5853]

I've been rocking a Stiletto Titanium for a few years, no complaints. It was pricey but my shoulder loves it.

[@apatientspider]

I'm 67 and have been using tools since I was 6. Mostly I've been a shop woodworker, but I've also done some construction and remodeling/repair work. Also took up blacksmithing avocationally in my 30's. I like my older US made Plumb hammers with hickory wood handles, but they're made in Asia now. Fiberglass is a close second in feel. Vaughn would be my second choice in quality hammers. My favorite framer is a Plumb rip claw,24 oz with the long, straight handle and waffle face; it goes ping, ping, ping when I use it. Never thought I'd need one when I bought it, but I found it very useful in driving 16 d brights into the thirty year old, southern yellow pine studs in the garage of the house I lived in at the time; my 16 ounce wouldn't do anything but bend them. An old joke says that checkered face is so you can leave the union label on your work. But seriously, if you have to work with wet, green, or treated lumber, you'll come to appreciate the way it doesn't slip off the nail head so easily. The best way to avoid a smashed thumb is to have your hand in your nail bag reaching for another nail while you are driving the one you just set. Easiest way I know to increase velocity or force is to use a longer handle, but otherwise don't hold a long handle hammer at its end - the extra length is for balance. Btw an ordinary curved claw hammer will hold a nail for starting if you sharpen the V between the claws. Most of the hand hammering I do anymore is forging and I generally use a 3 pounder for that - although I occasionally swing a short handled 6 pounder one handed for heavy work. So even a 2 pound hammer feels a bit light to me. A 14 ounce I might use for peening small rivets or driving finish nails in woodwork. I never realized how much the trades had died out until I once encountered a 14 year old boy who had never driven a nail in his life. Sad. Tools were some of my earliest playthings.

[@richardreaume8917]

I'm 77 and love my Plumb hammer and rigging hatchet, even use them on my anvil. Great.

[@ghost2coast296]

Don't blame the kids, blame the fathers. I (now 25) was fortunate enough to have a Dad with a garage full of tools, I was playing with them before I could walk. Spent most of my summer vacations disassembling things I'd find in the neighborhood garbage; tvs, old lawnmowers, kitchen appliances, etc. Most of my friends growing up had no access to tools, their Dad's toolboxes consisted of a couple flat head screw drivers, the odd allen wrench that came with IKEA furniture and maybe a pair of pliers.

[@ryanbird4120]

Im 41 and can't remember a time I wasn't using , watching the use of , dreaming about owning , learning about and just plane loving tools ! The whens , hows and whys of a tool once understood youll find that by learning those you learnt the trades . At my age i know im a dying breed and it breaks my heart.

[@thomasgeorge1836]

Thank you for sharing your wisdom with a 40yr old kid like me. These videos are a wealth of knowledge that will live on long into the future for generations to come. I can't thank you enough for taking the time to make these.

[@rvscootin3457]

I have an Estwing 322 that is 30 years old and still works great. This video made me get it out and shine it up a little. I barely use it anymore; because of the advent of nail guns.

[@christophercrawford3924]

I laughed so hard when you said the reason for the waffle face was to tear your thumb nail off! Yes I have done that. Chris in Albuquerque.

[@miguelruiz4613]

My first framing hammer had a very sharp edge around the head. It skinned my thumb twice and my index finger once had a guy grab it one day when I missed work and the next day he tells me he ain't grabbing my hammer again since he hit his thumb and had half of the skin still on it. Too bad it got stolen

[@frigginpos]

I'm 61 years old, and Estwing has always been my hammers of choice.

[@mr.bigbrownbass9089]

frigginpos & for sure it comes with a straight " rip style " claw. Cuz, I have one. Lol..!

[@mitchellman4846]

frigginpos do you think a 13 year old could easily use an estwing?

