Ever tried to put a screw into a tough wall, only to have your regular drill spin its wheels? It’s frustrating, right? When you need to tackle concrete, brick, or stone, a standard drill just won’t cut it. That’s where the mighty hammer drill comes in, ready to make those tough jobs feel a lot easier.
But walking into a tool store or browsing online can be overwhelming. So many brands, so many features, and what does “variable speed” even mean for *your* project? Choosing the wrong hammer drill can lead to wasted money, wasted time, and a lot of unnecessary effort.
This post is your secret weapon. We’re going to break down exactly what makes a hammer drill tick, what features truly matter, and how to pick the perfect one for your needs, whether you’re a DIY beginner or a seasoned pro. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your choice and ready to conquer any masonry project.
Our Top 5 Hammer Drills Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Hammer Drills Detailed Reviews
1. DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Drill
Rating: 8.9/10
Get ready to tackle tough jobs with the DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Drill. This tool is designed for professionals and DIYers who need power and comfort. It’s perfect for drilling into concrete quickly and easily. You can use it for many tasks, like hanging rods, setting up cable trays, and mounting railings. Its cordless design means you can work anywhere without being tied to an outlet.
What We Like:
- It drills through concrete really fast with 1.4 joules of power.
- The drill is light, making it easier to use for long periods and in tight spots like hanging rods or mounting brackets.
- A brushless motor and German-engineered parts mean it works efficiently and lasts longer.
- The SHOCKS system reduces vibrations, so your hands won’t get as tired.
- It can be made OSHA table 1 compliant with specific dust collection parts.
- You can easily switch between drilling and hammer drilling with the mode selector.
What Could Be Improved:
- This “Tool Only” model means you need to buy the battery and charger separately.
- To meet OSHA dust requirements, you need to buy additional dust collection equipment.
This DEWALT rotary hammer drill offers a great balance of power and user comfort. It’s a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable tool for concrete work.
2. BOSCH 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme 8 Amp 1 Inch Corded Variable Speed SDS-Plus Concrete/Masonry Rotary Hammer
Rating: 9.0/10
The BOSCH 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme is a powerful rotary hammer designed for tough concrete and masonry jobs. Its 8 Amp motor and 7.5 Amp equivalent power deliver impressive performance, making quick work of drilling and chiseling tasks. With its user-friendly features and durable build, this tool is a solid choice for professionals and serious DIYers.
What We Like:
- It has three useful modes: rotation-only, rotary hammer, and hammer-only.
- The variable speed trigger lets you start bits precisely and remove fasteners easily.
- Vibration control makes it comfortable to use for long periods.
- The D-handle design is comfortable and gives you great control, especially for overhead work.
- The SDS-plus bit system allows for quick, tool-free bit changes.
- Vario-Lock positioning lets you adjust the chiseling angle for better results.
- Its powerful motor and 2.0 ft-lbs of impact energy tackle tough materials.
- It comes with a helpful auxiliary handle, depth gauge, and a carrying case.
What Could Be Improved:
- While powerful, it is a corded tool, limiting its mobility compared to cordless models.
- The tool can be a bit heavy for some users during extended overhead use.
Overall, the BOSCH Bulldog Xtreme offers excellent power and versatility for concrete and masonry work. It’s a reliable tool that makes demanding jobs more manageable.
3. CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hammer Drill Kit
Rating: 9.4/10
Tackle tough jobs with the CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hammer Drill Kit. This powerful drill is part of the V20 cordless system, meaning it works with other CRAFTSMAN V20 tools. Its high-performance motor delivers 280 unit watts out, perfect for demanding tasks on the job or around your home.
What We Like:
- The 1/2-inch ratcheting chuck holds drill bits securely.
- It hammers at 25,500 blows per minute, making quick work of concrete and brick.
- A 2-speed gearbox offers versatility, with speeds from 0-350 and 0-1,500 RPM for drilling and fastening.
- Two included V20 20V MAX Lithium Batteries give you plenty of power and runtime.
- The V20 20V MAX Lithium charger gets your batteries ready in 60 minutes or less.
