What is the best hammer drill to choose for the home? We have answered this question in detail in this article. The rating was helped by Andrey Evgrafov, a consultant at a hardware store.
Crushing and drilling of concrete with stone, chipping of walls are carried out with a perforator. Its percussion mechanism is represented by an eccentric with a spring mechanism (outdated) or a piston system with a rolling bearing or a crank mechanism. An impact drill can also drill holes for dowels in a concrete wall. Its percussion mechanism consists in the rotation of the cartridge with a simultaneous translational movement. Impact drilling is achieved using gears with different teeth or an eccentric.
- Why a rotary hammer is better than a drill for drilling concrete and brick
- What to choose for home, hammer or drill?
- How Do I Pick a Good Rotary Hammer?
- Top hammer drill manufacturers
- The best rotary hammers for home price-quality
- The best cordless hammer drills for the home
- Rating of professional rotary hammers
Why a rotary hammer is better than a drill for drilling concrete and brick
As I wrote above, both a hammer drill and an impact drill can drill a hole in concrete. But with a puncher, you do not have to exert effort on it (press and press on it). And the drilling speed is 10 times higher. To drill a hole in the concrete with a drill, you will have to cash in on it, otherwise it will not drill at all.
The drill is good for drilling wood and metal. Because the drill has more revolutions than the hammer drill. And all the power goes to the rotation of the spindle, and not to the blows. If the hammer drill has a power of 1100 W, then this power is divided equally into blows and rotation.
What is better for drilling concrete or brick with a 700 W hammer drill or 1100 W hammer drill?
Expert answer: of course the hammer drill is better.
What is better for drilling tiles and porcelain stoneware, a hammer drill or a drill?
Expert response: It is better to choose a drill for drilling tiles. You need a large number of turns and accuracy, such characteristics are better for a drill. Strikes are not needed here.
Earlier we wrote about
What to choose for home, hammer or drill?
So what is the final choice for the home? If the repair has long been over, and you only need to drill a couple of holes a year, then it is better to take an impact drill, it will come out a little cheaper, and smaller in size, and lighter. Also if you like to make furniture with your own hands.
If the repair is just beginning and you need to grind the socket outlets, drill holes for installing the baseboards, hang the cornices, then it is better to take a puncher. If you have only used a drill to drill in concrete, then you will be shocked how easy and simple the hammer drill does. Of course, you can drill metal and wood and tiles with a puncher, but with some discomfort, since the puncher is heavier and slightly larger in size.
How Do I Pick a Good Rotary Hammer?
The hammer drill is an indispensable item on the construction site and when repairing brick and concrete buildings. Combines the functions of a drill and a jackhammer. There are two tool designs.
- Vertical (barrel) - the engine is located perpendicular to the auger axis (L-shaped structure). Differs in the complexity of maintenance - you need to lubricate the mechanical parts and increased weight. Due to effective cooling, they are more reliable and more efficient than horizontal ones. Professional models are capable of punching concrete partitions, making grooves for wiring and holes for sockets.
- Horizontal (pistol) - the electric motor is located on the drill axis. Direct torque transmission contributes to high drilling speed, but also limits impact energy. Relevant for household tools: they are light, do not need maintenance, but they quickly heat up.Able to drill holes in concrete and brick, carry out minor dismantling work.
Impact energy - depends on the power of the engine and the efficiency of the impact mechanism, ranges from 1-12 or more J. When working with concrete and natural stone, more energy is needed, relatively soft and fragile materials such as brick or foam block, it is capable of breaking down to the ground - chipping off excess, causing cracks.
- Up to 1-2 J - drilling holes up to 14 mm, minor dismantling, for example, allows you to remove old tile adhesive
- 2-7 J - dismantling, drilling holes for socket boxes and junction boxes, pipes.
- From 7 J - drilling brick and concrete walls, drilling large holes, difficult dismantling.
Impact frequency - the number of forward movements of the striker in 60 seconds. It is regulated by the force of pressing the trigger and reaches 4000-5000 beats / min. The indicator is lower than that of a drill, and productivity is achieved through a high impact force.
Tool rotation speed - the indicator has almost no effect on the drilling speed of concrete walls. If you need to drill metal - take the model with ~ 1100 rpm.
Rotation speed controller. For a home punch, not an important parameter... The presence of this element allows you to work with different materials. After all, softer ones require a lower rotation speed, in contrast to hard stone.
