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10 Best Hammer Drills for Tough Jobs of 2024

Updated
Hammer drills pack a punch and make drilling concrete, rock and brick easy.

Drills are among the oldest and most trusted tools in the world, with the versatility to make holes in almost any material with the right bit. However, there are times when a standard rotary drill won’t be up to the task.

If you are drilling but the hole isn’t becoming any deeper, you might need a hammer drill to help you break through hard materials. Hammer drills are important tools for masons and anyone working on demolition or construction projects, but it is important to choose your tool carefully.

To help you find the best hammer drill for the job, we have reviewed ten of the most highly-rated models from some of the leading names in power tools. We chose these hammer drills for their power, versatility, chuck type, and whether they are corded or cordless.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Makita HR2475 Rotary Hammer Drill
Best for Rock
Makita HR2475 Rotary Hammer Drill
  • Synchronized BPM and RPM
  • Torque-limiting clutch
  • Quickly penetrates rock
Product Image of the Bosch SDS Rotary Hammer RH328VC
Best for Tile
Bosch SDS Rotary Hammer RH328VC
  • Leading brand
  • Two-step vibration control
  • Three-speed trigger
Product Image of the DeWALT 20V XR Hammer Drill
Best Cordless Hammer Drill
DeWALT 20V XR Hammer Drill
  • Cordless
  • Charge lasts 57% longer than average
  • Made in the USA
Product Image of the Bosch 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme
Best for Concrete
Bosch 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme
  • D-shaped handle
  • Value for money
  • Tool-free bit replacement
Product Image of the DeWALT DW511 Hammer Drill
Best Lightweight Hammer Drill
DeWALT DW511 Hammer Drill
  • Multi-position handle
  • Suitable for DIYers
  • Leading brand
Product Image of the Eneacro Heavy Duty
Best Hammer Drill With Vibration Control
Eneacro Heavy Duty
  • For heavy duty use
  • Four drilling modes
  • 360-degree handle
Product Image of the Skil 6448-04 Hammer Drill
Best Corded Hammer Drill
Skil 6448-04 Hammer Drill
  • Weighs just 5.5 pounds
  • Drills almost any material
  • Converts into drill driver
Product Image of the Makita XPH12Z 18V Cordless Drill
Best Brushless Motor Hammer Drill
Makita XPH12Z 18V Cordless Drill
  • Brushless motor
  • Variable speed control
  • Cordless
Product Image of the Black+Decker Hammer Drill
Best for Brick
Black+Decker Hammer Drill
  • Budget-friendly
  • Keyless chuck
  • 6-amp motor
Product Image of the Milwaukee 5380-21 Hammer Drill
Best Heavy-Duty Hammer Drill
Milwaukee 5380-21 Hammer Drill
  • 9-amp motor
  • Integral clutch
  • 5-year warranty

Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, we take pride in our comprehensive and hands-on evaluation of the best hammer drills on the market. Our professional team conducts rigorous testing using a set of criteria, including performance, user experience, and design choices, to provide you with accurate and reliable results. We compare and rank these tools, highlighting what sets each product apart from its competitors, and identify key decision-making factors such as power, durability, comfort, and value for money. Our reviews are based on facts, findings from our tests, and first-hand data, making us a trusted source for your tool assessment needs. We don’t just review, we delve deep into the heart of the product to demonstrate our expertise, helping you make the best choice.



The Best Hammer Drills of 2024

Hammer drills are used by a wide range of different professionals and DIYers, so there are plenty of models to choose from, including some made by the top power tool brands. To save you some time when looking for the best hammer drill, we have reviewed ten of the best drills you can buy today, chosen for their drilling power, energy source, and chuck type.

Makita HR2475 Rotary Hammer Drill

Best Hammer Drill for Rock

Makita is one of the most respected names in power tools, and this rotary hammer drill is a great example of why. It features a torque-limiting clutch that automatically disengages the gears if the bit binds. This prevents unnecessary wear and tear to the gears and the drill as a whole.

