There is always a reason to have a framing hammer in your house. Maybe you need to repair something, or you need to build furniture or just for a DIY project.
So, for any reason, if you are looking for a new framing hammer then this article is for you. In this article, we will talk about hammers mainly the best framing hammer which can be used for both professional or usual DIY work.
Best Choice: Spec Ops SPEC-M22CF 22 oz.
Whether you are an experienced worker or a new user this article is going to answer all your queries regarding framing hammers.
To make your life easier, we have picked the 10 best framing hammers. After testing a lot of framing hammers, we have come up with these 10 bad boys. With any of these hammers, you can work faster, better, and safer.
Best Framing Hammers List:
- Best Framing Hammer Overall: Spec Ops SPEC-M22CF 22 oz.
- Estwing GG417 E3-22SM 22 oz. Framing Hammer
- Estwing MRW25LM Wood Handle Framing Hammer
- DeWalt DWHT51064 22 Oz. Framing Hammer
- Best Budget Framing Hammer: Real Steel 0517 21 Oz. Ultra with Milled Face
- ESTWING E3-28SM 28 oz. Long Handle Framing Hammer
- Best Lightweight Hammer: Vanquish 0536 Titanium Framing Hammer 11 Oz.
- OX TOOLS OX-P083318 Framing Hammer 18 Oz.
- Best Titanium Framing Hammer: Stilletto TI14MC 14 Ounce Framing Hammer
- Fiskars 750241-1001 Milled-Face Framing Hammer 22 oz.
Later in this article, we will also talk about our favorite pick and our least favorite one, along with a buying guide and maintenance tips. So, without further delay, let’s jump into the quick overview.
10 Best Framing Hammers – Quick Overview
1. Spec Ops SPEC-M22CF 22 oz. Framing Hammer
As our first product for the best framing hammer list, we have the Spec Ops SPEC-M22CF framing hammer with 22 Oz. milled face, shock reduction grip and long handle.
Spec Ops is a very popular brand and among their different products, this hammer is one of the most common ones that you will get in the market.
This hammer is durable, comfortable and will last for a long time to serve you. The SPEC-M22CF framing hammer is one-piece steel construction.
When it comes to steel construction there can be a problem with shock. However, in this hammer one doesn’t have to face anything like that.
Moreover, for its superb magnetic nail holder, the SPEC-M22CF has a great balance also. You will find out that the heat treated steel made handle, high carbon steel head, all are nicely balanced, so it won’t feel that heavy.
All in all, for the great durability and construction one can simply trust on this hammer. This hammer also has the RIP Claw versatility which can be used to plug nails, for demolition work, prying boards and many more.
The SPEC-M22CF framing hammer is highly recommended for any seasoned or experiences tradesmen. This one hammer is going to serve years after years.
Pros:
- Great durability
- Very easy to use
- Excellent steel construction
- Made in the Taiwan
Cons:
- Very lightweight feel like 16 oz.
2. Estwing GG417 E3-22SM 22 Oz Framing Hammer
Next, we have another amazing product picked and that is the Estwing GG417 E3-22SM 22 oz. milled face, long handle framing hammer.
This hammer is designed with a larger striking surface. For its construction, this hammer is a great choice if you are looking something for your home construction.
It can easily handle big, tough tasks. The Estwing GG417 E3-22SM features a milled face that enhances user control of this hammer.
Moreover, this high-quality hammer makes sure that every strike can provide you with the same accuracy. The rime temper of this hammer reduces the chances of spalling or chipping.
The Estwing GG417 E3-22SM has a shock reduction grip that reduces vibrations by 70% compared to other traditional hammers. For this reason, it becomes very easy to aim with this hammer and thus one can give more power to the shot.
Another great feature of this high-quality hammer is that it is a one-piece alloy steel hammer. There is also torsion control included in the grip. This means that while using one will feel less torque on the wrist and elbows.
All in all, we can say that the Estwing framing hammer is a useful tool that can surely get your job done.
