Best Drywall Hammers of 2026

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2026

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Drywall hammers are essential tools for anyone working in construction or home renovation. These hammers are specifically designed for installing drywall, with a unique shape that allows for precise placement and easy removal of nails. They are typically lighter than traditional hammers, making them easier to handle for extended periods of time. Some drywall hammers also feature a serrated edge for cutting drywall, further streamlining the installation process. Whether you're a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, a drywall hammer is a must-have tool for any drywall installation project.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

CRAFTSMAN 16 oz. Fiberglass Hammer Cover #TOP 1
CRAFTSMAN 16 oz. Fiberglass Hammer
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Mr. Pen 8oz Hammer Cover #TOP 2
Mr. Pen 8oz Hammer
ftb score rating icon 9.7
CRAFTSMAN 20 oz Fiberglass Hammer Cover #TOP 3
CRAFTSMAN 20 oz Fiberglass Hammer
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Drywall Hammers

#TOP 1

CRAFTSMAN 16 oz. Fiberglass Hammer

CMHT51398
CRAFTSMAN 16 oz. Fiberglass Hammer Cover
CRAFTSMAN Hammer, Fiberglass, 16 oz. (CMHT51398)

The CRAFTSMAN 16 oz. Fiberglass Hammer is a great all-purpose hammer for DIYers. It features an overstrike protection and an overmold grip for improved handling. It's made of durable fiberglass and has a weight of 16 ounces. Customers have praised its easy use, quality, and price/quality ratio. The only downside is that the handle may become uncomfortable when used for long periods of time.

What We Like
High quality
Comfortable grip
Lightweight handle
Hefty head

Mr. Pen 8oz Hammer

HM06NL
Yellow
Mr. Pen 8oz Hammer Cover
Mr. Pen- 8oz Small Magnetic Claw Nail Hammer for Women

The Mr. Pen 8oz Hammer is a high-density carbon steel hammer with an ergonomic non-slip soft handle. It features a magnetic nail starter and hammer claw for easy nail removal, making it ideal for woodworking and DIY projects. It's perfect size and weight make it easy to carry and use in tight spaces.

What We Like
Lightweight and easy to handle
Magnetic feature for nails
Perfect size for small projects
Good value for the price
Attractive color options
#TOP 3

CRAFTSMAN 20 oz Fiberglass Hammer

CMHT51399
Black
CRAFTSMAN 20 oz Fiberglass Hammer Cover
CRAFTSMAN Hammer, 20 oz Fiberglass General Purpose (CMHT51399)

The CRAFTSMAN Fiberglass Hammer is designed for durability and ease of use. It features overstrike protection, which helps prevent breakage in the most vulnerable areas of the fiberglass handle, ensuring a longer lifespan for your tool. The overmold grip provides a comfortable and secure hold, making it easier for you to drive and pull nails effectively. With its versatile design, this hammer is perfect for both general and specific tasks. Plus, it comes with a full lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.

What We Like
Durable overstrike protection
Comfortable overmold grip
Effective for driving nails
Full lifetime warranty

Estwing Sure Strike Drilling/Crack Hammer

MRF3LB
Blue/Yellow
3 lbs (Pounds)
Estwing Sure Strike Drilling/Crack Hammer Cover
ESTWING Sure Strike Drilling/Crack Hammer - 3-Pound Sledge with Fiberglass Handle & No-Slip Cushion Grip - MRF3LB

The Estwing Sure Strike Drilling/Crack Hammer is a 3-pound sledgehammer with a fiberglass handle and no-slip cushion grip. It is forged from steel for maximum strength and durability, and is perfectly balanced to deliver powerful blows with an easy swing. It is suitable for use with chisels, punches, star drills, hardened nails, and more.

What We Like
Durable plastic handle
Comfortable rubberized grip
Good weight balance
Versatile for various projects
Appealing color
#TOP 5

Spec Ops 22 oz. Framing Hammer

SPEC-M22CF
Black/Tan
22 Oz
Spec Ops 22 oz. Framing Hammer Cover
Spec Ops Tools Framing Hammer, 22 oz, Rip Claw, Milled Face, Shock-Absorbing Grip, 3% Donated to Veterans Black/Tan

Looking for a reliable and powerful hammer for your construction projects? The Spec Ops 22 oz. Framing Hammer is the ultimate choice for builders, contractors, and tradesmen. Its 25% lighter head and ballistically balanced design provide maximum striking power with sniper-controlled swings. The MOA grip absorbs shock and lessens sting, making it comfortable to use even with the hardest materials, while the magnetic nail starter allows for rapid nail driving. Plus, its versatile rip claw is perfect for precision demo, nail removal, and splitting. With each purchase, you can also support our nation's heroes by donating 3% of sales to veteran and first responder causes.