It has three modes of operation: hammer, hammer with rotation, and rotation only. It also has an ergonomic D-shaped handle for added comfort and precise control. The only downside of this drill is it exclusively accepts SDS attachments, so not all drill bits will fit.

What We Like

Fast Drilling

Thanks to synchronized BPM and RPM, this Makita drill works twice as quickly as many drills with similar designs. You will be able to get a lot more drilling done in the same amount of time.

Torque-Limiting Clutch

If the drill bit binds in the hole, this drill’s torque limiter stops the gears immediately instead of potentially damaging them. This can prevent a lot of wear and tear when working with tough materials.

Easily Penetrates Rock

This Makita hammer drill is designed for heavy-duty tasks, so it is ideal for drilling through rock. The BPM and synchronized RPM mean you will have plenty of torque to make holes in materials that would otherwise be impassable.

What We Don't Like

Limited Drill Attachments

SDS chucks are not universal, so you won’t be able to use every drill bit and attachment. Compatible bits are also more expensive, but they will be more secure once fitted into the drill.

Limited Use

These rotary hammer drills are specialist tools, with more power than you will need for general DIY. You are unlikely to need one for basic tasks such as hanging up pictures.

Product Specs

Weight 10.7 pounds
BPM 4,500
RPM 1,100
Amps 7 amps
Cost $$
Warranty 1-year

Our Ratings

Power
4.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

User Experience

If you're looking for an upgrade from a standard hammer drill, this rotary hammer might be the tool for you. The SDS chuck was a noteworthy feature in my experience, providing a safer, simpler, and faster bit-changing process than the Jacobs style chuck I was previously familiar with. However, the adjustable handle proved a bit challenging to adjust, especially when transitioning between storage and operating positions.

Bosch SDS Rotary Hammer RH328VC

Best Hammer Drill for Tile

Heavy-duty drills tend to be SDS rotary hammer drills because they have the percussive power needed to penetrate the hardest materials. This Bosch is smaller than the most powerful drills, which makes it a great option for getting close to the surface for tasks such as removing tiles.

The 8-amp motor provides 900 RPM and 4,000 BPM, which is a lot of power for this drill’s size. It has a three-speed variable trigger, putting you in complete control of your work. This also makes it more suitable for tasks such as drilling out tiles because you may need to be delicate to avoid damaging the surrounding surface.

What We Like

It’s a Bosch

You can always buy a Bosch product with confidence, as one of the oldest and most highly-regarded power tool brands in the world. In addition to this drill’s quality, you will also have the benefit of Bosch’s customer service and expertise.

Two-Step Vibration Control

This drill reduces vibrations via a two-step process that starts with the impact mechanism and continues in the rubberized handle with shock absorbers at the top and bottom.

Three-Speed Trigger

The trigger enables you to cut at three different speeds, so you can start slowly and then speed up after the drill bit bites into the material. This means better control and accuracy.

What We Don't Like

High Price

Bosch drills are renowned for their user-friendliness, high quality, and reliability, but this also means they are rarely budget-friendly options.

Limited Uses

This rotary hammer drill is designed with professionals in mind, so you are unlikely to need the amount of torque it produces for general drilling tasks.

Product Specs

Weight 7.7 pounds
BPM 4,000
RPM 900
Amps 8 amps
Cost $$$
Warranty 1-year

Our Ratings

Power
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

I've utilized this Bosch SDS rotary hammer drill extensively and it has proven to be a solid performer. The drilling process, even into tough granite or concrete, is impressively swift and requires minimal effort from me, with the drill's weight and hammer action doing most of the work. Despite the occasional challenge of seating the bit into the SDS PLUS chuck, it's a minor hiccup in an otherwise smooth operation. However, for heavy-duty chiseling work, it might fall a bit short, as I discovered while removing an asphalt underlayment, but for regular drilling tasks, it's an invaluable tool.

DeWALT 20V XR Hammer Drill

Best Cordless Hammer Drill

DeWALT is one of the oldest and most respected power tool companies in the world, with a century of experience and an excellent track record. This battery-powered drill is the same size as a standard rotary drill but will help you get through stubborn materials.

