Tuning hammers for tuners are like bats for baseball players: the smallest difference in weight, leverage, or shape is significant. The way the socket fits on the pin (how the diameter taper profile of the socket matches that of the tuning pin) matters greatly. There exists a noticeable variation in tuning pins between sets.
In 1885, Francis Hale introduced the interchangeable tuning pin tip (rather than the previous necessity for changing out the entire tuning lever head) to accommodate this. The length and angle of the head in relation to the shaft is also important.
Tuning hammers are the tool that piano technicians pick up the most often; it is used for tuning, stringing, and in voicing the piano. Because of this, tuners develop a sensitivity to the lever and pin, and can have an awareness of the subtle differences that distinguish one tuning hammer from another.
Famous Tools Manufacturers:
Erlandsens
Hale
Mueller
A. Dolge
Leon Pinet
Charles H. Lang
From: Martin Shepherd
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