ESTWING Ultra Series Hammer 19 oz Rip Claw - Leather Grip

In this review of the ESTWING Ultra Series Hammer E19S, the bottom line is simple: this is a durable, well-balanced framing hammer best suited for carpenters and serious DIYers who value a one-piece forged tool and a comfortable leather handle. The single biggest reason to buy is its forged-in-one-piece American steel construction combined with the hand-sanded genuine leather grip, which together deliver lasting strength and a surprisingly comfortable swing for extended use.

Key Features

• Forged in one piece: The solid American steel construction eliminates welds or joints, providing long-term durability and fewer failure points on demanding jobs.
• Magnetic nail starter: The integrated magnet holds nails for quick, one-handed starts, speeding up repetitive nailing and reducing smashed thumbs.
• Rip claw versatility: The rip claw design makes pulling nails, prying boards and demolition work straightforward and efficient on framing tasks.
• Genuine leather grip: The hand-sanded, lacquered leather handle gives a non-slip feel and an ergonomic shape that reduces fatigue during prolonged use.
• Smooth face option: The smooth face provides clean strikes for framing and finish-adjacent work where a cleaner head mark is preferred.
• Made in the USA: Forged in Rockford, IL, this hammer carries the pedigree of long-standing American toolmaking for craftsmen who prefer domestic manufacture.

Who It's For

The ESTWING Ultra Series 19 oz rip claw is aimed at framers, carpenters and dedicated DIYers who need a reliable, heavy-duty hammer that stands up to frequent use. Its one-piece forged construction and rip claw make it especially useful on framing jobs, demolition tasks and general construction where leverage and durability matter.

Users looking for a softer handle material or a perfectly blemish-free painted finish might look elsewhere; some customers report mixed experiences with paint longevity and handle feel, so those who prioritize a modern polymer grip or a milder head weight for finish carpentry should consider alternative models.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Robust one-piece forged steel construction offers excellent durability and reliability.
• Integrated magnetic nail starter speeds one-handed nailing and improves accuracy.
• Hand-sanded leather grip gives good balance and a comfortable, traditional feel for many users.
• Rip claw provides strong prying power for demolition and nail removal.

Cons

• Paint and finish may show wear or early surface rust for some users, so it may require occasional maintenance.
• Leather grip feel is subjective; a minority of users find it less comfortable than modern synthetic handles.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The ESTWING Ultra Series 19 oz rip claw is a durable, no-nonsense framing hammer that delivers strong value for carpenters and frequent users who want a one-piece forged tool and a traditional leather grip. It excels at framing, prying and demolition; just be aware that the painted finish and tactile feel of the handle receive mixed reports, so those needs should be weighed against its clear long-term durability.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the nail starter useful?
Yes. The integrated magnetic nail starter makes one-handed nailing faster and safer, especially on repetitive framing work.

What is the grip made from?
The handle uses hand-sanded, lacquered genuine leather for a non-slip, ergonomic feel.

Where is this hammer made?
The Ultra Series hammers are forged in Rockford, IL, using American steel and assembled in the USA.