[@Zthreve]

Mitchellman estwing makes several sizes. I love my 16 oz. Maybe try the carpenter hatchet. It's a slightly smaller rigging axe. Try them in your hand in the store to see what feels right.

[@monelfunkawitz3966]

diver dave I have a few Estwing hammers. Framing, mini sledge, drilling, engineers... all of them I abuse the crap out of. They get thrown, ran over, pried on, left in the elements. All of them have never failed. They are not as friendly as a fiberglass or wood handle, but man are they durable. The only hammers I have found to be as durable are the Wilton bash series hammers, but the handles are real “noodley” and bendy.

[@monelfunkawitz3966]

Mitchellman Use? Yes. Confortably? No. They would appreciate the titanium ones alot more.

[@Bobg425]

Framing?Nailgun, Shuttering? Estwing Ive had 3 in a 40yr career, 1/4 claw 22 oz stolen after 10 yrs so I bought another for shuttering and a 20 oz leather handle one for inside work.Never let me down.

[@SweeturKraut]

The last part of this vid (Scott working on the shed) reminded me of Larry Haun's videos about framing. Watching Larry and his brother hammer nails is soothing in a strange sort of way.

[@lucasenglish8767]

i work with pryotechnics and for the 4th of july, working multiple shows, there is ALOT of carpentry and a lot of hammer and nail use to make steady firing racks. I'm glad i watched this video (along with your tool belt video) and it made me king of my work sight. I went out and bought a vaughan framing hammer with a nail starter and axe handle grip. everyone loved it and kept asking to borrow it if i wast already swinging in my hand. this helped me pick the right tool with the right features, weight, and other considerations. thank you so much!

[@BhindTheShingle]

“And to tear the end of your thumb completely off when you miss.” I died at how casual that was said

[@TheTomBevis]

I broke an Estwing, once. I hopped off of a flatbed trailer and the handle hanging out of my tool belt went into a stake pocket on the trailer. After my 270 degree flip and the face plant into the dirt, I found that the hammer broke off at the top of the nylon handle. lol I was kinda surprised the leather loop on my tool belt didn't break, instead.

[@chrisnelson5160]

I've done that and bent handles too.....

[@calebbergmann2055]

TheTomBevis that's why a hammer pouch is way better

[@dannyrascalmusic]

I dropped one from 8 meters onto dirt and had the head of the hammer snap off... it was only 23 years old too... I sent pics to our local Estwing importer and they sent me a replacement overnight at no charge.

[@Finn-McCool]

I gave my son a vintage stiletto hammer when he finally got a job and stopped thinking that college could offer him a career. In fact he started making money and I stopped spending it! A win/win

[@Aaron-fb1pq]

Money well spent

[@Drimirin]

Hope you didn't waste too much money. The cash wasted on tuition scams could greatly improve our country instead.

[@bryanshaw4434]

I'm glad I came across your video. I love hammers. I agree with everything you said. I started framing with a estwing 28 oz framer until I found the rigging axe. Over my 48 years of carpentry I moved to Stilettoes. I've got the big one and the little one

[@jeffward2906]

I just wanted to say, I love your videos. You're a true craftsman! I love that you reference Larry Haun throughout them. I hope the best for you and yours. Keep up the awesome work!!

[@keithklassen5320]

I love the musky affectionate half-closed eyes he gets when he talks about the rigging axe, lol.

[@TechieTard]

HAHAHA I noticed it too!

[@LUFC-sw7er]

4:19

[@millibarman]

Dude, you are $. You’ve got 40 years of no shit experience and the story telling voice of Mike Rowe. $$$ ... Oh, and your content is fantastic! My hat is off sir. Wow!

[@chrisbradbury5238]

Very well said. This guy is a gift to humanity and tradespeople specifically!

[@chrisstroud5964]

First of all the hart company 'didn'tcome up with the California framer a guy named j.w.mills did. He took a rigging axe and cut the fin off and welded the claws from another hammer on to make a perfectly balanced hammer which I have used for 46 years as rough framer in southern California

[@byronsabird]

Good, I'm glad someone clarified that...I can remember when carpenders would show off and compare their California framers. I haven't seen one for years.