Pros:
- To prevent handle damage there is overstrike steel protection.
- Comes with a lifetime warranty.
- Balance is excellent.
- Great control.
- Made in USA
Cons:
- The long head sometimes make it difficult to use.
3. Estwing MRW25LM Wood Handle Framing Hammer
Next, we have another incredible product from the brand Estwing. It is the Estwing Sure Strike wood handle framing hammer MRW25LM.
This is one of the most powerful hammers from the list. The Estwing MRW25LM boasts a 25 oz. head, making it a powerful tool.
Now you may think, that with such heavy weighted head it may be difficult to use the product. however, for Estwing MRW25LM hammer the overall weight is nicely balanced.
It has a perfect inclination with the handle which will make it easy to use the hammer. Estwing has used forged solid steel to make the head of the hammer. For this material, the performance of the Estwing MRW25LM is outstanding.
This hammer features triple wedge construction. It includes a magnetic nail holder, facilitating easy nail placement in wood.
Not only the head is made with great material, but the handle of the hammer is made with high-quality hickory wood. This wooden handle feels lightweight and offers high performance.
Lastly, the Estwing MRW25LM wood handle framing hammer comes in an affordable price which can serve you for a long period.
Pros:
- Very powerful
- Easy to strike
- Nicely balanced
Cons:
- Feels heavy
4. DeWalt DWHT51064 22 Oz. Framing Hammer
DeWalt is a popular name when it comes for framing hammer and one of their most popular framing hammer is the DeWalt DWHT51064 22 Oz.
This hammer has the perfect weighted head, which is 22 oz. For this head, one can use this hammer both for heavy-duty work or just for routine work. Even this product is quite popular for the DIYers to make their different projects.
The DeWalt DWHT51064 22 Oz. has used hardened steel for its construction. This material is very durable and has made this hammer useful for different purposes.
Now, we think the best feature of the DeWalt DWHT51064 hammer is its handle. The handle has super torque and shock resistant mechanism. The handle material is incredible, and it helps a lot to hold the hammer comfortably.
Basically, the DeWalt DWHT51064 22 framing hammer does everything that you want to do with it. It performs well in wood, metal or to hit the concrete.
The forks are also nicely designed so that one can easily take nails out. And lastly, this awesome product comes in a decent price which made it highly recommended from us.
Pros:
- Feels very balanced
- Great durability
- Best to use in a concrete field
Cons:
- Weighs a little heavy
5. Real Steel 0517 21 Oz. Ultra Framing Hammer with Milled Face
Next, in our list for the best budget framing hammer, we have a high-quality product in cheap price from Real Steel. It is the Real Steel 0517 only 21-ounce ultra Framing Hammer.
This model from Real Steel is one of their most popular models and a great quality one. Real Steel has made this hammer keeping all the safety measures in mind.
As the name suggested, the Real Steel 0517 framing hammer includes the textured rubber grip. This bad boy can absorb the highest amount of vibrations so one will feel almost nothing to the hand.
Moreover, shock reducing technology also assists to reduce the effect on the user’s wrists and elbows.
The Real Steel 0517 is ideal for both domestic and professional work. The head weight is 21 oz. which is the standard head weight of any well-balanced framing hammer.
This hammer has a rip claw that provides the ultimate control over the nails. It becomes very easy to push the nails inside the wood with this hammer.
This framing hammer also has the magnetic nail start feature. This feature is included for extended reach and made it possible to handle nailing with just one hand.
This affordable framing hammer’s head is made of rust and corrosion free steel. It has also a black coating.
For all these reasons, we think it is an ideal choice for any professional or for daily use also.
Pros:
- Excellent at reducing shock
- Nicely balances
- Ideal for heavy work
Cons:
- If few oz. heavier then perfect.
6. ESTWING E3-28SM 28 oz. Long Handle Framing Hammer
If you are a professional framers or DIYers then you can definitely try the Estwing E3-28SM Straight Rip Claw framing hammer. This framing hammer comes with the popular Estwing’s blue nylon vinyl grip.
