A hammer drill is a tool that allows you to perform drilling work. As a rule, the unit performs rotational-impact movement and longitudinal-axial movement. The tool can be compared to an impact drill, although they are not exactly the same thing. Let's figure out how to choose a hammer drill for use at home. It is worth noting that you do not need to buy a professional device, but it is also not recommended to choose the simplest models.
General information
The hammer drill allows you to produce holes of various depths and diameters. The range of materials in which drilling is carried out is quite wide, but almost always these are products with a high level of strength and rigidity (concrete concrete, etc.). Currently, a pneumatic or electric mechanism is used, which ensures the impact movement of the drill towards the material being processed; the return is carried out due to the elasticity of the surface being processed. Many people ask about how to choose a hammer drill for their home. This is not as simple as it might seem at first glance. Firstly, a large selection of tools is immediately confusing, and secondly, units of different brands and prices are very similar to each other, so you need to at least understand the basic parameters a little.
Impact drill or hammer drill?
If you don't find what you are looking for in the store, they will most likely offer you an impact drill. But you need to understand that a hammer drill is a slightly different unit. Firstly, even with less power, the device can make a hole in a much stronger material than an impact drill. If you want to make holes without using impacts, then choose a drill, but remember that a hammer drill can also work in hammerless mode as an additional function. In simple terms, these two instruments are very similar to each other and at the same time very different. Drills are more powerful, weigh little, but do not allow you to work with some materials. A modern hammer drill will cost a little less, and its dimensions are not so large. A powerful drill and high speed allow you to make straight holes in a short period of time, but it will require some effort. Let's take a closer look at how to choose a hammer drill for your home, as there are a lot of interesting details here.
How to choose the right power
So, it’s easy to guess that this parameter is the main one. If you are planning to buy a hammer drill, then you need to focus specifically on power. This indicator is measured in Watts. The spread here is quite large: from 450 to 2,000 watts. Today there is no clear classification of rotary hammers by power, but we will try to roughly divide the tool into two groups. We consider units with a power of 450-900 watts to be household, and everything higher can be considered professional. In principle, if you plan to use the tool quite rarely and not get deep holes, then 500-650 watts will be enough. If you want to buy a hammer drill for frequent use, for example, to do renovations in an apartment, then buy a 750-900 Watt unit and you will be satisfied. In principle, you are unlikely to need a professional tool in everyday life.
Deciding on the type of hammer drill
There are two types of tools based on the location of the engine in the housing: horizontal and vertical. It is easy to guess that in the first case the engine is located parallel to the shock axis. In the second case, the motor has a perpendicular location relative to the shock axis; they are also called L-shaped. Well, now let's figure out how to choose a rotary hammer for working at home based on the engine location. If you are going to carry out work in narrow, deep openings, then a horizontal engine arrangement is definitely suitable for you. But this solution also has its drawbacks, for example, insufficient engine cooling, as well as low power. Vertical hammer drills do not have these disadvantages, which is why they are often produced for work in difficult conditions, where long uninterrupted operating time is required, as well as high impact power. But since we are selecting a device for the home, pay more attention to horizontal models.
About the force of impact
The efficiency and speed of operation of the device largely depends on its strike capabilities. The amount of energy with which interaction with the machined surface is carried out directly affects the quality of the hole. As a clear example, here is a comparison of two rotary hammers. One of them is Bosch, with a power of 750 Watts with an impact force of 2.8 Joules, and the second is Makita with 1,500 Watts and 20 Joules. The first hammer drill allows you to make holes in concrete up to 26 mm in diameter, and the second - up to 52. One model is exclusively for home use, the other is professional. You may ask, how to choose the right hammer drill based on impact force? Aim for approximately 2.6-4.5 Joules. This will be quite enough to make repairs at home. You can get holes with a diameter of up to 30-35 millimeters.
How to choose a hammer drill for concrete
There are several important points. Firstly, always pay attention to the markings on the mount. To work with concrete, it is necessary to have the SDS+ designation, which indicates the versatility of the device. With this unit you can screw bolts, mix mortar or drill holes in concrete using the impact method (or non-impact method). Secondly, pay attention to power. It has already been said above that this parameter is important, especially when it comes to working with bricks, slabs or reinforced concrete products. In order to get a hole in concrete wall with a diameter of 3 centimeters, you must have a 5.5 Joule hammer drill with a 10 mm drill. If you plan to double the diameter, then it is not at all necessary to buy a more powerful tool; you can try installing a crown on a stone.
Preferred Power Source
Today, the market offers networked and battery-powered models. The first ones are the most common and have a number of advantages over a battery-powered hammer drill. But it happens that there is no way to connect the power source. For example, working at heights or in other conditions where there is no electricity. But it is worth paying attention that the battery capacity must be very large. This is due to the fact that drilling, chiselling and other work requires a lot of energy. An insufficiently capacious battery will run out quite quickly. But the main problem is that the device is too expensive. Another option is a pneumatic hammer drill, distinctive feature which consists in the absence of a spark during work. Unfortunately, in our country this is considered exotic; if you see such an instrument, it’s already good, but you’re unlikely to be able to buy it. For home use, a powered hammer drill is best suited.
How to choose a Bosch rotary hammer
All craftsmen, from beginners to professionals, have heard or used Bosch tools. Rotary hammers from this manufacturer sell best, due to the high quality of the product. To do right choice, you need to at least understand a little about the markings indicated on the case. Let's start with the simplest thing - the letter designation. Typically this is GBH or PBH. The letter G means that the unit is intended for professional use (blue body), and P indicates that the hammer drill is suitable for domestic purposes (green body). Further numbers may follow: 2-26, 3-38, etc. They indicate the weight of the instrument with an accuracy of one gram. Further on the body there are capital letters. For example, “d” means that there is a chiselling mode, and “r” indicates that the device is equipped with reverse (reverse). In addition, there may be the letter “f” - a replaceable cartridge. As you understand, the latest designations may not exist. Don’t buy a unit with functions that you won’t use, it’s just a waste of money.
A little about additional characteristics and weight
Do not forget that the weight of the device plays a big role. The lighter the device, the easier it is to work with. Naturally, light weight is typical for low-power rotary hammers, and this should not be forgotten. An instrument weighing up to 3 kilograms can be considered light, and anything higher belongs to the medium (3-5) and heavy (5-12) categories. For domestic purposes, a unit with a total weight of no more than 3.5 kilograms is quite sufficient. As for additional functions, it is desirable to have a speed controller. This will allow you to speed up or slow down the drill while drilling. It is desirable to have a soft start function, which eliminates jerks during the first start-up of the equipment. You can also look for a tool that is equipped with an anti-jamming mechanism for the drill. A special coupling is installed that will protect not only the engine, but also the worker. You already know how to choose good hammer drill, and if all the above functions are present, then this is an ideal solution for home use.
About choosing a drill
As you understand, a drill is necessary for working with concrete structures. The main difference from the drill is the shank, which is made according to the SDS standard. If you need to make a large hole for a socket, you will need special crowns. They are divided into several types: diamond and for dry drilling. The first ones are more expensive, so the second option is suitable for domestic use. It is worth noting that choosing a drill bit for a rotary hammer is quite simple; you just need to pay attention to a few details. Firstly, the steeper the spiral, the higher the characteristics (speed and depth), and secondly, buy only original drills. This is due to the fact that the shank of a copy made somewhere unknown will not always fit the mount of your hammer drill, especially when it comes to models such as Bosch, Makita, etc. In principle, this information should be quite enough to avoid making a mistake in your choice. Remember, a high-quality drill costs a lot.
Why is idle speed so important?
We must not lose sight of such an important indicator as the number of revolutions at idle. It is best if there is a special knob that allows you to adjust the idle speed. In this case, you can adjust the drill and drill to the specifics of the work being performed. For example, to work with a foam block, fewer revolutions are required than when drilling concrete. By the way, high speeds are not always good either. This is due to the fact that at extreme speeds the drill heats up much faster and can fail much faster. To avoid misunderstandings when performing various works, change the fastening systems, then everything will be fine.
