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10 Best Rotary Hammer Drills 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

MILWAUKEE M18 FUEL 1-3/4 in. SDS M

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,185
Impact Energy (Joules)
Chuck Type

Most important from
10 reviews

Impact Energy (Joules)
With an impact energy of 8.1 foot-pounds, it efficiently handles tough materials.
Chuck Type
The SDS-MAX chuck type allows for secure bit retention and quick bit changes, enhancing user experience.

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel SDS-MAX Rotary Hammer is a powerful tool designed for heavy-duty drilling tasks. With a power output of 800 watts and a maximum rotational speed of 380 RPM, it is well-suited for demanding applications. The inclusion of two 12.0 Ah lithium-ion batteries ensures prolonged operation without frequent recharging, making it a reliable option for extended use. With an impact energy of 8.1 foot-pounds, it can handle tough materials efficiently.

The drilling capacity in metal is 13 millimeters, which should cover most standard drilling needs. The tool weighs 43.7 pounds, which might be on the heavier side for some users, potentially causing fatigue during prolonged use. However, its glass-filled nylon construction adds durability to withstand rigorous work environments.

The SDS-MAX chuck type is ideal for secure bit retention and quick bit changes, enhancing the user experience. The tool also comes with additional features such as a robust build, battery power source, and high amperage, contributing to its efficiency and practicality. The relatively low maximum speed (380 RPM) might limit its versatility for some applications. Users who need a high-powered, battery-operated rotary hammer for heavy-duty tasks will appreciate this Milwaukee tool, despite its weight and potentially limited speed range.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,185
Impact Energy (Joules)
Chuck Type

Most important from
10 reviews

Impact Energy (Joules)
With an impact energy of 8.1 foot-pounds, it efficiently handles tough materials.
Chuck Type
The SDS-MAX chuck type allows for secure bit retention and quick bit changes, enhancing user experience.
#2

BOSCH RH1255VC SDS-max Rotary Hammer, 2 In.

Rating
9.4
Power (Wattage)
Drilling Capacity
Vibration Control

Most important from
48 reviews

Power (Wattage)
Operates smoothly off a 3kW portable generator, showcasing its reliability and versatility.
Drilling Capacity
This powerful tool effortlessly drills deep holes into hard-rock boulders, making it ideal for intensive tasks.
Vibration Control
The anti-vibration features significantly reduce operator fatigue, enhancing comfort during extended use.

The BOSCH RH1255VC SDS-max Rotary Hammer is a powerful tool designed for heavy-duty applications. With a substantial power rating of 850 watts and an impact energy of 14.1 ft.-lbs., it excels in delivering strong performance for demanding tasks like drilling through tough materials. The Turbo Power feature enhances torque and speed specifically in hammer mode, making it efficient for intensive use.

Its best-in-class power-to-weight ratio ensures that despite its heavy-duty capabilities, it doesn't become too cumbersome to handle for prolonged periods, aided by its Vibration Control for improved comfort during extended use. The Constant Response feature provides a soft start and maintains consistent speed under load, enhancing its usability and precision. However, the tool is on the heavier side, weighing 35 pounds, which might be challenging for some users to manage over long periods.

The maximum rotational speed of 220 RPM is relatively low compared to some other models, which might affect its efficiency in certain applications. Additionally, it is a corded electric tool, limiting its portability compared to cordless models. Despite these drawbacks, its robust build and advanced features make it an excellent choice for professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts who need reliable and powerful performance for large-scale projects.

Rating
9.4
Power (Wattage)
Drilling Capacity
Vibration Control

Most important from
48 reviews

Power (Wattage)
Operates smoothly off a 3kW portable generator, showcasing its reliability and versatility.
Drilling Capacity
This powerful tool effortlessly drills deep holes into hard-rock boulders, making it ideal for intensive tasks.
Vibration Control
The anti-vibration features significantly reduce operator fatigue, enhancing comfort during extended use.
#3

DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill, Cordless, 3 Application Modes, Bare Tool Only (DCH273B)

Rating
9.4
Power (Wattage)
Weight
Vibration Control

Most important from
3254 reviews

Power (Wattage)
Powerful and versatile, this drill handles heavy-duty tasks like drilling into concrete with exceptional ease.
Weight
Built to handle bigger jobs, it is light and small enough to fit into tough spaces yet rugged enough for medium projects.
Vibration Control
The ergonomic design with a comfortable grip reduces fatigue during prolonged use.
Additional Features
The three application modes—Drill, Hammer Drill, and Chip—allow for easy switching between tasks, enhancing its versatility.

The DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill, model DCH273B, is designed for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts looking for a cordless solution for heavy-duty drilling tasks, particularly in concrete. With an impact energy of 2.1 Joules and a maximum power of 300 watts, it provides solid performance, making it effective for various applications like rod hanging and cable tray mounting. The lightweight design, at just 6.4 pounds, enhances portability, allowing users to work comfortably over extended periods.

One of its standout features is the SHOCKS ACTIVE VIBRATION CONTROL system, which significantly reduces the vibration felt in the handles, a great advantage for user comfort during prolonged use. Additionally, the brushless motor contributes to its efficiency and longer runtime, which means less frequent battery changes. The three application modes—Drill, Hammer Drill, and Chip—offer flexibility depending on the task at hand.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. The drill is a bare tool, meaning it does not come with a battery or charger, which may be an extra cost for those who do not already own compatible DEWALT products. Also, while the 2800 RPM speed is impressive, it might not be as powerful as some corded options available in the market, which could be a drawback for extremely heavy-duty tasks. In conclusion, the DEWALT DCH273B is a reliable and versatile rotary hammer drill well-suited for both casual and more serious users in need of a portable, efficient tool for concrete drilling, but potential buyers should be aware of the additional costs associated with battery and charger purchases.

Rating
9.4
Power (Wattage)
Weight
Vibration Control

Most important from
3254 reviews

Power (Wattage)
Powerful and versatile, this drill handles heavy-duty tasks like drilling into concrete with exceptional ease.
Weight
Built to handle bigger jobs, it is light and small enough to fit into tough spaces yet rugged enough for medium projects.
Vibration Control
The ergonomic design with a comfortable grip reduces fatigue during prolonged use.
Additional Features
The three application modes—Drill, Hammer Drill, and Chip—allow for easy switching between tasks, enhancing its versatility.

Buying Guide for the Best Rotary Hammer Drills

Choosing the right rotary hammer drill can make a significant difference in the efficiency and ease of your drilling tasks. Rotary hammer drills are powerful tools designed for heavy-duty drilling and chiseling in hard materials like concrete, brick, and stone. To find the best fit for your needs, it's important to understand the key specifications and how they relate to your specific requirements.
Power (Wattage)Power, measured in watts, indicates the overall strength of the rotary hammer drill. Higher wattage means more power, which is essential for drilling through tougher materials. For light to medium tasks, a drill with 500-800 watts may suffice. For more demanding jobs, especially in construction or heavy-duty renovation, look for models with 800-1500 watts. Choose based on the toughest material you expect to work with regularly.
Impact Energy (Joules)Impact energy, measured in joules, determines the force with which the drill bit hits the material. This is crucial for breaking through hard surfaces. Light-duty tasks may require 1-2 joules, medium-duty tasks 2-4 joules, and heavy-duty tasks 4-10 joules or more. Consider the hardest material you will be drilling into and select a drill with sufficient impact energy to handle it efficiently.
Drilling CapacityDrilling capacity refers to the maximum diameter of holes the drill can create in different materials like wood, metal, and concrete. This is important to ensure the drill can handle the sizes you need. For example, a capacity of 13-16mm in concrete is suitable for light tasks, while 20-30mm is better for more intensive work. Match the drilling capacity to the typical hole sizes you will be making.
Speed (RPM)Speed, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), affects how quickly the drill bit rotates. Higher speeds are useful for drilling into softer materials, while lower speeds with higher torque are better for harder materials. Variable speed settings are ideal as they allow you to adjust the speed based on the material and task. Choose a drill with a speed range that covers your most common applications.
WeightThe weight of the rotary hammer drill can impact your comfort and ease of use, especially during prolonged tasks. Lighter models (2-4 kg) are easier to handle and suitable for overhead work or extended use. Heavier models (4-8 kg) offer more stability and power for tough jobs but can be tiring to use for long periods. Consider the duration and type of work you will be doing to find a balance between power and comfort.
Vibration ControlVibration control features reduce the amount of vibration transmitted to your hands and arms, making the drill more comfortable to use and reducing fatigue. This is particularly important for extended use or for users with joint issues. Look for models with built-in vibration control technology if you plan to use the drill frequently or for long periods.
Chuck TypeThe chuck type determines how the drill bit is held in place. SDS-Plus chucks are common for light to medium-duty tasks and allow for quick bit changes. SDS-Max chucks are used for heavy-duty applications and can handle larger bits. Choose the chuck type based on the size and type of bits you will be using most often.
Additional FeaturesAdditional features like a depth stop, auxiliary handle, and carrying case can enhance the usability and convenience of the rotary hammer drill. A depth stop helps you drill to a precise depth, an auxiliary handle provides better control, and a carrying case makes transportation and storage easier. Consider which features will be most beneficial for your specific needs and preferences.

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