10 Best Framing Hammers – Reviews & Buying Guide

Best Framing Hammer

A framing hammer is a small tool with heavy weighed head and a sleek body profile. Typically, the claw of these hammers is straighter, and they are more in weight than the general purpose hammer.

For so many reasons we require a best framing hammer, mostly to insert the nails inside the wood.

These tools vary from the kind of construction and the material used to balance the product. For a carpenter, a framing hammer is an indispensable tool.

Well, from the massive range of framing hammers available online, we believe that not all of them have same ability to perform.

But at the same time, all our readers deserve to be equipped with the finest products. That is why, we have made some suggestions below of the hammers that are perfect for various household and professional uses.

10 Best Framing Hammers - Reviews

Product Name

Head Weight

Length

Handle Material

Rating

Current Price

1. Estwing MRW25LM Framing Hammer

25 oz

10.0 in

Hickory

4.4

2. Stanley 51-167 Xtreme Framing Hammer

22 oz

16.0 in

AntiVibe Checkered

4.3

3. Irwin Tools 1954890 Wood Framing Hammer

16 oz

15.5 in

Curved Hickory

4.5

4. Dalluge DDT16P Framing Hammer

16 oz

17.3 in

Genuine Hickory

4.0

5. Estwing E3-25SM Framing Hammer

16 oz

18.0 in

Steel

4.9

6. Fiskars IsoCore Framing Hammer

22 oz

16.0 in

Steel

4.9

7. Estwing E3-22S Framing Hammer

16 oz

16.0 in

Steel

4.3

8. DeWalt DWHT51064 Framing Hammer

22 oz

15.9 in

N/A

4.7

9. Tekton 30325 Framing Hammer

22 oz

16.0 in

Fibreglass

4.3

10. Vaughan 10120 Framing Hammer

22 oz

16.0 in

Hickory

4.4

#1. Estwing MRW25LM Framing Hammer

Editor's Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars (4.4 / 5)

Estwing MRW25LM Framing Hammer
  • Head Weight: 25 oz
  • Weight: N/A
  • Length: 10 inches
  • Handle Material: Hickory

To begin our list, we have got this incredible model from Estwing. First, the weight of the head of this model is 25 oz which is quite a lot, making this model exceptionally powerful.

While we don’t highly recommend purchase of the hammers with such heavy heads but this one is in perfect inclination with the handle, creating well-balanced overall weight. 

The material used in the making of the head is forged solid steel in milled face construction. Due to the face type, the performance of the hammer is great.

Also, the triple wedge construction with magnets helps in holding the nails as you strike them in the wood.

Other than this, the material used in the construction of the handle is top grade hickory wood, making the handle light in weight and high performing.

Now about the price, this model is affordably priced. Also, you can enjoy minimum 1 year of warranty with this model. So overall, this one can be a benefiting purchase for you.

Pros:

  • Well balanced
  • High in performance
  • Forged steel for better results
  • Strong yet smooth handle

Cons:

  • Heavy

#2. Stanley 51-167 Xtreme Framing Hammer

Editor's Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars (4.3 / 5)

Stanley 51-167 Xtreme Framing Hammer
  • Head Weight: 22 oz
  • Weight: 38.72 oz
  • Length: 16 inches
  • Handle Material: AntiVibe Checkered Handle

Coming to the next hammer, this one is a great model from Stanley. The brand has very carefully constructed the product to ensure that it keep the hand safe.

Thanks to the Xtreme AntiVibe Checkered framing, this model transfer least amount of vibrations to the hand. Also, this controls the effect of torque on the elbows and wrists.

The head weight is sufficient for professional as well as domestic usage. Also, the rip claw will provide foremost control over the nails as you push them inside the wood with this hammer.

Plus, with the magnetic nail start feature, this one has got extended reach and one hand nailing capability.

About the material of the hammer head, this one has got corrosion and rust free steel with black coating.

The handle is also made of steel and coated with AntiVibe checkered material to protect the hand. This one is a well balanced framing hammer in our list that is available at affordable price.

