D5 Hammer Production

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Messages 1 - 462 of total 462 in this topic
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Original Post - Mar 29, 2010 - 01:03pm PT
IT'S HAMMER TIME!!!!

3-29-10: (278) Hammer heads are done at Ajax Forge.

I will update this thread with progress on the D5 Project. It is going to be a long process so be patient. Thanks to all those helping it move forward.

3-30-10: Ajax called to let me know they are shipping to me today.
Slakkey

Big Wall climber
From Back to Big Wall Baby
Mar 29, 2010 - 01:26pm PT
Cool
bluering

Trad climber
Santa Clara, Ca.
Mar 29, 2010 - 01:34pm PT
Yessssss!
Cpt0bvi0u5

Trad climber
Merced CA
Mar 29, 2010 - 02:19pm PT
Alright! Keep on trucking guys!
Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
Mar 29, 2010 - 03:13pm PT
Right on. I like to hear the updates.
squatch

Boulder climber
santa cruz, CA
Mar 29, 2010 - 03:25pm PT
thanks man, appreciate the hard work!
nature

climber
Tucson, AZ
Mar 29, 2010 - 03:30pm PT
I can't wait to start beating on things with my hammer.
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Mar 29, 2010 - 04:51pm PT

Whoo hoo!!!!
Won't be long now!!!!
Thanks for the update!
FeelioBabar

Trad climber
One drink ahead of my past.
Mar 29, 2010 - 05:18pm PT
Sweetness!
mucci

Trad climber
The pitch of Bagalaar above you
Mar 29, 2010 - 05:19pm PT
Thanks for the word T.

Can't wait.

Mucci
the museum

Trad climber
Rapid City
Mar 29, 2010 - 11:48pm PT
Awesome!!
dangry

Trad climber
the bay-sierra complex
Mar 31, 2010 - 02:57am PT
....excellent...
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Mar 31, 2010 - 05:56am PT
Happening! Thanks Theron, will give a shout once I get home...
Jaybro

Social climber
Wolf City, Wyoming
Mar 31, 2010 - 06:03am PT
Post aphoto of 'em in the box.
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Mar 31, 2010 - 07:44pm PT
D5's are in the Shop! UPS Freight arrived today with a small but heavy pallet.

Some pics as requested:

I will update with more photos as progress is made.
mucci

Trad climber
The pitch of Bagalaar above you
Mar 31, 2010 - 07:45pm PT
WOOOOHOOOOO!!

Let the pounding begin!
seneca

climber
jamais, jamais pays
Mar 31, 2010 - 07:57pm PT
Some serious looking hardware
Slakkey

Big Wall climber
From Back to Big Wall Baby
Mar 31, 2010 - 07:58pm PT
Sweet
WBraun

climber
Mar 31, 2010 - 08:01pm PT
T Moses

Do you have to drill the biner hole on all these heads?

Or is that the final product minus the handle?
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Mar 31, 2010 - 08:39pm PT
Those are raw forgings direct from the forge at Ajax. The biner hole needs to be drilled, hammer striking surface milled flat, countersink/deburr biner hole, deburr edges, heat treat, sand blast, oil. I think I'm missing something small but that is most of what needs to be done to the heads.

The tangs and handles are a different matter. I am going to fabricate the tangs from scratch here at the shop. The handles are coming from Link O.P.. The original manufacturer of the A5 hammer handles.

One item of interest is that the "A5" logo is missing. I asked if they could remove it earlier in the project and Ajax said no. Hmmmm....one less thing for me to do.

I am suprised to see a lack of forging flash on the edges of these heads. Overall they are a great place to start from.

Minerals

Social climber
The Deli
Mar 31, 2010 - 08:46pm PT
Yeah… looks nice so far!

You da man, Theron!!!

Thanks for the fun update and looking forward to more.
T2

climber
Cardiff by the sea
Apr 1, 2010 - 12:04am PT
Thanks for the pictures and update. It is fun to see the project unfold for us. I can't wait to get one in my hands.

Thanks T Moses
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Apr 1, 2010 - 12:15am PT

Theron--thanks!!!
Talk about a labor of love!!!!
billygoat

climber
Pees on beard to seek mates.
Apr 1, 2010 - 01:19am PT
Way stoked!
WBraun

climber
Apr 1, 2010 - 01:29am PT
Wow, that's a lot of work still to do on those.

How many drill bits you think it will take to do the entire set?

What kind of drill bits do you use to drill these things and are they expensive?

I use pretty much all cobalt drill bits myself, as they last longer for what I use them for (all metal), and they're worth the extra cost for me.
Shack

Big Wall climber
Reno NV
Apr 1, 2010 - 07:11pm PT
Those look great!

He will probably drill them with a mill.
Since they haven't been heat treated yet, they are probably still pretty soft.
msiddens

Trad climber
Mountain View
Apr 2, 2010 - 01:08am PT
Great stuff, keep it coming!
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Apr 2, 2010 - 01:48am PT
now remember people, it's about clean climbing these days, lets not get pound happy!


ok, maybe a little pound silly is ok.
Darryl Cramer

Social climber
Apr 2, 2010 - 11:53am PT
I am almost certain it's too late for this but: Any chance of being able to pick up a spare handle with the hammer?
Prod

Trad climber
Dodge Sprinter Dreaming
Apr 2, 2010 - 12:02pm PT
I want mine signed/ engraved. Any chance of that? Do you have a logo?

Prod.
nature

climber
Tucson, AZ
Apr 2, 2010 - 12:33pm PT
no beer can or tin can will be safe around me.



hey fatty... you know as well as I do that mashies and bashies probably won't see the end of either of our hammers. The only good use for either of us is.......











A DUEL!
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Apr 2, 2010 - 01:05pm PT
Please Theron don't hurt em


Stop.... HAMMER TIME!
jbar

Mountain climber
urasymptote
Apr 2, 2010 - 07:30pm PT
Nice! Now thats some heavy metal. Can't wait to see what the finished product looks like.
dangry

Trad climber
the bay-sierra complex
Apr 6, 2010 - 10:48pm PT
ping....I mean "bump"
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Apr 6, 2010 - 11:23pm PT
I believe Theron is busy for the next week or so trying to get a bunch of hooks out the door...
deuce4

climber
Hobart, Australia
Apr 7, 2010 - 12:45am PT
hmm, these look a lot nicer than the ones we got from the forgers back in the day. What heat treatment did you specify?

Cool beans!
Thorgon

Big Wall climber
Sedr Woolley, WA
Apr 8, 2010 - 11:20pm PT
Thor needs a new hammer!


What's Up?
Thor
BrendenR

Trad climber
Alberta, Canada
Apr 26, 2010 - 10:31am PT
Whooo!

Progress. Looking forward to getting my mitts on a D5.
Ihateplastic

Trad climber
It ain't El Cap, Oregon
Apr 26, 2010 - 02:48pm PT
Very nice work!
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - May 3, 2010 - 07:41pm PT
I just wanted to tease ya'll a little with some pics.

I got some work done on the fixture.

Grinding the Base:

Milling the taper on the holding post:


Finished fixture:

Finished fixture with raw forged head:

First cut with fixture:

I specified an annealed state after forging. I want them as soft as possible to make the milling and drilling quicker.

Drills? I don't know yet. I have some ideas on a way to fixture them so the drill won't wander when making contact with the hammer. The drills themselves are up in the air still. Everything from black oxide coated high speed steel to solid carbide is being considered. I need to do some testing but I think cobalt or a TiN/TiCN coated high speed steel are going to be the ticket. I've got a drill sharpening fixture here that I can do some cool tricks with. It helps out a lot when dealing with good steel.
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
May 3, 2010 - 07:52pm PT
LET THE SPARKS FLY WHERE THEY MAY!!!
bluering

Trad climber
Santa Clara, Ca.
May 3, 2010 - 07:59pm PT
pretty cool!
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
May 3, 2010 - 08:10pm PT

Thanks for the update!
They look sweet!
deuce4

climber
Hobart, Australia
May 3, 2010 - 08:21pm PT
Hi Theron-

You might find something better, but we just used inexpensive cobalt steel drills for the carabiner hole. We only got about 10 holes per drill, but I recall we were getting the drills for a couple bucks each from one of our suppliers. Lots of oil!
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
May 3, 2010 - 08:46pm PT
Sweet, the jig is up!
Roxy

Trad climber
CA Central Coast
May 3, 2010 - 08:48pm PT
sweet pics...

that's prolly good porn for ol' weld_it
adatesman

Trad climber
philadelphia, pa
May 3, 2010 - 09:07pm PT
If you can find a supplier (or just someone with a Winslow drill sharpener) you may find the Winslow-Bickford drill point just the ticket for this. Basically it's a cross between the Helical point (S-shaped crown that's self centering and minimizes the thrust force required) and a Racon point (full radius to minimize wear on the tool and burr on exiting). From the looks of it the radius on the drill edge should allow the drill to center properly given the taper of the hammer head. Link to Winslow site

Of course the other option would be to spot drill with an endmill to get rid of the taper and then do the drilling, but that adds an operation...

EDIT- BTW, I used to have one of their HR machines and their Helical and Bickford points really are as awesome as they make them sound. Damn expensive machine, but worth it if you're doing enough drilling. What really sold me on it was one job we had that was a 6" diameter filter screen .250" thick in 302 (304?) stainless with about a 500 #46 holes in it (0.081"). With conventional drill points and spot drilling we were getting ~5 holes per drill (spot drilling would work harden the piece at the hole location a bit), with the Bickford point it was closer to 30 per drill and eliminated the spot drill op without putting hole location out of the +/-0.005 tolerance. Oh, and there was practically no burr on the exit side. Of course putting the Bickford point on drills that small was a bit of a PITA, but the difference was amazing.

EDITx2- Hmm... Those numbers don't sound quite right. I either have the thickness or the drill diameter off, as I distinctly recall the holes being ~7x diameter. Dunno, and for whatever reason the number 80 is stuck in my head with it, so maybe it was #80 drills. I do recall them being close to the small limit of what the machine would do and given that it was 15 years ago I'm surprised I even remember it at all!
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
May 3, 2010 - 09:23pm PT
http://shop.ebay.com/i.html?_nkw=grinder+drill+winslow&_sacat=0&_sop=16&_odkw=grinder+winslow&_osacat=0&bkBtn=&_trksid=p3286.m270.l1313
msiddens

Trad climber
Mountain View
May 3, 2010 - 09:31pm PT
sweet
Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
May 4, 2010 - 01:15am PT
SWEET!!

I'll just take mine raw though.

It is amazing how much you can learn here on the Taco.
Ed Hartouni

Trad climber
Livermore, CA
May 19, 2010 - 12:36am PT
bump to the top
squishy

Mountain climber
sacramento
May 19, 2010 - 12:06pm PT
awesome work, keep it up...
billygoat

climber
Pees on beard to seek mates.
May 28, 2010 - 07:36pm PT
Any updates?
RDB

Social climber
way out there
May 29, 2010 - 12:22am PT
sweet!
dangry

Trad climber
the bay-sierra complex
Jun 22, 2010 - 02:51pm PT
bump
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Jun 23, 2010 - 12:05am PT
Sorry to keep ya'll in the dark. I've been really busy with regular production and the rest of life. I've got to be able to pay for the remaining proccesses and keep the family semi happy.

The milling of the face is complete. I have test run grinding the pick and it is no big deal. The last real hurdle for the heads is the 'biner hole drilling. I've got a couple ideas I'm going to explore over the next week or so.

I'll post pics of the drilling when I get there.
Cpt0bvi0u5

Trad climber
Merced CA
Jun 23, 2010 - 12:45am PT
Right on! Stoked for the final product mate! Thanks for all the effort you are putting into this!
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Jun 23, 2010 - 02:07am PT
Thanks for the update Theron! Definitely post up some pics on jigging up for drilling the hole.
BrendenR

Trad climber
Alberta, Canada
Jun 23, 2010 - 10:08am PT
Thanks for the update dude!

Looking forward to swinging the beast this summer.
bluering

Trad climber
Santa Clara, Ca.
Jun 23, 2010 - 12:09pm PT
Cool, Theron!

We (at least I) understand you have a regular job and family to tend to in addition to this project.

Thanks for the update.
Thorgon

Big Wall climber
Sedro Woolley, WA
Jun 23, 2010 - 01:43pm PT
Theron,

Keep fighting the good fight, Bro!


Can't wait to see pics!
Thor
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Jul 3, 2010 - 01:15am PT
Got a chance to do the trial run on the 'biner hole drilling.

I used "Tom"'s Original A5 head to find the correct drill location. Tom bought this head and some other stuff when Duece was cleaning out his closet. The drilling had been started but it walked of center. I used a mill to flatten out a spot to restart the hole in the location. I then center drilled it to get a good start for the larger drills.

Mounted and ready to be resurected from the dead:

Positioning:

Milling a flat:

Restarting the hole:

Drilling a 1/4" pilot hole:

Drilled:

T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Jul 3, 2010 - 01:18am PT
I did a little custom grinding to the standard high speed steel drill I bought. I want to see how long the cheap drill will last. I releived the back side of the cutting surface and ground the center to a point for faster material removal and easier hole starting.

Set up in the preset fixture:

Not so good shot of the finished grind job:
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Jul 3, 2010 - 01:35am PT
I got started with the real deal. The first D5 head caused a little concern. I dulled the tips of the large drill before I was half way through the head. Not good. I started with a mill bit to flatten the face so I could start a good straight hole. The surface I have to drill into is not perpendicular to the axis the drill is travelling. The entry point and exit point are not parallel to each other either. This makes fro dificult drilling. The drill tips want to catch on the side that makes contact first or they want to deflect away. Either one is not good.