Regardless of whether the tool is professional or not, buy one that comes with a drill, auger and a case where you can carry the device. Today there is quite a wide choice in the budget segment. There are models worthy of attention, for example the Zenit ZP-1100. Such a device will cost you about 2,000 rubles. The set includes an SDS+ class chuck, suitable for medium-sized drills. Another one interesting model- Bosch PBH 2100 RE. For such a tool you will have to pay approximately 4,000 rubles. This unit has an impact force of only 1.7 Joules, so it can be classified as low-power. However, for home use it is perfect solution. If you don’t know which company to choose a hammer drill, then give preference to a well-known brand, even if you overpay 5-10% for the name, but you will use it for a long time and without problems.
Conclusion
Well, we figured out how to choose a drill with a hammer drill. Now you should not have any problems when purchasing. Never buy a used tool, as there is little point in doing so. It's better to buy something inexpensive, but new. You will receive a guarantee that you can use at any time. If you are mainly going to do work with concrete, then definitely buy a hammer drill, believe me, the difference will be noticeable and not in favor of an impact drill. If the prices in your stores are too high, pay attention to the range of goods online, of course, if you trust such purchases. That's all that could be said on this issue. As you can see, not everything is as complicated as it might seem. Take a little time to consider the basic parameters and you will definitely make the right purchase.
A hammer drill is an impact tool that is designed for long-term drilling of hard materials (concrete, stone, etc.).
Rotary hammers belong to the class of professional power tools and are many times superior to ordinary household drills in terms of technical characteristics, and therefore are more expensive.
The fact is that in a drill the impact function is additional, while in a hammer drill it is the main one. If an impact drill's main purpose is drilling, then a hammer drill's main purpose is chiselling. A drill has an electromechanical impact function, while a hammer drill has an electro-pneumatic impact function. With the same tool power, the diameter of the hole made by a hammer drill is approximately 1.5 times larger than that of a hole drilled by an impact drill.
Features of rotary hammers
The power and other technical characteristics of the selected hammer drill depend on the purpose of its purchase.
Modern full-featured rotary hammers have three operating modes:
- impacts without rotation (operation in jackhammer mode),
- rotation without impact,
- rotation with kicks.
A hammer drill can be used for more than just drilling various materials, but also for other work - hollowing out niches or grooves in stone walls, chopping off excess material, etc.
Things to consider when choosing:
- Rotation speed adjustment. It is better if the tool has a button lock at maximum speed.
- Switch stopper. This function allows you to fix the switch in the position you choose
Important indicators:
- Heavy hammer drills work with powerful drills, but such work takes a lot of effort.
- When choosing a hammer drill, look for the middle ground between the required tasks and the amount you are willing to spend on the tool.
- Rotary hammers have very different configurations. The basic package may not have the features you need. Carefully study the characteristics of each specific model.
What does a person need first? Housing. People have been building it for more than a millennium. Of course, during this time a huge number of all kinds of tools and devices were invented to make work easier and improve results. The most significant innovations in the field of construction and repair occurred after the invention of electric motors. Some power tools are designed for only one purpose, others can do whole line works For example, a hammer drill is a device that combines the functions of a jackhammer and a drill, i.e. Can drill and chisel at the same time.
Entry-level rotary hammers have relatively low power, which is why they can only work with soft concrete and brick. The main advantage of such models is low weight and ease of use. The main manufacturers of amateur hammer drills are domestic companies, such as Interskol, Zubr. Professional tools boast a power of 1500 W, which is enough to work with stone and concrete, groove channels and make large holes. This class includes famous brands: Makita, Bosch, DeWALT.
When purchasing a rotary hammer, you have to consider several important criteria:
- Power. The larger the diameter and depth of the holes that are planned to be drilled, the more powerful the tool is needed.
- Impact energy. Hard materials and high work intensity require high values of this characteristic.
- Versatility. If you buy one tool that you plan to use for concrete, metal and wood, it is logical to consider models with replaceable chucks.
- Ergonomics and weight. The lighter and more convenient the hammer drill, the less tired the user is. On the other hand, for heavy work you have to use powerful tools that cannot weigh much.
- Type of food. Rechargeable models are much more convenient than network ones, but are much more expensive and limited in power.
We bring to your attention a review of rotary hammers, which presents tools that are popular among amateurs and professionals and have proven themselves well on the market. When compiling the rating, the following were taken into account:
- popularity of the model;
- number of positive reviews;
- price-quality ratio;
- reputation of the manufacturer.
The best inexpensive hammer drills for the home: budget up to 7,000 rubles
For your home, it is not at all necessary to purchase powerful hammer drills with rich technical characteristics. Having spent a round sum, you can purchase a tool whose capabilities will never be realized.
Most users need a hammer drill to drill holes for dowels and anchors, drill brick or concrete, and make holes for a socket. Less commonly, a hammer drill is used to dismantle walls, drill holes for wiring, and remove concrete sagging.
Today there are many models on sale, including well-known brands, which you can actually buy by spending no more than 7,000 rubles (or even significantly less). For home use, it is enough to take models with a power of no more than 850 W. The maximum impact energy of such “home” instruments is on average 2.7 - 3.2 J. Anything more than 12 J are already professional instruments, the price of which is $500 and above.
4 ZUBR ZP-26-750 EK
The most budget
Country: China
Average price: 3,780 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.6
This instrument, at the lowest price in the category, has excellent impact characteristics. The vertical layout of the hammer drill, quite rare in the budget segment, is specially designed for a more powerful blow, the maximum value of which for this model is 2.6 J. Therefore, it can easily punch holes in concrete with a diameter of up to 26 mm. Thoughtful ergonomics of the handles allow you to securely hold the tool while working.
Buyers are pleasantly surprised by the performance of the hammer drill - according to reviews, the drill goes into concrete like it goes into wood. Owners also praise the good-quality case and another convenient option - the ability to quickly replace engine brushes. Complaints are caused by the short power cord - only 1.5 m - and the lack of reverse.
3 Makita HR2440
Best weight-power ratio
Country: Japan
Average price: 6,690 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7
With a power of 780 W, an impact energy of 2.7 J and a weight of only 2.3 kg, the characteristics of this hammer drill allow it to be held with one hand, and the maximum diameter of the hole in concrete that it can drill is 24 mm. This is an absolute record in the budget class of instruments. The slightly higher price does not deter buyers, for whom the Makita brand name is synonymous with quality and attention to to the smallest details.
Rotary hammer owners speak favorably about the ergonomics and ease of use of the tool. Reliability and performance, according to reviews, are also excellent. A well-designed case and build quality are also among the advantages of the models. The only negative is the lack of a chiselling function.
2 Interskol P-22/620ER
Buyers' choice
Country Russia
Average price: 4,256 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
One of the most popular tools among buyers from Russia, this hammer drill has earned high user ratings for its unpretentiousness, performance and maintainability. Combined with a reasonable price, these characteristics make it the best option for installation work. Of course, it does not have very high power - 620 W and does not have a pure impact mode, but it is quite suitable for drilling holes in concrete or brick.
The owners note that this hammer drill is an excellent assistant for home repairs. It is quite lightweight, fits comfortably in the hand, and comes with a well-designed case. Users are satisfied with the reverse mode and electronic speed control. Cons – durable bad smell plastic and lack of “blow” mode.
1 Bosch PBH 2900 FRE
The easiest
Country: Germany
Average price: 5,890 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9
A lightweight and functional Bosch rotary hammer is a successful development by the engineers of the German concern. It has the minimum weight in its group, three modes of operation, including chiselling, and has earned many positive customer reviews. Electronic speed control increases the service life of the hammer drill and ensures user convenience. The branded SDS-Plus cartridge allows you to instantly change drills.
