Is a hammer worth over $150? Kinda.
Today, we’re going to talk about a very expensive hammer. I’ve been holding off on doing this review for a while. I’ve never once regretted my purchase, mind you, but I do find it hard to justify the cost to anyone who doesn’t work on cars for a living. I’m going to try to do so in this review, but if you don’t agree with me by the end, I don’t blame you.
There is probably no tool less sophisticated than a hammer. Its very purpose is to beat on things. It is the opposite of a precision tool. With all of that being said, I have never once regretted spending over $100 for a really, really nice one.
When you’re swinging a hammer repeatedly, precision actually does matter, to some degree. Someone hammering a nail and inadvertently smacking their thumb is a slapstick cartoon trope almost as old as the medium itself, so it’s important to be able to accurately plan on where that hammer head is going to land each time you swing it. Additionally, the shock and vibration of the hammering is transmitted through the tool, to your hands, your arms, and your shoulders.
Depending on how hard you have to fight whatever you’re working with, this results in a lot of fatigue – and lots of opportunity for smashed fingers. Thankfully, the Snap-On dead blow ball peen hammer has excellent balance. Even the larger, Thor-sized models are relatively easy to swing predictably. Thanks to the rubberized grip and shock-resistant design, the ergonomics are exemplary, too.
All of that sounds nice, but where this hammer really shines is when it comes to durability. These hammers are made in the USA, as you’d expect from most any Snap-On tool. The faces are incredibly durable – I’ve had mine for about two years now, but you wouldn’t know it from looking at the striking surfaces. They look almost brand new. Now, since hammers see a lot of abuse, I imagine that one day I’ll manage to wear this thing out – either by mushrooming the face or damaging the connection point between the handle and the head. Thankfully, Snap-On offers a lifetime warranty. I’ll never have to buy another one ever again. Considering the fact that the 32 ounce version I own costs a whopping $154, that’s a good thing.
Price: ★★
Quality: ★★★★★
Features: ★★★★
Function: ★★★★★
Overall: ★★★★
Photo: Cam VanDerHorst
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