What We Like
Excellent build quality
Comfortable shock-absorbing grip
Supports veterans with purchases
Great balance and feel
Unique design stands out
#TOP 6

Amazon Basics 8 oz Claw Hammer

Amazon Basics
LTK048
Turquoise
8 oz
Amazon Basics 8 oz Claw Hammer Cover
Amazon Basics 8 oz Hammer, Turquoise

The Amazon Basics Claw Hammer is a reliable tool for both household tasks and professional projects. Its 8-ounce size makes it easy to handle, yet strong enough for driving nails efficiently. The hammer is built with tough steel, ensuring durability for long-term use. The flat head design helps you hammer nails smoothly, while the claw side is perfect for removing nails or prying boards apart. Plus, the shock-absorbing rubber handle reduces the strain on your hands, making your work more comfortable and less tiring. This hammer is a handy and user-friendly tool for your everyday needs.

What We Like
Durable steel construction
Shock-absorbing handle
Flat head for hammering
Claw for nail removal
#TOP 7

Estwing E3-16S 16 oz Straight Rip Claw Hammer

E3-16S
Multi
16 oz (Ounces)
Estwing E3-16S 16 oz Straight Rip Claw Hammer Cover
ESTWING Hammer - 16 oz Straight Rip Claw with Smooth Face & Shock Reduction Grip - E3-16S

The Estwing E3-16S 16 oz Straight Rip Claw Hammer is a professional-grade tool designed for framers, roofers, finish carpenters, contractors, tradesman and serious DIYers. It is forged from one solid piece of American steel, making it the most durable and longest lasting striking tool available. It features a versatile straight, rip claw design for pulling nails, prying boards, demolition work and splitting wood. The patented Shock Reduction Grip reduces impact vibration by 70%, providing optimal slip-free comfort, durability and superior grip in all jobsite conditions.

What We Like
Excellent balance
Comfortable grip
High-quality build
Ideal weight
Long-lasting performance
#TOP 8

WORKPRO 8 oz Claw Hammer with Fiberglass Handle

Pink
8 oz
WORKPRO 8 oz Claw Hammer with Fiberglass Handle Cover
WORKPRO 8 oz Claw Hammer with Fiberglass Handle, All Purpose Hammer with Forged Hardened Steel Head, Pink Ribbon

Introducing the WORKPRO Fiberglass Claw Hammer - a versatile and durable tool perfect for all-day usage or around-the-house projects. This hammer is designed with an 8 oz forged steel head, providing a smooth face and a rip claw design for easy pulling nails and prying boards. The fiberglass handle is non-conductive, non-slip, and reduces vibration and fatigue, ensuring maximum comfort even after prolonged use. The precision-balanced design provides accurate pressure per strike with minimal effort, making it perfect for compact spaces where you don't have a lot of room or leverage. Additionally, the finely polished finish with clear coating prevents corrosion and rust, ensuring durability and longevity for years to come.

What We Like
Lightweight and versatile
Durable forged steel
Non-conductive and non-slip fiberglass handle

Estwing DFH-12 Rubber Mallet

DFH12
Red & Yellow
12-Inch
Estwing DFH-12 Rubber Mallet Cover
ESTWING Rubber Mallet - 12 oz Double-Face Hammer with Soft/Hard Tips & Hickory Wood Handle - DFH12

The Estwing DFH-12 Rubber Mallet is a 12 oz double-face hammer with soft/hard tips and a hickory wood handle. It is designed for professional framers, roofers, carpenters, contractors, tradesman, and serious DIYers. It is triple wedge construction securely fastens the hammer head to the handle, and is suitable for a variety of uses, including sheet metal forming, upholstery work, automotive work, assembling furniture, tile setting, and laminate flooring installs. Customers have praised its easy handling, good weight, and balance, as well as its non-marring striking surfaces.

What We Like
Durable construction
Non-marring rubber heads
Comfortable grip
Versatile for various tasks
Made in the USA
#TOP 10

YIYITOOLS Claw Hammer

YY-1-003
YIYITOOLS Claw Hammer Cover
YIYITOOLS Claw Hammer With fiberglass Handle – 16-oz, Red and Black (YY-1-003)

The YIYITOOLS Claw Hammer is a versatile tool that is perfect for a wide range of tasks. With its forged hardened steel head and polished smooth face, it provides excellent durability and precision. The fiberglass handle features a shock-absorbing design, which not only ensures a comfortable grip but also reduces strike vibration, minimizing stress on your body. Whether you're working on construction projects, doing home improvements, or performing general repairs and maintenance, this claw hammer is the ideal choice. It's also great for woodworking, art hanging, and more. With its balanced weight, this hammer offers comfortable use for most general purpose jobs.

What We Like
Good quality and durability
Nice weight and balance
Attractive design
Affordable price
Comfortable grip
Buying Guide Image

The Definitive Drywall Hammers Buying Guide

Introduction

When it comes to home improvement projects, a drywall hammer is a crucial tool to have in your toolbox. Also known as a nail set or a drywall set, this tool is specifically designed for installing drywall, which is a type of wall material commonly used in residential construction. Choosing the right drywall hammer can make your job easier and more efficient, so it's important to know what to look for before making a purchase.