Owners of this device especially like the light weight with a fairly powerful blow and a very reasonable price. The equipment is also at its best - the hammer drill case is traditionally well thought out, in addition to the BOSCH PBH 2100 RE itself, it contains drills, drills and, if necessary, a replaceable keyless chuck. In a word, experienced craftsmen We are sure that this hammer drill is best option for home.
The best “proven” rotary hammers: price-quality
This rating includes the most popular rotary hammer models from well-known brands Bosch, Makita and DeWALT. The main criterion for getting into the rating is a large number of positive reviews regarding the quality and reliability of the power tool.
4 AEG KH 24 E
The best option for high-altitude work
Country: Germany
Average price: 7,780 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.6
The weight of the hammer drill is 2.4 kg, so it is extremely popular among high-rise workers who deal with insulation and finishing of facades. Such installers have to work without strong support, so the low weight of the tool is an essential selection criterion. Despite the lightness of the model, the maximum diameter of a hole in concrete that can be drilled with its help is 24 mm. There is a screwdriver mode and a power button lock.
Owners praise the reliability of the tool. It is often used for intensive installation work and, according to owner reviews, it heats up little and cools down quickly. In general, judging by the stories of buyers, if this hammer drill is properly cared for, it can work without breakdowns for years. Among the shortcomings is the lack of drills and lubricants included in the delivery set.
3 DeWALT D25124K
Best shot in its class
Country: USA
Average price: 9,590 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7
This model has an impact energy of 3.4 J - the best in the category. At the same time, recoil and vibration damping is also high level. Such a hammer drill is perfect for electrical installation and installation work, where it is often necessary to lay grooves, make socket boxes and drill deep holes in concrete. The set includes a replaceable quick-release chuck, so the tool can also work as a powerful drill.
Customers are particularly pleased with the hammer drill's performance and reliability. According to reviews, it requires virtually no effort from the user - you just need to guide him correctly. Professionals like the good weight-power ratio and recommend it, including for high-altitude work. The disadvantage is that the equipment is quite modest: only a case and a depth gauge.
2 Makita HR2470
Excellent ergonomics at an affordable price
Country: Japan
Average price: 7,685 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.8
Weight of 2.6 kg with a maximum impact energy of 2.4 J is the result of truly competent work by the designers. Adding to this excellent balance, ease of use and excellent reliability indicators, we get the optimal tool for home or professional installation work.
Owners unanimously praise the drilling speed, resistance to overheating and long-term operation without stopping, ease of maintenance and maintainability. Excellent weight distribution and well-thought-out ergonomics of the tool also earned excellent marks. There is one downside: expensive and hard-to-find spare parts, for example, replacement motor brushes.
1 Bosch GBH 2-26 DFR
Best functionality
Country: Germany
Average price: 10,620 rubles.
Rating (2019): 4.9
Bosch GBH 2-26 DFR is one of the most popular rotary hammer models for home and semi-professional use. Number one in our ranking of the most proven rotary hammers! It can operate in both drilling and chiselling modes. There is a quick chuck replacement system and a quick-release chuck included.
You can find many positive reviews about the Bosch GBH 2-26 DFR. Among the advantages are the durability of the tool and high power. Comment from one user:
“An indestructible hammer drill, the best in reliability! Freely takes high-grade concrete, which is used for the construction of bridge structures. He heated it to such an extent that his hands could not hold it. And not a hint of wear. At the same time, I would have gotten it. u. 2 years"
Complaints about the instrument are mostly related to defects and fakes. The fact is that the model is very popular and there is a possibility that instead of a German assembly, a Chinese-assembled hammer drill may end up in the buyer’s hands, with all the ensuing consequences.
Video review
The best cordless hammer drills
Any power cord is a potential nuisance. A corded tool requires an outlet or extension cord to carry around. In addition, in many places there is simply no electricity nearby, for example, when installing advertising structures on the street. In such cases, a cordless hammer drill is a good choice. In this category there are only the best models with excellent ergonomics. They all use modern lithium-ion batteries as a power source. rechargeable batteries and have a good weight-power ratio.
4 Interskol PA-10/14.4R-2
The lowest price
A country: Russia (manufactured in China)
Average price: 6,995 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5
The hammer drill from Interskol is the weakest link in our rating. But we are not talking about problems with quality - it is good here - but about low power. The impact energy is only 0.9 J, which means the tool can only be used on relatively soft materials. However, according to users, the hammer drill is able to make holes in concrete with a diameter of about 16 mm without any problems, which means that the device is enough for ordinary users.
In addition, this model has one important advantage - compact dimensions and extremely low weight, making it very convenient to use. We have before us a universal device that can replace a screwdriver, drill and hammer drill.
User reviews
Advantages: lowest weight (only 1.4 kg); there is illumination of the work area; there is an engine brake;
Disadvantages: there is no chiselling mode; no anti-vibration system;
3 Rotary hammer BOSCH GBH 180-Li 4.0Ah x2
High quality batteries
Country: Germany
Average price: RUB 17,910.
Rating (2019): 4.6
Bosch cordless tools are so popular among builders and installers because the quality of their batteries is always at the highest level. This hammer drill is no exception. The 18-volt battery charges in just 40 minutes and has a capacity of 4 Ah, and there are two of them in the kit, which allows you to work without interruptions. The ergonomics of the tool are well thought out: it is well balanced, has comfortable rubberized handles, and is blocked from accidental activation. A nice bonus is the ability to quickly replace motor brushes without disassembling the tool.
Owners praise the truly German build quality of the instrument and attention to the smallest details. When listing the advantages of a rotary hammer, buyers especially often mention excellent batteries, smooth and precise switching, as well as a convenient case. And although its impact energy is not the highest in the category - 1.7 J, it drills holes with a diameter of up to 20 mm in concrete without problems.
2 AEG BBH 18 Li-402C
Optimal combination of power and performance
A country: Germany (manufactured in China)
Average price: RUB 25,190.
Rating (2019): 4.7
A hammer drill from AEG is a very good choice. It has high power, which allows you to drill holes in concrete with a diameter of up to 50 mm. Of course, the impact energy of this model is slightly lower than that of the leader in the rating, but 2.3 J is enough for most jobs.
Ergonomics, as you would expect from a device of this level, are excellent. Changing modes, installing a drill, adjusting the drilling depth limiter - all operations are completed literally in a second. The use of the device is also facilitated by the vertical layout of the engine and relatively low weight. In general, although expensive, it is a high-quality, powerful and convenient hammer drill.
A regular electric drill drills straight holes in wood, plastic and metal. The rotation mode with impact makes it easier to work with hard materials, but it is better to entrust work with concrete and stone to a special drilling tool - a hammer drill. Read our article about how to choose a hammer drill for your home.
Rotary hammer or impact drill?
All modern electric drills have a hammer drilling mode. Can a drill compete with a hammer drill in processing hard materials - concrete and stone? Our answer is clearly negative. The fact is that the blow of the drill is very weak, its strength is not even indicated in technical specifications.
Ratchet wheels bouncing over each other The picture shows how the drill is structured: the reciprocating motion of the chuck is provided by ratchet wheels that jump over each other as they rotate. When drilling, this is felt as a slight vibration of the tool. To get at least some effect, you need to press the drill into the wall with a force of 10–15 kilograms.
Another thing is a hammer drill. He drills a hole in any concrete, just like in wood. It's all about the impact force, which reaches tens of joules. Pneumatics help develop such strength.
Air pressure increases impact energy The diagram shows one of the design options for the hammer drill. The electric motor rotates the shaft on which the swing bearing is mounted - it is also called “drunk”. The bearing is connected to the wall of the air cylinder. Inside the cylinder, an air gap separates the flying piston from the wall, to which the firing pin is attached, acting on the tool. Due to the rocking of the bearing, the pressure in the cylinder either increases or decreases. Due to air pumping, the force of impact on the striker increases significantly.
