No, I didn't change the hammer . For some reason I was under the assumption that only the P-Rod required the JB Weld trick. That would explain the lower velocities.

Not a big deal, though. At least I now know what the problem is

If I was to cut a notch/groove in the rear portion of hammer, would the JB Weld filler still be needed in the waist? I'm guessing no? Or would the extra weight (albeit small) of the filled waist be an advantage as opposed to lightening the hammer by cutting said notch?

Thanks for the info, greatly appreciated!

Todd