BLACKSMITHING CHAT WITH OLD FRIENDS was:[TheForge] WHAT THE HELL

[Phlip]

> One of the guys mentioned  recently that if the vibrational null node of a
> sword isn't at the  handle, it is a lousy sword.
> Which leads me to wonder if the same thing is why  some hammer handles
> become favorites and others stay in the hammer rack?
> Might be that the handle length and the pendular moment has something to
do
> with it too. Any one know? Guesses?.....Pete F

I know that I choose a hammer because it has the right weight to my hand,
and generally a large grip, since I have large hands. I have used small
hammers with small grips, but I use them strictly for special jobs- same
with the bigger ones I have. I've found that a 22 oz hammer, for me,
provides the best combo of metal moving and accuracy of strike. A large grip
helps me avoid getting too tired too quickly, and I've added large handles
to a couple of small hammerheads by shaving the end down to fit. I usually
cut the handles off at my grip point, too- that helps make sure I grab it at
the right spot when I'm concentrating on positioning my piece and where to
hit it.

But, when I can, I'll collect hammers of different weights and grips as
well, for others who might want to use my forge. Everyone tends to have
slightly different preferences, and it's nice if they can find a hammer
other than my favorite, that they like ;-)

Phlip