The drill produces a maximum of 38,250 BPM and an RPM of 2,250, making it very powerful for its size. Its brushless motor requires less maintenance, and the three-speed transmission provides the control you need for delicate jobs.

There is also an LED light for working in dimly-lit areas, and a carburized metal chuck with carbide inserts ensures your bit won’t slip while drilling.

What We Like

Cordless

This drill will make holes wherever you need them without an external power supply, so it is ideal for large renovation projects or working outdoors.

Long Runtime

The efficient brushless motor means this cordless drill can last 57% longer on a single charge than a standard drill.

Made in the USA

If you prefer buying American-made products, this drill fits the bill. While the materials are sourced from global suppliers, the drill is assembled in the United States.

What We Don't Like

Batteries and Charger Separate

This drill doesn’t include a battery or charger, so you will need to factor them into your budget. DeWALT batteries are interchangeable, so if you already have one of their cordless power tools, the battery should fit this drill.

Limited Battery Life

When you choose to go cordless, you rely on the runtime of the battery pack. This is something people with corded drills don’t have to worry about but it shouldn’t be a major issue as long as you keep the battery charged.

Product Specs

Weight 4 pounds (excluding battery pack)
BPM 38,250
RPM 2,250
Volts 20
Cost $$
Warranty 3-year limited

Our Ratings

Power
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Community Feedback

In my experience, this drill was initially a disappointment due to a factory issue. However, upon contacting DeWalt, they rectified this flaw for free, elevating the drill's performance considerably. The keyless chuck design, despite being a potential point of failure, proved efficient for quick bit-changing. Despite being a bit heavy-duty, requiring a firm grip especially in hammer mode, the drill's power and performance left me mostly satisfied.

Bosch 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme

Best Hammer Drill for Concrete

This Bosch SDS rotary hammer drill is powerful and has the usual three modes: hammer, rotation, and chisel. This drill provides two pounds of impact with every strike, and the SDS chuck automatically locks the drill bits in place for speed and security.

If you want a drill to tackle the hardest materials such as concrete, this option will serve you well. Its 8-amp motor delivers 1,300 RPM and 5,800 BPM, and the variable speed trigger allows the user to build the speed slowly as the bit begins penetrating the material.

What We Like

D-Shaped Handle

The ergonomic D-shaped handle provides a secure grip, while also increasing the downward pressure on the bit. Its design also makes overhead drilling easier.

Reasonably Priced

For such a heavy-duty rotary drill, this model is very reasonably priced. It looks and feels like a more expensive model.

Tool-Free Bit Change

If you are working on-site, time is often of the essence and you won’t want your drill to slow you down. The keyless chuck on this drill allows you to swap bits with ease.

What We Don't Like

Weight

Despite this drill’s ergonomic design, it is still quite hard to use for long periods due to its weight of 10.4 pounds. This can make it challenging to use on large-scale projects.

Specialist Tool

You are unlikely to need this drill for any task other than drilling through concrete or masonry. It is designed for construction work and professional use, which is reflected in its power.

Product Specs

Weight 10.4 pounds
BPM 5,800
RPM 1,300
Amps 8
Cost $$
Warranty 1-year

Our Ratings

Power
4.5 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

First-Hand Impression

Best in its class, this Bulldog Xtreme Rotary Hammer is impressively durable, handling a variety of intensive tasks with ease. This tool drilled through concrete, chiseled through floor tiles, and broke apart slabs, all while maintaining its performance, even when covered in concrete dust. The design is sturdy, with a solid quick-change chuck, and the trigger offers precise control over the speed of the drill. However, its depth gauge is a bit flimsy and short for my needs, but this minor issue doesn't detract from the tool's overall quality.

DeWALT 7.8-Amp DW511 Hammer Drill

Best Lightweight Hammer Drill

This DeWALT hammer drill is versatile as it allows you to switch between a hammer or a standard rotary drill. This means it is suitable for drilling through masonry, wood, and even metal. It is the perfect companion for someone who can’t predict what tasks they will need to work on.

It is corded, which might restrict it to DIYers, as most construction professionals prefer the freedom of cordless tools. This drill’s 7.8-amp motor provides 46,000 BPM and 2,700 RPM, so it has plenty of power for tough jobs.

