Introduction
This manual provides essential information for the safe and effective use, maintenance, and care of your Stanley FMHT51306 FatMax 17 oz High Velocity Hammer. Please read this manual thoroughly before using the tool and retain it for future reference.
The Stanley FMHT51306 FatMax 17oz High Velocity Hammer incorporates High Velocity technology for enhanced impact. It features an Anti-Vibe handle grip to reduce vibrations and a magnetic nail starter for convenient one-handed nail placement. The precision-balanced head ensures user comfort and control. This model is a rip claw hammer with a checkered face and a 17oz head weight.
Safety Information
Always follow basic safety precautions when using hand tools to reduce the risk of injury.
- Wear Eye Protection: Always wear safety glasses or goggles that comply with ANSI Z87.1 standards to protect against flying debris.
- Inspect Tool Before Use: Before each use, check the hammer for any signs of damage, such as cracks in the handle, a loose head, or excessive wear. Do not use a damaged hammer.
- Proper Grip: Hold the hammer firmly near the end of the handle for maximum leverage and control.
- Strike Squarely: Always strike the nail head squarely. Off-center strikes can cause the nail to bend or fly off, and can damage the hammer face.
- Clear Work Area: Ensure your work area is clear of obstructions and bystanders.
- Avoid Overstriking: Do not strike hardened objects, such as other hammers, chisels, or steel. This can cause chipping or fracturing of the hammer face or the object being struck.
- Use for Intended Purpose: This hammer is designed for driving and pulling nails. Do not use it as a pry bar, wedge, or for striking other tools.
- Storage: Store the hammer in a dry, secure place, out of reach of children.
Product Features
- High Velocity Technology: Engineered to facilitate a faster swing, resulting in greater impact force.
- Anti-Vibe Handle Grip: Designed to reduce vibrations transmitted to the user, enhancing comfort and control during prolonged use.
- Precision Balanced Head: Optimally weighted head for improved user comfort and precise control during striking.
- Magnetic Nail Starter: Allows for convenient one-handed nail placement, improving efficiency and safety.
- Rip Claw Design: Features a rip claw for effective nail removal and prying tasks.
- Checkered Face: Provides a textured surface on the hammer face to reduce glancing blows and improve nail driving accuracy.

Image 1: Side view of the Stanley FMHT51306 FatMax 17 oz High Velocity Hammer, showcasing the handle and head design.
Setup
- Unpacking: Carefully remove the hammer from its packaging.
- Initial Inspection: Before first use, visually inspect the hammer for any manufacturing defects or shipping damage. Ensure the head is securely attached to the handle and the grip is intact.
- Familiarization: Hold the hammer to get a feel for its balance and grip.
Operating Instructions
Driving Nails
- Positioning the Nail: Place the nail at the desired location. For one-handed starting, use the magnetic nail starter by placing the nail head into the magnetic slot on the hammer face.
- Starting the Nail: Hold the hammer handle firmly. With a light tap, drive the nail just enough to stand on its own. If not using the magnetic starter, hold the nail between your thumb and forefinger, then tap it gently. Remove your fingers once the nail is stable.
- Driving the Nail: Position yourself comfortably. Swing the hammer in a controlled arc, striking the nail head squarely with the hammer face. Utilize the High Velocity technology by allowing a natural, swift swing. Continue striking until the nail is flush or countersunk as required.
Removing Nails (Rip Claw)
- Positioning the Claw: Slide the V-shaped notch of the rip claw under the head of the nail. Ensure a secure grip on the nail head.
- Leverage: Use the hammer head as a fulcrum. Apply steady, upward pressure on the handle to pry the nail out. For longer nails or stubborn nails, you may need to reposition the hammer or use a block of wood under the hammer head for increased leverage and to protect the work surface.

Image 2: Angled view of the Stanley FMHT51306 FatMax 17 oz High Velocity Hammer, highlighting the rip claw and magnetic nail starter.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: After each use, wipe down the hammer head and handle with a clean, dry cloth to remove dirt, dust, and debris.
- Rust Prevention: If the hammer head is exposed to moisture, ensure it is thoroughly dried to prevent rust. A light coat of oil can be applied to the metal parts for long-term storage in humid environments.
- Storage: Store the hammer in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Hanging the hammer by its handle or storing it in a tool box is recommended.
- Handle Integrity: Periodically check the Anti-Vibe handle grip for any signs of wear, tears, or looseness. A damaged grip can affect control and comfort.
Troubleshooting
- Hammer Head Feels Loose: If the hammer head appears loose, discontinue use immediately. A loose head can be dangerous. This hammer is designed with a permanently attached head; if it becomes loose, it indicates a defect or severe damage, and the tool should be replaced.
- Reduced Impact Force: Ensure you are using proper technique, gripping the hammer near the end of the handle, and allowing a full, controlled swing. The High Velocity technology relies on user technique for optimal performance.
- Nails Bending or Flying Off: This usually indicates an improper strike. Ensure you are striking the nail head squarely and not at an angle. The checkered face helps reduce glancing blows, but proper technique is still essential.
- Difficulty Removing Nails: Ensure the claw is fully engaged under the nail head. For stubborn nails, apply steady, increasing pressure and use a fulcrum (like a wood block) for better leverage.
Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Brand | STANLEY |
| Model Number | FMHT51306 |
| Head Material | Alloy Steel |
| Handle Material | Fiberglass, Stainless Steel |
| Item Weight | 1.8 Pounds (approx. 0.82 kg) |
| Head Weight | 17 Ounce (approx. 482 g) |
| Grip Type | Textured or Ergonomic (Anti-Vibe) |
| Head Style | Flat, Checkered Face |
| Claw Type | Rip Claw |
| Product Dimensions | 16.8 x 5.8 x 1.35 inches (approx. 42.7 x 14.7 x 3.4 cm) |
| UPC | 076174513066 |
Warranty Information
The Stanley FMHT51306 FatMax 17 oz High Velocity Hammer is covered by a Limited Lifetime Warranty. This warranty covers defects in material and workmanship. For specific terms, conditions, and claim procedures, please refer to the official STANLEY warranty documentation or contact STANLEY customer support.
Support
For further assistance, product inquiries, or warranty claims, please contact STANLEY customer support.
- Online Support: Visit the official STANLEY website for FAQs, product registration, and contact forms.
- Customer Service: Refer to the contact information provided on the product packaging or the official STANLEY website for phone numbers and email addresses.