[@mcbridecreek]

I remember when I started framing in 1982 that an older guy had a welded up California framer hammer. Hart, Dalluge and Vaughan made production copies of the cut down rigging axes with welded straight claws.

[@charlisendit9353]

I'm in coosbay Oregon. I've been watching your videos learning alot I've just got in to the trade almost two years ago. Watching your videos have opened my eyes in so many good ways its amazing. Thank you for all the knowledge 🙏.

[@Stang413]

This was the first EC video I watched when I was looking for a good hammer. That was over a year ago. This is a great channel.

[@hughdjunit]

I love watching your content, you are clear and concise in your thoughts and words.....I would love to hang out with you some day your my kind of guy.

[@bekabeka71]

Never have I thought I’d be watching someone demonstrating a hammer practicality and its use ability like this guy 😂

[@jacobhorton9832]

I’ve been eying the Milwaukee 19oz hickory handle, waffle face, and for $25 I think it incorporates a LOT of the characteristics you were pointing out for a good price, what do you think?

[@BaddAtom]

That' what i use, if it feels right it's the one you want.

[@wl7116]

I use the 17 Oz steel neck with rubber handle . The thing is indestructible. I highly recommend it . Best hammer I've ever owned

[@truckmetal2341]

Worked a lot of construction in my younger days, mostly form work, I found this channel because I was looking for tips on restoring an old hatchet, now I'm hooked, lol

[@chaplainand1]

Glad to see your support of the titanium hammer. I've had both of mine for about 18 years. I used the smaller one for installing vinyl siding - perfect for the job, including having an angle cut on the end of the handle for popping the vinyl sheets into place. If I can avoid it, I won't use another type. Currently, there are many different handle and face configurations. Thanks for your exploration of this hammer option.

[@johnwildermuth3136]

Rigging axe? That has another meaning. On sailing ships, hawsers and cables were cut by placing them over a log, holding an axe in place, and hitting the back of the axe with a billet. That made aiming easier on a rolling deck.

[@robertmason4793]

That is a very interesting comment.....and true! I LOOKED IT UP. Thank you😎

[@jarrodholden533]

Same thing logging but we called it a line axe

[@Framer_Mike]

I used to use the rigging axe framing in Vegas back in the day!

[@hendrikkruk7268]

Imagine EC and Larry Haun framing a house together

[@katilynboyd3894]

iam henko dont forget norm Abrams

[@hendrikkruk7268]

@@katilynboyd3894 you're right 😂

[@deanoh6414]

Judging by that fiasco at the end, Larry would be on the second story on his side whilst EC was still setting the sole plates. (Only joking EC!)

[@abdulelkhatib2674]

That would be awesome but sadly Larry died but he did write a book called The Very Efficient Carpenter you should get it if your into framing it's really good

[@jasonblanton7185]

Larry and his brother Joe are the best farmers the modern world has ever known , just 2 guys one helper and no nail guns ,house framed in a couple of days !!! Layout and cut without a tape or square!! Legendary heros of mine !!!

[@turdferguson8732]

You make Wranglerstar look like a hack.

[@MrMeanderthal]

Wranglestar IS a hack

[@turdferguson8732]

Right on! His latest video series features a device (froe?) made by his "paid for camera man". He is a joke now.

