Hammer Throw Selection Guide
Choosing the right hammer depends on your experience level, throwing distance, and competition goals. From turned iron developmental hammers to Olympic-grade Nishi competition models, this guide helps you match the right implement to the right athlete.
Recommendations from Coach Scott Cappos — Big Ten Coach for 25 years at Iowa and Nebraska.
Quick Answer
Most high school athletes start with a turned iron or Polanik steel hammer. Collegiate and competitive-level throwers typically move to Polanik stainless steel. The Nishi is the benchmark for elite and international competition.
Hammer Options by Level
Turned Iron Hammer
Ideal for practice and competition for less-experienced athletes.
- Durable turned iron ball, steel wire, and aluminum handle
- Available in various weights for heavy-light training
- Best for developmental-level athletes
Best for: Beginners & developmental athletes
Polanik Steel Hammer Most Popular
Ideal balance between performance and value. The top choice for most competitive high school and collegiate throwers.
- Smallest diameter steel ball available
- Aluminum wire and handle included
- Available in 4 kilo, 12 lb, 6 kilo, and 7.26 kilo
Best for: Mid-to-upper high school & collegiate throwers
Stainless Steel Hammers (Polanik & Thrower X)
Durable stainless steel construction with a small-diameter ball for maximum rotational speed.
- High-quality wire and aluminum handle
- Available in 4 kilo, 12 lb, 6 kilo, and 7.26 kilo
- Best competition use for national-level hammer throwers
Best for: National-level & elite competitors
Nishi Hammer Elite
Considered the best hammer in the world. Trusted by Olympic champions across multiple Games.
- Lightweight aluminum handle
- Galvanized steel wire
- Optimized center of gravity
- Ultra-fast rotating swivel
- Available in 4 kilo and 7.26 kilo
Best for: Olympic & international competition
Hammer Weights Quick Reference
| Division | Weight |
|---|---|
| High School Girls & Women | 4 kg (8.82 lb) |
| High School Boys | 12 lb (5.44 kg) |
| Collegiate Women & Open | 4 kg (8.82 lb) |
| Collegiate Men & Open | 7.26 kg (16 lb) |
Coaching Insight from Throws Pro
Heavy-light training at competition diameter is one of the most proven methods for adding distance in the hammer. We carry training hammers in a full range of weights to support this system at every level.
Shop Hammers
Also throwing the weight? See the Indoor Weight Throw Selection Guide →
Not sure which hammer fits your athlete?
Contact us: sales@throwspro.com or call (402) 318-1070.
