You're spot on with your hammer comments. In my experience, people who have trouble with hammers are swinging from the elbow or wrist, rather than the shoulder. For optimal hammering, hold the handle as far down as you can, and put your index finger along the spine. It's satisfying to drive 12d nails!

I highly recommend Estwing hammers. (http://www.estwing.com/product.php?product_id=400) The 16" 22oz. drives like a 2x4 was built of butter!