Pros:

  • Ideal for professionals
  • AntiVibe checkered handle for effortless and safe working
  • Economical
  • Perfectly balanced

Cons:

  • Rip claw is not suitable for all the users

#3. Irwin Tools 1954890 Wood Framing Hammer

Editor's Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars (4.5 / 5)

Irwin Tools 1954890 Wood Framing Hammer
  • Head Weight: 16 oz
  • Weight: 21 oz
  • Length: 15.5 inches
  • Handle Material: Curved Hickory Handle

Irwin has launched some of the most reliable and praiseworthy products in the market. This model being one of the finest works of Irwin, we would like to incorporate in our list.

This one has got 16 oz hammer head which is suitable for all kind of light duty tasks. Also, the material used in the making of this model is high carbon steel which is very strong.

Since the steel is forged, this model will stay with you for the longest period. Saying more about the head, this one has got claw framing and milled face that prevent the hammer slipping off the nail head.

The working is so seamless that you can enjoy one handed nail settings, due to the magnetic nail holder.

About the handle, this model has received fine quality curved hickory handle for added durability and strength. The handle creates perfect balance of the product, making it one of the best in our list.

Furthermore, the costing is done wisely, and you can also enjoy lifetime warranty with this model.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Lightweight
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Versatile hammer head

Cons:

  • The handle should have been better

#4. Dalluge DDT16P Framing Hammer

Editor's Rating: 4 out of 5 stars (4 / 5)

Dalluge DDT16P Framing Hammer
  • Head Weight: 16 oz
  • Weight: N/A
  • Length: 17.3 inches
  • Handle Material: Hickory Handle

From the leading brand Dalluge, this model is an amazing purchase that you can make. This one has got 16 oz hammer head which is ideal for all kind of light duty tasks.

The making is further enhanced with the titanium material that makes this model extra strong and durable. Well of course, this one stays completely clear from rusting or corroding.

About the types of the face, this one has got side nail puller for extra leverage and reinforced claw for added strength of the hammer.

The Nailoc magnetic nail holder makes this model capable of holding standard as well as duplex nails conveniently.

The handle given to this model is made of genuine quality Hickory wood with smooth finish to make it convenient to hold.

And the patented shock absorbent design of the handle prevents the hand from shock or torque on the hand or elbow.

Pros:

  • Lightweight
  • Incredible design
  • Strong handle
  • Perfectly balanced

Cons:

  • Expensive

#5. Estwing E3-25SM Framing Hammer

Editor's Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars (4.9 / 5)

Estwing E3-25SM Framing Hammer
  • Head Weight: 16 oz
  • Weight: 25 oz
  • Length: 18 inches
  • Handle Material: Steel Handle

Here we come with another incredible model by Estwing. Starting with the head weight, this one has got 16 oz weight which makes it great with versatile jobs.

The complete steel construction makes this model incredibly strong and durable. The hammer head is forged, making this one a perfect pick for various users such as framers, roofers, DIYers, tradesman, etc.

The finest American steel has been used in the making of this model with Rockford power that helps in preventing corrosion or rusting of this model.

With the rip claw and flat edge face, this model is quite constructive and popular among different buyers.

Now, the handle of this model is also made of steel, increasing the overall life of the hammer. Since one piece of steel is used in the construction, this one is the most secure model in our list.

The patented shock reduction grip helps in preventing hand from the impact of the vibrations. This model is a great purchase and available at cost friendly price.

Pros:

  • Large size
  • Lightweight
  • Very durable steel
  • Shock resistant handle

Cons:

  • The flat edge face is poor in handling different tasks

#6. Fiskars IsoCore Framing Hammer

Editor's Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars (4.8 / 5)

Fiskars IsoCore Framing Hammer
  • Head Weight: 22 oz
  • Weight: 36 oz
  • Length: 16 inches
  • Handle Material: Steel Handle

Fiskars is another one of the leading brands to manufacture quality hammers. About this model, it has got 22 oz hammer head, ideal for heavy duty tasks. This one is great for the professionals.

The making of this model is done with high quality steel which is not only great in performance but is also highly durable.

