Even though I don't recommend it, I think a couple taps with a hammer would have netted better results than this (though, it is more likely to net worse results...just don't do it!).

You mean the KIYer method =)

In light of the numerous anecdotal evidence of successful stiction resolutions using percussive maintenance, I'm wondering whether a casual, cynical observer may view that statement as FUD. In fact, I'm wondering on what evidence you can confidently claim that striking a stiction affected drive is "likely to net worse results".

Don't get me wrong. After repairing numerous head crashes in the old storage module monsters, I cringe at the thought of heads landing *anywhere* on the platters, even in their designated landing zones. Even scarier is the thought of people carrying rotating hard drives in their pockets.

That said, I've been watching various hard drive forums for many years and can't recall a single instance where a smack on the casing has gone wrong. It seems to me that the most likely outcome is complete success. In any case, in the event of failure, I suspect that most drives would be either replaced under warranty, or trashed. Maybe 1 in 100 would be sent for professional recovery, and even that drive may show no additional damage. Furthermore, if a drive were damaged by this unorthodox method, then how would you be able to discern the cause of such damage? If a head were torn off, what is to say that motor torque of itself was not enough to cause the damage?