Why is it called a California framing hammer?

Like any tool, the framing hammer has evolved over time: In the1980s, both Hart and Dalluge produced variations with a larger milled face and a longer axe handle, this adaption was referred to as the "California framer" before Vaughan Tool copyrighted the term.

Who invented the California framing hammer?

The fourth of this series is the California Framer hammer. This hammer was created by Howard Vaughan Jr after a trip to California. He took two popular Vaughan tools and combined them into one hammer with an extra large striking surface, heavier weight and axe style handle.

What is a California style hammer?

California framer® style hammer combines features of two of the most popular tools into a rugged, heavy construction hammer. The smoothly swept claws are borrowed from a standard rip hammer, and the extra large striking face, hatchet eye and sturdy handle are a heritage of the rig builder's hatchet.

What is special about a framing hammer?

Extra features: Some framing hammers have a small notch to grab and pull nail heads, ideal for demolition projects and rogue nails. Magnetic nail starters are another convenient feature. The hammerhead keeps the nail in place for the first strike without endangering your fingers.

Why framing hammers have a checkered face?

Milled Face: Framing hammers usually have a ridged, milled face to prevent slipping when the head strikes the nail.

California Framer Profile

Why do framing hammers have a waffle head?

A milled face, also called checkered face or waffle face, is a pattern on the striking face of the hammer. Different brands use different patterns, but the idea is to provide a bit of extra gripping surface to catch and sink nails.

What's the difference between a finishing hammer and a framing hammer?

A hammer with a smooth striking surface is known as a finishing hammer and is used where marring of the wood is to be avoided for cosmetic reasons. Some framing hammers have a magnetized slot along the top edge of the striking surface to hold a nail.

Why do some Estwing hammers ring?

The reason that some hammers ring is that the geometry of the claws of somehammers more accurately mimic the geometry of a tuning fork - whosedimensions yield a vibration that is in the audible range of the human ear.

Why are Estwing hammers so good?

Estwing hammers succeed because they perfectly deliver everything you could want in a hammer: a comfortable grip, great balance, and a natural-feeling swing with a solid strike. As a a single piece of steel from tip to tail, they're also indestructible.

What hammer Do most carpenters use?

The claw hammer is by far the most common and best type of hammer for most carpentry jobs, especially hammering in nails. The claw hammer generally has a round face for striking a nail squarely, and a V shaped hook or claw on the reverse for pulling at the heads of nails and removing them.

Are Vaughan hammers made in the USA?

MADE IN USA. The 20 oz "999 series hammers are based on a unique rip hammer design originated by Vaughan. The extra steel behind the striking face, and the deep throat, octagon neck and smoothly swept claws creates a hammer that looks as good as it feels in use. MADE IN USA.

What is a rip hammer?

For the more muscular work of nailing lumber, a framing (aka, rip) hammer is the way to go. It has a handle up to 18 inches long, a straight claw for prying apart pieces of wood, a head weighing 20 ounces or more, and a milled face to grip nailheads.

Where are Vaughan hammers made?

The Vaughan family has been committed to producing hand tools that proudly state "Made in the USA" for a century and a half. We've been designing and manufacturing hammers for over 150 years.

Did the Romans have claw hammers?

The Romans, who invented forged iron nails, used another dual-purpose tool: the claw hammer. Pulling nails exerts heavy pressure on the handle, which risks being pulled out of its socket, or eye.

What hammer does essential craftsman use?

Estwing Hammer — Essential Craftsman.

Who makes Craftsman hammers?

In fact, Vaughan & Bushnell has made Craftsman hammers for 100 years.

What does Estwing stand for?

Estwing was an immigrant from Sweden who settled in Rockford with many other Swedish immigrants. Estwing manufactures striking tools such as hammers, axes, pry bars, bricklayer's tools, roofer's tools, geologist's hammers, and various specialty striking tools.

Do Estwing hammers rust?

Estwings are a life time tool. I have my fathers rock hammer ( early sixties as well!) totally darkened with years of rust, but pert near indestructible. After you've used yours ( I presume in a salty environment) a quick rinse with fresh water and a thorough drying should get those excess salts off.

Are titanium hammers worth it?

Fortunately, there's a better material from which to make quality hammers: titanium. Titanium hammers are more efficient than steel at transferring energy. In fact, a titanium hammer transfers up to 97 percent of energy to a nail (or other striking surfaces), whereas steel transfers about 70 percent.

Are Estwing hammers made in the USA?

When an Estwing is seen hanging from a workman's belt you can most likely be sure you are dealing with an experienced professional. And they are all Made in America. Estwing hammers and tools are manufactured in Rockford, Ill., about 90 miles northwest of Chicago.

Are heavier hammers better?

Generally, a heavier hammer delivers a harder strike, and a lighter hammer is less fatiguing. Swing velocity comes into play. The weight of a hammer head and weight of the handle distributed along its length both resist angular motion, dictating how much physical effort is required to get things swinging.

How long should a hammer last?

A hydraulic hammer or breaker is an investment, and with the proper maintenance and care, it can last about 8-10 years. However, this ultimately depends on how well it is cared for during and between uses.

How heavy should a framing hammer be?

Head Weight

Most framing hammers have steel heads that weigh between 20 to 32 ounces, although a few heavier and lighter ones are available. Framing hammers made from titanium, a hard but lightweight metal, weigh in at only between 15 and 19 ounces.

What is a 16 ounce claw hammer used for?

A claw hammer is a type of hammer used mainly for pounding nails into, or extracting nails from, wood. Claw hammers usually weigh in the range 16 to 25 ounces. The head is made of steel and the handle of wood, fiberglass, or steel.

What makes a claw hammer different from a general hammer?

The claw on a framing hammer is straight, which makes it more effective for pulling those large nails when you make a mistake. The handle is up to 6 inches longer than that of a general-use hammer, and the face has deep serrations that leave an imprint in the wood.