This grip is best for absorbing shock. Moreover, the handle grip made with liquid vinyl which will provide the user with the ultimate comfort by reducing the number of vibrations.
The straight claw of the hammer is super useful for ripping out. This claw provides perfect balance and temper.
The Estwing E3-28SM can be used for prying boards, pulling nails, splitting wood, demolition work and for more other works.
It has an excellent finish, balance and made with the finest steel. To offer the maximum strength to the users Estwing has used solid forged in one piece of tempered steel in this hammer.
Like most Estwing hammers it also has a hand polished finish and this hammer also carries the trademark look of Estwing.
The Estwing E3-28SM hammer has unmatched durability than any other framing hammer. It is a 28-ounce hammer that has perfect balance and best for every professional users.
The straight claw is perfect to pull nails from the tight corners. The handle of this hammer is the best feature and you won’t usually get such high-quality product in the market. Therefore, all in all, it is a must buy.
Pros:
- Great shock absorption
- The grip is comfortable
- Heavy weighted
- Milled face
- Made in USA
Cons:
- Not an ideal hammer for new users.
7. Vanquish 0536 Titanium Framing Hammer 11 Oz.
If you are looking for a decent light weighted hammer for more routine work, then the Vanquish 0536 Titanium Framing Hammer 11 Oz. can be a great option for you.
This hammer is also suitable to use for different DIY projects by children (under the supervision of parents).
It is a 1-piece steel hammer which means the whole hammer is made with one single material, steel. This hammer has an optimal weight distribution. For the nicely balanced weight, the user gets full control over the hammer.
The Vanquish 0536 Hammer has an titanium smooth face. This type of head shape helps a lot at toe nailing.
It also has the side nail puller option which can be used to pull out the nails easily. One can easily use this hammer in tight places.
Overall, the Vanquish 0536 comes in a great balance, 11Oz head weight, composite handle, nail start system, and all these features have made this hammer a pretty good one for use.
If you are looking for a lightweight framing hammer which can be used for your woodwork or anything else, then this titanium piece can be best option for you.
Pros:
- Super affordable
- Comes with large rubber grip handle
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Very lightweight not professionals.
8. OX TOOLS OX-P083318 Framing Hammer 18 Oz.
Next, for our list, we have picked the OX TOOLS OX-P083318 Pro Series 18 Oz. framing hammer . This hammer can be used for different purposes and it comes in perfect weight and balance.
One can use this hammer for woodworking, house, fence building or just for repairing different things.
The OX-P083318 comes with a hickory handle, which is known for its durability and shock absorption. To reduce the chances of damages, OX TOOLS has used steel head.
It is one-piece solid steel construction. This hammer has magnetic nail holder and all the nice features like anti-vibration technology, a patent-pending technology which has made this hammer as a recommended one from us.
Pros:
- Genuine hickory on the side
- Good steel hammer
- Handy
Cons:
- Not a standard hammer
9. Stilletto TI14MC 14 Ounce-Best Titanium Framing Hammer
This may not seem a very popular name to you, but this particular hammer from the brand called Stilletto is amazing. The TI14MC Titanium framing hammer is made with titanium it is super strong and durable.
It weighs 45 percent less, meaning it reduces recoil shock by ten times. With its hickory-carved handle, the total weight of the item is 1.7 pounds.
This hammer features a polished and Milled face which can work on different surfaces.
The very first that anyone will notice of this hammer is its weigh. Weighs only 14 ounces.
Even though not everyone likes to use a lightweight hammer, but many users find it different and easy to find inside the toolbox. In that way, the lightweight adds an advantage.
This is a 14-ounce hammer, in case you didn’t know. It has an easy to use wooden handle made with American hickory that made this hammer easy to use and dependable. Unlike some other rubber handles, this one is pretty solid and obviously comfortable.
