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10 Best Rotary Hammers 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus 1 Inch Cordless Rotary Hammer with D-Handle, Bare Tool Only (DCH133B)

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,394
Power (Wattage)
Impact Energy (Joules)

Most important from
1849 reviews

Power (Wattage)
Don't underestimate the power of this tool; it breaks through old tiles with ease.
Impact Energy (Joules)
Blasts right through concrete effortlessly.

The DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus Cordless Rotary Hammer offers a strong balance of power and convenience for those needing a portable solution. With an impact energy of 2.6 Joules, it is effective for drilling in concrete, making it suitable for tasks like beam and column anchorage or steel stanchion mounting. Its lightweight design enhances maneuverability, adding to its appeal for overhead work and extended use without excessive fatigue.

Powered by a 20V battery, this tool is free from the constraints of a power cord, which increases its versatility on job sites without accessible outlets. The brushless motor not only enhances its runtime but also longevity, due to fewer moving parts that wear over time. The German-engineered mechanism further underscores its durability and efficient performance. This rotary hammer's maximum rotational speed of 5550 RPM aids in quick drilling, while the rotating dial allows users to switch between drilling, hammer drilling, or chiseling modes, providing additional functionality.

However, being a bare tool, it does not include batteries or a charger, necessitating additional purchases if you do not already own compatible DEWALT 20V MAX batteries. While the tool provides excellent impact energy and speed, its reliance on battery power may result in less consistent performance on demanding tasks compared to corded models. Additionally, the absence of advanced vibration control might lead to discomfort during prolonged use, although this is somewhat mitigated by its lightweight nature.

The DEWALT DCH133B is a solid choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts looking for a compact, cordless rotary hammer with decent power and versatility for light to medium-duty applications. Those who prioritize portability and already use DEWALT’s 20V MAX system will find it particularly appealing.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,394
Power (Wattage)
Impact Energy (Joules)

Most important from
1849 reviews

Power (Wattage)
Don't underestimate the power of this tool; it breaks through old tiles with ease.
Impact Energy (Joules)
Blasts right through concrete effortlessly.
#2

Milwaukee 2912-20 M18 Fuel 18V 1" Sds Plus Brushless Rotary Hammer

Rating
9.8
Power (Wattage)
Drilling Capacity
Weight

Most important from
332 reviews

Power (Wattage)
Compact size and good power, holds up well in hard rock mining.
Drilling Capacity
Definitely worth the money for drilling smaller anchor holes in brick.
Weight
Lightweight and powerful for its size, perfect for masonry drilling.

The Milwaukee 2912-20 M18 Fuel 18V SDS Plus Brushless Rotary Hammer is a versatile tool designed for those who need a powerful and portable solution for drilling. One of its standout features is the cordless design, which boosts productivity by allowing you to work without being tethered to a power outlet. This model is part of Milwaukee's M18 system, meaning it is compatible with over 200 tools, adding to its versatility if you already own other M18 tools. With a maximum power of 800 watts and a rotational speed of 1330 RPM, it offers solid performance for a variety of drilling tasks.

Weighing 7.8 pounds, it is relatively lightweight for a rotary hammer, making it easier to handle for extended periods. Additionally, the AUTOSTOP Control feature is a great safety addition, as it senses bind-ups and can stop the tool to prevent injury. However, it does not come with batteries, which means additional costs if you don't already have M18 batteries.

Despite these few drawbacks, many users are satisfied with its performance, making it a reliable choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals.

Rating
9.8
Power (Wattage)
Drilling Capacity
Weight

Most important from
332 reviews

Power (Wattage)
Compact size and good power, holds up well in hard rock mining.
Drilling Capacity
Definitely worth the money for drilling smaller anchor holes in brick.
Weight
Lightweight and powerful for its size, perfect for masonry drilling.
#3

BOSCH 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme 8 Amp 1 Inch Corded Variable Speed SDS-Plus Concrete/Masonry Rotary Hammer

Rating
9.7
Drilling Capacity

Most important from
2905 reviews

Drilling Capacity
Incredible performance; drilled a 5/8 inch x 4 inch deep hole in less than a minute!

