Return to Gemcell:
Click here.

The Panel Decides: Hammers Tool Review

April 1, 2024
The Panel Decides: Hammers Tool Review

In the market for a new hammer? Don’t make a move until you’ve read our tradies’ reviews!

  • Our expert panel put hammers to the test
  • Hammer weight was a sticking point for some
  • Bright colours for the win!

The Tools

REPELEC – CH-20 Claw Hammer, 20 OZ with fibreglass handleWATTMASTER – Hi-Vis Claw HammerKLEIN TOOLS – Electrician’s Straight-Claw Hammer
RRP $42.90RRP $66.57RRP $57.70
THE LOWDOWN
The Hamer 20oz drop-forged claw hammer has a weighted, carbon steel head, while the anti-vibration features are incorporated through the fibreglass shaft, making striking hard surfaces less tiring. The head-securing wedge is epoxy sealed, so there’s less chance of separation, while the moulded, rubberised, anti-slip grip allows for a more comfortable feel during prolonged use.
THE LOWDOWN
This hammer has a bright fibreglass handle for high visibility and a durable, non–slip rubber grip. It has a carbon steel, hardened medium head that is specially forged and polished, while the claws have a good tensile strength.
THE LOWDOWN
Made of high-strength fibreglass for optimal shock absorption, this hammer features a 510 g forged steel head with smooth head for reduced marring. The durable handle has a non-slip grip for comfort and a hang hole for tethering ability or hanging storage, while the straight claw was engineered specifically for removing NM (Romex®) staples.

The Panel

  
Matthew Cwikla
Heatherton Electrical
Experience: 20 years
Jim Tziouvelis
Ivolt Electrical
Experience: 5 years
Bruce Godwin
Surelink Electrical
Experience: 40 years
   

The Verdict

REPELEC – CH-20 Claw Hammer, 20 OZ with fibreglass handle

“A great hammer!” – Bruce
Matthew: Everyday choice
This is a good, everyday tradie hammer. It’s got a good feel to it – nice balance and it’s a good weight. It’s a bright colour, too, which is great – makes it easy to spot. Nothing to fault this one on.
Jim: Pros and cons
On the positive side, it’s got a nice feel to it, it’s solid, and it’s bright too, which makes it easy to locate in a busy van. On the negative side, the balance is not great.
Bruce: A great hammer!
This hammer is nice and bright, has a great handle, and is easy to grip. I found the balance and weight to be good, so no complaints on that score. It’s just a great everyday hammer.
VERDICT: Can’t fault it
RATING: 7/10 *TOP PICK*
 
VERDICT: Solid and bright
RATING: 6/10 
VERDICT: It’s a winner
RATING: 8/10 *TOP PICK* 

WATTMASTER – Hi-Vis Claw Hammer

“Perfect for electrical use!” – Jim
Matthew: Handyman’s hammer
It feels a bit light duty in comparison to the others, and maybe is more of a handyman hammer than one for tradies. It’s got a very original style with a regular grip, and is very easy to use.
Jim: Perfect for electrical use!
This was the pick of the bunch for me. It has a very familiar style and the weight feels right, too. This one really suits electrical use – it’s long, and has an easy hold grip. No complaints at all!
Bruce: Lightweight
Everything was ok with this hammer, but I do feel it’s more suitable for domestic use than professional. It seems too lightweight for a contractor to use regularly, and has poor balance. Not for me, I’m afraid.
VERDICT: Not for me
RATING: 5/10 
VERDICT: My pick
RATING: 8/10 *TOP PICK* 
VERDICT: Hard pass
RATING: 4/10 

KLEIN TOOLS – Electrician’s Straight-Claw Hammer

“This hammer has a nice handle, a good grip and is a bright colour, making it easy to find.” – Bruce
Matthew: No thanks
This one is a different style and weight compared to what I’d usually use. It’s far too heavy and the claw is not user-friendly at all. However, it is large and bright, and easy to locate.
Jim: Difficult to use
This hammer has a solid feel, and has an easy grip handle. That’s the good news. It’s got an unusual claw, and is difficult to use. And it’s way too heavy.
Bruce: Weight is an issue
This hammer has a nice handle, a good grip and is a bright colour, making it easy to find. However, this one is far too heavy for an electrician’s needs, making it impractical.
VERDICT: Too heavy
RATING: 4/10 
VERDICT: Last choice
RATING: 4/10 
VERDICT: Not for electricians
RATING: 3/10

Latest

How To Write An About Page That Actually Converts

Learn how electricians can create an About page that builds trust, showcases personality and converts more website visitors into customers. [...]<p><a class="btn btn-secondary understrap-read-more-link" href="https://gemcell.com.au/news/electrical-business-about-page-tips/">Read More...<span class="screen-reader-text"> from How To Write An About Page That Actually Converts</span></a></p>

Smarter Fault-Finding: Solving the Everyday Bottlenecks in Electrical Contracting

For electricians, HVAC technicians, Industrial technicians, maintenance professionals and electrical contractors working across Australia’s commercial, solar, and industrial sectors, the day-to-day realities of fault-finding have shifted. The systems requiring troubleshooting, ranging from building automation networks and climate control systems to complex solar arrays, are increasingly sensitive and packed with distinct technical challenges. Yet, the diagnostic [...]<p><a class="btn btn-secondary understrap-read-more-link" href="https://gemcell.com.au/news/smarter-fault-finding-cabac/">Read More...<span class="screen-reader-text"> from Smarter Fault-Finding: Solving the Everyday Bottlenecks in Electrical Contracting</span></a></p>

The Silent Site Hazard: How Sparkies Can Shake Off Imposter Syndrome

Learn how to recognise imposter syndrome, manage self-doubt and build confidence while maintaining safe work practices. [...]<p><a class="btn btn-secondary understrap-read-more-link" href="https://gemcell.com.au/news/electrical-business-mental-health-imposter-syndrome-electricians/">Read More...<span class="screen-reader-text"> from The Silent Site Hazard: How Sparkies Can Shake Off Imposter Syndrome</span></a></p>