The first sequence I used was: mill, spot drill, 1/4" drill, 1/2" drill, 19/32" drill. I found that the 19/32" drill wasn't taking off enough metal to slow it down and feed correctly. I was going a little to fast on RPMs of the spindle too. I got these straightened out on the second try by slowing the spindle down and skipping the 1/2" drill altogether.

Spot drilling:

Making chips:

More chip making:

Straight off the mill:

Chamfered top:

Chamfered bottom:

Passes the biner test:

This is going to be another slow procces like the milling. The milling and the drilling on the heads are going to be the two cruxes of this project. The tangs and handles are not to big of a deal. I feel that it will be a good finished hammer.
Dutch

Trad climber
pdx
Jul 3, 2010 - 02:05am PT
looks great Moses. Thanks for under taking this endeavor. Keep it up!
Cpt0bvi0u5

Trad climber
Merced CA
Jul 3, 2010 - 03:17am PT
Sick! It's awesome to see this project finally coming together! Keep up the great work and the community appreciates the work that is going into this.
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Jul 3, 2010 - 03:40am PT
Theron, I figured it might take you few permutations to pin down the best approach to drilling the funk hole given what John related, but I have no doubt you'll sort out the most efficient milling / drilling system possible. It all sounds good, and please do keep us posted on the burn rate on the bits and any other changes as many of us find the details fascinating.

Hammers ho!!!
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Jul 3, 2010 - 03:59am PT
Re: Burn Rate

I have gone through two Niagra 3/4" TiCN coated endmills so far with the facing of the hammer heads. This was a result of the mist coolant running out at times. $27 or so each.

Scraped heads: 0

I think that getting the heads in the annealed state has helped in the machining. The softer metal has been easier to cut.
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Jul 3, 2010 - 09:56am PT

I hope the red on that hammer head wasn't your blood, Theron!!!!!
Thorgon

Big Wall climber
Sedro Woolley, WA
Jul 3, 2010 - 11:15am PT
Theron,

This is facinating to watch the process!

When can i test one!?


Thanks,
Thor

deuce4

climber
Hobart, Australia
Jul 3, 2010 - 02:24pm PT
Proud.

Looking good, Theron. Nice work. Especially with zero scrap. Took me a head or two to figure out all that out...

cheers
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
Transporter Room 2
Jul 3, 2010 - 03:17pm PT
Very cool stuff, Theron.

Boy, some of these guys ask a lotta questions, huh?
Rock on, Mr. M!
couchmaster

climber
pdx
Jul 4, 2010 - 10:35am PT
Appreciate the update. I just looked up "Labor of Love" and there was a picture of this project in there. Thanks to everyone who worked (and is working) to make this happen.
goatboy smellz

climber
Nederland
Jul 4, 2010 - 10:49am PT


T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Aug 20, 2010 - 09:14pm PT
Two funerals and moving to a new to us home has reall put a damper on production. I made good progress in July but August has been swamped with other things.

I got the D5 Logo punch just this week:


The red on the hammer head is Dykem a brush on dye that is thin and used to show where you are machining. It is also used to scribe into for marking where you want to machine.
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Aug 20, 2010 - 11:14pm PT

Glad to hear it wasn't your liquids, T!!!!!
Shack

Big Wall climber
Reno NV
Sep 10, 2010 - 12:10am PT
My co-worker who is an old school master machinist suggested 100% carbide drills or EDMing the holes out.
Ihateplastic

Trad climber
It ain't El Cap, Oregon
Sep 10, 2010 - 12:10am PT
I am sure my late dad would frown on me for asking the question, but...

That 'biner hole leaves very little in the way of wall material. Isn't that going to be a weak point after a dozen pitches of slammin' copperheads in tight corners? Were the original A5 hammers that thin in that area?
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
Transporter Room 2
Sep 10, 2010 - 12:32am PT
One would use the face for that, Simon.
The punch or chisel touches the head. I like a punch. Minerals hooked me up with a good one.
Shack

Big Wall climber
Reno NV
Sep 10, 2010 - 12:54am PT
How is the hole drilling procedure coming along?
Got it figured out yet?
Just curious what you settled on, if you have.
Ihateplastic

Trad climber
It ain't El Cap, Oregon
Sep 10, 2010 - 01:20am PT
Cap'n... Of course, but the hammer pick still takes abuse from general bangin around (that's what I meant earlier, NOT placing the heads) and I guess I see that wall as just a tad thin. I am probably being a big baby...
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Sep 10, 2010 - 01:34am PT
D5 lives!
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Sep 10, 2010 - 02:04am PT
Made some good progress today on drilling the 'biner holes. This keeps up and they'll be done some time this decade. ;)

Settled on:
1) Face mill with 3/8 endmill in drill chuck to create a flat surface to work on.
2) Center drill to start hole.
3) Drill all the way through with 1/4" drill bit.
All the heads get finished to this state before starting on the next step.
4) Drill/Mill with a 19/32 endmill in a collet.
The endmill is used because of the side loading created by the angle of bottom and top of the pick end. Drill bits are longer and are designed to drill down. Drills tend to wander side to side on surfaces not perpendicular to thier direction of travel.

Yeah the biner hole sidewalls look kinda small. Especially at the top. It gets more meat down farther because of the taper in the vertical axis. I had the same thought as you initially about the thin part but field testing shows this to not be an issue.

D5 does live!
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Sep 10, 2010 - 02:21am PT
Theron, I need to give Lewis a shout as the final handle samples haven't arrived yet (unless he shipped them direct to you...).
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Sep 10, 2010 - 02:23am PT
I don't have them. Give him a shout.
Clint Cummins

Trad climber
SF Bay area, CA
Sep 10, 2010 - 02:31am PT
I wondered about those seemingly thin walls as well - thanks for explaining.
It looks like a very slow/expensive series of steps to make the biner hole.
So it seems clear why John dropped this part of the original A5 design.
Have you considered (say) a $100 version without hole, $150 with hole?
Lambone

Ice climber
Ashland, Or
Sep 10, 2010 - 02:35am PT
nice
Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
Sep 10, 2010 - 02:50am PT
Is the price still coming out to be the same??


http://www.supertopo.com/climbing/thread.php?topic_id=151177&tn=260

Costs per each Hammer:

Deburr of Forging Flash: 7.00
Milling of Hammer Face: 5.75
Drilling of Carabiner Hole: 6.00
Heat Treating: 1.47
Sandblasting: 1.05
Assembly: 9.50
Anti Corrosion Dip: 0.65
Drilling of Handle for Leash: 0.75
Logo Removal: 2.00
Subtotal: 34.17

Previous Costs:
(2) Stainless Steel Tangs: 2.92
Forging of Hammer Head 16.45
Total: 53.54

Remaining costs:
Leash w/ Ring-Russ?
Handle-Joseph?

Assembly might be a little high but I am not sure how it will work out. Reading John's notes it seems pretty involved so that's how I quoted it.
Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
Sep 10, 2010 - 02:55am PT
Just a note on the side walls to the pick of A5 and D5 hammers.

They are plenty robust to do the job. They are all like that. And not all were exactly on center.

You can see I have had my hands on a few. I would say that I have handled 1% of the A5 hammers.

http://www.supertopo.com/climbers-forum/1264334/Kids-Babies-and-Climbing-ST-needs-a-little-LOVE-Again
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Sep 10, 2010 - 02:59am PT
Acer, we'll be sorting out actual vs. estimates in the near future when we have the final actuals and will post them up once we have it. I want to really make sure Theron doesn't end up short in any way after all his hard work on the project.
Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
Sep 10, 2010 - 03:06am PT
Expected for sure.

Not to forget that the final cost includes the donation that was part of the deal with this project.
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Sep 10, 2010 - 03:33am PT
Definitely haven't forgotten that part of the deal and am looking forward to the day the project can send Conrad a check for the Alex Lowe Charitable Foundation and a few hammers for its Khumbu Climbing School Program. We'll also be gladly accepting and passing along any additional donations beyond the final price of the hammer should anyone choose to contribute further to the foundation and school.






T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Sep 16, 2010 - 09:26pm PT
Biner holes are done. Logo and chamfering of holes are up next. I think that facing the heads and drilling the biner holes were the cruxes. No scrap so far that I know of. I'll double check. Four mills down for facing and five down for doing the biner holes. Not too bad.

I'll update soon on the rest of the work being done. I hope to be devoting more time next week to this project.
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Sep 16, 2010 - 09:58pm PT

Thanks for the update, Theron!

Thorgon

Big Wall climber
Sedro Woolley, WA
Sep 16, 2010 - 11:08pm PT
Labor of love!



Hammers rule,
Thor
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Sep 16, 2010 - 11:34pm PT
Sent Lewis an email on the final handle samples and didn't hear back. Will give him call him tomorrow.
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Sep 23, 2010 - 08:27pm PT
A dozen final handle samples are on the way from Tennessee!
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Sep 23, 2010 - 11:58pm PT
I received the material for the tangs on Wednesday:

I had to get a whole 48 x 120 sheet but it was the same for a half sheet from a more local supplier.

Heads are coming along nicely:

The holes are all drilled. They are also chamfered and the sharpening of the pick has commenced:

The logo is giving me some problems. I can't just hammer strike the punch and have it give an acceptable impression in the head. I might mechanize this with a fixture in a punch press.
bmacd

Trad climber
Grade V, Level III certified KooK 100% Canadian
Sep 24, 2010 - 12:05am PT
sweet ...
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Sep 24, 2010 - 01:47am PT
Those punch presses are gunna make some noise T.

UUUUNNNNNGGGHHHHH!!!


Too cool.
John Mac

Trad climber
Littleton, CO
Sep 24, 2010 - 09:54am PT
Awesome!

Dalyte

Trad climber
Nevada
Sep 24, 2010 - 12:20pm PT
Made in USA!!!
bluering

Trad climber
Santa Clara, CA
Sep 24, 2010 - 12:52pm PT
Woo-hoo!!!!! Looks good, dude!
Roger Brown

climber
Oceano, California
Sep 24, 2010 - 12:55pm PT
I'm gonna feel mighty proud swinging one of those.
Brian in SLC

Social climber
Salt Lake City, UT
Sep 24, 2010 - 03:26pm PT
Hubba hubba!
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Sep 29, 2010 - 11:44pm PT
Final handle samples just arrived this afternoon.

Salamanizer

Trad climber
The land of Fruits & Nuts!
Sep 29, 2010 - 11:49pm PT
OOoh, Purty!
mucci

Trad climber
The pitch of Bagalaar above you
Sep 30, 2010 - 01:41am PT
Jesus H Christ.

so sweet.

Is this run going to be numbered?

Mucci
Salamanizer

Trad climber
The land of Fruits & Nuts!
Sep 30, 2010 - 01:52am PT
If it's to be numbered, I call a low number. In the bottom 10 would be nice.

BTW, what does the H in Jesus H Christ stand for? Juss wonderin.
nature

climber
Whereverland....
Sep 30, 2010 - 01:55am PT
I got a chub!
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Sep 30, 2010 - 02:08am PT
Is this run going to be numbered?

Good question! Theron and I have never discussed this, and it would be additional work/cost on Theron, but I'll ask him about it.
Salamanizer

Trad climber
The land of Fruits & Nuts!
Sep 30, 2010 - 02:23am PT
I'll pay the additional costs associated provided I recieve number 1.
Majid_S

Mountain climber
Bay Area , California
Sep 30, 2010 - 03:03am PT
I'll send mine to chrome shop
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Sep 30, 2010 - 03:06am PT
early numbers go to Theron and co. for all the effort. In 40 years they can retire off the auction after the latest A6 Baffin route gets put up on one of them. :)

numbering could be fun, or just number all of them 0001, then the next batch they get numbered 0002, etc.

I got a drimel tool. I could help.
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Sep 30, 2010 - 03:19am PT
Or, just a thought given we're trying to raise some money for Alex's foundation, maybe we should auction the first 10...
Strider

Trad climber
one of god's mountain temples.... ಠ_ಠ
Sep 30, 2010 - 06:23am PT
My thoughts exactly healyje. But perhaps more than 10 numbered, depending on demand? Give or take finished production 6 months from now (just a wild-ass guess since I am not involved with the project), how many climber events from May 2011 until Dec 2011? Red Rocks Rendezvous, Facelift, whatever... Maybe auction a few at a dozen events around the county? How much exposure does the Lowe Foundation want and how much could this net them in the end? Questions I can't answer, but just a thought...

Might I suggest a purpose/recipient for D5 Hammer #1? Framed, in a case, possibly with the names of all the Supertopians who ponied up the cash to help make the project happen. Then given to the Lowe Foundation, or some other more suitable recipient? Again, cost is a factor. But with the community here, perhaps we can get enough donations of work/materials for a display and plaque to be made. Just an idea to spark some creativity. I leave it up to craftier men than I.

Cheers
-n
Prod

Trad climber
Sep 30, 2010 - 09:35am PT
If they are numbered I'd like #42.

Prod.
Jaybro

Social climber
Wolf City, Wyoming
Sep 30, 2010 - 09:39am PT
life the universe, etc...

Maybe put one away for Deuce?
Conrad

climber
Sep 30, 2010 - 11:08am PT
Wow.... Thanks all of you for your effort on this. This is amazing beyond belief. Inspiring.

Joe - thanks for giving the ALCF props.

Theron - looking forward to meeting you.

JMIV - probably like an author having a reprint in hardback - one of the highest honors. Your design will live on.

Moof

Big Wall climber
Orygun
Sep 30, 2010 - 12:51pm PT
Yeah, I'd love to have #13.

That said, I've had a couple hundred bucks burning a hole in my savings account for these things. I think it keeps trying to invite calamity upon me to force me to spend it, how soon till we can send some cash to the project?

