The right hammer is a must-have instrument in every electrician’s toolbox. It comes in handy when you need to remove nails & screws or connect/disconnect wires – in other words, it’ll help you pound in or tear out any electrical installations. A good hammer is sturdy yet comfortable to hold, it also provides high impact but effectively absorbs shock. However, selecting a model that boasts all those characteristics can be a bit nerve-racking. To save you time and headache of making a crappy choice, I’ve rounded up a list of the best hammers for electricians today’s market has to offer. Of course, I only included reliable brands that have stood the test of time!
So, to pick the most suitable hammer for your needs, just check out my in-depth reviews and buying guide!
Best hammers for electrician review
Dewalt DWHT51048 – best overall
Dewalt is a world-recognized brand known for its high-quality, professional-grade instruments and equipment. Their DWHT51048 16 Oz electrician hammer has a lot to offer! Actually, I believe it’ll make you love hammering! Without further ado, just take a look at its generous features.
First off, the DWHT51048 boasts Tri-Pull technology for greater versatility, power, and precision, as well as a nail start system for one-handed nail placement. Next, thanks to one-piece steel construction, the hammer is tough and durable, so it’ll last you a lifetime.
This tool is also precision-balanced and has an ergonomic design, providing a more comfortable grip for electricians – you can use it for hours without overtiring your hand! Moreover, I used the hammer in the rain, and the handle never slipped – the proper coating does its job!
Another thing I love is adequate weight distribution that ensures a smooth swing. And last but not least, the oval head of the hammer is slightly larger, making it easier to hit nails and drive them into place.
It’s worth mentioning that the DWHT51048 competes head to head with another great model from my list – Estwing E3-22SM. I like them both since they offer decent overall quality and user-friendly characteristics. However, the former is more versatile and comes at a better price – this is why it tops my list.
Dewalt DWHT51048 is the overall best hammer for electricians today’s market has to offer. It boasts a killing combination of functionality, ease of use, comfort, and competitive price. What not to love?
Key specs
- Head weight, oz/g: 16 / 454.
- Material: steel, rubber.
- Weight, lbs/kg: 1.52 / 0.69.
- Dimensions, inch/cm: 13.2 x 4.9 x 1.35 / 33.5 x 12.3 x 3.5.
Pros
- Versatile – suitable for various applications.
- Features perfect weight.
- Well-balanced – effectively reduces hand fatigue.
- A straighter angle works excellent for removing nails.
Cons
- Not perfect for heavy projects, although its strong body covers the majority of electrician’s needs.
Klein Tools 807-18 – premium pick
Klein Tools is a reliable American company with a more-than-a-century history. They stand behind their products!
Their 807-18 hammer is specifically designed for residential electricians – this tool is perfectly balanced and long-lasting. These features alone make it a premium pick! However, this model has more to boast about! Its fiberglass shaft absorbs vibrations and holds the head securely, making it very comfortable and easy to use. Moreover, the sturdy plastic alloy shell prevents splintering and fraying of the neck joints even if you strike at an odd angle or with excessive force.
The hammer has an extra-long neck, great for working in small locations like outlet boxes. Its slim striking face ensures that you do not miss the target and allows for a solid hit. Finally, the handle is coated with a soft neoprene grip, making it a joy to use. I’d say Klein hit the sweet spot concerning the handle feedback!
Although I only included high-quality hammers on my list, Klein Tools 807-18 blows the competition completely out of the water with its premium-quality features. While my top-list product Dewalt DWHT51048 offers an optimal price-quality ratio and is suitable for most people, the 807-18 is a commercial-grade instrument that may be too sophisticated and expensive for casual users. But skilled electricians will definitely appreciate it!
So, if you are a professional electrician, you already understand the importance of investing in high-quality gear. Klein Tools 807-18 is one of those hammers you may hand down to your descendants, along with your electrical expertise!
Key specs
- Head weight, oz/g: 18 / 510.
- Material: steel, rubber, fiberglass.
- Weight, lbs/kg: 1.9 / 0.86.
- Dimensions, inch/cm: 4 x 15 x 1 / 10.1 x 38.1 x 2.5.
Pros
- Premium-quality materials.
- Good feel leverage and striking point.
- Virtually indestructible.
- Great for hard to reach or tight spots.
- Made in the U.S.
Cons
- Not as versatile as other hammers out there.
- You’ll always have to keep an eye on it – such a cutie can be easily “borrowed” from you!
CRAFTSMAN CMHT51398 – budget hammer
If you’re looking for an affordable yet solid & functional electrician hammer, you can stop your search here! Despite its modest price, CMHT51398 by CRAFTSMAN has something to brag about!
This hammer is made of fiberglass – I know this material scares off many professional users; however, do not pass by CMHT51398! It’s almost as durable as Dewalt DWHT51048 thanks to a reinforced handle that can withstand high pressure. Furthermore, a well-balanced design and an excellent grip increase accuracy and give a comfortable experience when repeatedly using the hammer, even if you wear gloves.
You’ll also have perfect control over the instrument, even in tight areas and challenging environments. Finally, the compact construction of this model allows you to keep it conveniently attached to your toolbelt.
Of course, the CMHT51398 can’t boast all the bells and whistles our leaders offer, but it’s still a decent all-around tool that will help you perform your electrical projects.
So, if you’re looking for the best-budget friendly claw hammer for electricians, CRAFTSMAN CMHT51398 may be the right pick for you. You’ll hardly find such performance in this price segment!