The first hammer drill was invented in the mid-19th century for miners. A hand-held drilling machine was breaking off pieces of rock in the mine. The electric hammer appeared in 1932.
Despite the fact that the drill and hammer drill are similar in appearance, they are completely different tools. A DIYer's closet, of course, should have an electric drill for drilling holes. But, if you are renovating an apartment with concrete walls, your plans include installing sockets, hanging shelves and chiseling grooves, we recommend taking a hammer drill - you will spend ten times less effort on putting the apartment in order.
The disadvantage of a hammer drill is a loud rattling sound that spreads throughout the house so that the source cannot be localized.
A hammer drill is more expensive than a drill, but your doubts will disappear as soon as you make your first hole and feel what this powerful machine is capable of.
Criteria for selecting a rotary hammer
When going to the store for a hammer drill, determine in advance what holes you are going to drill: whether you are installing open sockets (5 mm), pulling a cable (10 mm) or pulling through a wall inch pipe(31 mm); Do you need a jackhammer to knock down old tiles?
Impact energy
The main parameter of a hammer drill is the energy transferred by the striker to the processing tool; it is measured in joules. The larger this value, the larger the hole the device can make. However, there is no need to chase numbers; a machine with an energy of 27 joules is similar to a jackhammer of road workers and weighs almost 12 kg. To drill holes with drills up to 30 mm in diameter, an energy of 1.5–2.5 joules is sufficient.
Hammer weight
The weight of the device is directly related to the impact energy. They are conventionally divided into three categories: light (up to 4 kg), medium (4–5 kg) and heavy (over 5 kg). How less weight the device, the easier it is to hold in your hands, but the impact energy of a machine weighing 2 kg will be 1.4 joules - this is enough to work with a drill up to 18 mm in diameter.
The lightest hammer drills are almost no different from an electric drill. For them, nozzles are produced with a jaw chuck that clamps simple drills. This versatile two-in-one device will save you money.
Engine power and shaft speed
The industry produces rotary hammers with power from 500 to 2000 W, but this parameter is not decisive. Manufacturers select the optimal power for each model. If you are drilling a hole in a concrete wall with a depth of more than 50 cm, we recommend using a machine with a motor of at least 1 kW. The friction in the wall is very high, the slightest distortion and the low-power engine will stop.
The spindle rotation speed is not important either; it ranges from 600 to 1.5 thousand revolutions per minute. The operating principle of the hammer drill is impact destruction of the material; rotation of the drill is only necessary to remove dust from the processing area. Rotating too quickly will increase tool wear.
A useful function of the rotary hammer is automatic adjustment of the rotation speed. The electronic circuit adjusts the speed to the density of the material being processed.
Operating modes (table)
Modern rotary hammers support three main operating modes (drilling with impact, drilling without impact, and chiselling). In stores you can find devices with different combinations of these modes. As a rule, rotary hammers with one and two modes are cheaper.
| Mode | Application |
| Drilling without impact | In this mode, the hammer drill works like a regular drill, drilling holes in wood, plastic or metal. Tool translation is disabled. |
| Impact drilling | The main operating mode of the hammer drill. The drill makes a reciprocating motion, breaking off pieces of concrete. Dust and crumbs are removed by the rotating spiral groove of the drill. |
| Impact without rotation (chiseling) | In this mode, the processing tool does not rotate. Instead of a spiral drill, a chisel, chisel or pick is used. A hammer drill breaks off a tile or cuts down a piece of a wall. |
| Setting the bit to the desired position | To work in hard-to-reach places, it is important that the fixed bit is in the specified position. Manufacturers sometimes highlight a fourth hammer drill mode - the ability to place the tool at a certain angle. |
Chuck type
De facto standard for small and medium hammer drills Bosch has developed SDS plus and SDS max chucks specifically for rotary hammers. In them, the tool is clamped instantly and never unscrews itself (unlike jaw chucks).
The most common cartridges are SDS plus - approximately 60% of rotary hammers. They are designed for drills with 10 mm shanks and are used in light and medium-sized tools. SDS max cartridges are used in heavy hammer drills, for drills with a diameter of 20 mm or more.
We recommend taking home devices with SDS plus cartridges; drills and augers, shovels and chisels, crowns and attachments are available for them. Stores sell jaw chucks with such shanks - your hammer drill will turn into a universal drill.
Engine location: vertical or horizontal
Structurally, rotary hammers come with a horizontal engine and a vertical one.
The first is similar to an electric drill in the shape of the body and the position of the controls: long and narrow, with a short handle and trigger. This tool is convenient for getting into a tight place - a closet or an air duct. When drilling deep holes, the machine moves smoothly and the drill moves less. But with such a hammer drill it is difficult to chisel the ceiling and cut grooves - you have to turn the hand inside out, your hands get tired quickly.
On the left is an example of a rotary hammer with a horizontal motor, on the right - with a vertical one A vertically mounted engine takes up less space and is cooler. The machine fits into your hands like a Kalashnikov assault rifle, is stable during operation and has excellent control. Thanks to the position of the operator's hands on the same axis with the chisel, it is convenient to work with the hammer drill both from the waist and with one hand. The groove from floor to ceiling is cut in one go without any fatigue.
Additional functions
A good hammer drill is equipped with additional functions that increase the convenience and safety of working with the tool.
| Additional feature | Why is it useful? |
| Smooth start | When the commutator motor starts to rotate, electrical network An increased (starting) current occurs. The electronic circuit will smoothly increase the voltage on the motor and will not overload the network. |
| Release clutch | The drill crashed into a stone and got stuck - common occurrence when drilling deep holes. To prevent the winding of the commutator motor from overheating, the coupling mechanically disconnects (disengages) the drill from the motor shaft. |
| Shaft reverse | If a twist drill gets stuck in a wall, just put it in reverse and it will unscrew itself from the difficult position. |
| Automatic speed control | Electronics changes the number of shaft revolutions depending on the load on the tool and maintains them at the optimal level |
| Ruler-limiter | The ruler is attached to the body of the device and is graduated in units of length. It will hit the wall as soon as the drill has sunk to the specified depth. |
| Vibration protection | The hammer drill vibrates during operation. To protect the operator's hands from vibration, the tool handle is isolated from the body by a vibration-damping spring. |
| Carrying case | The tool is protected from dust and damage in a plastic case; spare parts and cutting tools are also placed there. |
| Equipment | A good manufacturer includes several drill bits, spare carbon brushes for the motor, lubricant for the shanks, and a jaw chuck in the hammer drill kit (puts it in the case). |
Did you know that a hammer drill can work as a construction mixer? Nozzles for mixing cement or tile adhesive are available for the SDS plus cartridge.
Power supply
Most hammer drills on store shelves are powered by an electrical outlet. These tools create enough impact energy for serious work. However, there are battery powered models. Their disadvantages are obvious - low impact energy and short operating time. Choose such a hammer drill only if you know why you need it: a house made of aerated concrete is being built in a field, there is no light supplied to the site, and sockets need to be installed.
To summarize: the characteristics of the ideal tool for the home
For your home, there is no point in buying a professional device that can crush monolithic slabs for the entire shift, so we recommend purchasing middle-class devices. The most famous and best brands are Makita and Bosch, but you can take Sturm, Hitachi or Interskol.
Life shows that a typical repair plan will include hanging shelves, installing sockets, knocking down tiles, and the diameter of the holes made will not exceed a half-inch pipe (21 mm).
When installing a split system, the usual hole diameter is external wall- 65 mm, this task is for professional tool. A less powerful hammer drill is suitable for installing the indoor unit.
- Power: 500–1000 W.
- Impact force: 1.5–2.5 joules. This energy is enough to drill concrete and cut grooves in walls. If you need to break a wall, you should use a tool with more energy.