This hammer also features a ‘V’ notch for easier nail extraction. It is best to use for nailing and removing nails.
All in all, we can say that the Stilletto TI14MC hammer is a best titanium framing hammer.
Pros:
- This framing hammer is designed especially for women
- Well weighted
- Very cheap but good quality
- Can absorb shock
Cons:
- The magnet is also not durable
10. Fiskars 750241-1001 Milled-Face Framing Hammer 22 oz.
Last for our framing hammer list we have a most attractive design hammer, the Fiskars 750241-1001 framing hammer. As it is large milled face it is super strong and durable.
It weighs is in a between, which means neither it is light weighted, nor it is too heavy. It’s a 22-ounce hammer with which you can do almost all the works you need to do.
The Fiskars 750241-1001 framing hammer has a milled face. It means that the face of the hammer is not going to slip on anything.
This hammer has a swing controlled wood handle so that you can fell the minimum of the shock and vibration. It is very comfortable to use this hammer.
Moreover, this Fiskars hammer has a magnetic nail holder where you can hold the duplex or standard nail. This feature made it easy to do your job with this hammer. Also, there is an overstrike guard and that protects the user, handle and the nail puller.
The Fiskars 750241-1001 framing hammer gives one the leverage to work with stubborn nails. One can reach every corner with this amazing hammer and therefore it is a highly recommended product to try.
Pros:
- The weight of the hammer is nicely balanced
- Reinforced claws
- Includes a side nail puller
Cons:
- The screws on the handle can get loosen
We Liked, and We Didn’t Like
Above all of these were the top selection for framing hammers from our point of view. Though we think all of these hammers are in high quality and can be a great option for anyone, we have a favorite one from the whole selection.
After testing all the 10 framing hammers we think the best framing hammer that meets all the criteria to be the finest one will be the Spec Ops SPEC-M22CF 22 oz.
This hammer is a perfect combination of all the things. It has a strong construction; well-balanced weight has the durability and comes at an affordable price.
The head weight is 22 ounce which is perfect for both professional and regular work. So, all in all, it meets all the needs and therefore we think we liked this Spec Ops product among all hammers.
Now, as we are discussing the most liked one, we also want to talk about the one which we didn’t like that much. Please note, that we are not saying that this is a bad hammer, or you shouldn’t buy this.
It’s just the least recommended one from these 10 suggestions. It will be the NO #5 Real Steel 0517 21 Oz. framing hammer. Though it is a strong hammer overall, we didn’t like the construction of the product.
Things to Consider When Buying a Best Framing Hammer
There are so many different types of hammers and each type have again different features, it is very normal to get confused.
However, there are some basic features that you must look while buying a framing hammer.
Especially if you are looking for a best framing hammer then these certain features are something that you cannot miss.
Now, not each and every feature that we are going to mention is a must, but you should have a consideration about these features.
Face
We hope, you already know what is facing means of a hammer. It is very important that you try to find out what should be the face on the end of your hammer.
The most common face shape is a milled face. This type of face helps to prevent slipping. On the other side, if you are going for a smooth face then there are chances of slipping. So, you must consider the facing of the hammer while buying a new hammer.
Handle Type
As we have discussed before, there are different types of handles for different types of hammers. Handles can be wooden handles, steel handles or made with fiberglass. Each of the handles has its own advantages and disadvantages.
For example, wood handles are easy to use. This type of handle is also great for shock absorption. However, wooden handles are not that much durable compared to steel handles.
Steel handles have the highest durability, but they have very less shock absorption power. So, you see these two are totally opposite.
To be safe, it is always better to go for fiberglass, as it is in between of wood and steel.
Unfortunately, considering other factors, we did not pick any fiberglass handle framing hammers in our top 10 list. However, you can certainly go with the ESTWING MRF22SM Sure Strike 22 oz. fiberglass handle framing hammer, which also passed our tests.
Not only you should consider the material of the handle but also the size of the handle. The handle length needs to be comfortable so that one can easily use the hammer. You should have a look at the handle covers of the hammers.
