The key to long use of any wooden handled tool is to keep it dry and well oiled. Repeat cycling of hot/cold and dry/wet conditions could cause the wood to swell and contract, resulting in a loose handle.
To combat this, the hammers are shipping sealed in plastic to prevent moisture ingress during shipping. I have also supplied a hammer handle step wedge should it one day be required.
The best way to protect the steel of the head is to wipe it with boiled linseed oil or another lightweight oil will suffice.