One benefit of being corded is that it is lightweight, weighing just 4.3 pounds. All in all, this is a reliable drill that is comfortable to use for prolonged periods.

What We Like

Multi-Position Handle

The auxiliary handle rotates around the neck of the drill, so you will be able to hold it in any position you need. This also makes the drill suitable for use in tight spaces.

Value for Money

DeWALT has kept the cost of this drill low to appeal to professionals and DIYers alike. You should be able to find it for cheaper than most models with similar performance.

Top Brand

DeWALT is one of the most famous and respected names in power tools. It has earned its reputation by constantly producing excellent tools.

What We Don't Like

Cord

The cord will restrict where you can use this drill. Even if you have an extension cable, you won’t enjoy the same level of freedom as with a cordless drill.

Limited Power

While this drill has an admirable amount of power, it won’t be the best choice for drilling through the densest materials such as thick concrete or rock. Despite having a very high BPM, it lacks the torque of specialist drills.

Product Specs

Weight 4.3 pounds
BPM 46,000
RPM 2,700
Amps 7.8
Cost $
Warranty 3-year limited

Our Ratings

Power
3.5 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Functionality
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

User Experience

When I first got this drill, I was skeptical about its capabilities compared to my old ones. However, this drill blew me away with its power when it effortlessly drilled numerous holes into a sturdy stump in our backyard in just a matter of minutes. Despite the initial scent of burning oil and the heat it generated after use, this drill has proven its worth and reliability, handling everything from drilling through brick and pine to installing recessed lights in plaster ceilings and making a tedious job much faster.

Eneacro Heavy Duty Rotary Hammer Drill

Best Hammer Drill With Vibration Control

Eneacro designed this tool to avoid some of the most common issues people encounter when using hammer drills. The result is a drill that is safer and easier to use than many of its competitors.

One of the most important aspects of this drill is its vibration control. It has a double-layer PU soft grip that reduces the intensity of vibrations being transferred to your body. This will help you use it for longer without your arms tiring as quickly.

Other important features include the safety clutch protection, the adjustable handle, and the aluminum alloy structure, which is sturdy and durable.

What We Like

For Heavy-Duty Use

This is an excellent choice if you are looking for a heavy-duty hammer drill. It has a 13-amp motor with 5.5 feet per pound of impact energy. This makes it suitable for tough materials such as concrete and metal.

The heat-resistant copper wire motor protects the tool’s internal components and prolongs its lifespan. Power tools aren’t small investments, so it is even more important that they are built to last.

Four Drilling Modes

This Eneacro hammer drill offers four different functions. These options are for drilling, chiseling (even into brick and concrete), and hammer drilling. There is also a chisel position adjustment that allows you to configure it to suit a specific task.

360-Degree Handle

The drill’s auxiliary handle rotates 360 degrees, which means you can hold it comfortably at any angle. It also provides greater accuracy when working in tight spaces.

What We Don't Like

Poor Drill Chuck

Some customers complained about the drill chuck that is included. Specifically, they found it difficult to insert and remove, potentially getting stuck.

Product Specs

Weight 18.5 pounds
BPM 4200
RPM 820
Amps 13
Cost $$
Warranty 2-year

Our Ratings

Power
4.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Personal Perspective

My experience with this rotary hammer has been largely positive. The tool is powerful and efficient, making tasks like drilling holes, chiseling uneven concrete, and breaking up hardened dirt incredibly easy and quick. It has proved its worth in several home remodeling projects, from removing tiles to creating openings in concrete slabs. However, I did encounter a moment where the hammer function ceased, but a reapplication of grease (included with the tool) resolved the issue promptly. While I'm still unsure of which grease to use once the provided tube runs out, the overall performance of this rotary hammer has been impressive.

Skil 6448-04 7.0 Amp Hammer Drill

Best Corded Hammer Drill

Skil has a storied history, as the company is credited with creating the circular power saw. However, sawing isn’t the only thing Skil excels at, as shown by this high-quality corded hammer drill.