Key specs
- Head weight, oz/g: 18 / 510.
- Material: steel, rubber, fiberglass.
- Weight, lbs/kg: 1.9 / 0.86.
- Dimensions, inch/cm: 4 x 15 x 1 / 10.1 x 38.1 x 2.5.
Pros
- Excellent craftsmanship.
- Added protective features guarantee the hammer’s long life.
- Compact and space-saving.
- Feels good in the hand – perfect grip.
Cons
- Some users find it a bit heavy, although it’s of standard weight – 16 Oz.
- May be a bit too small for everyday use.
Estwing E3-22SM – also a great choice
As I mentioned above, the American-made Estwing E3-22SM is another great hammer with ultra-convenient features – it’s a must-have for those who keep striking instruments in hand all day long.
To begin with, the E3-22SM has a slim body, making it great for work in most cramped electrical boxes. However, don’t let this slender reed fool you! It’s crafted of the finest American solid still, so it’s exceptionally durable; plus, its long handle delivers greater striking strength.
But what I love the most about this hammer is its patented shock reduction grip – this instrument was carefully engineered to lower vibrations from strikes by up to 70%. While testing, I was using E3-22SM for several hours in a row; however, it didn’t strain my wrist or elbow at all. A super comfortable grip is where this model shines! In fact, it even outperforms our winner Dewalt DWHT51048 in terms of ergonomics!
Another reason for buying this beauty is its multi-functionality – you can use it not only for your electrical tasks but also for ripping apart boards, splitting wood, etc.
If you are looking for a great, ultra-convenient electrician hammer, do take a closer look at Estwing E3-22SM! This tool offers everything a professional electrician may need – a durable yet slender construction, comfortable grip, and versatility. Well worth the purchase!
Key specs
- Head weight, oz/g: 18 / 510.
- Material: steel, rubber, fiberglass.
- Weight, lbs/kg: 1.9 / 0.86.
- Dimensions, inch/cm: 4 x 15 x 1 / 10.1 x 38.1 x 2.5.
Pros
- Long-lasting value.
- Stands up to abuse.
- Perfect weight.
- Shock-absorbing rubber-like handle.
- A long handle helps grant more leverage and allows powerful hits with less effort.
Cons
- The hammer’s face may leave imprints on things that are hammered.
Southwire Bmeh20
Electricians want a hammer that can tackle challenging tasks, and the Southwire Bmeh20 is more than capable of doing so.
The hammer’s head weighs 20 ounces and is crafted from drop-forged steel, which gives it the strength necessary to survive frequent, tough usage. Thanks to its weight, this model is suitable for heavier tasks, unlike many other electrician hammers out there. Next, this instrument features a perfect balance, allowing for accurate blows.
I love the slick side of the head, which is less likely to leave markings on the striking surfaces – you’ll never damage your stuff with this hammer!
Newbies and casual users will appreciate the lightweight fiberglass handle that effectively helps reduce vibrations, making it easier to use for extended periods of time. Moreover, the textured grip eliminates the risk of sliding caused by sweaty hands – it allows optimal comfort as you’re working. And last but not least, the manufacturer has incorporated an attaching point for a rope or lanyard for added safety.
Southwire Bmeh20 is a workhorse that features plenty of driving power while being super convenient to hold. Give your hands the gift of the fine, comfortable instrument – you’ll probably never want to buy another hammer again!
Key specs
- Head weight, oz/g: 18 / 510.
- Material: steel, rubber, fiberglass.
- Weight, lbs/kg: 1.9 / 0.86.
- Dimensions, inch/cm: 4 x 15 x 1 / 10.1 x 38.1 x 2.5.
Pros
- Durable and accurate.
- Good weight/balance ratio.
- Gets easily into tight spaces.
- The hammer’s claw is ideal for staples, which electricians frequently deal with.
Cons
- Some users don’t like the hammer’s smooth face; however, it’s a matter of preference.
Hammers for electricians buying guide
Keep the following key factors in mind if you want to pick a proper electrician hammer:
What size electrician hammer do I need?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to choosing the right size for an electrician hammer. So, it is important to consider the specific applications that you will be using the hammer for.
If you want to use it primarily for driving nails, you will need a model that has a relatively small head. This will allow you to get into tighter spaces and avoid damaging the surrounding materials.
On the other hand, if you need a hammer that can be used to drive nails and pull them out, it’s better to pick a model with a larger head. This will give you more leverage and make it easier to remove nails.
In general, it is a good idea to choose a hammer that is comfortable for you to hold with the right balance of weight and size for your needs.
Hammer handle length
Another crucial factor to consider is the handle length. This will determine how comfortable it is to use and how much leverage you will have when striking a nail.
Most hammer handles range in length from 8 to 12 inches. Longer handles can provide more power and leverage, but they can be difficult to control. Conversely, shorter handles are easier to control but may not provide as much power.
Design and materials
Electrician hammers are designed more alike than not – most of them feature a slim shape to fit easily into a toolbelt’s loop; they also have straight claws and lighter heads.
The most common materials for electrician hammers are metal and fiberglass. As you can guess, the former is more durable and if you need a heavy-duty hammer that will outlast you, do buy a solid metal tool. On the other hand, fiberglass hammers are becoming increasingly popular. Although this material is considered breakable, the market offers reinforced models that can handle tough use.
I’ve only picked reliable, strong fiberglass instruments for my list.