Number of modes: The modern rock drill can have 2 or 3 modes. This is conventional drilling, hammer drilling or chiselling. Different hammer modes are suitable for different types of work being performed.
Maximum drilling diameter - it is indicated separately for each type of equipment (drills, drills, crowns) when working with concrete. If it is required to drill the socket, for the crown it must be from 68 mm.
Chuck type:
- SDS-Plus - designed for shanks with a diameter of 10 mm with a pair of symmetrical open slots for the guide wedges and two closed ones for the fixing balls.
- SDS-Max - for shanks with 5 slots: 3 open guides and a pair of closed fixing ones.
There are designs with a quick change of the chuck - the installation of a cam for drills with a hexagonal and cylindrical end.
Power - starts at 600 W and exceeds 2 kW in professional models. For constant work with massive equipment, a power of 1 kW is needed. If you need to punch through a brick wall, punch holes for fasteners or get rid of old tile glue, a device with a 750-900 W motor is enough.
Pay attention to additional features:
- smooth start of the electric motor - will eliminate vibrations at the start, increase the accuracy of drilling, extend the service life;
- anti-vibration system;
- depth gauge - to control the immersion depth of the working tool;
- reverse - reverse rotation to remove stuck drills;
- speed control.
Top hammer drill manufacturers
- AEG. Among the leaders of quality tools is the German company AEG. Founded in 1887, it specializes in household and professional power tools, mechanical engineering, and equipment for the power industry. Manufactures mains-operated and cordless, two- and three-speed rotary hammers with a patented anti-vibration system. Among the products are both massive professional and 2 kg household models.
- MAKITA.These rock drills are characterized by high performance, low vibration and a different number of operating modes.
- DeWALT.The tools of this company are among the best in their class. The range includes both light and heavy models. In addition, there are tri-mode devices.
- BOSCH. A well-known manufacturer that produces domestic and professional grade rotary hammers.
- METABO.This company produces rock drills that are very reliable and of high quality. Most of all in the manufacturer's line are devices with a power of over 700 W, and there are also three-mode models.
- HAMMER.Tools of this company are rarely found on the shelves of Russian stores.But those devices that can still be found are distinguished by their reliability and lower price in comparison with BOSCH.
- INTERSCOL.These products are chosen by people who have to work with hard surfaces like concrete or asphalt. Available in lightweight, versatile and powerful models.
The best rotary hammers for home price-quality
A household punch is one of the most useful tools in the house, capable of dismantling old tiles, chipping off plaster, drilling holes for fasteners and socket outlets.
Makita HR2470 (2.7 J)
Rating:5,0
- operating modes: drilling, chiselling, drilling with chiseling
- impact energy 2.7 J
- SDS-Plus cartridge
- reverse mode
- case included
- weight 2.6 kg
Average price: 8 311 rub
Rotary hammer for home with SDS-Plus chuck with three modes of operation: drilling, hammering and combined, used for a range of construction and renovation work with a max. impact energy - 2.7 J... At 1100 rpm, it is capable of chipping and chipping concrete and brick walls, drilling holes in them with a diameter of up to 24 mm. Used carbon brushes, mounted in a rotary mechanism, with increased resource up to 2.7 times. The speed controller adapts the operating mode to the operating conditions. Power 780 W. Includes a case! There is a safety clutch. The impact rate of 4500 bpm is a high frequency.
Features:
- setting the bit in 40 positions;
- 3 working modes;
- drilling and drilling depth limiter;
- no blows at idle;
- electronic speed controller;
- Max. drilling diameter (wood) - 32 mm;
- Max. drilling diameter (metal) - 13 mm;
- Max. drilling diameter (concrete) - 24 mm;
- Max. drilling diameter (hollow crown) - 65 mm.
Sturm! RH2592P
Rating:4,9
- operating modes: drilling, chiselling, drilling with chiseling
- impact energy 3 J
- SDS-Plus cartridge
- reverse mode
- case included
- weight 3.1 kg
Average price: 6 360 rub
This hammer drill is slightly heavier than the first, but impact force is higher - 3 J against 2.7 J. The frequency of blows is 4000 beats / min, this is 500 blows less than in the first. For drilling and chiselling walls, ceilings and floors made of bricks, concrete, foam blocks, shell rock. Before buying, it is better to hold it and the first of the top in your hands and compare how quickly your hands get tired. Supplied with a classic lance, a chisel, three different sized drills and spare original brushes. A simple depth gauge is installed near the cartridge for the same immersion in the material. The latch helps you focus on your work by freeing your hand from the power button. The SDS-Plus chuck supports quick tool change. Power is 920 W. Rotation speed at idle speed 1100 rpm
Features:
- the clutch will protect the operator when the drill is jammed;
- long working cycle;
- rotary additional handle;
- rich equipment;
- chuck with SDS-Plus adapter.
