Buying a Hammer
By: Beth Knott & Brad Staggs
When did something as simple as buying a hammer get so complicated? The sheer number of these tools on the shelf is enough to make you feel like you've been hit over the head with a ...well, you know...
The bottom line is this - you really need to keep three things in mind when you're ready to buy your first - or next - hammer: head, weight and handle. The different combinations of those three things can make a big difference between spending $10 or $50. And while there are many specialty hammers - from sledge to roofing to ball peen, we're going to stick with the common hammer.
Let's start at the top - the head of the hammer. This is the face and it will either be smooth or have a waffle pattern.  The waffled face adds more gripping power, or friction, between the nail and the hammer, so it's a good thing if you're going to be pounding a lot of large headed nails into a construction project. But, if you're a casual Hands On Woman, a smooth head will work just fine, with the advantage that it's less likely to mar the project on which you're working. If you miss with a waffle head, you'll see that waffle pattern in whatever you hit with the hammer.
 On the other end of the head, you'll notice a claw, and if you look closely, there are some differences. Some are more curved, which is what you want for more nail pulling power. You'll also see some with a straighter or "ripping" claw. They're designed to get into tight spaces, and separate good wood from bad. If you're a demolition Hands On Woman, this is the one you want.
Next, let's discuss weight. Yeah, it's impolite in most circumstances, but when it comes to hammers, it's crucial. You shouldn't buy a hammer that's too hearvy for you to use properly. You could end up hurting yourself, your project or someone else! Most framing hammers are 22 to 28 ounces. That may not sound heavy, but pick one up and give it a few practice swings. If it makes your forearms ache, it's probably too heavy. Try something in the 12 to 16 ounce range (about the weight of a can of veggies). If you're just hanging pictures and whatnot, a 16 ounce hammer will more than do the trick.
 
Now, on t o the handle. Your choices are pretty simple here: wood, fiberglass or steel.  Some have rubber overgrips, which can improve your grip on the tool if you get sweaty. If you're not putting that much energy into your projects, don't sweat it.. For most home improvement projects, a wood handle is just fine. Be sure that the head is secured to the handle with wedges - that's a hallmark of hammer quality.
Some hammers feature built in anti-vibration technology. This allows you to work with the tool for a longer priod of time, without as much pain and fatigue. They are a bit more expensive, but you can find versions of these that don't break the bank...about $25.
Hammers have come a long way and now there are a number of titanium hammers on the market. They are significantly more expensive than standard hammers (and I do mean by a lot...like over $100 in many cases), but they are also significantly lighter. Some are even half the weight with the same power. You can also get them with replaceable heads, so that you can switch from smooth to waffle faced. This combination is very attractive to Hands On Women - confident control You have to decide for yourself if it's worth the extra cost.
If you don't go with titanium, then overall, you should be able to find a hammer for your home projects for about $20 to $30. Any less and you might not be getting a safe, quality tool. Spend more and you may not see the benefits if you aren't hammering nails all day long.
With these simple tips and a little smart shopping, you should be able to hit the nail on the head! Keep your eyes peeled for the hammer episode of Chick's Picks for some of our favorites. 
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