What is the best hammer handle for long term ergonomics and general arm health. I can’t seem to get a straight answer. Is an all titanium hammer best or a titanium head with a wood handle.
Price is not a factor in my question, just wondering what will keep my swinging longer and without pain. Thanks!
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When I started using a hammer 60 years ago it was all about head weight (ie tap to set nail and two blows to drive home). For the last 30 years it's been nail guns, so from my perspective ergonomics don't really matter. It's using the hammer that feels comfortable in your hand and gets the job done.
Wood handles have more flex than metal handles so they are easier on your arm. Titanium is lightweight so my understanding is you can get it moving fast with less effort- there is less inertia to overcome when starting from a stationary position. I’m not sure about titanium handles. If I was to say what is the easiest on the body I’d say a titanium head on a wooden handle with a siliconized/ rubber grip, but it also say it’s not just the hammer it’s how you’re holding and using it. There are lots of hammer videos and reviews on YouTube if you really want to nerd out on it. And I’d also say I have a couple of hammers of different weights and shapes. I only use a beastly framing hammer once in a while, I like my lighter square head roofing hammer for most other things and my heavy slate hammer for other applications. Get a few and see what you gravitate towards.