Hammer drills are suitable for various purposes around the house and backyard. If you’re an avid DIYer and have a concrete block house, a hammer drill is a necessity to drill through the concrete for any purpose. They come in handy in the backyard as well. They can drill large holes for bolts in thick wood or drill through a concrete patio to screw in bases for wood posts.
The market is loaded with varieties of hammer drills from various manufacturers. So, for an average buyer, getting the best hammer drill can be challenging. However, in this review, we will evaluate some of the best hammer drills that are available for you.
This review is based on a thorough evaluation of the features and reliability of various hammer drill models from different manufacturers. Various user reviews were evaluated, and some tests were carried out to establish some of the most outstanding hammer drill models available.
Here is a review of the top 8 hammer drills that will serve as a powerful addition to your DIY tool kit.
Cordless Hammer Drills: DEWALT DCD996P2
DEWALT DCD996P2 supports a wide range of applications because of its powerful 5.0AH brushless motor. The 20V battery can runs up to 75% longer than 18V NiCad batteries giving you plenty of time to finish your project before the battery dies. This motor can transmit and deliver three speeds suitable for various applications.
It has an ergonomically designed handle that aims at ensuring the comfort of users as well as a 360 degree side handle for heavy duty work stabilization. 3-Mode LED light lets you see what you’re drilling, even in the darkest settings.
The 1/2 inch ratcheting nitro-carbonized metal chuck provides excellent bit gripping power. There is nothing more frustrating than a bit slipping in a ratchet chuck halfway through a hard material. DeWalt makes a solid long lasting hammer drill for any DIY project.
Corded Electric Hammer Drill: DEWALT DW511
DW511 is another DEWALT hammer drill with amazing performances and efficiency. This model has a lightweight design at only 4.3 lbs, and is suitable for extended use. The corded electric drill ensures optimal delivery even on steel and masonry drilling operations with it’s 7.8 amp motor.
This hammer drill has variable speeds that optimize it for specific applications. It also features a dual-mode operation between hammer and drill or both which increases its versatility and overall functionality.
The product is designed for easy handling to promote the user’s comfort. 360 degree side handle increases control over the tool when drilling in hard materials.
High Power Hammer Drills: Bosch Bulldog Extreme11255VSR
The Bosch Bulldog Extreme is particularly suitable for DIYers that need more power than the average hammer drill. This model delivers enough power for almost anything, including demo, with it’s 7.5 amp motor.
This 3-mode rotary hammer drill features hammer only, drill only or hammer and drill for a plethora of project options. Drilling a 1/2 bolt hole for pergola, rotary drilling into solid concrete or chiseling up a tile floor. The SDS plus bit feature allows convenient tool free bit changes and automatic bit locking, which in my opinion, is better than the ratcheting chuck on other hammer drills.
DEWALT DCD996B is the hammer drill I have in my DIY tool arsenal and which I grab on a regular basis. My house is concrete block and I regularly need to drill into the concrete to hang something on the walls, including cabinets.
I also just used it to drill into my concrete slab to secure my new kitchen peninsula cabinets. I have also used it many times helping friends demo their tile floors with chiseling bits. It is well worth the price for it’s power.
Compact Cordless Hammer Drill: Makita XPH12R
Makita XPH12R is a Makita hammer drill with a kit of impressive features and compact design at only 3.6 lbs and 7 inches long for use in many hard to reach areas. It has a variable dual-speed design covering a wide range of drilling, driving and hammering needs.
You also get to enjoy an amazing run-time with this product with its brushless motor offering optimal battery use. The 2.0 amp batteries can be fully charged in 25 minutes for less down time. The XPT Extreme Protection Technology helps the tool continue to run regardless of excessive dust, occasional water spill and the inevitable drop from a ladder.
Overall, this product is ideal because of its amazing compact design, effective delivery, improved power, and easy control.
Budget Rotary Hammer Drill: ENEACRO SDS-Plus
This hammer drill is sturdy and adaptable for powerful functions. It has a powerful 13 amp motor that supports its optimal performance for various DIY related drillings and fastenings.
This rotary hammer drill hasa vibration control mechanism to enhance easy control and minimize operators’ fatigue. This model includes some safety features such as the safety clutch protection designed to protect your wrist at high torque.
Another remarkable feature of the SDS-Plus model is its variable tip options. These options optimize it for various applications and functions, such as drilling or chiseling. It has a 360 degrees adjustable handle for easy and effective control. It includes features like heat exhaust and a dustproof system for extended use.
Power Hammer Drill: Milwaukee 2804-22 M18
It is impressive when you have a tool with high versatility that is suitable for heavy applications. Milwaukee 2804-22 M18 has a brushless motor that makes it suitable for its heavy-duty tasks. This model’s power setup is built to ensure up to 60% more power compared to other competitive models.
Milwaukee 2804-22 M18 not only focuses on performance alone, it also makes provision for user safety. This model includes a Relink plus intelligence that provides overload protections while also ensuring optimal performance. It also supports up to 1200 lbs of torque.
You can depend on Milwaukee 2804-22 M18 for your big DIY tasks. The included battery of this product delivers more working hours per charge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I look for when buying a hammer drill?
There are several features that are noteworthy for buyers to get the best hammer drill model to suit their needs. These features include:
- Applications, drilling capacity, and versatility
- Power setup
- Power source / Type of battery
- Value for money
- Weight
- Ease of operation/ maintenance costs
Is a hammer drill good for metal?
Yes, an average hammer drill is good for metal. A strong hammer drill should effectively drill through metals and other surfaces. In general, an average hammer drill should be good for woods, concretes, and metals alike.
What is the difference between a rotary hammer and a hammer drill?
For most people, the rotary hammer is the same as the hammer drill. However, there are some underlying features and functionalities that highlight their differences. Broadly, a hammer drill is a less-advanced tool compared to a rotary hammer. Even though a hammer drill can also be useful for drilling various surfaces, a rotary hammer is more of a power tool that has been optimized for drilling and chiseling hard materials.
Is a hammer drill better than a regular drill?
On average, it is safe to say a hammer drill is better than other regular drills considering its applications and versatility. Besides, a hammer drill is more powerful than other regular drills making it a more efficient option for tough tasks.
What are the best hammer drills under $150?
Several hammer drills are available for under $150. These include several DEWALT hammer drills, Makita hammer drills, Milwaukee hammer drills, etc. These are some of the most affordable sets of hammer drills with optimal performance.
Conclusion
Like most other DIY tools, hammer drills are very versatile to accomplish a variety of projects. You want to choose a model best suited for your needs.
The review above lists some of the best hammer drills for efficient and versatile applications. This list aims at helping potential buyers secure the best model for their budget.
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