BOSCH GBH 2-28 F case (3.2 J) 32 Nm
Rating:4,9
- operating modes: drilling, chiselling, drilling with chiseling
- impact energy 3.2 J
- SDS-Plus cartridge
- reverse mode, anti-vibration system
- case included
- weight 3.1 kg
Average price: 14 535 rub
Powerful and productive rock drill with intelligent KickBack Control technology - prevents kickback when the tool is immersed in the work material. Manufactured using Heavy Duty technology, combining reliability, performance and power throughout the entire service life. Protects the operator from jerking in the event of a jammed drill or overload, and locks the reverse for tightening and unscrewing screws. Embossed rubber grips absorb the lion's share of vibration. Impact forces 3.2 J more than enough for household chores. Rather, it is already a professional tool. Power 880 W. Rotation speed at idle speed 1300 rpm. The frequency of blows is 4000 beats / min.
Features:
- minimization of injury;
- regulators of immersion depth of the working tool and speed;
- active vibration damping mechanism;
- rotating auxiliary handle;
- SDS-Plus and keyless chucks;
- Max. drilling diameter (wood) - 30 mm;
- Max. drilling diameter (metal) - 13 mm;
- Max.drilling diameter (concrete - drill) - 28 mm;
- Max. drilling diameter (hollow crown) - 68 mm.
Hammer PRT 800 CE PREMIUM (3 J)
Rating:4,8
- operating modes: drilling, chiselling
- SDS-Plus cartridge
- reverse mode
- case included
- power 800 W
- impact energy 3 J
- impact rate 4000 bpm
- rotation speed 1150 rpm
- drilling diameter in concrete up to 26 mm
- weight 3 kg
Average price: 5 352 rub
Powerful home renovation hammer, releasing 3 J energy... It is enough for peeling off plaster, dismantling tiles, chipping and drilling. The quick-change chuck does not require a key to change the tooling. Brush reverse inverts chuck rotation to release a jammed drill. The safety clutch prevents injury to the user if it gets stuck. The angle of attack of the bit changes, which is convenient when chasing walls, ceilings and floors.
Features:
- brush reverse;
- with compact dimensions, it is convenient to work in openings;
- variable angle of inclination of the chisel;
- does not heat up when working at medium load.
BOSCH GBH 240 (2.7 J)
Rating:4,6
- operating modes: drilling, chiselling, drilling with chiseling
- SDS-Plus cartridge
- reverse mode
- case included
- weight 2.8 kg
- rotary hammer, 790 W
- impact energy 2.7 J
- impact rate 4200 beats / min
- rotation speed 930 rpm
- concrete drilling diameter up to 24 mm
Average price: 8 290 rub
Home rock drill with SDS-Plus quick-change chuck with speed optimized for concrete work. The 790 W electric motor provides increased durability. Knows how to drill, chisel and drill with blows. A hollow core drill will make a hole up to 68 mm in diameter in a brick wall. When the drill gets stuck, the reverse option is useful. The swiveling brush holder guarantees the same power in any rotation. Impact energy 2.7 J.
Features:
- 4 meter swivel cord;
- smooth speed control;
- safety clutch for increased safety;
- depth gauge;
- Max. drilling diameter (wood) - 30 mm;
- Max. drilling diameter (metal) - 13 mm;
- Max. drilling diameter (concrete - drill) - 24 mm;
- Max. drilling diameter (hollow crown) - 68 mm.
Bort BHD-1000-TURBO (3.5 J)
Rating:4,5
- operating modes: drilling, chiselling, drilling with chiseling
- SDS-Plus cartridge
- case included
- weight 3.85 kg
- hammer drill, 800 W
- impact energy 3.5 J
- impact rate 4800 beats / min
- rotation speed 900 rpm
- drilling diameter in concrete up to 26 mm
Average price: 5 740 rub
The heaviest and most powerful (in terms of impact forces 3.5 J) hammer drill for home repair, the mechanics and electronics of which are placed in a lightweight case made of an alloy of aluminum and plastic. Rotatable 3600 the handle will make it easier to use the tool in awkward places. Three operating modes make it a versatile assistant when renovating an apartment or house. 3.5 J of energy is enough to make 36 mm holes in concrete and 40 mm holes in wood. On the additional rubberized handle there is a depth gauge to improve the accuracy of drilling and chiselling.