Consider the Size and Weight

One of the first things to consider when choosing a drywall hammer is the size and weight. In general, a drywall hammer should be lightweight and easy to maneuver, as it will be used for repetitive tasks such as setting nails and driving screws. However, the size and weight of the hammer will also depend on your personal preferences and the size of your hands.

If you have large hands, you may prefer a larger and heavier hammer, as it will provide more leverage and make it easier to drive nails and screws. On the other hand, if you have smaller hands or if you're working in tight spaces, a smaller and lighter hammer may be more suitable.

Choose the Right Handle Material

The handle of a drywall hammer is another important factor to consider. Drywall hammers typically have handles made of wood, metal, or plastic, and each material has its own benefits and drawbacks.

Wooden handles are the traditional choice for drywall hammers, and they provide a comfortable grip and natural feel. However, wooden handles can break or splinter over time, and they may not be as durable as other materials.

Metal handles are generally more durable than wooden handles, and they are less likely to break or splinter. However, metal handles can be uncomfortable to grip for extended periods of time, and they can conduct electricity, which can be a safety hazard.

Plastic handles are lightweight and comfortable to grip, and they are less likely to conduct electricity than metal handles. However, plastic handles can break or crack over time, and they may not be as durable as other materials.

Look for a Hammer with a Nail Set

Another important feature to look for in a drywall hammer is a nail set. A nail set, also known as a nail punch, is a small tool that is used to set nails below the surface of the drywall. This is important because it helps to prevent the nails from popping out of the drywall over time.

Some drywall hammers come with a built-in nail set, while others require you to purchase a separate nail set. If you choose a hammer with a built-in nail set, make sure that it is easy to access and use.

Consider the Price

When choosing a drywall hammer, it's important to consider your budget. Drywall hammers can range in price from a few dollars to several hundred dollars, depending on the quality and features.

In general, it's best to avoid cheap, low-quality drywall hammers, as they are likely to break or fail after just a few uses. Instead, choose a drywall hammer that is made of high-quality materials and has a good reputation for durability and reliability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right drywall hammer is important for any home improvement project. Consider the size and weight, handle material, nail set, and price when making your decision. A good drywall hammer will make your job easier and more efficient, and it will last for many years to come.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is a drywall hammer worth it?

Yes, a drywall hammer is worth it if you frequently work with drywall. It is a specialized tool designed specifically for drywall tasks, offering better results compared to a regular hammer. Knowing when to use a drywall hammer versus a regular hammer is important for achieving optimal outcomes.

2. What is the difference between a drywall hammer and a regular hammer?

A drywall hammer is a specialized tool with a milled face for gripping nails and a hatchet-like end for trimming drywall. In contrast, a regular hammer does not have these specific features for working with drywall. The design and features of a drywall hammer make it more suitable for drywall-related tasks.

3. What is the difference between a framing hammer and a claw hammer?

The main difference between a framing hammer and a claw hammer is the weight and purpose. A framing hammer is heavier and designed for driving larger framing nails, typically starting at around 20 ounces. In contrast, a claw hammer is lighter and primarily used for general hammering and nail pulling tasks.

4. Are drywall hammers sharp?

Yes, drywall hammers have a sharp blade that is used for scoring and cutting drywall. This sharp blade allows for precise and efficient trimming of drywall material. The round milled face of the hammer is also designed for driving nails, while the bevel nail slot makes nail pulling easier.

5. Is fiberglass or steel hammer better?

The choice between a fiberglass or steel hammer depends on personal preference and specific needs. Steel hammers are heavy and durable but require a rubber grip to minimize shock. Fiberglass hammers absorb shock well but are more expensive and less durable than steel. Consider your preferences and the type of work you will be doing to determine which type of hammer is better for you.

6. Is DIY drywall worth it?

DIY drywall projects can be worth it for handy homeowners. Not only is it cost-effective, but it can also be a fun and rewarding experience. With the right tools and materials, including a piece of drywall measuring 8 feet x 4 feet, you can complete a drywall project for a reasonable price. Additionally, leftover supplies can be used for future repairs.

7. Should a drywall hammer be sharp?

Yes, a drywall hammer, also known as a drywall ax, should have a sharp blade. The hatchet-like construction and sharp blade of the hammer are specifically designed for scoring, cutting, and trimming drywall material. This sharpness allows for precise and efficient work when working with drywall.

Editor's Notes

During our drywall hammer research, we found 24 drywall hammer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 182,010 customer reviews through our big data system to write the drywall hammers list. We found that most customers choose drywall hammers with an average price of $15.98.

The drywall hammers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of drywall hammers, including CRAFTSMAN, Mr. Pen, Estwing, Spec Ops, WORKPRO. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.