19 oz Rip Claw Framing Hammer with Leather Grip - Ultra Series

In this review of the Ultra Series hammer, the 19 oz rip claw with a genuine leather grip is presented as a dependable choice for carpenters and serious DIYers who value balance and durable construction. The single biggest reason to consider this hammer is its one-piece forged steel construction paired with a hand-sanded leather handle, which together deliver long-term reliability and comfortable control on repetitive tasks. The integrated magnetic nail starter is a practical touch for one-handed nailing, making this model especially useful for framing and trim work.

Key Features

• One-piece forged steel: The single-piece construction eliminates welds and joints, offering superior durability and a longer service life on heavy job site use.
• Magnetic nail starter: The integrated magnet lets a user hold and start nails one-handed, reducing the chance of smashed thumbs and increasing nailing speed.
• Genuine leather grip: The hand-sanded, lacquered leather handle provides a non-slip, ergonomic feel that reduces fatigue during extended use.
• Rip claw design: The rip claw excels at pulling nails, prying boards, and demolition work, making the hammer versatile for framing and rough carpentry.
• Milled face option: The milled face improves bite on nail heads for fewer glancing blows, which helps when working with stubborn fasteners.

Who It's For

The 19 oz Ultra Series hammer is best suited to framers, carpenters, and experienced DIYers who need a solid, all-steel tool that will withstand heavy daily use. Its weight and rip claw profile make it ideal for demolition, board removal, and driving common framing nails where leverage and balance matter.

Those who prefer a softer, vibration-dampening handle or who are extremely sensitive to paint or surface finish inconsistencies may want to compare other grip materials or finishes; a minority of users reported mixed handle feel and paint wear over time, so individuals who prioritize a specific hand feel or a pristine painted finish should inspect one in person first.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Exceptional durability from the forged one-piece steel construction.
• Comfortable, non-slip genuine leather grip that aids control and reduces fatigue.
• Convenient magnetic nail starter for faster one-handed nailing.
• Versatile rip claw and milled face options that improve nail removal and gripping.

Cons

• Some users report variation in paint quality and handle feel, so finish and feel may vary by unit.
• At 19 oz it may be heavier than preferred for light finish work or prolonged overhead nailing.

Specifications

Model	Ultra Series E19SM
Head weight	19 oz
Face	Milled face option
Claw	Rip claw for prying and nail removal
Handle	Hand-sanded genuine leather grip
Construction	Forged in one piece from American steel
Manufacture location	Made in Rockford, IL, USA

Our Verdict

The 19 oz Ultra Series rip claw hammer is a strong choice for tradespeople who want a durable, well-balanced framing hammer with a comfortable leather grip and handy magnetic nail starter. Its one-piece forged construction and practical features deliver good long-term value for heavy use, though buyers sensitive to finish or weight should check a unit in hand before purchasing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the grip replaceable?
The genuine leather grip is hand-sanded and lacquered; while not designed as a quick-replace part, skilled users can regrip if necessary.

Does the magnet hold common framing nails?
Yes, the integrated magnetic nail starter supports common framing nails and enables convenient one-handed starts.

Where is this hammer made?
It is proudly forged in Rockford, IL, USA, from American tool steel.