Thanks to all for your replies. I have accumulated a few hammers and I am always looking at junk stores, flea markets, and etc. I still have not found the right hammer yet. I have read threads in the past that talked about hammers being balanced, and such, but have not found it yet. I am looking for something that makes as dramatic a difference in my smithing as the "new" claw hammer made in my nailing.
I am a machinist by trade. I have made all types of hammers. They were just a means to an end. An object on the end of a handle to beat with. I am looking for something more. I have never tried to forge a hammer, they have always been machined from what ever material was needed for that particular task.
Richard, the main hammer I am using now is a cross pein hammer that was re-handled. It works. It just does not have "that" feel. I do not know if it is the hammer head or the handle or both that needs to be adjusted. Or if it is me.
Dj, I will definitely check out the video you mentioned.
Fe-Wood, Do you modify store bought handles or do you make you own?
Thanks again for all you thoughts and comments,
canman