A hammer or other hand tool has a head to which is attached a handle. The handle has a plurality of spring steel rods extending substantially the length of the handle and extending into the head where the rods are affixed by a plate. Spacer plates with holes are positioned at spaced locations along the rods. The rods and spacer plates are encased in a rubber material that forms the outer surface of the handle. The rods and spacer plates at the end of the handle form a reinforced lanyard hole. A collar is formed on the handle adjacent the head. The head of the hammer has angled deflecting pads adjacent the striking faces. A raised rim on the head opposite the handle forms a stand surface to enable the barrel shaped head to stand with the handle projecting upwardly.