The brand designs tools for everyday, general-purpose use, which are very popular with DIYers. They are also affordable, which makes them ideal for anyone looking to buy their first hammer drill.

What We Like

Price

This hammer drill offers excellent value for money and is one of the cheapest models you are likely to find from a reputable power tool brand.

Versatility

This hammer drill can penetrate concrete, metal, hardwood and softwood, composites, and plastics. It is one of the most versatile drills you can buy. It even converts into a drill driver.

What We Don't Like

RPM and BPM

This isn’t the most powerful hammer drill, making it a better fit for casual DIYers rather than enthusiasts or professionals. It will be more suitable for small tasks such as hanging up pictures rather than heavy-duty drilling.

Build Quality

When a drill costs so little, it is unavoidable that some corners have been cut. In this case, those savings have been made with the drill’s materials, which are less durable than in higher-quality competitors.

Product Specs

Weight 5.5 pounds
BPM 51,000
RPM 3,000
Amps 7
Cost $
Warranty 1-year

Our Ratings

Power
3.5 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Functionality
4 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Community Feedback

Great drill, despite not being designed for it, I found this tool to be incredibly potent at mixing mortar. The power this drill possesses is notably superior to any of my previous drills, and its side handle, despite being made of a somewhat cheap plastic, provides good control. The long, heavy-duty cord implies a durable, high-power tool. However, it's worth noting the lack of variable speed, the drill goes full force when the trigger is fully depressed, making it challenging to control. Lastly, the drill uses a key to change bits, and it doesn't hold the bits very well - they tend to slip.

Makita XPH12Z 18V Brushless Cordless Drill

Best Brushless Motor Hammer Drill

This brushless motor hammer drill by Makita is cordless and provides the freedom to work anywhere you want.

Brushless motors are more efficient, so this drill will be able to go for longer between charges. It should last about 50% longer than a standard brushed drill.

This hammer drill produces 530 pound-force inches of maximum torque and its variable speed control can reach 2,000 RPM and 30,000 BPM.

What We Like

Brushless Motor

Brushless motors operate more efficiently, require less maintenance, and suffer less wear and tear. This means the battery should last about 50% longer than a conventional brushed drill.

Variable Speed Control

The speed is controlled via a dial on the back of the drill, which allows you to customize it for specific tasks. For example, when driving screws, you will want a low speed to prevent the screw from wandering. If you are drilling masonry, you need to start slowly but you can increase as you go.

Cordless

As this drill is battery-powered, you won’t need to stay near electrical outlets and can complete tasks anywhere.

What We Don't Like

Batteries Sold Separately

This drill is cordless, so you won’t be able to use it without a battery. Buying a battery will increase the overall cost, but you might be able to use a Makita battery you already own.

Lithium-Ion Limitations

Extreme cold or heat will decrease the battery’s efficiency, which means it will drain more quickly. If you live somewhere cold and need to work outdoors, this is something to keep in mind.

Product Specs

Weight 4.2 pounds
BPM 30,000
RPM 2,000
Volts 18
Cost $$$
Warranty 3-year limited

Our Ratings

Power
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

First-Hand Impression

This Makita drill is the bee's knees! As a regular builder, I've used this tool on the daily and it's been nothing short of fantastic, especially the top-end model. However, I did run into a snag when the hammer mode stopped working, but the issue was resolved promptly and efficiently. Despite this minor hiccup, I still believe these drills are of superior quality and they've never failed to impress me with their power and durability.

Black+Decker Hammer Drill 6.5 Amps DR670

Best Hammer Drill for Brick

This Black+Decker hammer drill is ideal for completing tasks around your home or working on a renovation project.

It is versatile, affordable, and easy to operate. It provides the high quality and durability you expect from a Black+Decker power tool, and your purchase is protected by a two-year warranty.

It will drill through wood, metal, and brick. At 6 amps, this isn’t one of the most powerful drills, but it still delivers 2,800 RPM, so it is far from weak.

What We Like

Price

This drill is affordable and a great entry-level model. Despite being a budget-friendly option, you can count on Black+Decker to deliver a high-quality product.