Joseph, if you need any help on the leashes, I've now got a nice 42 stitch tacker. I'd be happy to volunteer it's use and my own time if needed.
ontheedgeandscaredtodeath

Trad climber
San Francisco, Ca
Sep 30, 2010 - 01:21pm PT
I recently moved to SLO county, so if you could use some help (unskilled labor) please shoot me a e-mail.

nature

climber
Whereverland....
Sep 30, 2010 - 01:53pm PT
I'd like #420
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Sep 30, 2010 - 05:10pm PT
Conrad: Wow.... Thanks all of you for your effort on this. This is amazing beyond belief. Inspiring.

No, thank you Conrad (and Pamela!) - this wouldn't be happening without John and yourself making it possible. It's taken some time, but I think we're finally closing in on it.

Nature: I'd like #420

I think you'll have to wait for a second run (if it's something Theron decides to keep doing)...
bluering

Trad climber
Santa Clara, CA
Sep 30, 2010 - 05:23pm PT
Sweet!!
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Sep 30, 2010 - 05:24pm PT
Moof: Joseph, if you need any help on the leashes, I've now got a nice 42 stitch tacker. I'd be happy to volunteer it's use and my own time if needed.

ontheedgeandscaredtodeath: I recently moved to SLO county, so if you could use some help (unskilled labor) please shoot me a e-mail.

Moof and ontheedge - thanks for the kind offers, we'll see how the rest of this plays out. As it stands now I think Fish has the leashes covered, but if that changes I'll give you a shout Moof. ontheedge, maybe get ahold of Theron and see if there's anything you could pitch in on.
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Sep 30, 2010 - 07:39pm PT
ontheedge: Theron said he may need a hand come final assembly time (I'll probably come down for that) - feel free to get ahold of him through his ST contact link.
ontheedgeandscaredtodeath

Trad climber
San Francisco, Ca
Sep 30, 2010 - 07:41pm PT
Thanks Healyje, I sent him an e-mail earlier with my contact info. I'm happy to help assemble.
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Oct 18, 2010 - 12:38pm PT
Wooohoooo!

D5 is stamped in each head. Serialized with 001 to 278. Serializing was a pain in the butt! Sandblasting is going on as I type at the local powder coater. I think I might have just two heads that I would consider substandard but ar still usable.

Heads go to heat treat tomorrow. My brother is driving them up and picking them up the same day. I made fast arrangements with both sandbalst and heat treat for fast turn around.

Emailed Russ about finalizing the leashes and getting them going.

Called Lewis and O.P. Link about the handles. I'll send him a sample head-tang-hadle combo all fitted up that he can duplicate. 2 week lead time on his end.

Joseph has been looking into the details of collecting payment and shipping. I'll let him post details on that.

We are getting close. I've got about 6 people lined up for the build party. It will most likely be the first or second week in November. Friday night and Saturday. Joseph is planning on coming down for that.

I'll post pics later.
bringmedeath

climber
la la land
Oct 18, 2010 - 01:16pm PT
SICK!!! Thanks!
HighTraverse

Social climber
Bay Area
Oct 18, 2010 - 02:32pm PT
Well done Theron.
I'm impressed you're keeping this going while still running your real business.
Looking forward to my hammer, but don't hurry. Get it right, don't burn out.

Has a price been settled?
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Oct 18, 2010 - 03:17pm PT

Whoo Hoo!!!!!
Thanks Theron!!!!
I am excited!
Salamanizer

Trad climber
The land of Fruits & Nuts!
Oct 19, 2010 - 01:56am PT
Woohoo!

Maybe just in time for Christmas?
No rush, but I can hardly wait.
Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
Oct 19, 2010 - 02:31am PT
Sweet. Looks good. Now I will have a Red, Yellow, and Blue handle collection.
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Oct 21, 2010 - 10:25pm PT
Stamping an uneven surface is a pain in the butt.

Pics as promised:

D5!:

D5 Stamping:

Heads 001-010:

Stamping of the D5 numerals:

Heads 001 & 002:
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Oct 21, 2010 - 10:25pm PT
Heat treat went down on Wednesday instead of Tuesday. Needed time to finish packaging and misc stuff. I called the heat treater at 3:30 and he had gone home so I didn't want to make a trip and him not be ready.

In the oven they go:

I arranged to have same day turn around. I sent my brother up with the goods in my truck. He left at 2:30 in the AM. Arrived at 6:00 at the heat treater. They promptly loaded them up in a really big, really hot oven. Cooked 'em good. They said the load would be done at 1PM.

Test samples:

Testing the samples:

More testing to HRC 46.6:

Lee called me at 1:10. He said that the heads came out softer than I speced out. Crap! Hammers gotta be hard. We agree that they need to go through another cycle. My poor brother has to wait until 7PM.

Unloading:

High tech cooling:

Close up of heads after quenching:

That's a lot of heads:



T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Oct 21, 2010 - 10:30pm PT
Most of the heads are at sandblast right now. I get them back next tuesday.

I am currently working on fitting up a handle-head-tang combo to send to Lewis at Seymour to get the handles done. The heads you see are blems #222 and #254. The biner holes are slightly offset so I decided to use them for the heat treat testing samples. You can see the grind marks and dimples from the rockwell C scale tester.:

Fitting, top view:

Fitting the handles samples into the heads:

Heads side by side. Original on right:

Full view side by side:

Working on fitting:

It must suck to have dail up.
klk

Trad climber
cali
Oct 21, 2010 - 10:32pm PT
Hey Theron,

Thanks for all the trip reports.

Always nice to see artisan work in progress.
goatboy smellz

climber
Nederland
Oct 21, 2010 - 10:34pm PT
Looking good!
Prod

Trad climber
Oct 21, 2010 - 10:36pm PT
I'd still like #42 if it is easy to arrange.

Prod.
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Oct 21, 2010 - 10:52pm PT
thank your bro for hanging out for us. :)


sooooo kewl


I don't know that this kind of excitement will ever happen again for a rebirth of a wall hammer.


may we all use our whammers for ethical replacement and proud lines!
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Oct 21, 2010 - 10:54pm PT
"may we all use our whammers for ethical replacement and proud lines!"

I think that's what John had in mind. ;)
Thorgon

Big Wall climber
Sedro Woolley, WA
Oct 21, 2010 - 11:00pm PT
Theron, it's been said before, but that is a labor of love!!!



Am I on the long waiting list? I must have one and I shall call it Mjollnir!



Thor
mucci

Trad climber
The pitch of Bagalaar above you
Oct 21, 2010 - 11:02pm PT
Thanks for the tour T!


T2

climber
Cardiff by the sea
Oct 21, 2010 - 11:13pm PT
Very cool and exciting to see the progress. I look forward to having one in my hands. Thanks!
Roxy

Trad climber
CA Central Coast
Oct 21, 2010 - 11:32pm PT
AWESOME man, like watching a How Is It Made on the D5.

Thanks for sharing
Slakkey

Big Wall climber
From Back to Big Wall Baby
Oct 21, 2010 - 11:45pm PT
Nice little hammer TR there Thanks
Brian in SLC

Social climber
Salt Lake City, UT
Oct 22, 2010 - 12:02am PT
Fantastic!!

So, what was the final hardness on the C scale, yo?

Looking great.
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Oct 22, 2010 - 12:08am PT

What a show, Theron!!!!

Whoo hoo!!!!
I'll be darned happy to take any number I'm given.
What a treat to look forward to!
nature

climber
Tuscon Again! India! India! Hawaii! LA?!?!
Oct 22, 2010 - 01:15am PT
my jaw is on the floor.

Wow!
Shack

Big Wall climber
Reno NV
Oct 22, 2010 - 03:33am PT
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Oct 22, 2010 - 11:21am PT
Final rockwell is 46.5 & 46.6. Right inside the range John deemed best (46-48 HRC).

Shipping the samples to Lewis at Seymour to get the handles done.
Disaster Master

Social climber
Born in So-Cal, left my soul in far Nor-Cal.
Oct 22, 2010 - 04:49pm PT
How do I get one? Could I get #13? PLLLEEASSSE?????

Disaster Master

e-mail me, please.
bluering

Trad climber
Santa Clara, CA
Oct 22, 2010 - 06:18pm PT
Really cool stuff!!
Moof

Big Wall climber
Orygun
Oct 22, 2010 - 08:29pm PT
Disaster, I already asked for #13.

I'm happy to get anything, but #13 is near and dear...
hoipolloi

climber
A friends backyard with the neighbors wifi
Oct 22, 2010 - 08:58pm PT
Let the number come to you,
In that number you will find what was ment to be yours.
And it may be great power.
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Oct 22, 2010 - 09:22pm PT
swing baby swing!
HighTraverse

Social climber
Bay Area
Oct 22, 2010 - 10:35pm PT
Beautiful.
Great pics.
Somebody might think of putting together a story for Alpinist.
Print a small booklet to present to Conrad.
Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
Oct 23, 2010 - 12:09am PT
Well, if we want to start claiming numbers.

I am up or down for #69 since Locker was in and out so fast.

And i will claim on 007. Even though there is some debate on the top 10.


#001-#006

#007 - Acer :)

#008-#010

#013 - Moof



#042 - Prod



#069 - Acer




#143 - DNF


#222 - Blem



#254 - Blem


#278 - (Last but not Least)


#420 - Nature (there is not a 420....yet)
billygoat

climber
Pees on beard to seek mates.
Oct 23, 2010 - 12:21am PT
So stoked! I even have my first use planned, and it's a project that will benefit the local climbing community. Wish I could say more, but can't yet. Anyways, so excited this is gonna be a reality sooner than later.
froodish

Social climber
Portland, Oregon
Oct 23, 2010 - 12:35am PT
Sweet pics! Thanks for the update.
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Oct 29, 2010 - 12:26am PT
Had the first confirmed casualty on Tuesday when I picked up the heads from sandblast. #143 has a fatal crack on the bottom of the head.


I also had another few set backs.

I emailed Russ last week and have not heard from him. I don't want to be waiting for slings in the end. I have an offer for a back up sling manufacturer if I can't get ahold of Russ in the next couple of days.

The samples were sent to Lewis on Friday. He got them on Wednesday. He hasn't called so I will try to call him tomorrow to iron out details on the handles. Getting these is going to be crucial.

I bought the wrong gauge of stainless for the tangs. 14 gauge is what I bought . After reviewing John's notes it needs to be 13 gauge. 13 is a little of an oddball. It used to be more prevalent. Maybe that was how John got a hold of it. My usual supplier had no clue how to find it. My secondary supplier had it in stock and I'll have it on Monday. It is a $260.00 dollar mistake.

I am pushing hard to have these done near the end of November. At the latest would be the first part of December.
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
Transporter Room 2
Oct 29, 2010 - 12:39am PT
Right on, Theron. I'm just enjoying "The D5 Show".
Hey, BTW, I found that other shoe. You want it?
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Oct 29, 2010 - 12:44am PT
Ha ha! Hell yeah I still have the other one!

I don't know how many people I have told "Keep looking for the other shoe. It's probably at the bottom of the bin." The bin has something like 20 and a half pairs of shoes.

I still get a kick out of the box you sent last time:
Luke Malatesta

Big Wall climber
Moab UT
Oct 29, 2010 - 12:44am PT
Theron,
Sent you an e-mail.
Luke
Fish_Products

Big Wall climber
FishProducts.com
Oct 29, 2010 - 01:07am PT
I emailed Russ last week and have not heard from him. I don't want to be waiting for slings in the end. I have an offer for a back up sling manufacturer if I can't get ahold of Russ in the next couple of days.

Nothing in here from you in a long while.... Resend ASAP

I'll send this to your Taco PM too


See us on the web at:
http://www.FishProducts.com
http://fishproductsblog.blogspot.com/
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Oct 29, 2010 - 01:15am PT
Damn, Fish that was a fast response! Lets get it done. I emailed you on 10-18-10. I'll resend it so we can move forward on this.
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Oct 29, 2010 - 01:16am PT
Yea, Russ! Like the friggin' cavalry. Go hammers, go!
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Oct 29, 2010 - 01:20am PT
From Fish's email:
The FISH autoresponder thanks you for your email.
There is a very good chance you will receive an email reply from a live human shortly.
While you wait, you can visit our site by going to: http://www.FishProducts.com or visit our Blog: http://fishproductsblog.blogspot.com/

I liked the one I got in the spring that said I was #96 in line. Well...something like that. ;)

Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Oct 29, 2010 - 01:21am PT
T man, that's only like a dollar per person more. Cost of construction built into the price. :)

Venture capital dollars ;)


T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Oct 29, 2010 - 01:25am PT
"Venture capital" still comes out of my pocket right now. It'll go back later but it is wasted time and money at the present. I need the capital for the leashes and anything else that comes up. No real worries. Just a minor setback.
Fish_Products

Big Wall climber
FishProducts.com
Oct 29, 2010 - 01:25am PT
I'll go look right now.... autoresponder lies sometimes. The server pumps those out, but sometimes the inbox never sees the meat.

Edit: nada. Not in the trash, not in the junk, not in the inbox. Is your IP on some international spammer list? I'll check again later and then send you an email.


See us on the web at:
http://www.FishProducts.com
http://fishproductsblog.blogspot.com/
deuce4

climber
Hobart, Australia
Oct 29, 2010 - 01:27am PT
that crack is very worrisome. Which steel did you go with, and what was your heat treat spec?
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Oct 29, 2010 - 01:29am PT
Duece: 46-48 HRC and 4340 Steel per your notebook. Yeah it worries me too. I think I am going to mock a hammer up and smack some stuff to do some informal testing.

Russ: Hotmail account. Hmmm...it has worked in the past. I've had the same address for over 10 years.
Fish_Products

Big Wall climber
FishProducts.com
Oct 29, 2010 - 01:39am PT
Sent you a message that you can hit reply on. No idea why the dumbass server does the hidden email thing every now and again.


