Which hammer drill to choose for work

10 tips on how to choose a hammer drill for home and work: types, manufacturers

Surely each of you has come across such a situation when it is necessary to fasten, for example, a kitchen cabinet to a concrete wall. Not only is the material very durable and a conventional drill cannot do it, but also the fastening element must be screwed into the dowel for greater reliability. In such a situation, you cannot do without a puncher. How to choose a hammer drill for home or more professional needs, this article will tell.

The concept of “perforator” and features of its design

A hammer drill is a working tool that, in addition to percussion movements, also provides a rotational moment. Its use allows you to quickly and easily make a hole in both soft and very hard materials such as stone, concrete or brick. The hammer drills can also be used to dismantle hard material coatings or lay ducts. There are various models of rotary hammers, which differ from each other in the presence or absence of certain functions. But they all have basic elements in their design, without which their work is impossible. The most important components of a rock drill are its motor, gearbox, percussion mechanism and chuck.

which, hammer, drill, choose

The percussion mechanism, which performs the main function of this device, can be electro-pneumatic or crank-connecting rod. The first type works on the principle of converting the torque of the engine gear to a piston, which creates an oscillatory moment and compresses the air space between itself and the ram, forcing it to repeat the oscillations, which, in turn, strikes the striker. Such a mechanism is equipped with a self-shutdown function, which occurs when the tool does not touch the surface.

Unlike the first type, the crank-connecting rod percussion mechanism does not convert the rotational moment into an oscillatory moment, but immediately transfers the impact to the piston, which in turn compresses the air space between itself and the ram and strikes the striker.

The gearbox acts as a transmitter of the torque of the engine gear to the chuck, thereby activating the impact mechanism. It consists of a set of different gears. bevel, cylindrical and worm gears and, in most cases, has a constant transmission torque ratio. The hammer drill chuck has a significant difference from the drill chuck. You know that the part of the drill bit that fits into the chuck is in the shape of a cylinder, which allows the drill to rotate with little resistance. The chuck for the hammer drill is designed in such a way that the drill must not only be inserted into the chuck, but also turned into special grooves. This ensures a secure fit, even with great effort. Many rotary hammers are additionally equipped with a safety clutch, which serves to preserve the integrity of the tool and protect the person performing the work. For example, if the punch is jammed during operation, the clutch will stop the rotation of the chuck, thereby preventing the engine from burning out.

Another useful feature is the anti-vibration system, which is a spring-loaded counterweight that absorbs most of the vibration and dampens most of it. The puncher body is made of metal or impact-resistant plastic. But most often these two materials are combined. With prolonged use, the case heats up a lot, and the metal better removes heat and prevents the instrument from overheating, while the plastic inserts on the handle protect from burns.

8.Recommended manufacturers of rotary hammers

  • Makita. This Japanese concern has conquered the American, European and Asian markets thanks to the highest quality of its products. For its tools, the company uses only high-quality materials, the assembly of devices is always done flawlessly. This manufacturer produces light and heavy rock drills. Pricing policy starts from 130.
  • Bosch. We are all used to the fact that when they say Bosch, the quality of the products is beyond doubt. It is not surprising that this company was in the top three, because it is thanks to it that rock drills have such a convenient and reliable form of fixing drills in the chuck, like SDS. This German company is a leader in the production of power tools. Pricing policy starts from about 150.
  • Hilti. This is a Ukrainian trade mark that has recommended its products quite well. Affordable pricing policy, a variety of models of both light and heavy tools will delight many consumers. Reviews of Hilti rotary hammers are only positive, the build quality and the materials used are also excellent. The unique service of this brand is warranty service throughout the entire service life. Pricing policy from 150.
  • DeWalt is a Czech manufacturer that has established its tools as high quality professional equipment. In its production, the company uses powerful electric motors, reliable materials for impact mechanisms and high-quality electronics. The price of their tool starts from 140.
  • Hitachi is a Japanese corporation that is constantly striving for improvement. Their equipment is designed to work with hard materials such as concrete and stone. They are distinguished by high reliability, ease of use, high-quality materials and a wide range. Hitachi hammer drills start at 110.

4.Views by type of drive

There are four main types of actuators, each with its own advantages. The choice of the drive must be carried out depending on the characteristics of the work performed.