Keyless Chuck

It is easy to replace the drill bit thanks to the single sleeve, keyless chuck. Simply press a button and the bit will be secure.

What We Don't Like

No Case

This drill doesn’t include a cast for storage or transportation. You can purchase one separately but you will need to make sure it can accommodate the drill.

Product Specs

Weight 4.39 pounds
BPM Not specified
RPM 2,800
Amps 6
Cost $
Warranty 2-year

Our Ratings

Power
3 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Functionality
4 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

User Experience

After using this drill for a while, I had a mix of positive and negative experiences. On one hand, I appreciated the comfortable grip and found the drill to be pretty reliable for its price, but I had a bit of a struggle with the depth stop and auxiliary handle, especially when it came to measurements since they're in metric. Also, while this drill was powerful enough to handle concrete and block drilling, it did get hot rather quickly and had issues with the chuck lock loosening, which made the process more time-consuming than expected.

Milwaukee 5380-21 9-Amp Heavy-Duty Hammer Drill

Best Heavy-Duty Hammer Drill

Milwaukee describes this as a heavy-duty drill and the 9-amp motor suggests that it lives up to that claim. An integral clutch reduces unnecessary wear and tear, so you will be able to use this drill for longer before it requires maintenance.

It has an anti-vibration feature that makes it more comfortable to hold when cutting through hard materials. This is important given that the motor can produce 56,000 BPM.

Despite being designed for heavy-duty work, Milwaukee includes a very generous 5-year warranty with this drill. You can buy and use it with absolute confidence.

What We Like

9-Amp Motor

This drill is equipped for heavy-duty work, with a 9-amp motor that produces 56,000 BPM and 3,500 RPM.

Integral Clutch

The integral clutch minimizes torque wear on the gears, increasing their longevity and giving the drill a greater overall lifespan.

Warranty

Your purchase is protected by an industry-leading 5-year warranty. This provides extra peace of mind, especially as this Milwaukee drill is quite expensive.

What We Don't Like

Heavy

At 12 pounds, this is not a lightweight drill, so it will be physically taxing to use for longer periods. In particular, this can lead to hand and arm fatigue.

Expensive

This drill is quite expensive, so it might be better suited to professionals or property developers rather than casual DIYers. It is versatile, but its weight and power could be overwhelming for some users.

Product Specs

Weight 12.02 pounds
BPM 56,000
RPM 3,500
Amps 9
Cost $$$
Warranty 5-year

Our Ratings

Power
4.5 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Functionality
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

Love how this Milwaukee hammer drill breezed through my drilling projects like a hot knife through butter! The power and performance are top-notch, especially when I was drilling through concrete or laminated levels. However, the speed selector sometimes gets stuck in between settings, but a quick trigger pull and release usually sorts it out. While it has a robust build and solid balance, it's important to hold on tight when the speed is fully engaged, as it's an energetic beast!

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Weight BPM RPM Amps Warranty
Makita HR2475 Rotary Drill Rock 10.7 lbs 4,500 1,100 7 1-year
Bosch SDS Rotary Hammer RH328VC Tile 7.7 lbs 4,000 900 8 1-year
DeWALT 20V XR Hammer Drill Cordless Drill 4 lbs 38,250 2,250 20 3-year limited
Bosch 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme Concrete 10.4 lbs 5,800 1,300 8 1-year
DeWALT 7.8-Amp DW511 Drill Lightweight 4.3 lbs 46,000 2,700 8 3-year limited
Eneacro Heavy Duty Rotary With Vibration Control 18.5 lbs 4200 820 13 2-year
Skil 6448-04 7.0 Amp Hammer Drill Corded Drill 5.5 lbs 51,000 3,000 7 1-year
Makita XPH12Z 18V Cordless Drill Brushless Motor 4.2 lbs 30,000 2,000 18 3-year limited
Black+Decker DR670 Brick 4.39 lbs N/A 2,800 6 2-year
Milwaukee 5380-21 9-Amp Heavy-Duty 12.02 lbs 56,000 3,500 9 5-years

What is a Hammer Drill Used For?

