The Best Hammer Drills for 2022
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Best Hammer Drill
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These versatile drills are a must-have to deal with tough materials for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. To help you select which one is best for you, I have outlined the various features below along with a list of the best hammer drills currently available.
UPDATED: March 16, 2022.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall, I recommend the DEWALT DCH273B because it provides up to 4,600 BPM, includes active vibration control, and features a versatile cordless design.
What is a hammer drill?
A hammer drill is specially designed to not only spin the drill bit like a standard drill but, in addition, also punches the bit in and out in a similar (but much more subtle) action to a reciprocating saw.
This combination of hammering and drilling produces a hole much faster than a conventional drill. This is ideal for drilling tough materials such as concrete and masonry. It can also be great for quickly removing tough bolts and screws.
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Here of some features and components to be aware of when selecting a specific model:
Corded vs. Cordless
Thanks to the advancement of battery technology you can now get the equivalent of plug-in power along with the flexibility of a cordless design.
Depending on your portability requirements you may want to go with a cordless option. If you are typically working away from an available outlet or are bothered by the cord being in the way cordless is the way to go.
Also, if you already have a standard cordless drill you may want to pair it with the same brand so they can share battery packs. Check to make sure it is indeed the same battery, as it can differ even within the same brand.
On the other hand, you may not want to deal with recharging batteries and prefer uninterrupted plug-in power. I have included selections of both cordless and corded tools below.
Motor Size
The rotating and hammering operations are delivered via the onboard electric motor. The power of these motors is measured in amperes or amps. This is a measure of the strength of an electrical current, meaning how fast it flows. Higher amps translate to a quicker flow of electricity which results in more power. Most standard drills are equipped with around 7 to 9 amp motors with professional models up to 13+ amps.
Variable Speed
Depending on the model, most saws have a variable speed that is controlled through either the trigger or a dial on the side of the unit. This allows for greater flexibility when working on a range of applications.
Revolutions Per Minute (RPM)
As the name implies the revolutions per minute (RPM) of the tool is simply how fast the shaft spins. The end of the shaft has a chuck into which the drill bits are held.
Blows Per Minute (RPM)
The blows per minute (BPM) is simply the number of times the drill bit moves in and out within a minute. Depending on the model this value can vary widely up to 30,000+ BPM. This is designed to force the bit through extremely tough materials such as concrete and masonry. The impact energy of the hammering is measured in either Joules (J) or Foot-Pounds (ft-lbs) where one ft-lb is equal to 1.356 J.
Some drills offer different modes of operation such as rotation only, hammering with rotation, and hammering only for a range of different project applications.
Vibration Control Systems
Due to the nature of these tools, the vibration created can cause discomfort and fatigue with use over time. Some drills offer a vibration control system that helps to reduce this vibration felt by the user at the handles.
Keyless Chuck
The chuck is what locks the drill bit in place when in operation. Look out for drills with keyless/tool-less chucks. As the name implies, it does not require a wrench or tool to change the bit. This makes it faster and easier to swap out saw drill bits while working.
Grip Types
There are two common grip types: the standard drill grip and the D-Grip. The latter comes from the shape of the handle in the form of the letter D. It allows for greater downforce since it aligns the hand with the axis of the drill bit. In addition, this configuration provides knuckle protection while using the tool.
Side Handle
Most models are equipped with a side handle that typically mounts to the forward portion of the drill just behind the chuck. These handles offer the ability to use both hands which provides better control while drilling. They are often removable to offer greater flexibility when working in confined areas.
Depth Rod
A depth rod is a simple accessory that is mounted to the side of the drill next to the chuck. It is a small rod that slides in and out parallel to the drill bit and can be locked in position. This allows you to set the maximum depth of a drill hole so that when the rod touches the surface the desired depth has been reached.
Weight
Since you are often holding these drills at awkward positions it is important to note the weight of the tool, as working with a heavy tool can quickly cause fatigue. For cordless drills, the weight provided by the manufacturer will often exclude the battery weight. So take into consideration the additional weight of the battery you will be using. Keep in mind that typically a higher voltage battery does mean a longer run time but at an increased weight.
Dust Collection
A dust collection accessories are available that mount to the floor or wall around the drill hole. The bit is then placed into this attachment that allows you to connect a shop vac to effectively remove dust as it accumulates to minimize cleanup. These dust collectors are sometimes included in the kit or available separately so they can work with any drill.
Lights
Some models include onboard LED lights that can help to provide illumination of the drilling area in low-light work areas or simply to provide better visibility.
Now, on to the individual products. I’ve compiled a list of the top models available from well-known manufacturers including DEWALT, Bosch, Makita, and SKIL. Each unit has been assigned a key feature that makes it particularly noteworthy and has been broken down according to its essential functions to help you make an informed selection.
So here is my list of The Best Hammer Drills for 2022.
Enjoy!
Best Overall: DEWALT DCH273B Hammer Drill
The DEWALT DCH273B is equipped with Active Vibration Control which significantly reduces vibration to the operator’s hands to increase comfort while working.
Provides up to 2.1 Joules impact energy for quick and efficient drilling.
Features a brushless motor for extended runtime and durability.
Provides up to 4,600 blows per minute (BPM) for tough drilling applications.
Equipped with a retractable utility hook for convenient hanging and storage.
Includes a 360-degree side handle and depth rod.
Equipped with a clutch that if bit jams it reduces the incidence of a high torque reaction.
Features a 20V cordless design for flexibility while working. Battery sold separately.