  • Gasoline drives will become indispensable if you are repairing the roadway, or doing work in open areas where there is no access to electricity. An internal combustion engine is installed in such rock drills, they have a very high impact force, and their low fuel consumption allows them to work for two hours from the moment the tank is refueled. Along with the advantages, they also have a number of disadvantages: you will need a supply of fuel, you will not be able to regulate the force of impact, from which unwanted destruction can occur, they have a very large weight, dimensions and a very high price.
  • Electric rock drills are the most used in repair and construction work. The constant availability of a power source makes the operating time unlimited, they have good performance and sufficient power, they are additionally equipped with an anti-vibration system, which greatly facilitates their use, mainly they include tri-modes of operation, have a rotation speed regulator and an affordable price. Unfortunately, this type also has disadvantages: the radius of your movements will be limited by the length of the power cord, of course there is an outlet in the form of an extension cord, but nevertheless, if the voltage in the network is unstable, then the performance of the tool will be unstable, wear of the chuck during prolonged use and extra spending on buying a new one.
  • Cordless rock drills are very handy in places where there is no access to electricity or when renovating building facades where you can hardly reach with a power tool. They are lightweight and compact, making them very easy to use. Despite using a battery, they have a constant rotational speed that can be adjusted and sufficient power to drill even concrete. The disadvantages include a limited operating time, which directly depends on the capacity of the battery, the need for recharging, which takes a long time, which means that you cannot use the tool immediately after it is discharged and stagnation occurs. Sometimes buying a new battery can be a daunting task, and if you accidentally drop such a tool, it will also fail.
  • Pneumatic rock drills are mainly used in explosive areas, since the principle of their operation is based on the conversion of compressed air. They are lightweight, have a sufficiently high rotational speed and impact power. The disadvantages of such a tool are significant: for continuous operation, you need a compressor that will supply air. The area of ​​movement will be limited by the length of the hose connecting the compressor and the rock drill, and most importantly. the high cost of such a tool.

3.Types of rock drills by the number of working modes

The number of modes is one of the defining characteristics on which productivity and efficiency of work depends. Depending on the number of modes, all rotary hammers are divided into three groups:

  • Single-mode

The simplest form of this tool and the least productive. Only intended for drilling in relatively soft materials such as wood, drywall or thin sheet metal.

  • Dual-mode

Includes not only drilling mode, but also hammer drilling. It is used for harder materials, including concrete and bricks. This is the best option for household use.

  • Three-mode

Hammer Drills. When and What to use

The most productive and common type. Includes drilling, hammer drilling and non-rotating hammer modes for use as a jackhammer.

6.Types of rotary hammers by type of cartridge

We have already said that the hammer drill chuck differs significantly from the drill chuck due to the special clamping method. These cartridges are called SDS, which is an acronym and literally translates as “insert, turn, clamp.” This type of cartridge was invented by the well-known Bosch company in the late 70s. There are five types of these cartridges:

  • The SDS chuck accepts a two-slot drill or drill shank and is designed for a 10 mm shank that goes into the chuck 40 mm deep. 100% compatible with SDS chuck.
  • SDS is the most common type of chuck used for light and medium rock drills weighing from 2 to 4 kg. It has 2 closed 2 open slots. The shank diameter for such a chuck is 10 mm, and the insertion depth is 40 mm. Able to drill a hole up to 26 mm.
  • SDS top is rarely used, as it is designed for a 14 mm shank with a 70 mm insertion depth. Used for medium-class tools weighing 4 kg and is designed for drill diameters from 4 to 32 mm.
  • SDSmax has 3 open and 2 closed slots. Designed for shanks with a diameter of 18 mm and a start depth of 90 mm. Designed for professional rotary hammers weighing from 5 kg. Able to drill holes up to 20 mm in diameter.
  • SDSquick does not use grooves as fasteners, but special projections, which allows you to insert bits and drills with a inch hex shank into the chuck.
  • SDShex is used exclusively for demolition hammers and is designed for peak and chisel applications.

7.According to the location of the electric motor

First of all, the location of the motor on the hammer drill can tell you what kind of tool is in front of you. for domestic use or professional. There are only two options:

  • Horizontal to the axis. For the most part, this is a household rotary hammer. Such a tool has small dimensions with elongated and narrowed shapes. This allows it to be used in confined and awkward places. The power of such devices is not too high. up to 0.9 kW, but they are very lightweight and easy to use. These models are most convenient for use in home repairs and installation in horizontal planes, and their price is more than affordable. The disadvantage is low power and difficult cooling of the engine, which leads to overheating. To avoid this, you need to take frequent breaks from work.
  • With a vertical motor, professional rock drills are most often produced. They have large dimensions and significant weight, respectively, and their capacity is much higher. In addition, the vertical orientation contributes to the rapid cooling of the engine, which significantly reduces the load on the device and protects it from overheating. This hammer drill will not be equal when working in the vertical direction, moreover, it is able to withstand significant loads for a long time. The disadvantages include the large weight of the tool and the high price, which is explained by the belonging of this type of tool to the category of professional and very powerful.

