I just bought the 3 lb and 4 lb versions of this mallet for use in my hobby wood shop. These are durable hammers that should last for many decades if you're not trying to hammer nails with them. The grip is *light* but slippery, but I think the deep ribs on the grip counteract that. The 4 pound version is a beast and its power should not be shown disrespectfully to the object you encounter. My only complaint is that there is a distinct vertical seam on either side of the hammer that stands out proudly against the rest of the plastic. I'm afraid this might damage the softwood. I took a sharp chisel, then sandpaper and smoothed the seam. Good to go now. I would still buy it again if needed.