- Operating modes: simple drilling, drilling with impact, drilling without impact.
- Protective coupling. If you are working with complex material - Soviet concrete plates with stones and reinforcement, drill deep holes of large diameter, the drill may jam. The coupling will protect you from injury, and the device from overheating.
- SDS plus cartridge. A wide selection of attachments, drills and chisels with this shank. Quick tool change. Reliable fastening- the tool does not fall out of the chuck.
Rating of popular models
The table shows the important characteristics of popular rotary hammers and gives a brief assessment of these models.
Table: the best hammer drills for home use
| Model (Brand/Factory) | Impact energy (J) | Weight, kg) | Power (kW) | Operating modes | Additional features | Price, rub.) | Max. concrete drill diameter (mm) | A comment |
| Makita HR 2450 (Japan/China) | 2,7 | 2,4 | 0,78 |
|
| 6 900 | 24 | Reliable and durable tool from a well-known manufacturer, good price/quality ratio. |
| Bosch GBH 2–26 DRE (Germany/Germany) | 2,7 | 2,7 | 0,8 |
|
| 9 000 | 26 | High quality German instrument. Disadvantage: high price, expensive spare parts. |
| SPEC-BPE-620 (Russia / China) | 2,65 | 2,4 | 0,65 |
|
| 2 700 | 24 | Inexpensive tool for home. |
| Sturm RH2517 (Germany/China) | 5,0 | 5,65 | 1,7 |
| 6 800 | 36 | Compact and powerful device with vertical engine. Good equipment, affordable price. |
|
| AEG KH 28 Super XE (Germany/China) | 3,1 | 2,8 | 1,0 |
| 12 700 | 28 | A reliable tool for professionals. The price is too high for the house. | |
| DeWALT D 25133 K (USA/China) | 2,9 | 2,6 | 0,8 |
| 7 800 | 26 | Lightweight tool suitable for home use. | |
| Energomash PE-25500 (Russia/China) | 2,0 | 2,45 | 0,6 |
|
| 2 900 | 20 | An inexpensive device for the home is to drill holes for shelves and cornices. |
| Sturm RH2550 (Germany/China) | 2,1 | 2,7 | 0,55 | Protective coupling. | 2 900 | 20 | Inexpensive tool for home repairs. The disadvantage is the meager equipment. | |
| Sturm RH2565 (Germany/China) | 3,4 | 5,0 | 0,650 |
|
| 4 700 | 26 | Powerful and inexpensive tool for all types of work. Good equipment. The case with a vertical engine does not fit into all the cracks. |
| Makita HR 2470 FT (Japan/China) | 2,7 | 2,8 | 0,78 |
| 10 000 | 24 | Sold as an expensive tool for professionals. But the device cannot break walls. |
Just twenty years ago, most of us did not even dare to dream about this instrument. And if he appeared at someone’s place, he became the object of acute envy. Nowadays, a hammer drill has become an almost obligatory item in the home tool “arsenal” of a good owner. It is probably even difficult to explain to the younger generation of home craftsmen today that making even a small hole in a concrete wall or ceiling once required a lot of physical effort and ten to fifteen minutes of time. With a hammer drill, this operation takes a matter of seconds.
But in order for this tool not to bring quick disappointment due to wasted funds and to fully meet all the expectations of the owners, it is necessary to approach the issues of its acquisition with knowledge of the matter. That is, take into account the nature and scale of the work that is planned to be entrusted to it, skillfully navigate the evaluation criteria that allow you to select the most suitable model in all respects.
Let's try to understand this issue in more detail - which hammer drill to choose for your home in order to get a truly reliable “helper”.
Is it possible to do without a hammer drill on the farm?
Of course you can. But is it worth torturing yourself?
How did you make holes in concrete before? For this, a special tool was used - a bolt. In essence, it is a hollow pipe of the required diameter, according to the end cut of which was the teeth are cut with a “crown”.
The bolt itself, a heavy hammer, was being prepared for making the hole. A clean rag turned out to be useful in the work to periodically wipe away the sweat rolling down the face from excessive effort, and a set of “strong words” that helped to more easily endure the pain when the hammer hit not on the bolt, but on the fingers of the hand holding it. During this chiselling process, the bolt was periodically rotated around its axis, and the process continued until the hole reached the required depth. Then, most often, a planed wooden plug was tightly driven into it, into which it was already possible to either hammer a nail or screw in a screw.
Performance? - no! Hole making speed? - depends on your luck. It happened that such a strong fragment of crushed stone filling was encountered that the “procedure” required several passes with breaks, and sometimes it was necessary to abandon the started hole altogether. It’s even worse if there was a reinforcing bar in the way of the bolt...
The author of these lines received his apartment at the end of 1991. A new reinforced concrete nine-story building with bare, unfinished walls, windows of terrible quality with wild cracks along their perimeter. I had no experience in construction work when I was young, I had to learn on the go. Tools were also very scarce, but there was a bolt and a hammer. And the process of hanging cabinets on the walls and string cornices on the ceiling is etched in my memory very well.
Being on a business trip in Moscow, at the Tushino radio market I bought electric drill assembled in Voronezh "Energia". At that time, it was a real “miracle of technology,” even with a speed control on the release button. But most importantly, the kit included a nozzle designed for impact drilling.
The chuck was screwed from the drill, then the attachment was put on the cylindrical neck near the spindle and tightened with two screws. The spindle had two splines that engaged with a hole in the transmission coupling located inside. After this, the chuck was screwed to the spindle of the attachment, the drill could be installed and tightened and work could begin.
The principle was simple “I can’t do it” - the transmission of rotation was carried out through a coupling having a gear cut, which, when the drill was pressed against the surface where the hole was made, slipped along the same tooth cut in the nozzle body. This created, in addition to torque, also a semblance of translational impact movement of the drill. By the way, many electric drills that are positioned as equipped with an impact function still operate on this principle.
I can’t say that working with such an attachment went “like clockwork.” In order for such a “impact” to give at least some visible effect, you had to lean on the drill with your entire weight. But in many areas (for example, when drilling holes on the wall in the area under the ceiling), it was simply impossible to apply such force, and more crackling noise was produced without any visible benefit. Pobedit drills with such drilling in concrete “slicked” very quickly. And what’s worst is that the drill’s gearbox became horribly hot, meaning that it was necessary to take frequent and very long breaks from work. The process was based on alternating drilling operations and processing the hole with a bolt if a hard pebble was encountered.
In short, hopes were clearly not justified. Therefore, 8 years later, when the overdue repairs were started, at a higher level, the drill was not even considered as a tool for such operations. During this period, hammer drills were no longer completely a curiosity. And many advertisements were placed in advertising newspapers offering similar services - the happy owners of the instrument made a good business from it. A call from such an advertisement informed about the price - a dollar for one drilled hole! The work ahead was large-scale, so it was decided that it would be cheaper to purchase your own hammer drill. Given the level of salaries at that time, the acquisition was terribly ruinous (comparable to a month’s salary), but I never regretted it. Since then the hammer drill (for the third time in 17 years) always takes pride of place in my toolbox. Moreover, the prices for such an instrument have become less “biting”.
In a word – there is no need to doubt it! A good owner should have a hammer drill - such a tool will always find a use. And the owner will get rid of many problems with carrying out various operations both during construction or repair, and in everyday practice.
What functions can a hammer drill perform?
If you look at the list of functions that a high-quality hammer drill can perform, it becomes clear that when carrying out repairs or construction, you cannot do without it.
- The main feature of such an instrument is the presence of an accentuated impact. This allows for labor-intensive operations to dismantle building structures built from stone, brick, concrete: demolishing walls and partitions, removing old screeds, etc.
- A hammer drill becomes indispensable when it is necessary to clean walls or floors of old finishes - plaster or ceramic tiles along with a layer of tile adhesive.