See us on the web at:
http://www.FishProducts.com
http://fishproductsblog.blogspot.com/
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Oct 29, 2010 - 01:42am PT
Tag! You're it! I responded to the other address.
Fish_Products

Big Wall climber
FishProducts.com
Oct 29, 2010 - 01:53am PT
Cool. I just checked the server folders and there is 500,000.... yes, half a million messages that have been tagged as junk or spam in the last 60 days. Damn! I'll dial down the spam filters and put the phasers on stun.

Edit: never showed up. Sent you one from WideFetish.


See us on the web at:
http://www.FishProducts.com
http://fishproductsblog.blogspot.com/
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Oct 29, 2010 - 02:02am PT
Responded.
Lithuanian

Trad climber
Reno
Oct 29, 2010 - 02:50am PT
Can't wait for my Christmas present.
Shack

Big Wall climber
Reno NV
Oct 29, 2010 - 02:59am PT
Mr. Fish_Products sir, I have sent you a few emails lately, gotten the auto responder, but no live person ever got back to me. :(
WTF?
Fish_Products

Big Wall climber
FishProducts.com
Oct 29, 2010 - 03:12am PT
Shack: still waiting on those Wham-0-la parts... was that what the email was about? Please advise.


See us on the web at:
http://www.FishProducts.com
http://fishproductsblog.blogspot.com/
Shack

Big Wall climber
Reno NV
Oct 29, 2010 - 03:31am PT
I'll try resending to the "info" at fish products dot com, instead of Russ.

You probably didn't get the emails about the wham-o-la parts either. :/
deuce4

climber
Hobart, Australia
Oct 29, 2010 - 03:39am PT
RC 46-48 should be good. I would get one or two tested for hardness.

4340 shouldn't crack with that temper. Wonder what's going on.
Brian in SLC

Social climber
Salt Lake City, UT
Oct 29, 2010 - 11:15am PT
High residual stress. Makes sense it cracked in the thickest part of the hammer.

They were heat treated twice to get the hardness higher?

Makes me wonder if there was too much time between the quench and the temper? Or, cool time was too rapid?

Yeah, 4340 really shouldn't do that if a standard heat treat was followed.

Hmmm...

T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Oct 29, 2010 - 11:49am PT
Finally got in contact with Russ. We are working out the final details now.

There should not have been much time between quench and temper. My brother was waiting for the parts and they were putting a high priority on them to be done the same day. These guys have been in the business since 1940 or so. Serious pros not some backyard fly by night operation. I do all my heat treating with them and have met with them personally. If they need to be re heat treated I don't think they will argue with me about it.

I'm sending the cracked head out on Monday to have it tested by a friend.

I only have this one bad head so far. I wonder if it is just a fluke and had an air pocket in the forging or some other random weakness. I'll be chekcing into it.
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Oct 29, 2010 - 02:11pm PT
I just got off the phone with Lewis at Seymour and he will be sending me another sample to approve on Monday. He also said that he could have a batch of 300 out to me by the end of next week or the begining of the following. Sweet! Thanks to Lewis for pushing this through for us.
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
Transporter Room 2
Oct 29, 2010 - 02:15pm PT
1 random shoe is on its way, Bro.
Thanks for all your hard work, man. The D5 Show is a fave.
WooT!!
Studly

Trad climber
WA
Oct 29, 2010 - 02:16pm PT
Is there anyway I can get a hammer AND a Fish t-shirt and hat? What good is a hammer if you are naked?
Shack

Big Wall climber
Reno NV
Oct 29, 2010 - 02:21pm PT
I've been on the FISH T-shirt waiting list for a couple of years now.
My existing ones are on the verge of decomposition.
Mighty Hiker

climber
Vancouver, B.C.
Oct 29, 2010 - 02:32pm PT
Well, if Russ really has a half million e-mails in his spam folder, it may take him a while to sift through them to find the 1% (5,000) that are 'real', and reply. Maybe he can get Dick to help.
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Oct 29, 2010 - 03:25pm PT
Russ - Mailstreet.com / Apptix.com / Rackspace.com / etc...
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 2, 2010 - 07:30pm PT
I oiled the heads on Friday night:


Serial numbers 142, 026, 140, 143 are toast. Cracked and not recoverable.

Serial numbers 214, 195, 034 are "black" (literally) and are reserved for HealyJ, Duece4, and the anonymous climber who funded the forging.

Serial number 000 is mine. It is the last A5 head to be produced. The forge messed up and gave me one with the "A5" logo on it.

Serial number 254 and 222 were used for heat treat testing and also have very slightly offset biner holes. I consider them cosmetic blems.

Serial numbers go up to 277. 001-010 might be used to auction off for more funds to go to charity.

I sent the cracked heads off for independant hardness testing today.

More later. Gotta go vote.

healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Nov 2, 2010 - 07:55pm PT
Impressive - thanks for the update Theron!
YetAnotherDave

Trad climber
Vancouver, BC
Nov 2, 2010 - 10:12pm PT
I'd pay extra for #1, if the extra went to YCA or similar charity

or 007 - that'd be fun :)

--Dave
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Nov 2, 2010 - 10:18pm PT

Awesome, T!

I'm waitin' for my Christmas present to myself!
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 3, 2010 - 01:16am PT
IMHO all the "extra" money paid for 001-010 would go to the Khumbu Climbing School/Alex Lowe Charitable Foundation. The direction the donations are going has been mentioned previously in the thread. The amount has not been set and it might not be a set amount but what each climber feels they can give. I think a minimum recommended would be good to know but it might be left to individuals.
nature

climber
Tuscon Again! India! India! Hawaii! LA?!?!
Nov 3, 2010 - 01:18am PT
I'd like serial #SUSHI

thanks
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Nov 3, 2010 - 01:36am PT
I'll take whatever the T man gives will ship me (or pick up), and like it!

hope the hardness test comes back positive.

Maybe Burt Bronson can squeeze them with his fist to finish the toughening up!



Disaster Master

Social climber
Born in So-Cal, left my soul in far Nor-Cal.
Nov 3, 2010 - 02:41am PT
With all this talk of numbers, I have another question. Can they be stamped / engraved now or later by you or someone else? I would like to add text to the head. (+ #13, of course) ;) For more $, of course.

Paul
John Mac

Trad climber
Littleton, CO
Nov 3, 2010 - 10:41am PT
These hammers are looking great. Huge thanks to everyone involved.
FeelioBabar

Trad climber
One drink ahead of my past.
Nov 3, 2010 - 10:49am PT
SUWEET! Strong work to all involved. Can't wait.

I'll take whatever number I get, and like it!



Conrad

climber
Nov 3, 2010 - 03:28pm PT
Wow... good to see this taking off!
Thanks all for the hard work.

Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
Transporter Room 2
Nov 6, 2010 - 11:11pm PT
And now, we return to our regular D5 hammer show, already in progress.
Pretty bitchen, huh?
Thorgon

Big Wall climber
Sedro Woolley, WA
Nov 6, 2010 - 11:13pm PT
It has been a wild ride!



Thor
mark miller

Social climber
Reno
Nov 6, 2010 - 11:13pm PT
Thanks for working through this project sir.
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Nov 7, 2010 - 12:39am PT
Paul, all the marking was done before heat treatment which hardens the metal and makes such work far more difficult. Of course I'm sure you could find and engraver capable of such regardless.
Moof

Big Wall climber
Orygun
Nov 7, 2010 - 01:32am PT
Give Paul #13, I'll take whatever I can get (#11 and #12 to match my wedding anniversary?).
Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
Nov 7, 2010 - 01:27am PT
Nice Update. Thanks


Well, if we want to start claiming numbers.

I am up or down for #69 since Locker was in and out so fast.

And I will claim on 007. Even though there is some debate on the top 10.

#000 – The Last A5

#001-#006

#007 - Acer :)

#008-#010

#011
#012
#013 – Moof or Paul

#026 - DNF
#034 – BLACKED OUT
#042 - Prod

#069 - Acer

#140 - DNF
#142 - DNF
#143 - DNF

#195 – BLACKED OUT
#214 – BLACKED OUT
#222 - Blem

#254 - Blem
#277 - (Last but not Least)

#420 - Nature (there is not a 420....yet)
Strider

Trad climber
one of god's mountain temples.... ಠ_ಠ
Nov 7, 2010 - 01:33am PT
Well Acer, if you're the Keeper of this list then I will sign up for #277.

On the other hand, I am simply thankful that this whole thing has actually worked out and will be 100% satisfied with just getting one in the first place.

Big thanks to everyone involved!

-n
Shack

Big Wall climber
Reno NV
Nov 7, 2010 - 02:00am PT
I requested #10 on the other thread.
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Nov 7, 2010 - 02:17am PT
#069 - Acer

Wouldn't you need #096 to go with that?
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 9, 2010 - 07:42pm PT
Talked to Lewis on Friday morning. He is sending a final (hopefully) sample. It is currently in transit and will arrive on Friday. He has a batch of three hundred partially done right now. The grip end of the handle is done and waiting on my approval for the hammer attachment end to be finished.

Emailed Russ and he is working away on getting the leashes done.

The cracked heads were tested for the correct hardness and came back at 45-47 Rockwell C. Right with in spec. The guy I talked to said it is probably a small forging problem with just those heads. He explained that sometimes the billet that is used to forge with (chunk of steel that gets smacked with a couple hundred tons of pressure) is sometimes not preheated enough. This leads to the metal not binding to itself fully. If there was a problem with a head then it would have come out in heat treat and not after while in use. I need to talk to the heat treater and forge but that is what I'm going with currently.

I got the 13 gauge stainless steel sheet and built tooling to press barke bend it instead of hammering it over a vise like John had to. I've got access to a few more tools than he did.

The build party probably won't happen until the third and fourth of December. It is just going to take a few extra days for the handles to come in from the east to make my initial date of 19-20 of November.
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Nov 9, 2010 - 08:02pm PT
Right on, Theron....Hangin' tough.
Hell, it's easy(to hang tough, that is)....no effort is needed, & I get to check out the D5 Show. WooHoo!
Shack

Big Wall climber
Reno NV
Nov 9, 2010 - 08:23pm PT
Kick Ass™
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Nov 9, 2010 - 11:02pm PT

Awesome, Theron.

However long it takes, you da man!!!!!
billygoat

climber
Pees on beard to seek mates.
Nov 10, 2010 - 07:36pm PT
So sounds like my x-mas present to myself!!! Trying not to get my hopes up too much.
Studly

Trad climber
WA
Nov 10, 2010 - 07:58pm PT
I'll take #100 if its available.
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Nov 10, 2010 - 08:35pm PT
ya'll claiming numbers need to calm down. ya'll are too psyched!!!

:)
Zander

Trad climber
Berkeley
Nov 10, 2010 - 09:37pm PT
I'm not paying for mine unless it has a number between one and three hundred. Just sayin'.
Z
Minerals

Social climber
The Deli
Nov 10, 2010 - 11:03pm PT
We’ll never get to that special number… so never mind! ;)

PING, PING, PING!!!


Go Theron!!!
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 12, 2010 - 01:00am PT
Did some work tonight shearing up tang material:

Last friday I built some tooling for the bending:


Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Nov 12, 2010 - 01:12am PT
My hammer's lookin' good, huh?
Dig it.
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Nov 12, 2010 - 01:38am PT
Good Tang Phat Choy!

means happy hammering in the new year!
Shack

Big Wall climber
Reno NV
Nov 12, 2010 - 02:28am PT
I'm getting a stiffie!
Roger Brown

climber
Oceano, California
Nov 12, 2010 - 08:49am PT
Their are a couple of very special routes this very special hammer will see next season:-)
go-B

climber
Matthew 25:40
Nov 12, 2010 - 11:54am PT
I'm impressed, looks like your hammering things out, sweet!
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Nov 12, 2010 - 01:06pm PT
Roger "QA Testing For Realz" Brown!
sos

Trad climber
nyc
Nov 12, 2010 - 05:59pm PT
mungeclimber is right, I need to calm down. but but but, if I could get #67, #45, or #23, that would be f'n awsome.



John Mac

Trad climber
Littleton, CO
Nov 12, 2010 - 06:08pm PT
I"ll grab number 62 if no one has already taken it!

BrendenR

Trad climber
Alberta, Canada
Nov 13, 2010 - 11:12am PT
Sweet progress!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

More than a few new and in progress routes planned for this hammer, including one that a local legend invited me to help complete.

If we're all on the topic of numbers... I'd take 81 or 67 if they're up for grabs.
couchmaster

climber
pdx
Nov 13, 2010 - 11:14am PT
If people actually are getting to pick numbers, put me in for # 88 and # 2.
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Nov 13, 2010 - 11:19am PT
I'd say you get the one(or two,or three, whatever) that you get.
All this number nonsense is just that. It has NO significance beyond what YOU assign it.
Looks like Theron has PLENTY to do without worrying about any dang numbers.
I shall relax, chill, & wait. I suggest you do likewise, eh?
Cheers.
bluering

Trad climber
Santa Clara, CA
Nov 13, 2010 - 11:30am PT
The Captain is right. Just be greatful you're getting one of these babies...
nature

climber
Tuscon Again! India! India! Hawaii! LA?!?!
Nov 13, 2010 - 12:05pm PT
you guys might be right but I still say I deserve

#SUSHI


jus' sayin'!
BrendenR

Trad climber
Alberta, Canada
Nov 13, 2010 - 12:49pm PT
Captain is right... I'll take whatever is sent..
I wouldn't complain if I got my requested number though, just sayin'

Slakkey

Big Wall climber
From Back to Big Wall Baby
Nov 13, 2010 - 01:04pm PT
I concur as well other than those that are designated for persons directly involved and the first 10 to be auctioned off etc. The remaining numbers are really insignificant. Think of it this way you are getting a limited edition first run, possibly the only run of a custom hand made tool. I too will be glad to get any number that is sent. It makes no difference to me.
WBraun

climber
Nov 13, 2010 - 01:25pm PT
D5 Hammer Production

Achieving the pinnacle of hammerdom .....
Thorgon

Big Wall climber
Sedro Woolley, WA
Nov 13, 2010 - 03:20pm PT
It's all in the detail!



