Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a full-time tradesperson, the right balance of power, weight, and comfort matters. In this Good / Better / Best framing hammer guide, we compare three standout options, from budget-friendly to premium-grade, to help you find the perfect tool for your needs. Let’s break down what makes each hammer worth your swing.
Good: DEWALT 28 oz Milled Framing Hammer
The DEWALT 28‑ounce milled-framing hammer offers excellent value for pros and DIYers alike. With its heavy 28 oz head, milled face for strong nail grip, and a robust design, it delivers powerful strikes without breaking the bank. This hammer is ideal for general framing tasks where durability meets affordability. Model: DWHT51007
- Key Features: Milled face, heavy-duty, affordable
- Best For: General framing on a budget
Better : Stiletto TiBone 15 oz Milled Curved Titanium Framing Hammer
The Stiletto TiBone is a refined step up—a fusion of lightweight design and powerful performance. Crafted with an all-titanium body and a milled steel face, this 15 oz hammer offers the impact of a 28 oz steel hammer while weighing approximately 45% less, dramatically reducing arm fatigue and recoil shock during extended framing sessions. Model: TIB15MC
- Key Features: Lightweight titanium, curved handle, Interchangeable Steel Faces, replaceable grips
- Best For: Reduced fatigue, enhanced swing
Made in the USA and backed by a one-year warranty, the TiBone is a smart mid-tier upgrade for framers seeking more comfort, control, and adaptability in a compact, high-performance package.
Best : Martinez M1 20 oz Milled Straight Titanium Framing Hammer
The Martinez M1 isn’t just a framing hammer, it’s a precision-engineered tool crafted for professionals who demand ultimate performance, durability, and customizability. Featuring a 20 oz replaceable steel head and a milled face, this titanium-framed hammer offers an ideal balance of lightweight comfort and heavy-duty striking power. Its longer 42 cm handle provides maximum leverage, reducing strain and increasing efficiency over long workdays.
- Key Features: Titanium, longer handle, ergonomic, customizable heads, handles and grips.
- Best For: Pro-level framing, all-day use
Customizable Heads / Handles / Grips:
But what truly sets the Martinez M1 apart is its modular, customizable design. Unlike traditional hammers, Martinez offers interchangeable components — heads, handles, grips, and faces — so you can tailor the hammer to your specific needs and preferences. Whether you prefer a curved or straight handle, smooth or milled face, or want to fine-tune weight and balance, the Martinez system gives you total control over your tool.
Handcrafted in the USA, every Martinez Hammer is a product of meticulous craftsmanship and innovation. Built with premium materials and a commitment to ergonomic comfort, this hammer is a favorite among discerning tradespeople who value form, function, and flexibility. It’s more than just a tool — it’s an investment in precision and performance.
Check out the Limited Edition Martinez Reaper One Hammer HERE!
