The overall power of the rotary hammer drill is another factor to consider, and can be assessed by looking at their impact energy-which is measured in joules (J). Other models may have a drill-only mode that disengages the hammer mechanism, which is necessary for core drilling. This will allow you to use the drill with a chisel bit, which is essential for most demolition tasks. For example, although all our options will have a primary mode for hammer drilling, some will also have a hammer-only mode that does not rotate the bit. What to ConsiderĪlthough most rotary hammer drills look similar, there are features that make some more useful than others.
They’re heavier and bulkier than standard hammer drills, but their added efficiency is usually worth the extra weight, completing tasks in seconds that would take lighter-duty drills several minutes.
These drills use an air-powered piston to supplement their drilling mode-think of hitting the back of the drill with a hammer while you’re drilling-which creates a powerful impact per blow, and makes them extremely effective at heavy-duty tasks.
While a standard hammer drill and a masonry bit can handle a few small concrete or masonry holes, you probably want to get a rotary hammer drill for larger and more intensive jobs.