Thanks Theron,
Thor
Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
Nov 13, 2010 - 05:31pm PT
The Excitement is building.

Disclaimer: Non official but no fighting after school on the field for or with hammers.

Just know that there is a movement for 1-10 to be handled for special causes.



#000 – The Last A5 – T Moses

#001-#010

#002 - Couchmaster

#007 - Acer :)

#013 – Moof or Paul
#023 - SOS
#026 - DNF
#027 - Pie
#034 – BLACKED OUT
#042 - Prod
#047 - SOS
#062 – John Mac
#067 – SOS
#068 - Jamulian
#069 - Acer

#081 – BrendenR
#088 - Couchmaster
#100 - Studly

#140 - DNF
#142 - DNF
#143 - DNF

#195 – BLACKED OUT
#214 – BLACKED OUT
#222 - Blem

#254 - Blem
#277 - Strider

#333 - TMO (Only 1/2 Evil)

#420 - Nature (there is not a 420....yet)
#SUSHI – NATURE (Doug)

#513OW - What the?

#666 - "Yer GONNA die!!!"
Pie

Trad climber
So-Cal
Nov 13, 2010 - 06:00pm PT
Mark me down for 27
mucci

Trad climber
The pitch of Bagalaar above you
Nov 13, 2010 - 06:26pm PT
Just want to say sorry that I started the whole numbering frenzy.

I just wanted to have a numbered hammer :)

Part of the fun is NOT knowing what yer gonna get....

thanks for all of the collective work, Theron you rock.

Mucci
Jaybro

Social climber
Wolf City, Wyoming
Nov 13, 2010 - 06:35pm PT
How much do they cost?
can I get 513OW?
nature

climber
Tuscon Again! India! India! Hawaii! LA?!?!
Nov 13, 2010 - 07:08pm PT
Minerals gets #666






































he's actually gonna use it.....
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Nov 13, 2010 - 08:43pm PT
I dunno, Fats....Minerals has a goatee, a mysterious twinkle in the eye, & a far superior evil laugh(fairly robust, even).
Plus he doesn't whine.
Jamulian

Trad climber
Jamul, CA
Nov 15, 2010 - 03:01pm PT
If requests for numbers are being taken I would like to request #68. However, I will be happy with whatever number I get. Looks great so far!
TMO

Trad climber
Puyallup, WA
Nov 15, 2010 - 03:46pm PT
I want #333 'cause I'm only half evil ;-)
Minerals

Social climber
The Deli
Nov 15, 2010 - 10:24pm PT
Torture? Well, I’m sure that my more-than-kind belayer of many, many hours this weekend might say yes, Mr. Fatty. Hammer in hand, of course, but I never hit her with it...

And, was your patrol car ever decorated with 17 skulls…? You don’t have enough room in the trunk for 17, let alone “six hundred and sixty six”…!!! Like Vincent Price, you know... ;)

“I left alone
My mind was blank
I needed time to think
To get the memories from my mind…”
Shack

Big Wall climber
Reno NV
Nov 15, 2010 - 11:04pm PT
Fatty, everybody knows guns are evil,
and I'll bet Minerals has way more than you. ;)


PS..Fatty have you ever tossed anything off of El Cap...? Hehe.
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Nov 16, 2010 - 02:15am PT
What did I see?
Could I believe?
That what I saw that night was real and not just fantasy



Mighty Hiker

climber
Vancouver, B.C.
Nov 16, 2010 - 02:19am PT
I'd be happy with #14.
Shack

Big Wall climber
Reno NV
Nov 16, 2010 - 02:22am PT
Munge, it was just a dream, you didn't see anything...go back to sleep. ;)
Dutch

Trad climber
pdx
Nov 19, 2010 - 03:58pm PT
Any word on how payment is going to be handled?
ontheedgeandscaredtodeath

Trad climber
San Francisco, Ca
Nov 19, 2010 - 04:00pm PT
I travel between SLO and SF all the time so I can help with delivery and payments with Bay Area people if that helps out at all. Parking lot of PGSF, exact change please.
Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
Nov 19, 2010 - 04:02pm PT
The Excitement continues.

Disclaimer: Non official but no fighting after school on the field for or with hammers.

Just know that there is a movement for 1-10 to be handled for special causes.



#000 – The Last A5 – T Moses

#001-#010

#002 - Couchmaster

#007 - Acer :)

#013 – Moof or Paul
#014 - Mighty Hiker
#023 - SOS
#026 - DNF
#027 - Pie
#034 – BLACKED OUT
#042 - Prod
#047 - SOS
#062 – John Mac
#067 – SOS
#068 - Jamulian
#069 - Acer

#081 – BrendenR
#088 - Couchmaster
#100 - Studly

#140 - DNF
#142 - DNF
#143 - DNF

#195 – BLACKED OUT
#214 – BLACKED OUT
#222 - Blem

#254 - Blem
#277 - Strider

#333 - TMO (Only 1/2 Evil)

#420 - Nature (there is not a 420....yet)
#SUSHI – NATURE (Doug)

#513OW - What the?

#666 - "Yer GONNA die!!!"
Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
Nov 19, 2010 - 04:03pm PT
What are you going to do with you new HAMMER??

Acer - My first REAL nailing route - then bolts
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 19, 2010 - 07:42pm PT
Emailed both Lewis and Russ today.

Russ has the materials in hand to finish the leashes. He had a heck of a time getting the 4mm we requested. He fought the good fight and prevailed. Nothin' fishy about that. He assured me that I would have leashes before the 3rd of December.

I approved the final sample of the handle. We had to adjust the specs on the hammer attaching area (I can't remember the official name). The final sample looks really nice. Lewis has bumped us to the front in production and I am hoping to have the handles on the first of December.

I worked on tangs last night and some of today. Finished blanking them to size and putting a 45 degree chamfer on one end. I still need to drill and bend them.

It's getting close.
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Nov 19, 2010 - 07:46pm PT

Thanks for all your hard work, Theron!!!!!!

YOU ROCK!!!!
Caz

Big Wall climber
Long Beach, CA.
Nov 19, 2010 - 07:53pm PT
WOW! I may get a Xmass present for myself!

Thanks for the hard work on all of this!


I'll take 77 if there is a official request list...



Zac

MisterE

Social climber
Bouncy Tiggerville
Nov 19, 2010 - 09:14pm PT
That BLACKED OUT guy sure likes his hammers! ;^]
Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
Nov 19, 2010 - 10:30pm PT
I will get you on the list for the numbered Hammers.

I am not sure haw it will work out. The list is unofficial but a good start. I would like to get my numbers.

As more and more subscribe to the list the more chance it will actually happen.

Michael
Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
Nov 19, 2010 - 10:41pm PT


Just know I like listing as much as Ed


#000 – The Last A5 – T Moses

#001-#010

#002 - Couchmaster

#007 - Acer :)
#010 - Shack
#011 - Brian in SLC (or 15/16)
#012 - Brian in SLC
#013 – Moof or Paul
#014 - Mighty Hiker
#023 - SOS
#026 - DNF
#027 – Luke (Pie as second on request)
#034 – BLACK LABLE RESERVE
#042 - Prod
#047 - SOS
#062 – John Mac
#067 – SOS
#068 - Jamulian
#069 - Acer
#077- Caz
#081 – BrendenR
#088 - Couchmaster
#100 - Studly

#140 – DNF - CRAAAAAACK
#142 – DNF - CRAAAAAACK
#143 – DNF - CRAAAAAACK

#195 – BLACK LABLE RESERVE
#214 – BLACK LABLE RESERVE
#222 – Blem – Oh Well

#254 – Blem – Oh Well
#277 - Strider

#333 - TMO (Only 1/2 Evil)

#420 - Nature (there is not a 420....yet)
#SUSHI – NATURE (Doug)

#513OW - What the?

#666 - "Yer GONNA die!!!"




Shack

Big Wall climber
Reno NV
Nov 19, 2010 - 10:47pm PT
You forgot #010 for me.
Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
Nov 19, 2010 - 11:27pm PT
I didn't mean too
dangry

Trad climber
the bay-sierra complex
Nov 19, 2010 - 11:34pm PT
I'd like #111 if possible
Salamanizer

Trad climber
The land of Fruits & Nuts!
Nov 20, 2010 - 01:00am PT
Acer, put me down for #187.

My second choice would be #213 should 187 be claimed.
Zander

Trad climber
Berkeley
Nov 20, 2010 - 01:52am PT
Thanks Theron for all the hard work.
Z
mtnkid85

Trad climber
Montucky
Nov 22, 2010 - 09:50pm PT
Well if we are making it even harder on these poor guys, put me down for number 085.
seneca

climber
jamais, jamais pays
Nov 22, 2010 - 09:53pm PT
What Zander said
Many thanks
Bob
GhoulweJ

Trad climber
Sacramento, CA
Nov 22, 2010 - 10:36pm PT
#111 please
matty

Trad climber
los arbor
Nov 22, 2010 - 10:57pm PT
yeah, i dunno if this whole number thing works out or not. I'm willing to chip in a few more bucks to get a custom number or word (something smells fishy Doug).

Not know if anything will actually come of this and being perfectly happy with random numbers I would like #2112 and will decide later about my second hammer.

Thanks to everyone involved, this has been a real treat to watch develop over the years and may be one of supertops greatest achievements. How many other forums feature successful large scale efforts to recreate a product from the past as exactly as possible with the support & help of the original designer and suppliers when possible. WOW guys WOW, think about it...great stuff!
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 23, 2010 - 02:36am PT
Sorry, #111 is taken by Mr. Anker.

The wait is getting shorter!

Numbers 001 through 277 are all that are available currently. The metal is not to hard to get engraved but I'm not sure how easy it would be. The head is a forging and not really smooth.
froodish

Social climber
Portland, Oregon
Nov 23, 2010 - 02:50am PT
Thanks Theron (and Fish and Joseph and everyone else involved in helping this project along)!

It's been such a treat to see the progress.

I'll take whatever number I get and be thrilled when I get my hammer.

Happy Thanksgiving all,

-S
squatch

Boulder climber
santa cruz, CA
Nov 23, 2010 - 02:51am PT
i'd be psyched on #272 if that's possible.

rad! thanks guys!
bmacd

Trad climber
100% Canadian
Nov 23, 2010 - 02:53am PT
'59 was my birth year :-) if its possible
Majid_S

Mountain climber
Bay Area , California
Nov 23, 2010 - 03:11am PT
#999 for both of mine
Cuckawalla

Trad climber
Grand Junction, CO
Nov 23, 2010 - 10:37am PT
Any Chance I could get #025?
Thanks,
Jesse
Sonic

Trad climber
Folsom, California
Nov 23, 2010 - 11:00am PT
Moses, is your shop in Paso Robles?
go-B

climber
Matthew 25:40
Nov 23, 2010 - 11:09am PT
I'll request 01 for the month, or 20 for the day, or 56 for the year?

You could do a everybody's name in a hat,

first to pay,

or just do what you like!

Cheers, GB

Sonic

Trad climber
Folsom, California
Nov 23, 2010 - 11:25am PT
I'd like # 12 if its still available
Pie

Trad climber
So-Cal
Nov 23, 2010 - 11:50am PT
how'd I get bumped for 27? Booo! haha
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 23, 2010 - 12:09pm PT
Shop is in Paso Robles.
Batrock

Trad climber
Burbank
Nov 23, 2010 - 01:21pm PT
#66 if available but fine with no number if not.
PhotogEC

climber
In front of my computer
Nov 23, 2010 - 02:02pm PT
Like a FEW others have already written...

I personally will be VERY HAPPY with whichever hammers I get...

The NUMBERS make ZERO difference...

Amen.

And, while we're at it, for the number-obsessed, maybe those posts can move over to Ed Hartouni's "I want one" thread instead of junking up Theron's awesome photo-TR on the production of these kickass hammers.

"Just sayin'"

Ed's thread:

http://www.supertopo.com/climbers-forum/853495/I-want-one-Deuce5-Hammer-project-list-of-people

--Eric
TMO

Trad climber
Puyallup, WA
Nov 23, 2010 - 02:27pm PT
Number doesn't really matter to me, I'll be happy with a hammer!
mucci

Trad climber
The pitch of Bagalaar above you
Nov 23, 2010 - 02:33pm PT
This number craze is juvenile.

I want this!

I want that...


Why not just buy a Yo hammer and engrave your number? Probably Knott going to use it anyway. Better keep it on the mantle.

Let the man do his work!

Theron- Just go without #'s, Screw all these pansy playground requests.

Mucci

Fogarty

climber
BITD
Nov 23, 2010 - 03:29pm PT
Mucci I agree,I would just like to know when and how I can get mine?
MTucker

Ice climber
Arizona
Nov 23, 2010 - 04:06pm PT
Just want to say sorry that I started the whole numbering frenzy.

I just wanted to have a numbered hammer :)

Part of the fun is NOT knowing what yer gonna get....

thanks for all of the collective work, Theron you rock.

Mucci

Mucci on NOV 13
Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
Nov 23, 2010 - 04:08pm PT
“Number doesn't really matter to me, I'll be happy with a hammer!”

