I hand forge single face, Japanese style hammers - some call it a cutler or dog ear hammer. The eye is placed close to one end. This creates a dropping effect when swung making this type of hammer easy on the arm. I make this style in two versions: one from square stock, one from round stock. Both weigh approximately 2 pounds. 

​Round stock hammers are made from 1045 and square from 1050. These medium carbon steels make for hammers that are not overly hard which is my preference. For handles, I use a variety of southeast Asian ironwood. And I shape the handles to be ergonomic. The weather here in Taiwan is extremely humid and so handles may lose moisture and loosen after being shipped to less humid locations, however, I have had very good success with my latest handling technique using a wooden wedge... I feel my hammers are top quality. In my opinion, hand forging improves the form and function of my hammers. 

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email: glen03@earthlink.net
2019