- This drill is compatible with the VERSATRACK Wall Organization System for easy storage (clips and accessories sold separately).
What Could Be Improved:
- While powerful, some users might find the drill a bit heavy for extended overhead work.
- The VERSATRACK system accessories are not included with the drill kit.
This CRAFTSMAN V20 Hammer Drill Kit offers a strong combination of power and convenience. It’s a reliable tool for anyone needing to drill through tough materials.
4. DEWALT 20V MAX XR 1/2 Inch Cordless Hammer Drill Kit with 8AH Battery and Charger (DCD1007WW1)
Rating: 9.1/10
Get ready to tackle tough jobs with the DEWALT 20V MAX XR 1/2 Inch Cordless Hammer Drill Kit. This drill is DEWALT’s most powerful 20V Max hammer drill, making it ideal for all sorts of demanding projects. It’s designed to help you work safely and efficiently, even in tight spaces.
What We Like:
- It’s DEWALT’s most powerful 20V Max hammer drill, so it can handle tough jobs.
- The anti-rotation system helps keep you safe by stopping the drill if it spins too fast.
- A red light shows when the safety system is on.
- It’s the shortest DEWALT premium 3-speed drill, making it easy to use in tight spots.
- The 3-speed transmission helps you get the most out of the battery and gives you the right power for different tasks.
- An all-metal transmission makes it strong and reliable.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 8AH battery, while powerful, adds some weight to the tool.
- This is a premium tool, so the price might be higher than some other options.
This DEWALT hammer drill kit offers impressive power and advanced safety features. It’s a solid choice for anyone who needs a dependable and capable tool for their projects.
5. GLORITY 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus 13 Amp Heavy Duty Rotary Hammer Drill with Safety Clutch 4 Functions and Variable Speed
Rating: 8.7/10
Tackle tough jobs with the GLORITY 1-1/4 Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill. This powerful tool is built for demanding tasks like breaking up concrete or drilling through thick metal. It’s designed to make your work easier and more efficient.
What We Like:
- The 13 AMP motor delivers strong power (7.4 joules) for fast results on concrete and masonry.
- It offers four useful functions: hammer, drill, hammer drill, and adjustable chisel for versatility.
- The SDS-plus chuck makes changing drill bits quick and secure.
- A safety clutch protects you and the tool from damage if it jams.
- The vibration-dampening handle makes it more comfortable to use for longer periods.
- It comes with a complete set of drill bits, chisels, and accessories, so you have everything you need to start.
- The all-copper motor is built to last and resist overheating.
What Could Be Improved:
- For very delicate work, the power might be more than what’s needed.
- While durable, the aluminum alloy housing might scratch over time with heavy use.
The GLORITY Rotary Hammer Drill is a robust and versatile tool for any serious DIYer or professional. It offers impressive power and a user-friendly design that makes challenging projects manageable.
Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Hammer Drill
Hammer drills are powerful tools. They help you drill into tough materials like concrete and brick. This guide will help you pick the right one for your projects.
Key Features to Look For
When you shop for a hammer drill, check for these important things:
- Power (Amps or Volts): More power means it can handle harder jobs. For light tasks, 5 to 7 amps is good. For heavy-duty work, look for 7 amps or higher. Cordless drills use volts. 18V is common and works well for most people. 20V or higher is for really tough jobs.
- Hammering Action (Blows Per Minute – BPM): This is what makes the drill hammer. Higher BPM means it drills faster. Look for at least 30,000 BPM for concrete.
- Speed Settings: Most hammer drills have variable speed. This lets you control how fast it spins. You can drill slowly for accuracy or quickly for speed.
- Chuck Type: The chuck holds the drill bit. Keyed chucks are strong but slower to change bits. Keyless chucks are faster and easier. Most modern drills use keyless chucks.
- Corded vs. Cordless:
- Corded: These drills have endless power as long as they are plugged in. They are usually lighter and cheaper. The cord can get in the way sometimes.
- Cordless: These drills offer freedom of movement. They run on batteries. Battery life is important. Make sure the battery is long-lasting.