- The hammer drill easily copes with the task of drilling holes for fasteners even in a monolithic concrete wall. Not to mention more pliable materials.
- A powerful hammer drill will cope with the task of drilling sockets for installing electrical fittings (sockets, switches) or through channels for laying pipes, cabling, ventilation vents, etc.
- In conjunction with angle grinder using a grinder machine (with a stone wheel installed on it), the hammer drill allows you to quickly and smoothly cut grooves - channels for hidden placement of electrical wiring or pipe routing.
- With a special attachment installed, the hammer drill can turn into a construction mixer if you need to prepare a solution from a dry mixture. The function, of course, is not entirely typical for this tool, but still.
- Finally, most models of modern rotary hammers are capable of operating in conventional drilling mode. When using the appropriate equipment, they can, if necessary, perform the functions low-speed drills.
As can be seen from the above, the functionality of this tool is very wide. That is, in any household it will definitely find a worthy use.
Behind What accounts for the impact force of the hammer drill?
The operation of the hammer drill is based on the use of impact and torque. These efforts can, depending on the chosen mode, be used individually or in combination. It is characteristic that in terms of the number of revolutions and the frequency of impacts, rotary hammers are significantly inferior to the same drills with an impact function. But the optimally selected combination of forces provides precisely those opportunities for which the rotary hammer is famous.
We will not “disassemble it down to the screw” within the framework of this publication. Now it is more important to simply understand how the working influence is created on the tool rig.
It is clear that any hammer drill is equipped with an electric drive (motor) that creates torque. Through a gear system, this rotation is transmitted, if necessary, to the working spindle, and then to the chuck with installed equipment. In chiseling mode, this transmission is broken—rotation of the chuck is not required.
But how is impact force created? That is, how is torque converted into linear impulse impacts?
Most modern rotary hammers use a pneumatic circuit. Design may vary depending on instrument layout. Thus, two main schemes are used - with a vertical or horizontal arrangement of the power unit.
As can be seen from the illustration shown above, the axis of rotation of the drive when positioned vertically is perpendicular to the axis of rotation or impact movement of the working equipment. This relative arrangement of the nodes makes the use of a crank transmission optimal.
Torque is taken from the gearbox through a gear transmission (item 1). Rotation is transmitted to flywheel-crank(pos. 2), with which a connecting rod (pos. 3) is pivotally connected, converting rotational motion into translational motion. A working piston (item 4) is installed at the opposite end of the connecting rod. The piston has well-fitted seals and fits tightly to the walls of the pneumatic cylinder (item 5). In the cylinder itself there is another piston, which is called free or flying (item 6).
As the crank rotates, the working piston moves forward along the cylinder, creating an area high blood pressure air. Under this influence, the free piston moves forward and strikes the massive striker (item 7), which, in turn, transmits this shock impulse to the shank of the installed equipment (chisel or drill). At this time, the working piston begins to move backward. From a hard blow to the striker, the flying piston bounces back, but already in the phase of its reverse movement, the working piston is already moving towards again. And the excess pressure during this counter-stroke of the pistons in the cylinder rapidly increases, which helps to increase the force of the next blow of the free piston into the firing pin.
As you can see, to create impact force, unlike an impact drill, you don’t even need to press the equipment too hard against the surface being processed. It often even becomes harmful, causing excessively rapid wear of parts.
Second common type of rotary hammers - with a horizontal electric motor. It is not located coaxially with the working spindle, but parallel to it. And here a slightly different principle of transmitting translational motion to the working piston of the pneumatic cylinder is already used.
In this case, one of the gearbox parts becomes a swinging, or, as it is more often called, a “drunk” bearing (item 1). Its peculiarity is that when rotating, it sets oscillatory movements to the hinged linkage - lever (position 2), which, in turn, already transmits translational motion to the piston.
A scheme with a vertical drive arrangement and a crank mechanism is still considered more reliable, capable of creating much more significant forces. It is no coincidence that most professional high-power hammer drills with increased impact impulse have exactly this arrangement.
Prices and model line of Makita rotary hammers
Makita rotary hammers
In compact low-power tools, a spring circuit rather than a pneumatic one can be used. That is, the rocker, by its movement, ensures compression of the spring to a certain limit. Then, the spring breaks off the stopper, transferring the impact force to the firing pin - and so on. The scheme is quite reliable and is quite widely used. But one cannot expect much impact from it. However, for low-power rotary hammers it is quite sufficient.
There are also hammer drills in which the impact is created by moving a massive core in an alternating electromagnetic field. But such tools are not found at the everyday level.
So, we have sorted out the transfer of impact force to the shank of the installed equipment. But how is it transmitted further - after all, this presupposes a certain degree of freedom of movement of the drill or bit in the longitudinal, axial direction? This is also taken into account in the design of the hammer drill.
The clamping chuck is designed for installation of equipment with a special shank. It has longitudinal splines for transmitting torque, and oval grooves that provide axial translational movement in a certain range. This system is called SDS (Special Direct System), and can be in one of three options.
- SDS-plus found in the vast majority of cases at the level of amateur or semi-professional class instruments.
Shank diameter – 10 mm. The transmission of torque is provided by two longitudinal splines. And the fixation in the chuck's jaws and the required degree of freedom in axial movement are set by two oval grooves.
Typically used in rotary hammers weighing up to 4 kg. The diameter of the drills rarely exceeds 16 mm.
- SDS-top– such systems are usually used on more powerful hammer drills, with a tool’s own weight of up to 8 kg. That is, the system is capable of transmitting much more significant forces.
There are also two splines and two oval grooves on the shank, but they already have a slightly different geometry. Shank diameter – 14 mm. Typically this system is used on drills with a diameter of 16 to 25 mm.
- SDS-max– designed for use in the most powerful models of rotary hammers, with a tool weight of over 8 kg. Naturally, it is able to withstand the heaviest loads and transmit maximum rotational and impact forces.
Here, torque transmission is provided by three splines. There are also two grooves for translational movement of the equipment. The diameter of the shank is 18 mm, and the diameter of drills or bits can significantly exceed 25 mm. That is, the equipment is designed for the most difficult drilling or dismantling operations.
The diagram below shows a comparison of the profiles of SDS shanks of various systems.
It is important to remember that the hammer drill you purchase is equipped with a certain standard cartridge under one of these systems. That is, the selection of the required equipment must be carried out taking this circumstance into account. There is no interchangeability between them.
There is another type of chuck for rotary hammers - systems Spline.
However, both the tool itself and equipment of this type are found very rarely in our area, and are not particularly popular. However, this option should also be kept in mind.
On What do you pay attention to when choosing a hammer drill for your home?
First of all, it’s common to say that all hammer drills are conventionally divided into three categories. The first includes relatively light models, weighing up to 4 kilograms. “Middleweights” usually lift 4–6 kilograms. And finally, the weight of powerful professional models can significantly exceed even 8÷10 kg. According to this criterion, the working capabilities of the tools also change: if the former are designed for periodic use for drilling small holes or making holes in fairly pliable wall material, then heavy hammer drills are capable of cutting through large-diameter channels even in a concrete monolith, demolishing powerful partitions, dismantling thick screeds and etc..
In a word, even before going to the store, the potential owner should have a fairly clear idea of what tasks he will set for his hammer drill.
It was, so to speak, an unofficial classification. Now let’s turn to the performance indicators that are necessarily prescribed in technical documentation products.
Power consumption.
It may seem strange, but this parameter, unlike many other power tools, in this case is by no means decisive. Of course, people pay attention to it, but compared to other characteristics, its importance is not so great.
Even if we compare, for example, models of the first and second “weight categories,” we can see that the difference in their power is not so expressive. Thus, rotary hammers with an SDS-plus chuck can have a power from 400 to 800 W. And for models with the largest cartridge, SDS-max, 1000 - 1200 W is considered quite normal. It is rare that in the heaviest hammer drills the power reaches 2000 W - but there it is justified, since when drilling large-diameter holes, the bit experiences colossal frictional resistance.