The BOSCH 11255VSR Bulldog Xtreme rotary hammer is a versatile tool designed for heavy-duty concrete and masonry work. It features a powerful 7.5 amp motor that delivers up to 1300 RPM and 5800 BPM, making it capable of handling tough jobs. With an impact energy of 2.0 feet-pounds, it provides good performance for drilling and chiseling tasks.

The three modes of operation (rotation-only, rotary hammer, and hammer-only) add flexibility for various applications, and the variable speed trigger allows for precise control during use. The tool's SDS-plus chuck system ensures quick and easy bit changes without the need for additional tools, enhancing convenience and efficiency on the job. Additionally, its D-handle design and vibration control make it comfortable to use, even for extended periods, especially for overhead and downward drilling tasks.

The included auxiliary handle, depth gauge, and carrying case are useful additions for enhanced control and portability. However, at 7.08 amps, it may not be the most powerful option available, and users who need the highest impact energy might find it lacking. Its weight and corded nature could also limit maneuverability and ease of use in some scenarios. This rotary hammer is a solid choice for professional tradespeople or serious DIY enthusiasts who need a reliable and versatile tool for concrete and masonry work.

Rating
9.7
Drilling Capacity

Most important from
2905 reviews

Drilling Capacity
Incredible performance; drilled a 5/8 inch x 4 inch deep hole in less than a minute!

Buying Guide for the Best Rotary Hammers

Choosing the right rotary hammer can make a significant difference in the efficiency and ease of your drilling and chiseling tasks. Rotary hammers are powerful tools designed for heavy-duty work, such as drilling through concrete, masonry, 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. Here are the main specs to consider when selecting a rotary hammer.
Power (Wattage)Power, measured in watts, indicates the overall strength of the rotary hammer. Higher wattage means more power, which is essential for tougher materials like concrete. For light to medium tasks, a rotary hammer with 500-800 watts should suffice. For more demanding jobs, look for models with 800-1500 watts. Choose based on the type of materials you'll be working with and the intensity of the tasks.
Impact Energy (Joules)Impact energy, measured in joules, determines the force with which the hammer strikes. This is crucial for breaking through hard materials. Light-duty tasks may require 1-2 joules, while medium-duty tasks might need 2-4 joules. For heavy-duty applications, look for 4-10 joules or more. Consider the hardness of the materials and the depth of drilling or chiseling when selecting the impact energy.
Drilling CapacityDrilling capacity refers to the maximum diameter the rotary hammer can drill into different materials like concrete, wood, and steel. This is important to ensure the tool can handle the sizes you need. For concrete, capacities typically range from 12mm to 40mm. For wood, it can be up to 65mm, and for steel, up to 13mm. Match the drilling capacity to the specific requirements of your projects.
Speed (RPM)Speed, measured in revolutions per minute (RPM), affects how quickly the drill bit rotates. Higher speeds are useful for drilling through softer materials, while lower speeds are better for harder materials. Rotary hammers usually have variable speed settings, allowing you to adjust based on the task. For general use, a range of 0-1,500 RPM is common. Choose a model with adjustable speed to provide flexibility for different tasks.
WeightThe weight of the rotary hammer 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 (5-10 kg) offer more stability and power for heavy-duty tasks but can be tiring to use for long periods. Consider the duration and type of work you'll 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 tool more comfortable to use and reducing fatigue. This is particularly important for extended use or for users with sensitivity to vibration. Look for models with built-in vibration control systems if you plan to use the rotary hammer frequently or for long periods.
Chuck TypeThe chuck type determines the kind of bits you can use with the rotary hammer. SDS-Plus chucks are common for light to medium-duty tasks and offer quick bit changes. SDS-Max chucks are used for heavier-duty applications and can handle larger bits. Choose the chuck type based on the size and type of bits you need for your projects.

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