Milwaukee 20oz Curved Claw Smooth Face Hammer

As a homeowner and avid DIY enthusiast, I've had the chance to try out a variety of tools over the years. Recently, I got my hands on Milwaukee's 20oz Curved Claw Smooth Face Hammer, model 48-22-9080, and I must say, it has left quite an impression. This hammer is designed with both professional tradesmen and serious DIYers in mind, offering a range of features that make it a worthy addition to any toolbox.

First and foremost, the hammer's grip is a standout feature. Milwaukee calls it the "ShockShield" grip, and it truly lives up to its name. The grip is rubberized, providing a firm hold even when my hands are wet. This is particularly useful for outdoor projects where moisture can be an issue. More importantly, the grip does an excellent job of minimizing vibration, which significantly reduces hand and wrist fatigue during extended use. I found that even after a long day of hammering, my hand felt considerably less strained compared to using hammers with traditional wooden handles.

The hammer's design is another aspect worth highlighting. The I-beam construction of the handle not only makes it sturdy but also prevents it from rolling in your hand. This design choice gives the hammer a balanced feel, making it easier to control each strike. The 14-inch length and 20-ounce weight provide a good balance between power and precision, making it suitable for a variety of tasks, from framing to general carpentry.

One feature that I found particularly useful is the magnetic nail set. This small but ingenious addition allows you to start a nail with one hand, which is incredibly handy when you're working on a ladder or in tight spaces. The magnet is strong enough to hold the nail securely, and the groove in the hammer head ensures that the nail is perfectly positioned for the first strike. This feature not only improves accuracy but also speeds up the nailing process, making it more efficient.

The hammer's smooth face is another noteworthy feature. Unlike a milled face, which can leave indentations on the work surface, the smooth face allows for cleaner strikes. This makes it ideal for projects where the finish is important, such as installing siding or shingles. Additionally, the curved claw is well-designed for nail removal, offering excellent leverage without damaging the surrounding material.

Durability is always a concern with tools, and the Milwaukee hammer does not disappoint in this regard. The one-piece forged construction means there are no weak points where the head and handle join, reducing the risk of separation. The finish on the hammer is also of high quality, resisting rust and wear even after extensive use. However, I did notice that the coating on the metal can peel off if you're not careful when removing the sticker on the top of the hammer. While this is a minor issue, it's something to be aware of.

Another advantage of this hammer is its anti-ring claw. When striking hard surfaces, some hammers produce a ringing noise that can be quite annoying. Milwaukee has addressed this issue by designing the claw to minimize such noise, making the hammer more pleasant to use in environments where noise levels are a concern.

Despite its many strengths, the hammer does have a few drawbacks. One notable issue is the lack of a hole in the handle for hanging it on a pegboard. While this isn't a deal-breaker, it does mean you'll need to hang it by the hammer head, which might not be as convenient for some users. Additionally, the hammer is not made in the U.S., which might be a consideration for those who prefer domestically produced tools.

In terms of cost, the Milwaukee hammer is on the higher end of the price spectrum. However, given its features and build quality, I believe it offers good value for the money. The limited lifetime warranty is also a reassuring factor, indicating that Milwaukee stands behind the durability of their product.

Overall, I highly recommend the Milwaukee 20oz Curved Claw Smooth Face Hammer. Its combination of a comfortable, vibration-reducing grip, balanced design, and useful features like the magnetic nail set make it a versatile and efficient tool. Whether you're a professional tradesman or a dedicated DIYer, this hammer is likely to become a go-to tool in your collection. Its minor drawbacks are easily outweighed by its numerous benefits, making it a worthy investment for anyone serious about their tools.