Do you need a hammer drill?

Cut through tough materials like a pro Your regular cordless drill is all that you need for driving screws and drilling small holes in wood, but for tougher materials, you'll need a hammer drill. We put some of the best hammer drills to the test in our lab, evaluating each for power, speed, and ease of use.

What is a cordless hammer drill?

Look no further than our selection of cordless hammer drills. These versatile tools combine the benefits of a traditional drill with the added impact force of a hammer, making them perfect for drilling into tough materials like concrete and masonry.

What is a hammer drill?

Aaron Barnet, owner of Banging Toolbox, explains that hammer drills let you switch between drill-only or drill-and-hammer when you need to drill concrete or masonry. Rotary hammer drills include a powerful hammer-only option (like a mini jackhammer).

How big a hole can a hammer drill make?

Talk about performance—this hammer drill can make holes up to 1.5 inches in diameter in steel, .625 inches in masonry or concrete, and 1.5 inches in wood. Unlike many other hammer drills, it has a clutch to reduce torque and use it as a driver to drill screws—this helps avoid stripped screws or splintered wood. This powerhouse is versatile, too.

Which hammer drill is best for masonry drilling?

They are suitable for basic masonry drilling tasks. Rotary hammer drills: Rotary hammer drills typically have a piston mechanism that provides a more powerful hammering action, making them suitable for more heavy-duty masonry work. They are commonly used in construction for drilling larger holes in concrete or masonry.

What is a good hammer drill?

A hammer drill with a moderate BPM (25,000-40,000) is sufficient for most non-professionals. While all hammer drills share the same basic design, some include additional features that make them easier and safer to use. For extra control during aggressive drilling tasks, look for a drill that includes a removable side handle.