[@turdferguson8732]

His = Wranglerstar, aka Cody and Jessica Crone

[@oobaka1967]

Wranglestar makes Wranglestar look like a hack

[@bohaggin5913]

Turd Ferguson he is a hack

[@sealteamryx6758]

Thanks for posting these videos. I do alot of framing for work but also do concrete and putting cabinets in or whatever... most of the jobs involved in building a house... but I most definitely am not as experienced or knowledgeable at all and really appreciate learning some new stuff... also, I have a few different hammers, but for the last few years have just been using a 22oz estwing framing hammer cuz I use it for concrete or digging out holes for footings or whatever else.. we call them our "multi-tool" lol they're sturdy, affordable and versatile

[@feloarias5218]

I never watch videos like this all the way But you literally had me hooked all the way and the way you spoke it felt like it was genuine and trustworthy thanks for that pal

[@vettepilot427]

Plumb used to make a pretty decent fiberglass handle hammer back in the day. Then I think production moved overseas and they are pretty much junk now. Thanks for the video!

[@intheroar]

You forgot today's most popular framing hammer - the Paslode

[@davegravitt210]

Senco and Dewalt speed nailers are tops on our jobsites. I wish Senco would get into the cordless framing nailers. I do use thier 18gauge nailer and its a workhorse.

[@jerryleroy2148]

When I use a framing nailer I find if you are nailing jack studs together it doesn't pull them tight together. You can see daylight between the studs. So, take out the hammer and tighten it up. Then if you have a crooked plate or another backer stud, same thing. It tends to have too much velocity on the nail. I ended up throwing the nailer in the job site trailer and going with the hammer. When in doubt, get the hammer out!

[@ufeasel6840]

I enjoy the old school but stand back while I shoot those studs on!

[@whitacrebespoke]

g dawg I slung one of my paslode across a job in October went and brought a box of 4inch nails and got my Californian framer out to do the job. So frustrated at the constant hormonal attitude of it. I also don't find the nails pull in as well and am never sure of the actual strength. It's funny though because here in the U.K. A bloke with a mitre saw and a paslode and next to no skills can earn as good a money as skilled men.

[@Spoons7414]

That’s because he’s a man

[@billwoehl3051]

QUESTION: who's going around with the magnet to collect all those nails you took out with a whack from the framing axe?

[@alixfernee418]

I never knew there were that many different types of hammers. It's always fascinating to learn new things about a tool I've used for so long.

[@crowhaven200]

Great video! I am 68 years young and don't do much hammering anymore. My first job framing I bought an Estwing steel hammer. After 6 months my foreman told me it was going to ruin my elbow. It was too late, it already had. He handed me his Plumb Framing axe, and I loved it. Bought one and used it for a few years. Then a friend told me to try his Vaughn 22oz hammer. Light, and efficient and easier on my hands and elbow. That is still the hammer I use. I have never seen a Stiletto. 14oz? Wow, since I am not framing anymore, I doubt I will spend that kind of money on a hammer, but it's sure tempting. I would love to feel it. I still have my original Estwing btw, and keep it handy. It is a destruction tool like no other, and when I have to clean old lumber its a nail pulling machine. Years of construction has ruined my hands. My last years of building and framing, I duct taped my hammer to my hand because my hand was shot...It still is. You don't need a heavy hammer to drive a nail. It's all in leverage and speed. Let the hammer do the work. I love this video, I wish I had a Stiletto just to have it. I am going to look for one in a store next time I am in a town, just to feel it. Thanks!

[@Belboz99]

Estwing's are made in my hometown, Rockford, IL. I've got Estwing hammers and hatchets. Greatest thing about Eswings are they are forged from a single piece of steel. Check out the "How They're Made" video on Hatchets and you'll see how Estwing forges them.

[@jtzx32024]

Dan O'Connell Another Estwing fan here. I live in Saint Louis, MO. Went to Chicago last week but didn't have the chance to stop in Rockford even though I really wanted to - just to go to the Estwing factory! Do you know if they still do tours?