The milled face grips of the hammer head prevent the hammer from sliding off the nails and provide single handed usage of the hammer.

As far as handle is concerned, this model has received a fine quality steel handle with insulation sleeve that captures initial strike shock before it reaches the hand.

Furthermore, the IsoCore shock control system absorbs strike shock and vibration to reduce the punishment that body get to endure due to the vibrations.

This one is a great model available at a decent price and with lifetime warranty to safeguard your purchase.

Pros:

  • High quality steel
  • Ideal for professionals
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Affordable

Cons:

  • Not impressive force for pulling the nails

#7. Estwing E3-22S Framing Hammer

Editor's Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars (4.3 / 5)

Estwing E3-22S Framing Hammer
  • Head Weight: 16 oz
  • Weight: 22 oz
  • Length: 16 inches
  • Handle Material: Steel Handle

This model from Estwing is also one of the top rated framing hammers in our list. With the hammer head of 16 oz in weight, this model is versatile in performance.

The construction of this framing hammer is done with one piece forged steel for added performance, durability, and quality. This one comes with Rockford power, so durability of this model is unquestionable.

Since the steel is forged, you can rest assured that the hammer will not corrode or rust. Furthermore, this one has got straight rip claw with smooth face to boost the usability of the hammer.

The handle here is also made of steel, offering best performance and strength to the user. Other than that, the patented shock reduction grip makes the handle easy to hold while reducing the impact of vibrations.

The hammer is available to you at an extremely reasonable price and with lifetime warranty.

Pros:

  • High quality steel
  • Shock resistant handle
  • One piece steel
  • Reasonably priced
  • Lifetime warranty

Cons:

  • The face type is not useful for many users

#8. DeWalt DWHT51064 Framing Hammer

Editor's Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars (4.7 / 5)

DeWalt DWHT51064 Framing Hammer
  • Head Weight: 22 oz
  • Weight: 36 oz
  • Length: 15.9 inches
  • Handle Material: N/A

DeWalt has give this amazing model with hammer head weighing 22 oz, making this model a perfect pick for the professionals and routine users. This one is quite helpful for the DIYers as well with their projects.

The material used in the making of this model is hardened steel that performs brilliantly on any kind of craft. Also, the steel is quite durable to serve you the longest.

Furthermore, this one has got waffle face of the hammer head, making it more reliable. The nails can be easily held with the face and strike effortlessly.

About the handle, the best part is its shock and torque resistant mechanism. This one has got incredible handle material that keep the hand of the holder comfortable.

The price of this model is also decent which makes it one of the leading products in our list.

Pros:

  • Perfectly balanced
  • Quality steel
  • Comfortable handle
  • Durable

Cons:

  • Heavy

#9. Tekton 30325 Framing Hammer

Editor's Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars (4.3 / 5)

Tekton 30325 Framing Hammer
  • Head Weight: 22 oz
  • Weight: 36 oz
  • Length: 16 inches
  • Handle Material: Fibreglass

If you are looking for the finest model in our list that is highly promising, then this model from Tekton is where you search ends.

This one has got 22 oz hammer head which makes it a suitable pick for the professionals. Whether this is about the size of the hammer or the overall weight, this one makes a suitable combination.

The material of the hammer head is made of highest grade steel that is very durable and reliable. Also, the face type is milled with sharpened straight claws to get inside the tighter spaces.

Adding more to the pros of this model, this one has got fibreglass handle for utmost durability and control.

No matter how much the hammer is exposed to the everyday wear and tear, the handle or the head will never get damaged.

This one is available at highly affordable price.

Pros:

  • Very affordable
  • Ideal for all kind of users
  • Perfectly balanced

Cons:

  • Straight claws are not very useful

#10. Vaughan 10120 Framing Handle

Editor's Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars (4.4 / 5)

Vaughan 10120 Framing Handle
  • Head Weight: 22 oz
  • Weight: 36 oz
  • Length: 16 inches
  • Handle Material: Hickory

Last in our list is this brilliant model from Vaughan. This one has got a heavy duty hammer head weighing 22 oz from the weight of the head, it is quite evident that this one is ideal for the professionals.