AEG KH24E. 7300₽

Restyling in 2009 did not affect the appearance of the KH24E, the main changes were made in the “stuffing” of the instrument. For example, in the updated models, the impact force was slightly reduced, which made it possible to increase the accuracy and duration of work. Thanks to this, this rotary hammer will fit

  • an amateur, because in order to use the full potential of the model, it will take more than one year and a wide range of interests (the manufacturer is allowed to work on wood, metal, concrete)
  • a professional who will approach the need for the first maintenance in about a year (the resource of the new KH24E has grown due to a decrease in power).

At the same time, each of them will appreciate the elastic coating of the handle, the ability to adjust the speed by pressing the trigger and the presence of a keyless chuck with a shank in the kit.

Characteristics Values
Weight, kg 2.4
Drill fixation option SDS
Modes of operation Chiseling, hammering, drilling
Impact force, J 2.3
Impact frequency at xx, beats / min 4500
Shaft rotation speed at xx, rpm 1500
Power consumption, W 720
Drilling wood / metal / concrete, mm 30/13/24
Add. function Reverse, safety clutch, electronic speed control, chisel position fixation
Power cable length, m four
Origin development / of. production Germany / Germany, China
Price, rub. 7300

15. Bosch GBH 2-28 DFV Professional. 159

The declared potential of the GBH 2-28 DFV is supported by the design features of the model. Among which are systems providing

  • quick cartridge change,
  • bit fixation in any position,
  • reduced tool vibration,
  • torque blocking without stopping the engine, when the attachment is jammed.

It should be remembered that the complete set of this rotary hammer will suit only professionals. Because the absence of a drill, chisel or lance is not critical for this category of craftsmen. Each has its own specifics of work, respectively, and its own set of equipment. But from a set of

  • 2 quick-release chucks (one for drills, with a smooth shank, up to 13 mm in diameter, the other with an SDS clamp),
  • drilling stop 210 mm,
  • additional handle,
  • napkins,
  • case,

even those specialists who constantly work with tools from Bosch will not refuse.

Characteristics Values
Weight, kg 3.1
Drill fixation option SDS
Modes of operation Drilling with and without hammering, chiselling
Impact force, J 3.2
Impact frequency at xx, beats / min 4000
Shaft rotation speed at xx, rpm 900
Power consumption, W 850
Drilling wood / metal / concrete, mm 30/13/28
Add. function The chisel is locked in any convenient position, the reverse is made on the basis of a rotary brush holder, there is an active system that reduces vibration from the operating mechanism and a safety clutch
Power cable length, m four
Origin development / of. production Germany / Germany, China
Price, rub. 10495

11. Makita HR2470. 99

The proven ease of working with Makita horizontal rock drills is also inherent in the HR2470. Relatively light weight with sufficient impact force and smooth adjustment of shaft revolutions, are successfully complemented by comfortable anti-slip handles and a full range of operating functions

The existing possibility of fixing the bit in one of 40 preset positions, reduces labor intensity and increases the accuracy of the chiseling process.

The SDS system ensures prompt replacement of the drill. The permissible parameters of processed wood, steel and concrete fully cover the needs of home or summer cottage repairs. Therefore, the model 2470 is in demand not only by amateurs, but also by professionals specializing in finishing work.

Characteristics Values
Weight, kg 2.9
Drill fixation option SDS
Modes of operation Drilling, hammer drilling, hammering without drilling
Impact force, J 2.4
Impact frequency at xx, beats / min 4500
Shaft rotation speed at xx, rpm 1100
Power consumption, W 780
Drilling wood / metal / concrete, mm 32/13/24
Add. function 40 bit lock positions, reverse, safety clutch, electronic speed control
Power cable length, m four
Origin development / of. production Japan / Japan, China
Price, rub. 7469

Interskol P 22 620 ER. 3443₽

Absolutely all the work that you have to deal with in your own home and in the country is subject to the Interskol P 22 620 ER puncher. The only thing that can somewhat darken the mood of the user is 2 modes of the instrument. But it should be understood that the absence of a chiseling mode is critical for a professional (it is not possible to perform chiseling for wiring and expanding openings in reinforced concrete slabs). For an amateur, in order to independently complete the decoration of his home and subsequently maintain the premises in a presentable form, the P 22 620 ER has enough capabilities:

  • Adjustment of revolutions and reverse allows you to abandon the use of a drill, easily remove the equipment clamped in concrete.
  • The trigger fixation is responsible for the convenience in the process of mixing solutions.
  • The safety clutch protects the hands and face of the master from unexpected impacts during the jamming of the drill.
  • SDS system allows for quick replacement of drills (bits, lances) in the chuck.
Characteristics Values
Weight, kg 2.5
Drill fixation option SDS
Modes of operation Drilling with and without impact
Impact force, J 2.2
Impact frequency at xx, beats / min 5060
Shaft rotation speed at xx, rpm 1100
Power consumption, W 620
Drilling wood / metal / concrete, mm 30/13/22
Add. function Reverse, electronic speed control, safety clutch
Power cable length, m four
Origin development / of. production Russia / China
Price, rub. 3443

Bison ZP 900 EC. 5100₽

Based on the design features and thanks to a set of implemented technologies, the Zubr ZP 900 EK perforator is considered to be an analogue of expensive professional equipment. After all, there is everything that is somehow implemented in a brand tool.

  • Keyless chuck (SDS) with dust protection,
  • metal body of the percussion mechanism,
  • well thought-out anti-vibration system,
  • handles are made of materials that prevent the tool from slipping during operation,
  • 3 standard operating modes,

reinforced by 5 with small kilograms of weight and a vertical position of the electric motor, they bring the ZP 900 EK to the level of a good household tool. Even with a claim to professional exploitation. Indeed, for this model, the loads are not critical either when working with a drill with a diameter of up to 28 mm, or with shock-free crowns, or in the process of chipping.

Characteristics Values
Weight, kg 5.4
Drill fixation option SDS
Modes of operation Chiseling, drilling, hammer drilling
Impact force, J four
Impact frequency at xx, beats / min 2600
Shaft rotation speed at xx, rpm 0-700
Power consumption, W 900
Drilling wood / metal / concrete, mm 30/13/28
Add. function Safety clutch, active vibration-reducing system
Power cable length, m 2
Origin development / of. production Russia, Russia
Price, rub. 5100

DeWalt D25103K. 7031₽

Thanks to the cost of the D25103K horizontal rock drill, the potential of professional equipment has become available to the average amateur. This means that the independent execution of a wide range of repair and finishing work will not be overshadowed

  • frequent overheating of the engine, requiring a long rest
  • unstable operation of the percussion mechanism (due to the design features and, at the same time, an elementary solution to the problem of most models of inexpensive tools)
  • injuries sustained during operation.

The reasons for this are, respectively:

  • low shaft rotation speed
  • design features of the impact bolt, excluding its jamming during operation without load
  • the presence of a safety clutch that stops the transmission of torque to the shaft immediately when blocking a drill, chisel or lance.

Thus, the domestic consumer will never lose interest in a worthy branded instrument, even if it is assembled in China (it affects only the final cost).

Characteristics Values
Weight, kg 2.8
Drill fixation option SDS
Modes of operation Drilling with and without hammering, chiselling
Impact force, J 3.1
Impact frequency at xx, beats / min 4200
Shaft rotation speed at xx, rpm 1150
Power consumption, W 780
Drilling wood / metal / concrete, mm 30/13/24
Add. function Safety clutch, reverse
Power cable length, m four
Origin development / of. production USA / USA, China
Price, rub. 7031

12. Makita HR2450FT. 7948₽

While outwardly similar to other models in this line, the HR2450FT rotary hammer is distinguished by the fact that its potential is worthy of professional use. This is supported by:

  • admission to work with crowns up to 65 mm in diameter
  • optimum power-to-impact ratio for finishing work
  • presence of work area illumination
  • quick change system of SDS chuck on a keyless chuck for a conventional drill
  • the presence of a safety clutch and anti-slip inserts under the arm.

The implementation of the reverse function in this model deserves special attention. when switching the direction of rotation, there is a mechanical limitation of the trigger displacement. Due to this, the reverse rotation speed does not exceed half of that declared by the manufacturer.