[@Belboz99]

I checked out their website and Facebook page, neither show tours. :( I had a neighbor who worked there a number of years, but it's been some years since I've seen him. Now that I think about it, I should've gotten a tour when I was studying for my degree in Automated Manufacturing Technology... We toured a number of local factories, the Belvidere Chrysler Auto Plant, Sundstrand, and smaller outfits that did everything from manufacturing ball bearings, gears, plastic injection molding, and I definitely remember one company that did forgings. I just can't recall for the life of me what company it was that did forgings, somehow I don't think it was Estwing though. :(

[@BrianDaleNeeley]

tubal cain (mrpete222) has a tour of the Estwing factory.

[@ghost2coast296]

yes, the single piece forging design gives Estwings unmatched tactile feedback in every joint of your body

[@jacobking3752]

bought an estwing mini sledge the other day and come to find out it is made in Taiwan. Already have taken it back.

[@blissburn]

I also have a Stiletto hammer, and have really enjoyed using it. But, Milwaukee bought Stiletto out some years ago, and has since moved the production to Taiwan. The good news is that the man that originally founded Stiletto, Mark Martinez, has started a new company that is making hammers in the USA. They've made improvements to the design, after a decade of feedback about the Stiletto designs. Check them out at Martinez Tools. (I have no affiliation with them, just a happy customer).

[@jamesparadiso4667]

Sam, thanks for that tidbit of info. I went to Martinez Tool website, and saw those Made IN THE USA hammers they had! I bought a titanium unit! Can't wait to get it!

[@ghost2coast296]

The way those heads are attached to the handles on the Martinez hammers is abominable

[@flamecranium7787]

i did not know that

[@rjw261984]

I was wondering why the stiletto at Home Depot said made in china.

[@xenonram]

Only the handle is titanium on the Martinez ones. The head is steel! And they're charging $225! I will always buy the USA made version of something over the Chinese/Asian version, but titanium isn't that expensive. They are not going to make it with a product that has such a bad PED. They need the price so high to operate, and are too afraid (maybe too stupid) to lower the price to make it more accessible. It's not the titanium making the hammer so expensive. The $10 worth of titanium used in the hammer does not justify the increased retail price of the hammer. So what is making it so expensive? If you can make a hammer in the USA for $20-30, like Estwing does, it's not American manufacturing that is making the hammer cost so much. Also, the attachment method is great. Since you would need to attach a steel head to a titanium handle with either a slip-fit and glue, a press fit or differential heating, or a threaded fastener. You can't weld it, and differential heating or glue would be permanent, which you wouldn't want. So, a threaded fastener is the only/best option. You can easily change the head when it gets worn out. (Since you'd want to save the titanium handle, not the steel head.)

[@louiscypher7090]

and on the 9th day God made nail guns.

[@bradnelson3053]

I'm too old to swing a hammer now. It's all about nail guns and screws.

[@thedude5853]

Banging nails is no biggie, power saws and drills are the true godsend.

[@ericbengtson3490]

And now battery powered framing guns as well. 60 volt batts. New company. I feel antiquated.

[@TechieTard]

@@ericbengtson3490 Yeah, but there is something just nostalgic and timeless when swinging a hammer and slamming those heads in!

[@chrish3720]

Hitachi !

[@timcossey879]

I was taught to frame using a rigging axe just outside of Denver back in 1972. We had two axes, one to use and one in getting the face sharpened. Many times I had blood running off my hand and a sore arm from holding too tight. Learning to grab a handful of 16p nails from the box into your bags, head the nails and then fingering one nail at a time as your build the walls. Set and sink, set and sink all day long. We pulled nails with side cutters so not to break handles. Brings back memories. Thanks for the good work!!

[@brandonhoffman4712]

I fell in love with my bosses Stiletto hammer decades ago. I bought one the other day for a framing job i picked up. I was in need of a good hammer, now i have a great hammer. I was lost in bad milwaukee hammers, my old vaughn 23oz has been missing for a year now, my dads old leather estwing i havent seen in 6 years. I like Vaughn and Estwing for sure. But when swinging against a Stiletto, the stiletto always wins. Now i gotta ask myself if i want to stain my handle like i did with my vaughn? I think a weathered grey handle on a Stiletto would look pretty cool!