This model has got forged steel head that is highly promising and dependable. Also, this one is absolutely stain and corrosion resistant.

One more thing, this one is American steel with Rockford power to ensure that this model is extremely durable and rich in performance.

The computer design of this hammer is for the superior balance. Also, this one has got rip claw to increase the versatility of this model.

About the handle, this one has got hickory handle with rubber shock-blok mechanism to prevent the vibrations from damaging the hand.

This model is available at decent price and lifetime warranty.

Pros:

  • Affordable
  • Lifetime warranty
  • Cushioned handle for comfortable grip
  • Quality steel

Cons:

  • Heavy

How to Buy the Best Framing Hammers

How to Buy Best Framing Hammer

A good framing hammer is the one that has got perfect division of weight on the head side and the handle, foremost material, and incredible construction.

The striking power of the hammer also plays a crucial role in selecting the right model for you. This feature certainly depends on the weight of the head.

Anyways, there are various features that must be kept in account as you pursue with the search of the right product.

So, in this framing hammer review, we will now mention some of the important tips to find the best framing hammer.

#1. Head Weight

The head weight is all what matters the most in a framing hammer. Basically, this one helps in doing the entire task like hammering the nails inside the wood.

The weight of the head may vary but it must be perfect amalgam with the handle. This means that the weight of the head and handle should be in such that the overall weight is balanced.

Also, make sure that a heavy head will require less power from the user but at the same time, it is difficult to handle.

We insist that you make sure that head weight lies somewhere between 16 oz to 22 oz. If this goes more than the suggested weight, then it will only add to your troubles.

The head weight should be so that it cut down your task and supply you enough strength to get the work done effortlessly.

#2. Handle

Handle is a very important feature to check as you buy a framing hammer. To be fair, this one is even more important than the head because if the handle is weak and breaks as you use the hammer then it will cause significant accident.

The strength of the handle is determined by the material used in the construction of the tool. Well, the three classic materials of handles available in framing handles are mentioned below:

  • Steel: If you want the most durable and save framing hammer then no other material can match up the level of steel. But at the same time, these are the ones transfer a lot of shock through them and eventually to your hand. These are great for the hobbyist but not recommended for the professional uses.
  • Fibreglass: This one plays as the middle alternative when it is about the strength and less shock. This one balances the strikes and does not give more trauma to the hand.
  • Wood: While wood is great in prevent your arm and hand from any kind of shock, this one is not as durable as its counterparts. You will experience cracks in the handle after constant usage. And not to mention, framing hammers are for outdoor usage and wood cannot withstand that much abuse.

Irrespective of the material type, these days the handles are covered with rubber bands that deprives the amount of current passed on the hammer as you strike.  

#3. Face Type

The face type is another significant thing to look out. Let’s check them out here:

  • Waffle Face: Most of the framing hammers comes with waffle face type that prevent slipping of the nails strike by them.
  • Flat Face: These are also among the most common types of framing hammers available in the market but to be honest, these are very difficult to handle.

Most of the professionals pick waffle face hammers because they are more secure than the other one.

Conclusion

There are various framing hammer brands that are offering their amazing products online. But for the buyers, it becomes very difficult to pick the right model.

We have tried to end your confusion and made it simple for you to pick the right product. The list that we just shared above have got handpicked products.

We have keenly secured the right models that are made of greatest material and available at the prices that suit budgets of every individual.

Also, the balance of the hammers is perfect so that they don’t tire or harm the hand of the holder. Read all the products carefully and make the selection.

Happy Shopping!

Read More: 7 Best Hammer Drills

Last Updated on September 2, 2020 by

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Tom Bradly
 

My entrepreneurial journey started in 2006, when I dropped out of university. I wanted to work with my hands, to build things. Now I mix my background with computers with my first-hand experience with woodworking to provide insights into the tools I like best. I love everything about woodworking and have been building stuff for over 20 years of my life. I hope to pass some knowledge and expertise. See more at TomBradly.com

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