Characteristics Values
Weight, kg 2.9
Drill fixation option SDS
Modes of operation Drilling with impact, drilling without impact, chiselling
Impact force, J 2.7
Impact frequency at xx, beats / min 4500
Shaft rotation speed at xx, rpm 1100
Power consumption, W 780
Drilling wood / metal / concrete, mm 32/13/24
Add. function Safety clutch, illumination, reverse, the ability to install a keyless chuck instead of the standard SDS
Power cable length, m four
Origin development / of. production Japan / Japan, China
Price, rub. 7948

Review of the 16 best rock drills for the DIYer

Why does the choice of a hammer drill put the amateur in a difficult position? We most often approach the issue based on a certain budget. On closer inspection, in addition to cost and power, new benchmarks are revealed for comparison. Among others. the location of the drive, the number of operating modes, and this is only a small part of the parameters that should be considered. We have compiled a list of the most reliable rock drills for 2019. We hope you find a tool that will become your loyal friend for years to come.

The chance of finding the perfect option increases if you remember that externally similar models can differ significantly even in terms of maintenance, despite the power and weight.

Selection criteria Criteria options Basic properties and purposes of options
The weight up to 3 kg Lightweight and convenient models for solving a limited list of tasks
3-5 kg A tool with versatile functionality
from 5 kg Highly specialized heavy rock drills
Location of the actuator Vertical It has a positive effect on the cooling of the motor and gearbox. As a result, models with a vertical engine have a certain margin of endurance.
Horizontal The horizontal arrangement guarantees a high level of comfort when working with the hammer drill.
Power supply type Network Always ready to work, the right balance of cost and performance
Rechargeable All possible losses (from impact force to operating time) are fully compensated for by mobility
Attachment system for drills, bits and peak SDS Common variant, for 10 mm shank
SDS-max Professional equipment for sds equipment with a base of 18 mm
Modes of operation Drilling The usual set of puncher. The absence of the first or last function is not an indicator of low-grade equipment. Because rational decisions of manufacturers allow to exclude unbearable or unclaimed operations for a specific tool
Impact drilling
Chiselling
Accessories and functions Thrust handle Due to the ability to change its position, a high level of safety is achieved during operation
Depth gauge Prevents over-immersion of the drill
Set of drills, lance, chisel A set of different combinations of these elements makes the hammer drill a versatile tool.
Replaceable or additional (keyless, key) chuck with SDS adapter
Control electronics Control of the number of revolutions and frequency of impact
Safety clutch When the drill is jammed, it stops the transmission of torque from the engine to the shaft
Reverse Equally effective rotation of the rig in different directions
Trigger lock Facilitation of labor when mixing building mixtures
Backlight Increases the accuracy of the work performed
Dust extraction system Passive (basic equipment) or forced. additional equipment. On many models, this feature is proactive (nozzles directing air over the top of the drill) to prevent debris from entering the tool and user.

Power consumption should be taken into account when working in an unstable power supply. When choosing a hammer drill for working on bricks and lightweight concrete, you should pay attention to the power and frequency of impact, indicators of shaft rotation. The table below will help you get the right idea about models from different price categories.

Model Power
shock, J
consumed, W Frequency
shaft rotation, rpm
impacts, beats / min Weight, kg Cost, rub.
Budget tool. for rare jobs
1. KRUGER 1400 W not specified / 1400 not specified / 4000 3.1 4490
2. Hammer PRT 650 A 2.2 / 650 0-1000 / 4850 3.3 3999
3. DeFort DRH-800N-K 3.3 / 780 0-780 / 3900 3.3 3350
4. Interskol P 22 620 ER 2.2 / 620 0-1100 / 5060 2.5 3443
5. BORT BHD-900 3.5 / 900 0-900 / 4700 3.2 4168
6. Hyundai H 850 2.7 / 850 0-1250 / 5600 3.2 4503
The middle class is a reliable tool for amateurs and pros
7. Bison ZP 900 EC 4/900 0-700 / 2600 5.4 5100
8. DeWalt D25103K 3.1 / 780 0-1100 / 420 2.6 7031
9. Bosch PBN 300 FRE 2.8 / 750 0-1450 / 4000 3 7068
10. AEG kh 24e 2.3 / 720 0-1500 / 4500 2.4 7300
11. Makita 2470 2.4 / 780 0-1100 / 4500 2.9 7469
Professional tool. precision and comfort in work
12. Makita HR2450FT 2.7 / 780 0-1100 / 4500 2.9 7948
13. Bosch GBH 2-26 DFR 2.7 / 800 0-900 / 4000 2.9 9158
14. Hitachi DH24PC3 3.2 / 800 0-1150 / 4600 2.6 8876
15. Bosch GBH 2-28 DFV Professional 3.2 / 850 0-900 / 4000 3.1 10495
16. Interskol PA-10 / 14.4R-2 0.9 / battery 14.4V 0-750 / 5400 1.4 7529