Weight
Weight is another important factor which needs to be considered while buying a hammer. It totally depends on the type of work and on your requirements.
There is no perfect weight for any hammer. The perfect weight is in which the user feels comfortable using the hammer.
If you are going for a long heavy work like building a house in that case, you may not want to use a heavily weighted hammer. Basically, a hammer weighs from 8 ounces to 32 ounces.
Apart from these three basic features you also need to consider about the claw, head weight, nail starter feature of a hammer.
How to Use a Framing Hammer
A framing hammer is a perfect tool when you are framing something. However, to get the best use from it one needs to know the proper way to use it.
You may think that you know how to use a hammer, as it is just a hammer, but you are wrong. You are going to use a framing hammer to build the foundation for your building or any other project.
Therefore, it is very important that you know the correct way to use it.
First, you must remember that a framing hammer is for framing things, it cannot be used for tapping. You can use it for tapping but you won’t get the best benefit from it like this way.
The best way to use a framing hammer is to hold the handle of the hammer as close as possible and then swing the hammer in a long arc.
You need to use it almost like an ax. It may take a little time to use a framing hammer in a proper way. However, once you gained the technique you can easily sink a 16d nail with just 2 or 3 swings.
No matter what type of hammer you are using, if you know how and where to hold the handle then you can get the best out of it. Another tip will always focus on the nail to avoid any sideways.
While using a framing hammer you must let the hammer do the majority work. Don’t give too much pressure on your body, this will eventually result in wild swings.
The main part of the work will be done by the weight of the hammerhead and with the smooth swing.
Maintenance Tips
Like any other tools or machines of your house, you need to do proper maintenance of your hammer. If you are not maintaining your tools you cannot expect the best efficiency from it.
The most important tip to get the best result from your hammer is to keep it clean. Always keep clean the head of the hammer. Take a close look of your hammer’s head, if you find it dull and dirty that means you are not maintaining it properly.
To clean the head of the hammer you can use unused sandpaper. Just rub the head at the sandpaper for few times and it will clean the head.
The sandpaper will remove the small pits from the head. It will take only a few minutes. But, if it was not cleaned for a long period then you need to sand it for a longer time.
If the head is not for any use, you can replace it at any store.
Safety Tips
Injuries caused by hammers are one of the most common types of injuries. Hammers are impacted tool and many people while using a hammer don’t follow the proper practices with hammers and end up with injuries.
No matter how experienced you are you always should follow the safety guidelines while using a hammer. An accident can happen to anyone and therefore even if you know how to use a hammer you should be aware of using it correctly.
First, you must make sure that you are choosing the correct hammer according to your work type. A wrong hammer not only reduces the efficiency of your work, but it increases the chances of injuries.
After you choose the correct hammer there are some tips for handling a hammer safely,
- While working always wear safety goggles. Otherwise, there is a huge chance that something will go directly to your eyes while striking.
- Before you start your work, inspect carefully whether there is any damage in the hammer or not. Make sure that all the parts of the hammer are nicely secured.
- If you feel the handle is kind of loose then never use that hammer. Replace the handle and then use it.
- Never strike any object using the side of a hammer.
FAQs:
What Is a Framing Hammer Used For?
The main purpose to use a framing hammer is to frame any foundation like a house. A framing hammer is a heavy duty straight claw hammers.
What Is the Usual Weight of a Framing Hammer?
The most usual weights among framing hammers are 16 or 32 ounces.
What Is the Difference Between a Claw and a Rip Hammer?
A curved claw hammer gives more leverage to pull out nails. Whereas a rip claw hammer is basically a straight claw hammer to rip apart materials.
Final Thoughts
There are many different types of hammers for different purposes. This article was wrote with an aim to reduce your confusion about different hammers and to make it a little simple to find the best framing hammer for you. We hope that this article was able to help you. One last thing, please always ensure safety while using a framing hammer.