Well, they are numbered. 1-277

Remember that 1 -10 could be used for something special

There is more than one thread that I have pulled numbers from. Pie, you number was taken on a different thread.

http://www.supertopo.com/climbers-forum/853495/I-want-one-Deuce5-Hammer-project-list-of-people

#000 – The Last A5 – T Moses

#001-#010

#001 – go-b
#002 - Couchmaster

#007 - Acer :)
#010 - Shack
#011 - Brian in SLC (or 15/16)
#012 - Brian in SLC
#013 – Moof or Paul
#014 - Mighty Hiker
#020 – go-B
#023 – SOS
#025 - Cuckawalla
#026 - DNF
#027 – Luke (Pie as second on request)
#034 – BLACK LABLE RESERVE
#042 - Prod
#047 – SOS
#056 – go-B
#059 - bmacd
#062 – John Mac
#066 - Batrock
#067 – SOS
#068 - Jamulian
#069 – Acer
#072 - crotch
#077- Caz
#081 – BrendenR
#085 – MTNkid85
#088 - Couchmaster
#100 - Studly
#111 - Conrad
#140 – DNF - CRAAAAAACK
#142 – DNF - CRAAAAAACK
#143 – DNF – CRAAAAAACK
#176 - fattrad
#187 - Salamanizer
#195 – BLACK LABLE RESERVE
#214 – BLACK LABLE RESERVE
#222 – Blem – Oh Well

#254 – Blem – Oh Well
#272 - Squatch

#277 - Strider



These are just the fun/funny/ crazy suggestions that won’t come from the shop.


#333 - TMO (Only 1/2 Evil)

#420 - Nature (there is not a 420....yet)
#SUSHI – NATURE (Doug)

#513OW - What the?

#666 - "Yer GONNA die!!!"
#999 - Majid_S
#2112 - Matty
mucci

Trad climber
The pitch of Bagalaar above you
Nov 23, 2010 - 04:29pm PT
Hey Tucker-

I originally asked if they were to be numbered.

Then all the crazies started "Requesting" their own #'s.

For that I am sorry.

There was no mention of numbering until I asked the Question on this thread.

I assumed it was going to be like the original A5 run, RANDOM.

But thanks for pointing that out again!

Wait, what # are you?

Mucci
Disaster Master

Social climber
Born in So-Cal, left my soul in far Nor-Cal.
Nov 23, 2010 - 04:40pm PT
I suggest a bid-off for disputed #'s. Might raise a lot of $. People, including me, are wierd about #'s. Make us put our $ where our mouth is.

(This sh#t is hilarious!)(sp?)
Ihateplastic

Trad climber
It ain't El Cap, Oregon
Nov 23, 2010 - 05:29pm PT
I do believe the Hammer Team has worked out a fair and just, Schema for Hammer Numbering Allotment Plan (SHNAP!)

I further believe we can expect an announcement in the coming hours.

Gird yer loins!
Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
Nov 23, 2010 - 10:18pm PT
Now is time to buy.

5 years in the making.

http://www.supertopo.com/climbing/thread.php?topic_id=1326037&tn=0#msg1326086

http://www.shop.vershke.com/product.sc?productId=96&categoryId=11

I have Werner's Yellow Handle A5, Tarbuster Fundraiser Red Handle A5 and now #007 Blue Handle ALCF D5 Hammers.
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Nov 23, 2010 - 11:34pm PT
dang Acer, that's a set made for rebolting!

T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Nov 24, 2010 - 02:04am PT
Did some more work on the tangs tonight. The holes are done. All that is left for the tangs is to deburr.

Lots of tangs (300+/-):

High tech drilling fixture:

Talked to Lewis today. They are working on the handles. Probably done tomorrow. I'll have them shipped 3-day UPS to ensure that they arrive for the build party.

Emailed Russ about the slings. He assures me that I will get the slings in time. He doesn't miss drop dead dates.

Sling sample:

Got schooled on nails last night. Duece speced out a 16d common nail. I don't do contruction/framing. A 16d is a 16d right? NO! There were no less than 4 types of 16d at the hardware. I bought the one that looked like it would work. 16d bright box is much smaller than 16d common. Got my google fu on and figured it out. Back to the hardware for 300 of the correct nails.

First stab at making a nail into a rivet (16 box):

Second attempt, note split in the handle (16d common):

Third time's the charm:
(I was using one of the cracked heads to test stuff on)
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Nov 24, 2010 - 02:07am PT
D stands for DEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE


LUX!
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Nov 24, 2010 - 07:59am PT
Whoa. The 'Tang show is usually different.
Diggin' it, all the same.
Crag Q

Trad climber
Louisville, Colorado
Nov 24, 2010 - 09:04am PT
It is very cool to watch the progress of this project even though I am not getting a hammer. It's amazing how much goes into something as simple as a hammer and how much learning is involved in manufacturing. Thanks for documenting the process.
NeeDlzdos

Big Wall climber
Nov 24, 2010 - 11:22am PT
Placed my order and requested:

#18

Thanks!!

p.s. I'm Jordan Ramey on the list
Raafie

Big Wall climber
Portland, OR
Nov 24, 2010 - 12:48pm PT
Just paid for mine (thanks Simon!), and putting in my bid for #086. Christmas present for ME!


Edit: Huge thanks to Theron for the massive effort to get this done! Also to everyone who carried the ball over the last several years.
ontheedgeandscaredtodeath

Trad climber
San Francisco, Ca
Nov 24, 2010 - 12:52pm PT
Ordered mine. Don't care about numbers so no dog in those fights.

Thanks for the hard work.

I think the Hurricane drills should be next!!
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Nov 24, 2010 - 03:16pm PT
Hey Theron. . .
Can I get #46?????
It's for my favorite bare!!!!!

hee hee hee. . .
I'm already paid, too!
bluering

Trad climber
Santa Clara, CA
Nov 24, 2010 - 04:43pm PT
Yessssssss!

Order in.
Lambone

Ice climber
Ashland, Or
Nov 24, 2010 - 04:54pm PT
Is there a finished picture up anywhere yet?
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Nov 24, 2010 - 05:04pm PT
Yes, on the order website.
Lambone

Ice climber
Ashland, Or
Nov 25, 2010 - 02:19pm PT
Found it, looks nice! Thank you!
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 1, 2010 - 07:31pm PT
Handles:
Lewis at Seymour Manufacturing confirmed that he will be sending out 200 handles today via 2-day shipping for delivery Friday (they are paying the cost difference between 2- and 3-day delivery for this shipment). The remaining 100 handles will be shipped out tomorrow via 3-day. They prevailed through sickness and torrential rains in Tennesee to make sure we have handles to assemble into hammers this weekend. Thanks Lewis!

Cost breakdown (12-1-10):

300 handles @ $2.89 each: $867
Shipping on initial 200: $204.97
Shipping on remaining 100: TBD tomorrow

Leashes:
Russ is the man! Shipped today. That's a lot of slingage!

Tangs:
Finished them up last night. 300 +/- of each front and backs.
Strider

Trad climber
one of god's mountain temples.... ಠ_ಠ
Dec 1, 2010 - 07:38pm PT
I noticed that the hammer leash is a little different from the old A5. Instead of using only webbing it looks like you use webbing for the shoulder sling and perlon for the attachment to the handle.

Any particular reason?

-n
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Dec 1, 2010 - 07:38pm PT
SLINGAGE!!!!


I'm feeling blue, in a good way.
JBC

Trad climber
Tacoma, WA
Dec 1, 2010 - 09:23pm PT
I noticed that the hammer leash is a little different from the old A5. Instead of using only webbing it looks like you use webbing for the shoulder sling and perlon for the attachment to the handle.

Any particular reason?

My A5 hammer had/has the same setup, webbing sling with perlon for attachment to the hammer.

Jim
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Dec 1, 2010 - 09:56pm PT
I like it.
Strider

Trad climber
one of god's mountain temples.... ಠ_ಠ
Dec 1, 2010 - 10:41pm PT
My A5 hammer had/has the same setup, webbing sling with perlon for attachment to the hammer.

Jim

Oh. Did not realize. The A5's I have used (from friends) had all sling set-ups. Maybe homemade or something...

-n
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Dec 1, 2010 - 11:49pm PT
I believe John mentioned them doing lots of variations on the slingage over the production life of the A5 hammers. We decided this A5 sling variant would be the most straightforward for us to accomplish, but I suspect Theron will be posting up how to mod what we deliver into the other style for those who want to switch the way theirs is slung.
couchmaster

climber
pdx
Dec 2, 2010 - 12:31am PT
John can post up on this, but I think there might have been a time where he just sold the hammer and you did what ever sling you chose to do. He sent it out the door with a drilled hole in the handle. Not positive though.
Mighty Hiker

climber
Vancouver, B.C.
Dec 2, 2010 - 12:51am PT
Simon may not be quite ready for a son in law yet.

Maybe Russ can make an all-webbing product for the hammers, which those who want them can order?
Jaybro

Social climber
Wolf City, Wyoming
Dec 2, 2010 - 12:51am PT
Crack house is just a type of Chalk bag, Fatty. The incriminating stuff is in a box on the opposite wall.
Strider

Trad climber
one of god's mountain temples.... ಠ_ಠ
Dec 2, 2010 - 01:18am PT
I don't think the webbing vs. nylon thing is a big deal and it looks like Russ already has the slings done so lets not talk about taking orders for types of slings...things are complicated enough already. Last time someone made a random suggestions about serial numbers and bam...look what happened. =)

I was just curious why it was perlon since I hadn't really seen that before. I thought it was an "improvement" that was done for the D5 line and was curious why...

cheers
-n
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Dec 2, 2010 - 01:48am PT
It's the sling show! I like the perlon loop. Smooth & resilient.
Very nice.
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 2, 2010 - 10:26pm PT
Skully.... a dirty mind is a terrible thing to waist. ;)

Got slingage from Russ today. The man delivered as requested. I opened up the box and thought: "Where are all the bald rastafarians? I've got a box full of dreads."

Where is the webbing? Peek a boo:

I just had to dig one out and check it out:

The slings look good!

UPS says that the handles are due here tomorrow.
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Dec 2, 2010 - 10:53pm PT
And the saga continues.


Woot!
Fish_Products

Big Wall climber
FishProducts.com
Dec 3, 2010 - 12:08am PT
A small caveat: Blitzo tied every knot (took him two days!!!) so YER GONNA DIE!!!!!99666

Cinch those knots people!


See us on the web at:
http://www.FishProducts.com
http://fishproductsblog.blogspot.com/
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Dec 3, 2010 - 12:10am PT
Knott "waisting" it over here, boss.
Nothing like getting a box of dreads, huh? Yowza!
nature

climber
Tuscon Again! India! India! Hawaii! LA?!?!
Dec 3, 2010 - 12:13am PT
let's just line up Blitzo and all attack him at once with our hammers.


or better... everyone that will be an owner of a hammer OWES blitzo a beer.




now... I paid up long ago. But i'd gladly do it again.

Hey Blizto.... ever have a Full Sail Wreck the Halls?

looks promising....
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Dec 3, 2010 - 12:15am PT
Yeah, I'm sure I owe Ol' Bill a brew or two.
We don't deliver, however. Sorry, Blitz.
All in good time, I suppose.
bmacd

Trad climber
100% Canadian
Dec 3, 2010 - 12:30am PT
Can hardly wait to slam some iron next spring …
Brian in SLC

Social climber
Salt Lake City, UT
Dec 3, 2010 - 01:30am PT
One knot over the line, sweet Jesus...


I deliver...coupla weeks. Fair warning...!

Cheers!
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 3, 2010 - 07:38pm PT
That must be a photo of Blitzo after he tied all those knots!

Got the handles is at 11 AM this morning.

I'm setting things up right now to get down to assembly. Munge is coming down and Joseph is about a half hour away at this point. There are a few others attending to help out tomorrow. The bulk of the work is going to be tomorrow. Tonight is set up and getting a good feel for the process. More photos to follow.
Disaster Master

Social climber
Born in So-Cal, left my soul in far Nor-Cal.
Dec 3, 2010 - 07:42pm PT
WHHOOOO-HHHHOOOOOO!

From another hammer thread, quoting myslf:
A Super supertopoian PMed me and Fronted me the $ for the hammer. Actually ordered it himself, for me, an is having it shipped directly to me! I'd mention them by name, but since they e-mailed me instead of posting the offer I won't.

But DUDE, THANKS!

He said pay him back when I can or when I go climbing with him. A total stranger to me, I believe....

This is the spirit that shows up here occasionaly amid the blah, blah.
My old hammer was stolen. It came to feel like my katana after a while, and I was ashamed and sad when it was gone.

A new sword! Guess I got to stick around and do something new and hard again.

MUCH THANKS.

Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
Dec 3, 2010 - 07:44pm PT
SWEET!! Blue!!

Red A5, Yellow A5, Blue D5. The primary colors.
Mighty Hiker

climber
Vancouver, B.C.
Dec 3, 2010 - 07:46pm PT
I hope you guys drink beer and get hammered tonight. Not necessarily in that order.
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Dec 3, 2010 - 07:51pm PT
Getting a tour of Theron's shop...
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Dec 3, 2010 - 10:13pm PT
Dude, I like Theron's shop. And I've never even been there.
Great things go on there. Oh, yes.
Roxy

Trad climber
CA Central Coast
Dec 3, 2010 - 11:50pm PT
hammer bump
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Dec 4, 2010 - 12:07am PT
Drilling leash holes...
Mighty Hiker

climber
Vancouver, B.C.
Dec 4, 2010 - 12:20am PT
Such exciting lives we lead, on Friday night!
couchmaster

climber
pdx
Dec 4, 2010 - 12:37am PT
Hope you're making minimum wage at least so that you can eventually cover the airfare.....say maybe by 2012/2013 or so.

