The shipping box was broken when the hammer arrived. It looks like the box was dropped and the hammer smashed it; he tried to smash things like a hammer should. I noticed that the handle was slightly deformed; almost imperceptible curve for first 10 inches from head. I would like to point out that this is not a problem for me. Anyway, the next day at work I used this hammer to drive in earth stakes. Several times the head missed and hit the handle. There are few circular impact marks that would normally tear a traditional handle. So far I'm quite satisfied. Also, the head is literally a bright neon orange color; it's a bit uncomfortable in the sun. Got an 8 lb head with a 30 inch grip.