A hammer drill, also known as a percussion drill, is used for drilling into hard materials such as concrete, stone, brick, and anything else that a standard drill can’t penetrate. A standard drill, or rotary drill, works by rapidly rotating a bit so it cuts into material.

Hammer drills use a percussive force that resembles a hammer hitting a nail. As the drill bit turns, the hammer drill also applies an in-and-out motion that drives the bit into the hole.

Should I Buy a Corded or Cordless Hammer Drill?

Corded and cordless drills both have advantages, so which one to choose is a matter of personal preference. A cordless hammer drill will allow you to work anywhere, without needing an electrical outlet nearby.

Cordless hammer drills are effective for construction and renovation projects as you will be able to make modifications before electrical wiring is installed. However, they generally have less torque than corded drills, so they might not be powerful enough for every task.

Cordless drills gradually lose power as their battery pack drains, which will happen more quickly during demanding tasks. You won’t encounter this issue with a cordless drill, as long as you have a power supply.

The main drawback of corded hammer drills is that they limit mobility. If you need to work away from a power socket, you will need an extension cable. These cables can create a trip hazard, especially if you are working somewhere with other people.

If the limited range isn’t an issue, such as if you are a mason and use your drill in a workshop, the increased torque and indefinite power supply mean a corded hammer drill will usually be the better option.

How To Choose the Best Hammer Drill

There are lots of hammer drills to choose from, offering different speeds, torque, and power sources. Finding the right model can feel overwhelming, but taking the time to think about some key points can greatly narrow your search.

Power Source

There are advantages and disadvantages to both corded and cordless hammer drills. Drilling power is essential, but how the drill gets that power is another important aspect.

Cordless drills are very convenient, especially when you need to drill holes in areas without access to an electrical outlet. They are also very versatile, but they are unlikely to match the torque provided by the unlimited power supply of a corded drill.

Corded drills have more power and torque, which makes them better for heavy-duty work such as drilling through bricks or concrete. They won’t run out of power in the middle of a job, but they are less maneuverable and have a limited range due to their power cords.

Drilling Power

Hammer drills usually have between 7-amp and 10-amp motors. The bigger the motor, the more power it provides. If you are working on a project with hard materials that require a heavy-duty drill, look for a hammer drill with a 9-amp or 10-amp motor that generates a lot of torque.

Power And Weight

The larger and more powerful the motor, the heavier the drill will be. If your drill is also cordless and has a battery, it could be very heavy and cause hand and wrist fatigue with prolonged use.

Comfort

Operating a hammer drill can be physically demanding, given the strong vibrations you might have to endure. Look for a drill with two handles to provide greater stability and user-friendliness.

If the drill doesn’t have an auxiliary handle, look for one with comfortable padding with an ergonomic handle design. These handles will provide a stronger grip with less pressure, which will decrease the strain on your hands when using them for a long time.

Variable Speed

Variable speed provides greater versatility and means you are in complete control of your drilling. It allows you to start drilling slowly and accurately as the bit makes an indent in the material. Once it has, you can gradually increase the speed as the bit works deeper into the hole.

In addition to improving your accuracy, starting slowly also makes your drill safer as the bit is less likely to walk across the surface of the material.

The speed ratings you should look for are RPM (revolutions per minute) and BPM (beats/blows per minute), which measure the rotation and in-and-out motion respectively.

Depth Gauges

Knowing how deep to drill a hole removes any guesswork and will make your work more precise. If you don’t have a depth gauge, you can wrap a strip of tape around the drill bit to mark the depth you want to drill to, so you know where to stop.

Keyed Chuck

A keyed chuck is used to lock the bit into place manually, so there is no risk of it slipping while drilling. A keyless chuck means you can swap bits more quickly and easily, but the bit will be more prone to slipping free during tough drilling jobs. Given that hammer drills are designed for the most resilient materials, it is important to choose a keyed chuck that will ensure your bit stays in place throughout your job.


How Does a Hammer Drill Work?