[@newenglandyankeeliving5052]

This may sound weird but I'd love to know your opinion on multi tools like a Leatherman. Also what kind of pocket knife you carry. Probably weird just love to hear people's opinions. And thank you for these videos they really are something I look forward to and enjoy

[@jtzx32024]

New England Yankee Living Unfortunately I have lost the last 4 multitools I have owned, but out of them all, my absolute favorite is the SOG Powerlock and variants. The pliers are geared and can cut through anything without hurting your hand. You can get a super tight grip on bolts and things without straining yourself like a Leatherman. The knives on the Leatherman's are better, but the pliers on a SOG are what I care about. I would cut wire all day at work with one. Nothing like them in my opinion.

[@jamesstanlake4064]

As a 66 year old life long carpenter/cabinetmaker I can tell you this. The orientatin of the grain is the secret of a wooden handle. And I mean any handle. Good wood tool handles are becomming harder and harder to find; why, because the wheelwright, if not allready trade is about gone. Grain direction is the key to wood handles. I love a wood handle but when I go to buy a tool and look through a pile of tools and not see a correct grain oriented handle I end up buying a fiberglass or metal handled tool. You should too!

[@riverrat1149]

I switched to the fiberglass 999 twenty years ago because I got tired of messing with wooden handles.I work on the Olympic peninsula where it rains a lot!I think the constant swelling-shrinking exasperated things.

[@danielscott4514]

I think you mean "exacerbated things", but somehow, exasperated is also appropriate to what you're saying about giving up on wood handles, haha - paints a nice mental image anyway :)

[@riverrat1149]

That is funny thanks!Nothing like soaking your hammer in a mud puddle every day to exasperate ya,,,LOL

[@TheMetalButcher]

I always look for this is as well, and what really surprises me is that 90% of the hammers at harbor frieght are correct. They didn't use to be, but they are now. Most at lowes are still wrong. Runout of the grain is equally if not more so important.

[@LallysKhakis]

What do you mean by the orientation of the grain?

[@sweetkellymay]

I've used the same 22oz Estwing solid steel hammer, for scaffolding,carpentry for over 30 years. The handle has worn out to the point of taping it to hold it together.. Most indestructible hammer on the planet, guessing more than 2 million strikes to the face and thousands to the neck.. Friends of mine have bought the 300.00$ solid titanium stilettos, and with slight abuse ,the claws will bend and break. In my opinion, Estwing..toughest hammer ever made..

[@darklorddylan1316]

Dave Smith those Estwing hammers are tougher than a coffin nail. No doubt about it. But the idea behind getting a hammer that nice is more about keeping your body from wearing than the hammer. For people like me that aren't using a hammer every day on a job. It'd be silly to get anything but an Estwing. Throw down a few bucks and I've got a hammer that'll outlast my grandkids. But for professional framers the extra money might be worth it for you.

[@juddlythenomad4634]

Been using a 14oz Hickory Stiletto for about 2 years before seeing this video. The pride I felt when he started describing why its his favourite. 👌 Great video

[@ryandavies5014]

We need another video like this !!

[@smorgasbord-riogrande1911]

I love my Estwing Probably because it’s my first at 15 years old & such a creature of habit.

[@mr.smitty1993]

My first Estwing was a gift when I was 12-13. Been carrying it for over half my life now and I still love it.

[@pathos311]

I use a easwing that that my dad gave me for Low voltage but do love my stellito for real nails.

[@webherring]

"Buy once cry once" But they don't tell you how long you cry for. 😛😅

[@cameronaberner]

I dropped $300 on a Ti-Bone. Best investment I ever made. . . . I cried for about 4 days though...

[@r.s.1348]

Been crying for the last 40 years...every time I am forced to buy "Made in China" tools and supplies.

[@bonescdxx]

That $115.00 is just a mediocre night on the town these days. No tears falling on that purchase.