At small diameters, the main role is played by the impact action, and the spiral part of the drill largely performs the function of a screw that removes the crushed material out.
Working spindle speed
It is definitely smaller than any of the drills. And there is absolutely no need to chase any high indicators. The normal range for a rotary hammer is considered to be from about 500 to 1500 rpm. By the way, as the power of the device increases, as a rule, the number of revolutions even decreases - this, according to the “golden rule of mechanics,” is due to the specifics of the tool’s operation. In addition, high speeds will certainly lead to very rapid wear of the equipment. As a rule, in high-quality models, developers have achieved an ideal “harmony” of rotation speed and impact of the tool.
True, the function of changing the number of revolutions, although not considered “vital” in this case, will still not be superfluous - this parameter can be varied depending on the type and diameter of the equipment used. It is very convenient if the tool is equipped with a smooth rotation system - this allows you to avoid mistakes at the initial stage of drilling a hole.
Some modern models In addition, they are equipped with an electronic system for maintaining a stable number of revolutions under load. That is, depending on the density of the material in which the hole is made, the automation selects and maintains the optimal rotation mode. The function is useful, but is accompanied by the complication of the tool and an increase in its cost. Let the future owner decide for himself how much this is required.
Impact energy and frequency
But these two indicators directly affect the performance of the rotary hammer. If the crushing effect of the equipment on the material is not enough, the tool itself will become no better than a conventional drill.
Impact energy is usually measured in joules (J). Even for the “weakest” hammer drill it should still be at least 1 ÷ 1.5 J, otherwise the purchase becomes completely meaningless. In powerful models, this figure can reach 10 J or more. Naturally, they can drill holes and channels of large diameter. But, as a rule, this is the lot of professionals.
The frequency of impacts also affects the performance of the tool - the more impacts per unit of time are applied to the material being processed, the sooner the expected result is achieved. True, no “canons” of assessment are put forward here. As already mentioned, high-quality hammer drills are very balanced systems, that is, the developers have built into them a “consensus” of all significant parameters.
That is, another reason to purchase an original instrument from a well-known manufacturer.
Possible operating modes of the hammer drill
And here this is a very important criterion choice. The fact is that even one manufacturer can produce models that are very similar in appearance, but with a full or “truncated” set of capabilities. That is, again, one should imagine both the nature and scale of the upcoming work.
- Hammer drills are produced that have only one function - impact drilling. In principle, this is the basic purpose of the tool. primary class. If you are happy with this option, you can save a lot on the purchase price.
- Function of normal drilling, that is, without forward impact on the drill. However, to use it you will have to purchase special equipment. These can be drills with SDS shanks. It must be said that they do not “shine” with a wide range of diameters, and they are quite expensive. Therefore, they often choose another option - purchase an additional chuck (collet or quick-release chuck), equipped with a shank suitable for the selected hammer drill. Sometimes such a cartridge is included in the basic kit.
To be fair, we note that the function of conventional drilling cannot be classified as basic. Both in terms of accuracy and productivity, a conventional drill will significantly surpass a hammer drill. Of course, have extra low-speed a device for performing such operations will not hurt. But if the household has a high-quality drill, then you don’t need to pay much attention to the lack of this function in the hammer drill.
By the way, one of the functions of a hammer drill was mentioned above - using it as a construction mixer. This, of course, is also performed in the normal drilling mode, only with the installation of the corresponding nozzle in the chuck. And it should be noted that experienced craftsmen still do not recommend using a low-power hammer drill for such purposes - too much torque resistance, which is observed when mixing viscous solutions, can destroy the gearbox or electric drive.
- The chiseling function is needed by almost any owner. True, you shouldn’t get carried away with it if you have a device of a small “weight category”. Of course, removing old tiles or peeling plaster is no problem. But if you are planning to dismantle a wall, crush a screed or blind areas around the house, such operations will not ruin your tool at all. By the way, I finally finished off my first and most favorite hammer drill with this very thing.
In the same case, when it is absolutely impossible to do without such work, it is better not to “force” your household-grade hammer drill, but to rent another powerful tool for the day that will cope with this task without any problems. Many construction stores and companies provide this service.
The mode switch can be designed in different ways. There is an option when it consists of two handles: one is responsible for turning the torque on and off, the second, respectively, for the shock function. For many models, this “control” is unified - one rotary switch with a locking button in a given position, so that there is no unauthorized change of mode during operation under the influence of vibration.
The switch positions are indicated by clear pictograms. Usually they are approximately as shown in the illustration.
1 - normal drilling;
2 - drilling with impact;
3 - chiseling function (impact only).
Pay attention to another useful position under. No. 4. Anyone who has done chiselling work with a hammer drill probably knows how infuriating it is when the chisel tries to take a position that becomes extremely inconvenient for the master. You have to stop the process, give the equipment the desired position, or make a lot of unnecessary movements during the work. And in this regard, tools equipped with a function for locking the equipment in a given position (often called “Vario-Lock”) are in an advantageous position. There may be a dozen or more such provisions. And during operation, the bit will never turn away from the specified position.
Ease of use, additional equipment of the hammer drill
It would be an unforgivable mistake to purchase a hammer drill without prior “face-to-face acquaintance.” This tool, as a rule, is quite massive and bulky (compared to others), and the ease of working with it should be assessed without fail. People differ very significantly in their physical characteristics and build proportions, and what is convenient for one person may well turn into “hard labor” for another. So it is not advisable to trust third-party opinions - rely on your own feelings.
- Something has already been said above about the layout of rotary hammers (with vertical and horizontal drive placement). It can be added that there is a serious difference between them in terms of ergonomics.
Long, horizontally driven hammer drills can get into tight spaces. Working with them, it is easier to control the evenness of the position of the equipment when drilling deep holes. But their center of gravity is heavily tilted forward, and keeping even a small instrument suspended becomes a difficult task. The large length becomes a hindrance during slotting work, when drilling holes in inconvenient places, for example, on a wall under a stream. And if you need to install an additional chuck for a regular drill, the hammer drill generally becomes extremely inconvenient.
Prices and model line of DeWALT rotary hammers
DeWalt rotary hammers
Models with a vertical engine usually cost more (with approximately equal performance indicators). But they are much better balanced and fit well in the hand. Such hammer drills are more compact and easier to handle in hard-to-reach places. The vertical location of the drive allows for a more efficient cooling system, and such models are usually able to operate significantly longer without a long break. It is much easier for the operator to change the position of the device, for example, when performing dismantling work.
- Check how comfortable you find the pistol grip. It is very good if it is equipped with soft rubberized pads– both against slipping in the palm and to reduce the vibration impact on the hand.
- The hammer drill must have an additional handle installed in the chuck area. The position of the handle should be easy to change and securely fixed.
- There are complaints that some models are equipped with a power cord that is too short. This point is also worth paying attention to.
- Rotary hammers can be equipped with additional functions and special devices:
A very useful option is to switch the direction of rotation to the opposite (reverse). It happens that a drill that has already gone deep into the wall begins to jam, for example, when it encounters a reinforcing rod. Removing it from the wall becomes very problematic. But by switching to reverse you can usually quickly cope with this task.
By the way, not all models are equipped with reverse - among cheap hammer drills there are many products that allow only one direction of rotation.
Sometimes, when performing a long operation, the button for locking the start key in the on position can be useful.
The drilling depth limiter will help you visually assess how deep the drill has sunk into the material. The stop rod is usually installed in a hole in the front handle, and there should be a convenient stop there to lock it in position.
1 - key for switching to reverse rotation.
2 - button for locking the start key in the on position.
3 - hole for installing the drill depth limiter rod and lock.
