Live from the Hardware Show: Anti-vibe hammer sports a cool handle
May 6, 2008
Inventor and industrial designer Charles Hoffman hit upon a new way to cushion hands and arms from the damaging hammer-head vibrations: turn the handle back on itself so it will flex with each blow. You hold the hooked end, and the hairpin-shaped epoxy-and-fiberglass handle does the rest.
The shape looks awkward, but driving nails with it felt surprisingly natural. Note: These are two of the only three such hammers in existence. Don't expect them in stores any time soon. Interested parties can email Mr. Hoffman.
Posted by Tom Baker | Categories: Hand Tools | Permalink
(6) Comments
Anatomically correct(?), but how in the world will if fit in the loop on my work pants?
When I first saw this hammer I immediately thought just how will this work with my tool belt's hammer loop. Since it obviously can not hang from your belt hammer head up, I assumed that it could be hung from the elbow. If this is the case, then the hammer head would hang somewhere around the mid-thigh where it would inevitabily smack into something it shouldn't like that nice newly finished wall or the edge of counter top you just installed. It's not a problem with a regular hammer since it's either a rubber coated or wooden handle and not 20+ oz. of hardened steel. Also, if this were to hang this way, I could imagine the hammer head catching the rungs of the ladder I'm climbing which more than just annoying could be quite dangerous. Finally, I don't any carpenter who'd bring this goofy thing to the job unless of course, they can tolerate a day of jokes on their behalf.
I just saw your comment regarding my Thor Pain Free Hammer TM To answer your question, Custom Leathercraft makes a "Snapping Hammer Holder" part #839. It works like a carabiener, but with 2 spring loaded doors not just one. You simply move the hammer with head pointed up into the spring loaded doors and it resting state is just like any other hammer on any tool belt. You can get one for less than $5 on Amazon. I am trying to get into production in about 4 months.
Also, I think most people that have wrist and elbow pain using a hammer won't think of it as "goofy". The people who want to buy it think of it from a completly different point of view. Thanks for your comment. Charles
I should also mention that if you are interested in the THOR HAMMER TM now called the THOR PAIN FREE HAMMER TM YOU CAN EMAIL ME AT cjdesk@comcast.net. Thanks, Charles.
LOOKS GOOD? WILL YOU EMAIL WHEN IT'S FOR SALE? HAVE ANY IDEA ON PRICE? THANKS FRANK
Awesome article! Paints nice pictures – I think I will come here next time, it is really good!