The Wilson Hammer tennis racket was designed by Don Wilson, who is also credited with inventing the modern backhand. The racket was first made in 1978, and it quickly became one of the most popular rackets on the market.

In 1990 Wilson introduced the more user friendly Hammer technology which provided the recreational player with more power and the largest sweet spot of any racquets of it's time. The Hammer 2.7si weighed only 10oz and was one of the lightest and most powerful racquets. The Sledge Hammer 3.8 released in 1993 took the Hammer system one step further.

The Wilson Hammer burst onto the tennis scene in the early 1990s, during a time of transition in the sport. Tennis was evolving, becoming faster-paced and more aggressive. Wilson Sporting Goods, a trusted name in tennis equipment, recognized the need for a racket that could adapt to this changing landscape.