AQM, you would probably be surprised how quick the leather would let go on the edges. Also the hide on those two-sided hammers doesn't last very long if the hammer is used in anger.
"Original equipment" on my old 4/4 was a 10 lbs. copper Hammer.
In my opinion best choice is the tool from the MG site, which is also available on the website of angloparts
http://www.anglodesign.be/images_ap/Toolcatalogue_2005.pdf Frank
The MG Toool is good- I recently bought one and have just used to take all four wheels off and then replace them- but you have to guard against it marking the spinner itself when it is used. I tried rubber but have now come up with a small square of chamois leather which I just slip over the spinner before I fit the tool.
So far as hide-headed mallets are concerned, I agree that the hide side does 'let go' but a way around this is to buy a hgood wuality hammer which has replacebale faces ( I use a 'Thor' and find it excellent)
G
