Switched from a standard claw hammer to a framing hammer for demo work and my wrists actually thank me
Used to think a 16oz claw hammer was fine for ripping out old studs and drywall in a basement remodel in Akron. After three days of constant swinging, my elbow was shot and I could barely grip my coffee cup. Picked up a 22oz framing hammer with a milled face from a buddy's recommendation and the extra weight does most of the work now. Anyone else notice how much difference head weight makes on a job like this?
The milled face on a framing hammer actually grabs nails better too, which cuts down on missed hits. But the real difference is the weight distribution, not just the total weight. A 22oz hammer with a good balance point lets you swing with less effort than a cheap 16oz that's all head heavy. Just make sure your grip isn't too tight when you swing, or your wrist still takes the shock no matter the hammer weight.
You ever stop swinging and realize your wrist is still throbbing an hour later? Yeah I feel you on that. The extra weight just lets the tool do the work instead of your arm fighting the hammer the whole time. I did a similar job last year and the difference was night and day. My elbow actually thanked me by the end of the week instead of screaming at me every morning.