- It’s great if the model you purchase is equipped with protection systems. This means the following:
Built-in overheat protection. To prevent burnout of the insulation on the motor windings and overheating of the bearings, when the temperature inside the housing rises to the maximum permissible level, the power supply to the drive will automatically turn off.
Special safety coupling. Its purpose is to break the mechanical connection between the drive and the equipment if, for example, the drill is jammed in a deep concrete hole. This helps to avoid serious injuries (when the hammer is literally torn out of your hands) or sudden overheating of the electric motor windings. Such clutches can be spring-cam, electromagnetic, or friction. All of them are equally capable of coping with this task of ensuring operational safety, so there are no recommendations for a specific type.
- Working with a rotary hammer is almost always accompanied by considerable vibration, which reverberates into the hand of the master, which causes fatigue to set in much faster. Many modern models are thought out in this regard. These include comfortable soft pads on the body and hidden damper springs built into the handles, which significantly dampen the vibration effect on the hands.
- You should pay attention to the quality of the kit. Almost all models from well-known manufacturers arrive on sale in convenient cases that provide space for the necessary equipment.
A standard kit sometimes includes, in addition to the hammer drill itself, a minimum set of drills and chisels, a jar of lubricant for the shanks of the equipment, and maybe an additional chuck for conventional drills and a key for it. True, craftsmen do not particularly praise the drills from such kits - they are usually not long enough, and the quality may be “lame”. But it’s not difficult to immediately select high-quality equipment that suits your needs in the store.
The kit sometimes includes (and if not, it is recommended to immediately purchase additionally) a special rubber coupling or corrugated cap, which allows you to collect the “rock” selected from the hole being made. Very convenient, especially when working on the ceiling - dust and sand do not fly into your eyes.
Approximate “look” of the optimal hammer drill model for the home
Let's summarize. How can we “outline” the optimal hammer drill for home use that does not involve extreme load tasks? That is, suitable for making holes with a diameter of up to 14÷15 mm (including in concrete) and for small chiselling work, for example, for removing old finishes.
Execution - any, depending on the preference and degree of convenience for the owner.
- Weight – no more than 4 kg.
- Power consumption level – from 500 to 1000 W.
- Impact energy - from 1.2 to 2.5 J. More than likely will not be required.
- Three modes of operation - drilling, impact drilling and chiselling.
- It is desirable to have a rotation speed control (smooth or stepwise).
- Reverse is required.
- Safety systems - safety clutch and overheating protection.
- SDS plus system cartridge.
- A set of drills with a diameter of 6 to 12 mm, at least a couple of chisels of different configurations (peak, blade).
Well, and, of course, convenience for its future owner.
Brief overview of popular models
When choosing a hammer drill, you should give preference to trusted manufacturers who have already earned the full trust of customers. These traditionally include, for example, the brands BOSCH and MAKITA, DeWALT and НITACHI. Quite decent equipment is offered by the companies BORT, DLACK&DECKER, RYOBI, METABO, AEG, SPARKY. From domestic manufacturers, the brands INTERSKOL, CALIBR, DIOLD deserve attention, especially due to their low cost and affordable service.
Prices for popular hammer drills
Of course, in order to be confident that you are buying exactly what you are hoping for (alas, there are more than enough fakes in this market), the purchase should be made only in a specialized store. And there you don’t have to be shy about asking to present documents confirming the originality of the product. The product passport must contain a certified entry about the place and date of sale, otherwise the manufacturer’s warranty will be fictitious.
By the way, when choosing a model, it always makes sense to check how well this brand is serviced in your region, how developed the service network is, and whether there are any problems with components. There is little joy if a tool has to be sent thousands of kilometers for warranty service.
The table below shows several models of the “home” class. Perhaps this information will help someone make the right choice.
| Model name, illustration | Brief description of the model | Approximate price, rub. |
|---|---|---|
| "Makita HR 2430" | A very popular model, famous for its durability and build quality. Japanese brand, Chinese production. Power – 710 W, impact energy – 2.3 J, which allows you to drill holes in concrete with a diameter of up to 22 mm, and work with a 65 mm drill bit. Two modes – drilling and impact drilling. The chiseling function is not provided. Reverse, speed adjustment (from 0 to 1050 rpm). Impact frequency – up to 4050 beats/min. Safety coupling. The weight of the rotary hammer is 2.4 kg. Plastic case. Drill bits and drill chuck are not included. | 6700 rub. |
| "Bosch PBH 2100 RE" | The model is a German design and is assembled in China. Despite the horizontal arrangement of the drive, it has a very thoughtful layout, is compact, balanced and easy to use. Power – 550 W. Impact energy – 1.7 J. The maximum drilling diameter for concrete is 30 mm, for wood – 30 mm, for metal – 13 mm. All three main operating modes + “Vario Lock” bit position locking function. Reverse, smooth speed control. Rotation speed – up to 2300 rpm. Impact frequency – up to 5800 beats/min. Safety coupling. Comes with a case; drill bits and an additional chuck for regular drilling are not included in the set. The weight of the rotary hammer is 2.2 kg. | 5400 rub. |
| "Hitachi DH24PH" | The hammer drill is a Japanese brand, but usually made in China. Horizontal drive position. Power 730 W. Impact energy – 2.7 J. Permissible limits of drilling diameters: concrete – 24 mm, concrete with a crown – 50 mm, wood – 32 mm, metal – 13 mm. Three main operating modes. Reverse, rotation speed adjustment. Number of revolutions – up to 1050 rpm. Impact frequency – up to 3950 beats/min. Improved pressure control system in the pneumatic chamber. Complete set: plastic case. Weight – 2.7 kg. There are complaints from users about the quality of the plastic parts of the cartridge and the overall build quality. | 6900 rub. |
| "Metabo KHE 2644" | Reliable hammer drill from a German brand, made in China. Horizontal arrangement of the power unit. Drive power – 800 W. Impact energy – 2.8 J. Permissible drilling diameters: concrete – 26 mm, wood – 30 mm, metal – 13 mm. Robust metal housing in the gearbox area. Three main operating modes. Reverse, rotation speed adjustment. Speed – up to 1150 rpm. Impact frequency – up to 5400 beats/min. Safety coupling. Electronic system for maintaining a stable number of revolutions under load. It comes with a case, you have to purchase the rest yourself. The hammer drill weighs 2.9 kg. | 7680 rub. |
| "DeWALT D 25133 K" | Model of a famous American brand, made in China. The brand is traditionally famous highest quality execution. Horizontal drive arrangement. Engine power – 800 W. Increased impact energy – up to 2.9 J. Three operating modes plus fixing the chisel during chiselling in any convenient position. Electronic reverse, smooth adjustment of the number of revolutions. Spindle rotation speed – up to 1500 rpm. Impact frequency – up to 5500 beats/min. The hammer drill allows you to make holes with a diameter of: in concrete - 26 mm (with a crown - 50 mm), in metal - 13 mm, in wood - 30 mm. Electronic speed control system. Safety coupling. Anti-vibration protection system. Comes with a unique suitcase from the TSTAK series. The hammer drill weighs 2.6 kg. | 6400 rub. |
| "Interskol P-28/800EV T" | A popular hammer drill model of domestic design and assembly. The drive is vertically positioned, which makes the tool as compact as possible, balanced in the hand, and easy to use. Drive power – 800 W. Impact energy – 2.8 J. Ability to make holes in concrete – up to 28 mm, in wood – 24 mm, in metal – 13 mm. Three operating modes plus installation of the chisel in a fixed, convenient position. Reverse, adjustable spindle penetration speed (from 0 to 1250 rpm). Impact frequency – up to 5780 beats/min. Safety coupling. Anti-vibration protection system. Supplied with a plastic case. The hammer drill weighs 3.5 kg. There were some complaints about the quality of the power drive. | 6900 rub. |
At the end of the publication, we invite you to watch a video, which also outlines an opinion on the right approach to choosing a rotary hammer for the home.