[@commentsboardreferee7434]

I've heard it as buy the best and only cry once.

[@exolity6087]

stilletos always break from the handle on me, i do roofing up here in portland

[@Brosephyung1]

might not be your problem, but look at the grain orientation. you want the grain at least 45 degrees to the head. Ideally the grain runs parallel with the head of the hammer.

[@edwallace827]

"descending order of ergonomics" As a 25 year veterian physical therapist, I make much of my living preaching posture and ergonomics on a daily basis. I am going to have to add that quote to my repertoire. I love it! On a side note. It confounds me how many "educated" health care professionals (and others) don't realize the wealth of knowledge that can be gained from listening to "uneducated" hardworking craftsman. I'll trust the advice of an experienced veteran craftsman, or farmer over any fancy diploma from ANY school. Thank you for passing on your wealth of knowledge to us supposedly "educated" people.

[@leviorourke7498]

I have watched videos of yours nonstop since finding the channel. Love my trade and through these it shows you love yours too and take pride in each step of the process

[@larrybrowning6754]

"Harder than a step mother's heart"....I'm dying' laughing'!!!!!!

[@francisbarnett]

I only swing a wing

[@DanielWahlig]

More like the Hall of F(r)ame, amirite?

[@badlandskid]

Daniel Wahlig Amirites? Weren't they a tribe the Jews had to deal with back in the day?

[@badlandskid]

TomTom Tom hmmmm... that could be...🤔

[@joaquinolvera1204]

Please leave

[@leonruvalcaba1549]

I understood that reference

[@Meatwad787]

Daniel Wahlig Amirite is the 8th type of asbestos 😂. Had to get that out. My vocational/ carpentry school made me take an asbestos class.

[@tonyfrank8528]

I just had my Vaughn California framer, I bought off the hardware truck my first week framing 1993, lose the handle. Vaughn actually replaced the handle and mailed it to 🇨🇦 for me. I carried an Estwing framing nail pry tool forever which is why I think the handle survived so long. I haven't framed homes for many yrs, but boy this video sure resonated with me. Great channel.

[@MarkLK22]

I spent a few years framing homes. Scott is a master of his craft.

[@enzorocha2977]

"Harder than a step-mother's heart...Fantastic." LOL (6:52)

[@willizabeth]

The Dalluge DDT (designed by Todd Coonrad of Douglass hammers) may be the most beautiful hammer ever made.

[@mommozz123]

I agree with you that it's the most beautiful hammer ever made, but I've seen a few too many handles break right in front of me.

[@georgebliss7674]

Been rockin' a 14oz Dalluge 'Douglass type' titanium for the last 5 years. 5 years of 11 Hour days framing, sheathing, roofing, running trim, siding, and interior finish - it has been 100% solid and a complete joy to use. I have never broken the handle, even when using the haft as a pry bar to straighten rafters when attaching sub fascia. I cannot say more about the quality of this hammer and its build. Other guys in the crew have Stilettos, in fact I bought my father one to replace his 40 year old plus EstWing 22 oz. He thinks it's great but I still prefer the one that I have. The heads a little bit smaller so it's better for toe nailing and trim work, the side nail puller lets me pull anything except for structural lags that are sticking out of wood. And the handle isn't so fat I can't get a good grip with gloves on in the winter.

[@giulianoroma506]

I've been a carpenter for 41 years I own 4 Douglas the best hammer In my life looks awesome and works wonderful

[@MCCORMICK10202236]

love the videos! Can you do a video on other hammers? Like ball peen, cross peen, mall, sledge, and others? I'm a mechanic and use a hammer about every day. I live in Minnesota and everything I work on is rusty and corroded. So I have to beat it apart. The art of using a hammer is a skill that comes with experience. It's also my favorite tool!

[@brentmiller3951]

I have been framing for almost 20 years and still enjoy your videos