Features:
- rich equipment;
- quick access to brushes;
- depth gauge to simplify work;
- no anti-vibration coating of the handles;
- there is no speed regulator.
The best cordless hammer drills for the home
Portable rock drills are an alternative to hammer drills. They have the functionality of a network tool, but are limited in working time by the capacity of the battery.
DeWALT DCH273N 0 box Li-Ion 18 V (2.1 J)
Rating:5,0
- operating modes: drilling, chiselling
- SDS-Plus cartridge
- reverse mode, anti-vibration system
- number of batteries included: without battery
- case included
- weight 2.7 kg
Average price: 25 500 rubles
Compact portable hammer drill capable of drilling a through hole in a brick wall. Equipped with a powerful, brushless, active cooling motor for long duty cycles. One charge of a new battery is enough to make up to 90 x 10 mm holes in concrete 80 mm deep. The electronic clutch prevents injury and protects the mechanics, while the constant-speed electronics stabilize the rpm under load.
Features:
- capacious batteries;
- rotating additional handle;
- accurate depth gauge;
- LED lights.
DeWALT DCH274P2 - BRUSHLESS HAMMER
Rating:4,9
- operating modes: drilling, chiselling
- SDS-Plus cartridge
- reverse mode
- number of batteries included: 2
- case included
- weight 3.3 kg
Average price: 46 890 rub
A versatile assistant capable of making wall openings made of brick, stone, concrete and wood. Equipped with SDS-Plus quick release and three-jaw chucks for receiving tools with cylindrical and hexagonal ends. The battery capacity is sufficient for making 90 x 10 mm holes in concrete 80 mm deep. The brushless design of the electric motor increases the autonomy and reliability of the tool. The backlight will make it easier to work with a lack of light:
Features:
- LED lights;
- reduced to 2.5 m / s2 vibration;
- quick-detachable cartridges;
- electronics stabilize the speed under load;
- brushless electric motor.
BOSCH GBH 180-LI 4.0 А * h х1 case Li-Ion 18 V (2 J)
Rating:4,8
- operating modes: drilling, chiselling, drilling with chiseling
- SDS-Plus cartridge
- reverse mode
- weight 2.3 kg
- cordless rotary hammer
Average price: 14 033 rub
Portable rotary hammer with a capacious battery that is not inferior to networked household devices. When using an impact drill in concrete, it will make a hole with a diameter of up to 20 mm, it is capable of chipping a concrete or brick ledge. Drills wood with a diameter of up to 40 mm - enough for laying inch pipes and metal - up to 13 mm. Ease of service is achieved with replaceable carbon brushes. Low weight allows vertical and overhead drilling. LED illumination will illuminate the work area in a niche and other hard-to-reach places.
Features:
- dust collection bag;
- reverse and speed control;
- automatic shutdown in case of jamming;
- roomy suitcase.
Metabo KHA 18 LTX 3.5Ah x1 box Li-Ion 18 V (2.2 J)
Rating:4,7
- operating modes: drilling, chiselling, drilling with chiseling
- SDS-Plus cartridge
- reverse mode
- number of batteries included: 1
- case included
- weight 2.9 kg
Average price: 12 499 rub
A combination tool capable of drilling holes in concrete, dismantling old tiles and cleaning up the gates. The electronics adjust the speed according to the material being processed. The safety clutch cuts off the power in the event of a jammed rig. Batteries with capacity indication notify when recharging is required. LED lighting serves to illuminate the workplace.
Features:
- inconvenient system for changing batteries;
- support for Ultra-M technology;
- battery capacity indication;
- illumination of the working area;
- auto power off when jammed.
Makita DHR202RF Li-Ion 18 V (1.9 J)
Rating:4,6
- operating modes: drilling, chiselling, drilling with chiseling
- SDS-Plus cartridge
- reverse mode
- number of batteries included: 1
- weight 3.5 kg
Average price: 11 530 rub
Three-mode hammer drill for home construction with a 3-amp Li-Ion battery. It is used for continuous daily drilling and chiselling. Bit turn option 3600 makes it easier to remove plaster and old tiles. The variable speed armature will help optimize the rotation according to the material being cut. Soft, embossed handles are pleasant to the touch and partially absorb vibrations. Side grip and elastomer will prevent the tool from slipping out of gloved hands.
