As Jason Quade from Abbey Bike tools puts it, this is what happens when no one tells the tool maker, no. After one of Jason’s customers requested a Ti hammer, at first he didn’t know what to think. Once he made the first hammer though, Jason was sold. The result is a pro level titanium hammer with the addition of a soft face. Why would you want a titanium hammer? For starters, this another one of those tools that is definitely geared towards the professional traveling mechanic since it will be lighter than a comparable steel hammer. Also, titanium hammers are said to be more efficient than steel, transferring more swing energy into the work. That means less energy is directed as recoil, and you can get the same job done effectively with a smaller hammer since you can swing faster.
The only reason you wouldn’t want one is the price, with the Abbey Team Issue Ti hammer retailing for $165. That price is for a 12″ hammer with a 6/4 titanium head, replaceable soft face, and an ESI silicone grip for the handle which makes for a 265g package. The soft face will be replaceable with many of the common 1″ threaded faces currently on the market. As with many Abbey special issues, the Ti hammer will be made in a limited run of 50, with delivery estimated by the end of June.
If the thought of a Ti hammer gets you excited, get your order in soon!
