Unsure which of our framing hammer ranges is right for you?
We explain some key differences below to help you find the tool that suits you best!
THE RAPTOR
Our Raptor framing hammer heads are circular & come in two weights, 16oz or 12oz and the options of a smooth or milled face. Which would suit you best depends on the kind of work you will be using your hammer primarily for.
12oz heads are intended for second fix / finishing / trim work only & while either our 14.5" or 16" shaft options are compatible, we strongly recommend these are ordered with a 14.5" handle for the best balance.
16oz heads are intended for a more general purpose, heavy duty framing hammer head & shaft length is down to personal preference.
Our Raptor framing / finishing heads are compatible only with your aluminium Raptor shafts.
These are made from aerospace grade aluminium, which not only absorbs more energy than steel, it is also a cost effective material when compared to the likes of titanium, making it much cheaper to replace if necessary. Our aluminium shafts also come with a number of features, for example different length options, nail bar slot, Y spoke design increasing energy absorption and more. For further info, you can visit our shop page & read our product description.
Aluminium is a soft metal & our Raptor framing hammer shafts are intended to be a replaceable part. They will wear with continued use & will likely need replacing in time, like a wooden handled framing hammer. This is easily done with a single bolt & replacement shafts can be purchased from our website at a fraction of the cost of other materials.
We do not recommend this model for trades that are very abusive to tools, for example, concrete formwork & would suggest anyone looking to purchase in these sorts of trades look instead at our titanium Nighthawk model.
THE NIGHTHAWK
The Nighthawk is our titanium framing hammer option. Heads are 15oz, square in shape & come in smooth or milled face options.
Our Nighthawk hammer heads are compatible with our titanium shafts only.
Our Nighthawk titanium shafts are CNC machined from grade 5 titanium for amazing shock absorption & durability, creating a well-balanced, high velocity hammer. Titanium is well known for its strength, flexibility & durability, it is also around 40% lighter than steel which makes it a lightweight option for people who use their tools daily. However, it is more expensive for both us to source & machine and also the end user to purchase.
Our titanium shafts come with a range of features, which include, positions within the shaft for tightening and loosening various nuts & bolts, replaceable hardened steel nail puller, additional material for overstrike protection & much more. For full details, please read our product descriptions.
Titanium shafts are intended to last (providing they are used correctly and as recommended) & we recommend this range to anyone who works in a trade that is very demanding on their tools.
If you have any further queries on any of our products, please feel free to email us at accounts@kinetic-customs.co.uk