Important Materials
Hammer drills are made from strong materials to last long:
- Housing: The outside is often made of tough plastic or a mix of plastic and rubber. This protects the inner parts and makes it comfortable to hold.
- Gears: The gears inside are usually metal. Hardened steel gears are the best for durability.
- Chuck: The chuck can be metal or heavy-duty plastic. Metal chucks are generally more robust.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a hammer drill great or not so great?
- Durability: A well-built hammer drill will last many years. Brands known for quality tools often use better materials and have better construction.
- Ergonomics: How the drill feels in your hand matters. A comfortable grip and good balance make it easier to use for longer periods.
- Motor Type: Brushless motors are more efficient and last longer than brushed motors. They also tend to be more powerful.
- Battery Technology (for cordless): Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are the standard. They hold a charge well and don’t lose power over time.
- Brand Reputation: Some brands are known for making reliable tools. Reading reviews can help you find out which brands are trustworthy.
User Experience and Use Cases
Hammer drills are used for many things:
- Hanging shelves and pictures: You can easily drill holes in drywall or plaster.
- Installing cabinets: This tool makes drilling pilot holes in wood quick and easy.
- Masonry work: Drilling into concrete, brick, or stone for anchors or mounting fixtures is its main strength.
- Demolition (light): For small tasks like breaking up old grout or removing tiles.
Using a hammer drill is simple. You select the drilling mode (regular drill or hammer drill). Then, you choose the speed and bit. Press the trigger to start drilling. Always wear safety glasses.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the main difference between a hammer drill and a regular drill?
A: A hammer drill has a hammering action that pounds the drill bit forward. This makes it drill into hard materials like concrete much faster. A regular drill just spins.
Q: Can I use a hammer drill for everyday drilling tasks like screwing in screws?
A: Yes, you can. Most hammer drills have a mode that turns off the hammering action. This makes them work like a regular drill or a screwdriver.
Q: How much power do I need in a hammer drill?
A: For simple tasks like drilling into wood or drywall, a 5-amp corded drill or an 18V cordless drill is usually enough. For concrete or brick, you’ll need more power, like a 7-amp corded drill or a 20V+ cordless drill.
Q: What is BPM, and why is it important?
A: BPM stands for Blows Per Minute. It tells you how fast the hammer action is pounding. A higher BPM means it drills faster, especially in tough materials.
Q: Should I buy a corded or cordless hammer drill?
A: Corded drills offer consistent power and are often less expensive. Cordless drills give you freedom to move around without a cord. Think about how and where you will use it most.
Q: What kind of drill bits should I use with a hammer drill?
A: For drilling into concrete or masonry, you need special masonry drill bits. These bits are made of very hard materials like carbide. For wood or metal, use regular drill bits.
Q: How do I change the drill bit on a hammer drill?
A: Most hammer drills have a keyless chuck. You just twist the chuck to open it, insert the bit, and twist it back to tighten. Some older models might have a keyed chuck that needs a special tool to tighten.
Q: Are there safety features I should look for?
A: Yes. A clutch is a good feature. It stops the drill if the bit gets stuck, which can prevent wrist injuries. Always wear safety glasses when using any drill.
Q: How do I maintain my hammer drill?
A: Keep it clean and dry. Make sure the air vents are clear so the motor doesn’t overheat. For cordless drills, follow the battery charging instructions.
Q: Is a hammer drill necessary for home use?
A: It depends on your projects. If you only drill into wood or drywall, a regular drill is fine. If you plan to drill into concrete or brick, then a hammer drill is a very useful tool to have.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hi, I’m Tom Scalisi, and welcome to The Saw Blog! I started this blog to share my hands-on experience and insights about woodworking tools—especially saws and saw blades. Over the years, I’ve had the chance to work with a wide range of tools, and I’m here to help both professionals and hobbyists make informed decisions when it comes to selecting and using their equipment. Whether you’re looking for in-depth reviews, tips, or just advice on how to get the best performance out of your tools, you’ll find it here. I’m excited to be part of your woodworking journey!