Features:
- comes with one battery;
- protection of the operator and the battery from vibrations;
- LED backlight with afterglow;
- easy access to brushes.
Bort BHD-18X-BLK Li-Ion 18 V (1.7 J)
Rating:4,5
- operating modes: drilling, drilling with slotting
- SDS-Plus cartridge
- reverse mode
- number of batteries included: 2
- weight 2.6 kg
Average price: 13 990 rub
Compact hammer drill with drilling and hammer drilling modes, designed for simple work on dismantling and drilling of brick, concrete, stone. The optimized brushless electric motor directs almost all the energy to the work tool and is highly reliable. The absence of brushes minimizes maintenance costs. Highlights the drilling area and adjusts RPM to match the material.
Features:
- instant engine stop;
- reverse and brushless motor;
- speed regulator;
- drilling with and without impact.
Rating of professional rotary hammers
Industrial tools are designed for long-term operation, they are distinguished by a margin of safety, productivity and wear resistance.
AEG PN 11 E (20 J)
Rating:5,0
- operating modes: chiselling, drilling with chiseling
- SDS-Max chuck
- anti-vibration system
- case included
- weight 11.8 kg
Average price: 48 900 rub
Aggressive productive apparatus, capable of punching concrete partitions, chasing them, installing switches, sockets and switch boxes - a powerful low-speed 1.7 kW engine generates up to 20 J of energy that can destroy anything. The constant electronics maintains the rotational speed under any load. Smooth start-up ensures accurate start-up and chiseling. Self-shutting off graphite brushes prevent injury to the operator, and an indicator displays the degree of wear.
Features:
- limited idle speed;
- anti-vibration system;
- the clutch protects the rotary hammer and its owner when the tool is jammed;
- needs regular lubrication;
- smooth start.
DEWALT D25761K
- Power: 1500 W
- Revolutions (rpm): 250
- Impact force: 15.5 J
- Number of blows: 2300 bpm
- Number of modes: 2
Average price: 48 788 rubles.
Tool weighing 9.9 kilograms and 1500 W with SDSMAX chuck. Maximum drilling in concrete - 52 mm. The maximum number of revolutions per minute - 250, strokes - 2300. The impact force reaches 15.5 J.
The best professional model for chiselling. The hammer drill is dimensional, but it has a very strong impact, which instantly copes with any surface. With drilling, the situation is much worse. To the advantages of the model, buyers include the presence of a safety clutch and electronic speed control.
Advantages:
- A very strong blow.
- Anti-vibration.
- Thoughtful safety.
Disadvantages:
- Dimension.
Dewalt D25601 K
- Power: 1250 W
- Revolutions (rpm): 415
- Impact force: 8 J
- Number of blows: 2840 bpm
- Number of modes: 3
Average price: 38,529 rubles.
The professional tool weighs 6.8 kilograms, has a power of 1250 W and supports the SDS MAX chuck. The maximum drilling diameter in concrete is 45 mm. In the chiseling mode, it shows an indicator of 2840 beats / min, drilling - 415 rpm. The impact force is 8 J.
Another chiseling machine. But this device can also be used as a drilling tool, as it works in 3 modes. The device is quiet and easily handles concrete. The undeniable advantage of the model is the build quality.
Advantages:
- Comfortable to hold in hand.
- Versatility.
- Low noise level.
- Nice build.
Disadvantages:
- There is no protection against blocking the drill.
Makita HR5001C
- Power: 1500
- Revolutions (rpm): 240
- Impact force: 17.5 J
- Number of blows: 2150 bpm
- Number of modes: 1
Average price: 49 353 rubles.
Perforator weighing 10 kilograms, 1500 watts. Works with SDS MAX chuck. The maximum drilling diameter in concrete is 50 mm. The drilling speed is 240 rpm and the impact rate is 2150 bpm. The impact force is 17.5 J.
Powerful and reliable chiseling tool. Incredible impact force allows you to cope with any surface. But the large size and heavy body limit the rock drill's maneuverability. In any case, the device fully meets the requirements of a professional device.
Advantages:
- Vibration protection.
- Electronic adjustment.
- Swipe.
Disadvantages:
- Large dimensions.
- A bit heavy.
For most household purposes, a budget puncher is enough, and for a summer cottage or a private house, you should take a closer look at battery models. If you are constantly engaged in finishing and repairing, invest in a professional tool.