(formerly a huge picture, much too huge, was in here:-)

Awesome! BUT SEEMS KIND OF BIG!!
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Dec 4, 2010 - 02:12am PT
5x, at least. Yowza! That's a mighty hammer.
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Dec 4, 2010 - 02:31am PT
Done for the. Day...
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 4, 2010 - 04:01am PT
I'm going to hit the hay. We got a lot done. Here are some pics.

Joseph drilling handles:

Joseph learning how to peen the nail over:

Munge giving the handles some TLC:

Modifying the nails into rivets:

Joseph drilling for all he's worth:
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Dec 4, 2010 - 04:01am PT
Theron and I are posting up pics from day one of assembly...


After many other prototyping trials, including Theron working out how to mount the handle and tangs, cut 16p nails
and peen the ends of them on each side of the tangs, sanding off excess blue paint marks from shipping, cutting off
the excess handle after the head is on, and gussying one up with Fish's leash, you get one of these:


We may try moving the brand up to the flat surface under the head, that way we could chuck branding iron in a
milling machine and jig the handle which would give us way more predictable results than trying to hand brand on
a 3D curved surface.

The big job is heading the hammers and peening the tang rivet ends. Took us a bit to sort out how to replicate
John's artful finish work on the peening such that you end up with a very low profile rivet job without any
radial splits in the rivet. Nice.

On it goes, but we're having a good time and bit of adventure doing it. Not quite free soloing, but definitely winging it.
Tons of new-found respect for John figuring this all out in his shop BITD - especially the back and forth with Ajax Forge
over the design of the head - inspired genius.
mucci

Trad climber
The pitch of Bagalaar above you
Dec 4, 2010 - 04:39am PT
I dig where that brand is, but it would be protected under the tape if it is placed under the head ;>

Looks like a great time, with great people at the production wheel.

So Classy.

Cheers!

Mucci



Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Dec 4, 2010 - 09:02am PT
Best episode of the Hammer show yet.
Rock on, ya'll. Woop!
JBC

Trad climber
Tacoma, WA
Dec 4, 2010 - 01:46pm PT
Nice post, love the pics!

Jim
Mighty Hiker

climber
Vancouver, B.C.
Dec 4, 2010 - 01:56pm PT
They've joined the Amalgamated Elves, Witches, Warlocks, Gremlins, Dwarves, Gnomes, Kobolds and Trolls, Local 666.

The union's first project will be to ensure that hammer #176 is a very special hammer.

Let's just say that a little birdie has let them know who's been naughty, and who's been nice.
Disaster Master

Social climber
Born in So-Cal, left my soul in far Nor-Cal.
Dec 4, 2010 - 02:02pm PT
I can not believe how facinated and involved I am feeeling about hammers! My girlfriend is realy starting to worry about me....
Eubanks

Big Wall climber
Dec 4, 2010 - 02:04pm PT
Them be some good look'in hammers.

That D5 on the handle looks great right there.

Good work guys!

Dana
bluering

Trad climber
Santa Clara, CA
Dec 4, 2010 - 02:15pm PT
Nice work, guys. Can't wait to get mine.
BrendenR

Trad climber
Alberta, Canada
Dec 4, 2010 - 02:22pm PT
Bitchin!

Looking forward to that first route with a new hammer.
Brian in SLC

Social climber
Salt Lake City, UT
Dec 4, 2010 - 02:37pm PT
Outstanding!

The "D5" brand is pretty cool. Yes to having it somewhere on the handle. Between the tangs might be nice, but, as someone mentioned, it'd be obscured by tape for some. Which, is fine. Fits nicely there and not a curved surface. Although, I like where you have it above the tool dip. Wonder about on the bottom?

Cheers!

-Brian in SLC

Studly

Trad climber
WA
Dec 4, 2010 - 02:47pm PT
Good job guys! Nice machine shop Theron. I'm sure Joseph can swing a hammer as he has been the main man on anchor replacement up here at Beacon Rock in WA. Earlier this year, he and Bill(Couchmaster) cleaned/inspected a area on Beacon that was the source of a recent large rockfall. Any hammer photos from that adventure?
Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
Dec 4, 2010 - 03:17pm PT
SWEET. Thanks for all the update.

Go with the branding. Ok, either way.

Good luck this weekend.
Ihateplastic

Trad climber
It ain't El Cap, Oregon
Dec 4, 2010 - 03:19pm PT
i will send over current hammer number requests today. Gotta run right now.






healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Dec 4, 2010 - 03:36pm PT
Good rivet peening is a real smitty art if you aren't going to exhaust your arm...

Brands are now up by the head.
HighTraverse

Social climber
Bay Area
Dec 4, 2010 - 08:24pm PT
Well done men!
Theron you've got too many toys!
Great pics and teamwork.
The D5 brand is a grand touch, wherever you place it.
froodish

Social climber
Portland, Oregon
Dec 4, 2010 - 09:31pm PT
A thing of beauty. It's been a real treat having a peek inside the manufacturing of these.

Thanks again to all involved in the effort.

Strider

Trad climber
one of god's mountain temples.... ಠ_ಠ
Dec 5, 2010 - 12:41am PT
Well boys, any pictures from today's efforts???

-n
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 5, 2010 - 02:04am PT
Pics later. We are done for the day and I'm going to get some rest. Hammers are hard work!
bhilden

Trad climber
Mountain View, CA
Dec 5, 2010 - 02:14am PT
Nice job to all the crew! You guys are kicking it and learning Vo Tech job skills as well!

Bruce
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Dec 5, 2010 - 03:04am PT
Guess who showed up to help:


A sure sign that we were getting tired:
Ed Hartouni

Trad climber
Livermore, CA
Dec 5, 2010 - 03:22am PT
Roger Brown?...

who gets the upsidedown hammer?
Jaybro

Social climber
Wolf City, Wyoming
Dec 5, 2010 - 03:34am PT
Paging weld_it!
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Dec 5, 2010 - 09:34am PT
Doh. Outrageous. I'm sure glad that Theron is a damn good QA guy.
I think that's the Mungehammer. ;-)
bluering

Trad climber
Santa Clara, CA
Dec 5, 2010 - 11:32am PT
Holy sh#t, that's a lot of hardware!!! Look at that row of Craftsman toolboxes!

Kick asS$SS!!!
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Dec 5, 2010 - 02:01pm PT
About to hit Stoney Point for the first time.

Will post up some pics of yesterday later tonight...
squatch

Boulder climber
santa cruz, CA
Dec 5, 2010 - 02:13pm PT
hey cool let's start a list of people who want an upside down limited edition D5!

maybe Hartouni- 1
Mungeclimber- 1
Squatch- -1
Johnny Dawes- 4
THOR- 2
Sarah Palin- 3
Moof

Big Wall climber
Orygun
Dec 5, 2010 - 06:29pm PT
Kick ass guys! So seriously, how about a "buy pizza for the crew" widget? Any of you guys got a paypal I can send some $$$ to to help support the build party?
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Dec 5, 2010 - 11:30pm PT
I think that's the Mungehammer. ;-)


oddly, it was my hammer. hahaha... subsequently fixed. :)

My arm was blasted from peening, so Theron did the handle (Theron harmed no other hammers) and tang tapping to prevent a mis-hit and damage to the handle. Maybe I should have. ;)


Joseph is a machine btw! Dude did damn near all the peening and had a real good eye for the craftsmenship. Not to mention Tmoses consistently watching for issues in assembly. So much micro technique to learn.

That's Roger in the red shirt. That guy is another machine!! He spends his spare time doing what? YUP, HAMMERING!!!!

Really great meeting up with these guys to lend a hand. It's an exciting project. It feels like it is connected with the history of small gear shops that kept routes going, walls being established and now all manner of rebolting.
Strider

Trad climber
one of god's mountain temples.... ಠ_ಠ
Dec 5, 2010 - 11:34pm PT
Amazing job guys. Thanks for all the work getting it together!

-n
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Dec 5, 2010 - 11:40pm PT


Top down view of the work area



thx Tmoses!
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Dec 5, 2010 - 11:43pm PT
Best episode of the Great Hammer Show Yet. You guys Rock it all.

Hey, Munge you could've used the upsidedowner fer circleheads, maybe?
;-)
deuce4

climber
Hobart, Australia
Dec 6, 2010 - 12:48am PT
looking good, just like the old days. Congrats to all!


Walt's notes, when he came out to help with the second batch:

PhotogEC

climber
In front of my computer
Dec 6, 2010 - 02:08pm PT
Monday hammer bump!

--Eric
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Dec 6, 2010 - 04:04pm PT
nature

climber
Tuscon Again! India! India! Hawaii! LA?!?!
Dec 6, 2010 - 04:05pm PT
serious hammer envy
steelmnkey

climber
Vision man...ya gotta have vision...
Dec 6, 2010 - 04:25pm PT
Pretty damn cool.

Hammers, check.
What's next in product development?
John Mac

Trad climber
Littleton, CO
Dec 6, 2010 - 04:27pm PT
This is fking amazing to see it come together so well!

Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
Dec 6, 2010 - 04:27pm PT
THANKS BOYS!

For the hammers and updates. Always plenty of steps when assembling gear ;)
Roxy

Trad climber
CA Central Coast
Dec 6, 2010 - 04:28pm PT
Pete Seeger and Lee Hays bump!
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Dec 6, 2010 - 06:00pm PT
This was really cool to see when Theron popped that out at the shop...

Really nice detail...

Moof

Big Wall climber
Orygun
Dec 7, 2010 - 12:41am PT
Bump for awesomeness.
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Dec 7, 2010 - 08:50am PT
D5, man. That's the ticket.
Yeah.
Slakkey

Big Wall climber
From Back to Big Wall Baby
Dec 7, 2010 - 10:01am PT
really cool to see it all come together
JBC

Trad climber
Tacoma, WA
Dec 7, 2010 - 02:28pm PT
Great to see all of the photos! Thanks for all the work on this guys, and thanks for the photos!

Jim
nature

climber
Tuscon Again! India! India! Hawaii! LA?!?!
Dec 7, 2010 - 02:31pm PT
I keep thinking about the comment of locker mistaking the hammer handle as a blue butt plug.

and then I think about just how much grip those handles will have...


and then I think about coffee.







and there's just something not right about the entire thing.
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Dec 7, 2010 - 02:54pm PT

Nature, yoor a sic man!!!!
squishy

Mountain climber
sacramento
Dec 7, 2010 - 03:20pm PT
Some should gather all this stuff for a book...
Disaster Master

Social climber
Born in So-Cal, left my soul in far Nor-Cal.
Dec 7, 2010 - 03:25pm PT
Post #420!
Jaybro

Social climber
Wolf City, Wyoming
Dec 7, 2010 - 03:45pm PT
How many climbers even know what a hammer is, these days, let alone need one?
SteveW

Trad climber
The state of confusion
Dec 7, 2010 - 03:51pm PT

At least those of us that have ordered the D5 model, Jaybro!!!!
Jaybro

Social climber
Wolf City, Wyoming
Dec 7, 2010 - 03:52pm PT
Market saturation?

Actually, I'd like to take one for a test run, when they come out.
Disaster Master

Social climber
Born in So-Cal, left my soul in far Nor-Cal.
Dec 7, 2010 - 04:01pm PT
Squishy wrote:
Some should gather all this stuff for a book...

I e-mailed them about writing an article about the project. No answer yet, but, sh#t, their busy right now, huh?
Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
Dec 7, 2010 - 10:36pm PT
How many climbers even know what a hammer is, these days, let alone need one?

I posted a similar question back in March.

http://www.supertopo.com/climbers-forum/1117057/NEW-A5-and-Chouinard-Hammers-Question

Question??

I have been collecting hammers and watching for more on EBAY and looking at the pics of others that have collections.

Why are there so many hammers that are UNUSED?!?!?

I see like half or the hammers are unused.

Is this going to happen to the D5 hammer??

Do I have to buy 2? One for the mantel and one for climbing??
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Dec 7, 2010 - 10:40pm PT
Mine will get used this Saturday. I guarantee it!

If it rains, parking structures beware!
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Dec 7, 2010 - 10:45pm PT
Oh, yes, Acer. T'will be well used.
Diggin' on the D5!

yowza. Get some, Munge!
squishy

Mountain climber
sacramento
Dec 9, 2010 - 10:13am PT
So what happened, you guys give up?
Prod

Trad climber
Dec 9, 2010 - 10:39am PT
If it rains, parking structures beware!

I hope it rains and I hope you do a TR. Aid Buildering, now we're talking.

Prod.
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Dec 9, 2010 - 11:29am PT
Just got back from SoCal and will be sorting out working on sorting out the #'s this evening. Will keep you posted.
JBC

Trad climber
Tacoma, WA
Dec 9, 2010 - 03:02pm PT
Just got back from SoCal and will be sorting out working on sorting out the #'s this evening. Will keep you posted.

You guys got the easy part done - making the hammers - now comes the hard part, sorting out all those numbers & shipping them! :)

Jim
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
Dec 9, 2010 - 09:18pm PT
bump for k-man
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Dec 9, 2010 - 10:03pm PT
Prod, There's a building nearby(sorta) just beggin' for a few 'Hawks.
Guerrilla aiding, perhaps? Hmm.
I'd like to put a Viking hat on the Moroni statue(nearby also), but it's too thin! (well lit, too....need a ninja)
Damn Craftsmen. Yarrrr.
Slakkey

Big Wall climber
From Back to Big Wall Baby
Dec 9, 2010 - 10:07pm PT
Oh I like the aid buildering concept. I got the hawks, hammer on the way, cool
Captain...or Skully

Big Wall climber
leading the away team, but not in a red shirt!
Dec 9, 2010 - 10:20pm PT
I have some cash put away to make bail, just in case, eh?
;-)
No worries.
jeff_m

climber
somewhere fairly insignificant
Jan 10, 2011 - 01:53pm PT
I was fortunate enough to be able to head up to Theron's and help out over the weekend. A great group and a damn cool project. If everybody knew how much time, effort and patience (and care) went into this, no one would be whinging.