Hammer drills utilize something called percussive motion. Imagine a drummer in a band striking their drum and the vibrations this causes. Hammer drills use this percussive force by hammering the material while also rotating like a standard rotary drill, greatly enhancing their power.

FAQs

Can I Use a Hammer Drill as a Standard Drill?

Many hammer drills have options that allow you to use them as a standard rotary drill, a hammer drill, or both. If your drill has a rotary drill setting, you will be able to use it like a standard drill, but if it doesn’t you will only be able to hammer.

Hammer Drill Vs. Rotary Hammer

A hammer drill is more versatile than a standard rotary drill, and can often perform the same tasks. A high-end hammer drill will allow you to switch between hammer action, drill driver, and standard drill.

This makes it suitable for almost any material as long as you have the right bit. Hammer drills are also very responsive as they have variable speeds and proper clutch control.

A rotary hammer drill is for heavy-duty tasks such as drilling through dense rock and reinforced concrete. They typically have one speed as well as a standalone chisel action, where it hammers without rotation. This is great for splitting stubborn materials.

You will need to consider the blows per minute (BPM). A hammer drill creates far more BPM than a rotary hammer, but each strike has less force than a rotary hammer drill. This is due to the way the power is produced.

A hammer drill has small anvils driving downward at a faster rate, but the rotary hammer drill has a BPM rate of about six times less than the hammer drill. However, their power is provided by a piston inside the drill rather than anvils and springs in the chuck, which gives a rotary hammer drill greater force per blow.

The chuck on a rotary hammer drill is also different. Rotary hammer drills use a slotted drive shaft (SDS) chuck, which holds specialist drill bits very securely. Unlike standard universal chucks, you won’t need to worry about the bit working loose during use.

What is the Hammer Drill Setting Used For?

The hammer drill setting is there for when you need some extra penetration power. A standard drill will punch holes in most materials, but it will struggle when you try to drill through stone or reinforced concrete.

A hammer setting means you can use the same drill for all your drilling requirements without the need to buy a specialist hammer drill.

Is It Worth Getting a Hammer Drill?

A hammer drill is a type of power drill that uses a rapid succession of hammering blows to drill through materials such as concrete and stone. While a regular power drill can be used for drilling holes into softer materials, a hammer drill is necessary for drilling into harder surfaces.

One advantage of a hammer drill is that it can complete the job in a fraction of the time compared to doing it by hand. A hammer drill produces less vibration than a standard power drill, making it easier on the operator’s hands and arms.

However, one downside of a hammer drill is that it is much louder than a regular power drill, so ear protection should always be worn when using one. Hammer drills are more expensive than regular power drills.

Overall, it can be a useful tool if you need to frequently drill into hard surfaces.

What Is the Best Hammer Drill for Concrete?

The BOSCH 11255VSR is great for concrete. It sports an 8.0-amp motor which is powerful and suitable for many different concrete drilling projects.

With a total weight of only 11.4 pounds (a tool with 18V on-tool dust collection), it’s designed to drill in whichever position you need for the job

What Is Stronger Than a Hammer Drill?

When it comes to power tools, rotary hammers are often seen as big guns. These heavy-duty tools are designed for drilling through tough materials like concrete and brick, making them a valuable asset on any construction site.

But what if you need to drill something even tougher? Then you’ll need a rotary hammer drill. These specialized tools are outfitted with a rotary hammer bit, designed to drill through extremely hard materials.

Also, rotary hammer drills typically have more powerful motors than regular rotary hammers. So, to handle the most challenging drilling applications, a rotary hammer drill is likely your best option.

What Hammer Drill Brand Is Most Reliable?

Makita’s products are known for their quality, durability, and reliability. Their hammer drills are no exception. The company offers a wide variety of hammer drills to suit any need.

These hammer drills are backed by a reputation for quality and durability. So, if you’re looking for a reliable hammer drill, Makita is the brand for you.


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About the Author

Mark Weir

Mark spent 24 years working in real estate, so he knows his way around a home. He also worked with contractors and experts, advising them on issues of planning, investments, and renovations. Mark is no stranger to hands-on experience, having renovated his own home and many properties for resale. He likes nothing better than seeing a project through to completion.