Here is a brief video providing an overview and test of the DEWALT DCH273B:
Runner-up: Bosch 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme Hammer Drill
The Bosch 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme features a variable-speed trigger for quick speed adjustments while working on a project.
Provides up to 1,300 RPM and 5,800 BPM speeds for quick and efficient drilling.
Equipped with a one-inch SDS-Plus chuck for quick tool-free bit changes and automatic bit locking.
Includes a selector to switch between rotary hammer, rotation-only, and hammer-only modes for a range of project applications.
Features an integral clutch that reduces torque reaction.
Includes a carry case for easy transport and storage.
Best Hammer Mode Options: Makita HR2475 Hammer Drill
The Makita HR2475 features a three-mode operation including rotation only, hammering with rotation, and hammering only for multiple applications.
Delivers a no-load variable speed from 0 up to 1,100 RPM with 0 to 4,500 BPM.
Powered by a 7.0 Amp motor that delivers 2 ft./lbs. of impact energy for fast drilling.
Equipped with a torque limiting clutch engineered to prevent gear damage by automatically disengaging gears if the bit binds.
Equipped with a one-touch sliding chuck for quick bit changes.
Features a D-shaped handle with an ergonomic design and a rubberized soft grip for increased comfort and control.
Equipped with a recessed lock-on button to reduce fatigue when in continuous use.
Best Value: DEWALT D25263K Hammer Drill
The DEWALT D25263K is equipped with a vibration control system (SHOCKS) to improve user comfort and reduce fatigue while working.
Provides up to three Joules of impact energy for fast drilling and chipping speed.
Powered by an 8.5 Amp high-performance motor for high-demand drilling projects.
Features a rotating brush ring that delivers full speed and torque in both forward and reverse directions.
Includes a 360-degree side handle for two-handed control while drilling.
Equipped with an integral clutch that reduces sudden, high torque reactions if the bit jams.
Must-have Accessory
Don’t forget the drill bits.
Best for Small Projects: DEWALT DCD996B 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill
The DEWALT DCD996B features a high-efficiency brushless motor for a longer run time than brushed motors.
Features a 1/2 inch ratcheting nitro-carburized metal chuck with carbide inserts to grip bits securely.
Equipped with a 360-degree removable side handle for two-handed control while drilling.
Features a three-mode LED light for illumination in low-light conditions, making it easier to see the workpiece.
Equipped with a belt hook for convenience while working and for storage.
Powered by the Dewalt XR lithium-ion batteries (sold separately). Note: this does not include the battery and charger.
Best Compact Design: Makita XPH07TB LXT Hammer Drill
The Makita XPH07TB LXT features a compact design at just 8-1/8 inches long and weighs only 5.9 pounds including the battery.
Equipped with a two-speed transmission that provides dual RPM ranges for flexibility while working.
Provides up to 1,090 in. lbs. of max torque with up to 31,500 BPM for quick hammer drilling.
Includes two onboard LED lights to illuminate the work area in low light conditions.
Equipped with a rubberized soft grip for control and comfort while drilling.
Includes a side handle for improved two-handed control while in use.
Features a kit that includes the battery, charger, and case for easy storage and transport.
Best Compact Corded Design: DEWALT DW511 Hammer Drill
The DEWALT DW511 is powered by a 7.8 Amp motor with variable-speed control for a range of project applications.
Equipped with a two-finger rubber trigger for easy speed control.
Features a 360-degree side handle that offers two-handed control for optimum handling.
Equipped with overload protection to protect the motor from damage when working.
Includes an integrated depth rod that offers the ability to effectively monitor the hole depth.
Note that this drill features a keyed chuck.
Best Dust Collection: Bosch RH328VC Hammer Drill
The Bosch RH328VC includes a dust collection accessory that connects to a shop vac to collect debris at the drilling location to reduce airborne dust and cleanup.
Features an Active Vibration Control system in the hammer mechanism and the grip area to provide maximum user comfort for extended periods of work.
Features a 360-degree side handle that offers two-handed control for optimum handling.
Equipped with a multi-function selector to switch between the different hammer modes.
Features an integral clutch that disengages the torque if the drill bit gets stuck.
Equipped with a large variable-speed three-finger trigger for a range of project applications.
Best Budget Option: SKIL 6445-04 Hammer Drill
The SKIL 6445-04 features a corded design for a battery-free design for long run times.
Includes a variable speed trigger for a range of project applications.
Feature a two-finger trigger design with a lock-on position for comfort and control.
Includes a 360-degree side handle for two-handed control while drilling.
Features a 1/2-inch keyed chuck to work with large diameter bits.
Best for Professionals: Bosch 11264EVS Hammer Drill
The Bosch 11264EVS features a powerful 13.0 Amp motor that provides up to 6.5 ft.-lbs. of impact energy.
Features a Vario-Lock positioning system that rotates and locks the chisel into 12 different positions to optimize the working angle.
Equipped with an electro-pneumatic impact system that reduces vibration to improve user comfort and reduce fatigue while working.
Features an integral clutch that disengages the torque if the drill bit gets jammed.
Equipped with the SDS system that allows for fast tool-free bit changes with automatic bit-locking.
Features a dual-mode selector that offers operation in either rotary hammer or hammer-only mode.
Equipped with a variable-speed dial that allows for precise control when drilling.
I hope this list of the best hammer drills was helpful.
If you think I left out one that is important or have a suggestion for a future article, let me know in the comments below.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