Thanks again everybody. Great work of art (and especially, long-term utility)!
PhotogEC

climber
In front of my computer
Feb 9, 2011 - 12:18pm PT
Looking back through this thread, it's amazing the amount of work Theron and crew put into these awesome hammers.

Damn.

--Eric
deuce4

climber
Hobart, Australia
Feb 14, 2011 - 03:22pm PT
All the way to Tasmania...

Thank you very much Theron, Joseph, Munge, and all the others who made this possible. I am pleased and honored my design has been superbly brought back to production, 25 years later. Cheers, John Middendorf.
couchmaster

climber
pdx
Feb 14, 2011 - 03:40pm PT

Thank you very much Theron, Joseph, Munge, and all the others who made this possible. I am honored my design has been superbly brought back to production, 25 years later. Cheers, John Middendorf.
It is all of us who need to thank you John. Your sweet, well designed and built hammer seemed to be selling for a substantial premium over what the competition use to go for back in the day. The quality was worth the price, but for those of us who always wanted an A5 hammer but didn't have any money, the D5 gave us a chance to get something we had wished for in our youth. Furthermore, your free sharing of both design knowledge, prints, sourcing and build issues was critically important.

I understand that even though Conrad didn't own the rights for the hammer so no permission was needed from him, I still hope that the Kumbu Sherpas were happy recipients of the largess and generosity. Folks are damn poor over there and they can use all the help they can get.

Anyone get a $ count on how much we were able to help them?

Win win win. Woot!
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Apr 24, 2011 - 11:03pm PT
I have a bunch of handles and leashes left over. Some tangs and rivets also. They are just taking up space and I'd love to get rid of them at cost plus shipping. I'll dig the prices up shortly and post them until then you can dig them up out of the previous info. Contact me by PM through this site or through http://mosesclimbing.com/contact-us/ .
Captain...or Skully

climber
or some such
Apr 25, 2011 - 09:00am PT
Moses bump.
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Apr 25, 2011 - 04:48pm PT
Theron, I'll give you a shout.
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Apr 27, 2011 - 01:09am PT
(2)Tangs = 3.18
Handle = 2.84
Leash = 2.72
Tang Nail/Rivet = 0.20

Shipping? I hate flat feeing everybody and overcharging some but it is the easiest. $8.00 to ConUS via UPS.

Pay by Check, Money Order, or Paypal. We don't take no stinkin' credit cards.

I'll get back to those who emailed tomorrow with the same info.
Moof

Big Wall climber
Orygun
May 9, 2011 - 01:02am PT
I'm pretty sure #44 is the first D5 up the Trip. It got used to tap a few fixed pin on P5 back in place after 6 months of freeze thaw, but the biggest use was smashing cans at the top.



Acer

Big Wall climber
AZ
May 9, 2011 - 01:59am PT
I am sure I will be emailing for some extra parts.

Right on D5.

healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
May 9, 2011 - 03:28am PT
Thank you very much Theron, Joseph, Munge, and all the others who made this possible. I am pleased and honored my design has been superbly brought back to production, 25 years later. Cheers, John Middendorf.

I somehow missed when I posted back to Theron about the spare parts...

John, seconding Couchmaster's comments, it was definitely our pleasure to be able to bring it back - it is just a superb piece of design and engineering. The group of us who built them appreciate that all the more having reproduced it as well as we could. Feel the same way about your rope buckets of which I have five of now and just got outbid on another one the other day on ebay.

"Brilliant!" is what I believe they say Down Under - so, thanks so much for all your help on the project and I hope all is well with you and yours down in Tasmania.
andy@climbingmoab

Big Wall climber
Denver, CO
May 9, 2011 - 10:00am PT
Mine has put in anchors, a few lead bolts, and a few pins on two new routes in the desert:

FA of the Siren, a previously unclimbed tower in Desolation Canyon:

FA of Moon River on the Forward Lookout in Mee Canyon:

Great hammer.
utahman912

Social climber
SLC, UT
May 24, 2011 - 12:32pm PT
http://cgi.ebay.com/A5-D5-Big-Wall-Hammer-AID-CLIMBING-black-diamond-/260789745867?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3cb847b8cb#ht_500wt_1156

It ain't me... but someone is selling one

jb
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
May 24, 2011 - 12:41pm PT
why wouldn't they offer it up for sale here first?
Mighty Hiker

climber
Vancouver, B.C.
May 24, 2011 - 12:57pm PT
I'm still looking for a new holster - the kind made of plastic, semi-rigid, that you put on a belt. Anyone?
Mighty Hiker

climber
Vancouver, B.C.
May 24, 2011 - 01:25pm PT
But will it be kosher, and halal? If I can't use it on Saturdays, that won't be a lot of help.
MTucker

Ice climber
Arizona
May 24, 2011 - 02:44pm PT
It was just a matter of time.

utahman912 is not ut4242 (11) ???
utahman912

Social climber
SLC, UT
May 24, 2011 - 02:55pm PT
utahman912 is not ut4242 (11) ???

nope... #056 will be buried with me... unless one of you booties it out of my coffin :-)
couchmaster

climber
pdx
May 24, 2011 - 05:19pm PT
Ask what number is is Jeff......BTW, free market baby, sell it if you can get it, someone out there probably is hot to get one of these. Woot!
mucci

Trad climber
The pitch of Bagalaar above you
May 24, 2011 - 05:21pm PT
The hammers ARE numbered.

And there IS a list with names to #s.....

GET SOME FATTY!!!!
Brian in SLC

Social climber
Salt Lake City, UT
May 24, 2011 - 06:13pm PT
Bold, with no reserve either.

Hmm...could save on shipping if I picked it up in person...ha ha...
Slakkey

Big Wall climber
From Back to Big Wall Baby
May 24, 2011 - 06:25pm PT
The shame of it. 8 bids and only $ 41.00 bucks so far. Its worth 3 times that. Took mine to the Valley last week did not get to use it as I would have liked to with the rain and snow. You wont see mine on Flea Bay etc. never when its all said and done for me. Will pass it on to some deserving soul to keep the flame alive.
utahman912

Social climber
SLC, UT
May 24, 2011 - 06:26pm PT
it's gonna be really hard to avoid jumping into the bidding war for this thing, isn't it?
couchmaster

climber
pdx
May 24, 2011 - 06:28pm PT
it's gonna be really hard to avoid jumping into the bidding war for this thing, isn't it?

Nah, easy. I don't need 3 of them. Actually, 5 total if you count the 2 A5's as well.
MTucker

Ice climber
Arizona
May 24, 2011 - 06:53pm PT
The shame is that some of you are actually bidding and are just going to drive the cost up. On each other.

Make that traitor suffer.

No bids.

But if you do, at least wait 6 days to make him sweat.
mucci

Trad climber
The pitch of Bagalaar above you
May 24, 2011 - 08:30pm PT
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=260789745867&ssPageName=ADME:X:RTQ:US:1123

Somebody asked what #

189 BITCHEZ!!!

TAR AND FEATHER!!!!
MTucker

Ice climber
Arizona
May 24, 2011 - 11:02pm PT
THAT IS MY FAVORITE NUMBER!!
couchmaster

climber
pdx
May 24, 2011 - 11:04pm PT
I thought you already sold all 3 of yours Mtucker:-)
MTucker

Ice climber
Arizona
May 24, 2011 - 11:42pm PT
I did. But I like this one.

At least I sold mine here.
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - May 25, 2011 - 12:11am PT
They are ALL numbered and I still have the master list.

I think it is lame that the ebay hammer is only going for $51 right now. Maybe I should put a few bids on it. ;)

Good to see Moff and others gettin' some! I think one of the greatest complements is that the hammer are getting used. That is a complement to John that his design has stood the test of time. It is also a complement to all the people that contributed to the project.
Moof

Big Wall climber
Orygun
May 25, 2011 - 12:33am PT
Up to $91 plus $10 shipping, officially bid up higher than the original selling price.
Captain...or Skully

climber
or some such
May 25, 2011 - 12:42am PT
Of course. That's a real tool, there. For Use!
With Wild abandon.



Woot!
T Moses

Big Wall climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - May 26, 2011 - 03:31am PT
You gotta say it like this:

WITH WILD ABANDON!



WOOT!

(It deserves it.)
Captain...or Skully

climber
or some such
May 26, 2011 - 08:14am PT
Good point, Theron. I sit corrected.
HaHa! Groove on, my friend.
jsb

Trad climber
Bay area
May 28, 2011 - 07:12pm PT
RIP: D5 #005

I lent it to a friend to who wanted a hammer for Zodiac and it somehow fell to its doom halfway up the climb is now MIA. Luckily nobody was hurt.
couchmaster

climber
pdx
May 28, 2011 - 08:55pm PT
Now your friend can replace it with the
#189 on Ebay! Schweet!
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
May 29, 2011 - 02:21am PT
RIP: D5 #005

I lent it to a friend to who wanted a hammer for Zodiac and it somehow fell to its doom halfway up the climb is now MIA. Luckily nobody was hurt.

If it's ever found and the head is intact it can be rehandled if need be.
jsb

Trad climber
Bay area
May 29, 2011 - 04:20am PT
That... would be awesome. I might have to go talus diving sometime soon. :)
Roger Brown

climber
Oceano, California
Jun 1, 2011 - 11:30am PT
I used the D5 for the first time yesterday. It turns out that it is a "Singing Hammer" it rings when it hits the drill holder. Cool!! It held up well and I will use it again today. It had a real good feel to it.
Roger
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Jun 1, 2011 - 05:27pm PT
And you didn't die? Way glad to hear it...
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Jul 6, 2011 - 03:59pm PT
I just pinged Theron and he should be getting back to you pretty quick...
Lambone

Ice climber
Ashland, Or
Jul 6, 2011 - 04:22pm PT
I liked the D5. The edges were a little sharp, but I think they will round out with use. Need to find a biner that can swivel freely through the hole, and I might take a file to the inside edge of that biner hole to round it out.
Captain...or Skully

climber
or some such
Jul 6, 2011 - 11:40pm PT


And you didn't die? Way glad to hear it..

Pretty funny, Healyje.
HighTraverse

Trad climber
Bay Area
Jul 7, 2011 - 12:04pm PT
and I might take a file to the inside edge of that biner hole to round it out
What good is a tool you can't modify to suit your taste?
Gonna put flame stripes on the handle?
Glad you like it
D5 Chief Tang Peener
HighTraverse

Trad climber
Bay Area
Jul 7, 2011 - 05:24pm PT
not gonna believe it without a pic
couchmaster

climber
pdx
Sep 9, 2012 - 11:45pm PT
#50 is up for sale now. http://www.ebay.com/itm/Rare-D5-Big-Wall-aid-piton-hammer-serial-050-/280959548666?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item416a7e7cfa

At $91 after 13 bids with 6 days left.
T Moses

Social climber
Paso Robles
Topic Author's Reply - Sep 9, 2012 - 11:48pm PT
It's good to see they are still appreciated.

I still have lots of spare parts available.
Minerals

Social climber
The Deli
Sep 10, 2012 - 12:30am PT
Let’s make some McD hammers!!!

: )
Shack

Big Wall climber
Reno NV
Sep 10, 2012 - 12:37am PT
Let’s make some McD hammers!!!

the Shack Hammer...
Clint Cummins

Trad climber
SF Bay area, CA
Sep 10, 2012 - 04:27am PT
D5 in action a week ago. Note that Roger "chokes up" on the handle.
hoipolloi

climber
A friends backyard with the neighbors wifi
Sep 10, 2012 - 07:31am PT
I'll never sell mine.

You will never pry it from my hands. It's been on... 15ish el cap routes, 1 fisher towers route, 1 first ascent, several other walls in the valley. It's going to zion this winter, maybe patagonia in january and Baffin this spring.

Regret that I didn't buy two...


Theron, do you have extra handles? I chipped mine at the base pretty bad...
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
Sep 10, 2012 - 08:16am PT
That's gratifying to hear. I believe Theron has handles still, and I have a spare one if he doesn't.
nature

climber
Boulder, CO
Sep 10, 2012 - 09:51am PT
#100 is still a virgin. sadly....
couchmaster

climber
pdx
Sep 15, 2012 - 10:12pm PT
Edit update:

#50 SOLD: Ended:
Sep 15, 2012 23:11:20 PDT

Winning bid: US $179.49
[ 22 bids ]
Shipping:
$10.00 Expedited Shipping
John Butler

Social climber
SLC, Utah
May 15, 2014 - 03:16pm PT
another one comes up for auction...

D5-Limited-Edition-Piton-Hammer-Brand-New-Made-By-T-Moses-036-copy-of-A5-hammer

Not near as nice as mine:

HighTraverse

Trad climber
Bay Area
May 15, 2014 - 03:41pm PT
The D5 Lives!
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
May 15, 2014 - 04:03pm PT
It was a fun if long project which never would have been possible without John, Conrad and Theron's help. And thanks again to all the folks who came to Theron's shop volunteering to do all the assembling - that was especially cool.
nature

climber
Boulder, CO
May 15, 2014 - 06:42pm PT
#036. cool.

#100 looks just like that one :\
healyje

Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
May 22, 2014 - 02:12pm PT
Congrats to someone at $162...
John Butler

Social climber
SLC, Utah
May 22, 2014 - 03:15pm PT
Adamame

climber
Santa Cruz
Sep 27, 2014 - 09:37am PT
Are there any extra handles in existence for the D5? Mine split down the shaft. It could be repaired but I would rather replace with a new one to renew its integrity.
Mungeclimber

Trad climber
Nothing creative to say
Sep 27, 2014 - 11:20am PT
Adam, email Theron. I think he kept some spares around. It's a limited supply though.
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