"As a career carpenter with 25+ years in the trades I've used the same axe style 14oz American Stiletto head for well over 10 years. And absolutely love it. The transition from the indestructible 24oz steel Estwig was definitely worth every wooden handle I've replaced over the years. As with any tool you learn to do things a little different to compensate  for the advantages versus the disadvantages. The constant ring of the steel that goes from the hand to the shoulder definitely did its damage to  the wrist elbow and shoulder. Along with the added weight of the steel. My biggest regret was not owning one sooner. I prefer the wood over the all metal frame mainly to eliminate the vibration. That's purely preferential I'm sure others prefer the metal frame. Along with the author I had never heard of Mark Martinez. But I'm glad I read the article and found it very informative. I had heard that Stiletto had started manufacturing out of country and was very disappointed,hence the buyout it makes sense. I'm glad to see the original designer gets to bring his product back with the improvements and made in USA stamp. Hats off to Mark  Martinez. Buy one it's the best investment you will make in a hammer. "