How To Choose A Hammer Drill For Homework

Impact frequency

If we calculate how many times in one minute the piston of the device hits its firing pin, we get a value called the frequency of impacts. The larger it is, the higher the hole punching speed. The performance of a rock drill depends on both the frequency and the energy of the impact. Manufacturers producing the most durable and efficient devices harmoniously combine these two parameters in their models.

Therefore, it is better to pay attention to reliable brands whose products are of excellent quality and amazing durability. Specifically, we will talk about the best manufacturing firms a little further.

Punch shape

In terms of shape, perforators are both straight and L-shaped. In the latter, the engine is located vertically, making the device more compact. In addition, the engine is cooled efficiently. Such devices can work for a long time without overheating, and they serve a lot. But their weight is very noticeable.

How To Choose A Hammer Drill For Homework

L. Rock Drill, Vertical Motor.

Narrow and long straight-type hammer drills weigh less, and due to their design they will crawl into any gap. The engine is placed horizontally in them.

Narrow, long rock drill, motor horizontal.

Spindle speed

The rotational speed of the punch shaft is lower than that of the drill, this was already mentioned above. Depending on the class of the device, the value of this value can be from 600 to 1500 rpm. The rotational speed decreases with an increase in the power and productivity of the rock drill, this is due to its design features. Indeed, in productive models, the optimum tooling diameter is quite large. In general, the shaft of the device rotates only in order to remove dust after drilling. A small drill has to rotate faster, and a large drill slower, otherwise it will wear out too quickly.

Models of rock drills with high shaft rotation speed are heavy, which does not facilitate ease of use. In addition, such high-speed devices wear out very quickly the spiral grooves, with the help of which the drilling waste is removed from the place of work. Because of this, the device starts to get pretty hot, and as a result, it can even jam in the hole.

And yet: household model or professional?

expensive and powerful professional devices are equipped with many functions. They are reliable and durable. It is easy to distinguish them: as a rule, all manufacturers’ models for professional use are painted in a different color than household ones. And there are corresponding inscriptions on them. But the most important difference between them is the time of continuous work, which in terms of duration is 7. 8 hours, i.E. The whole working day. However, why is a heavy and bulky device for the pros at home? Super tasks, as a rule, do not have to be performed, and for the most ordinary repair or hanging shelves, a middle class model is quite enough.

Let’s list the optimal characteristics of a hammer drill that you plan to use for home use. With similar parameters, you can easily and quickly drill holes in concrete with a diameter of 1.6 to 2.8 centimeters, as well as perform other types of work. So, a good hammer drill has the following parameters:

  • Power from 0.5 to 0.9 kilowatts.
  • Impact force from 1.2 to 2.2 joules.
  • Three modes of operation (except for drilling, also chiselling and drilling).
  • Shaft speed adjustment.
  • There must be a protective sleeve to prevent the device from jamming.
  • The drill must be fastened with the SDS plus system without the use of keys to clamp or unclamp the chuck.

Next, see for yourself, hold the tool in your hands, try to make a test hole. If you feel that it will be convenient to work, take it. Of course, the hammer drill should be suitable for your application. Just keep in mind that when performing these tasks, the device must be handled carefully. on this below.

Additional functions

1. So, for example, protection from dust will not hurt at all, because hardly anyone has to work in sterile conditions.

Dust protection during drilling.

2. No less convenient is the anti-vibration system, which softens and compensates for the shaking of the device when drilling, chiselling or drilling.

Vibration protection system.

3. Another useful feature is the locking button that secures the punch in the working mode.

True, each of the additional features does not make the device cheaper at all, so choose only what you really need. It is not worth it, really, to overpay for those functions that you will never use in the future.

Manufacturing firm

Now let’s talk a little about the manufacturers. The most trusted brands that almost every BOSCH and MAKITA has probably heard of. It is in their direction that you need to direct your gaze when choosing a professional model of a perforator. And for home, in addition to these two companies, you can also advise the following manufacturers WATT, STERN, EINHELL, VT.

The principle of the hammer drill:

  • The rotor shaft begins to rotate, the speed is about 27 thousand rpm. The small gear of the shaft engages with the large gear of the reducer, the output speed decreases and the torque increases at the same time. To reduce noise, the gears are helical. If necessary, the shaft speed is additionally regulated by an electronic device.
  • The gear wheel of the reducer is fixedly connected to the shaft. It is equipped with a gear to give the chuck a rotational movement and a movable bearing (drunk), giving reciprocating / reciprocating movements.
  • A drunken ball bearing, they roll along S-shaped grooves, due to which the outer cage vibrates. A special semicircular clip is movably fixed to it on two ledges. On the upper plane of the cage there is a lever associated with the bearing of the impact piston.
  • The piston is located in the raster tube and moves forward / backward, strongly compresses the air, due to which the impact firing pin is set in motion.
  • The striker transmits the force to the axle, and it hits the heel of the nozzle installed in the cartridge.
  • The working tool is firmly fixed to the attachment. Depending on the selected mode, it can have simultaneously rotational and reciprocating / translational motion (in the case of drilling a hole in concrete or other hard materials), only percussion (if necessary, only gouge) or only rotational (for drilling holes in relatively soft materials).

What to look for when choosing a hammer drill

The service life of the tool depends on how correctly its technical characteristics are matched with real loads and conditions of use. What factors need to be paid attention to?

  • The power of the electric motor for household purposes is sufficient ≤ 0.8 kW, more than 1.2 kW is recommended for professionals;
  • Impact energy for household up to 3 J, professionals require more than 17 J;
  • The frequency of beats per minute for household appliances should be up to 4000, for professional ≈ 5,000;
  • Spindle speed professional tools have a speed of up to 1100 rpm, for household tools up to 2300 rpm;
  • The number of modes all rock drills can drill, chisel and drill;
  • Maximum drilling diameter professional can work with tools Ø 18 mm, household with a diameter of 10 mm;
  • Chuck type, depending on technical parameters, SDS, SDS-plus, SDS-top, SDS-max, SDS-quick chucks are installed, differ in diameters and number of grooves;
  • Additional functions all types of rock drills have a reverse, fixing the position of the power button, depth controllers, protection against jamming, professional ones additionally have a soft start, a dust collector and a speed switch;
  • The equipment is standard for all guaranteed types of work, professional ones additionally have several cartridges of various types.

It is necessary to pay attention to the mass: it is easier to work with heavy ones on floors. For walls, you can use medium ones, and for ceilings, the lightest are required. The final decision should be taken only after a careful analysis of all the properties of rock drills and their modes of operation.

Anti-vibration devices

Reduces vibrations, improves working conditions, and extends tool life. For this, various springs, rubber bushings, counterweights and other devices are used.

Impact and rotational movements are transmitted to the chuck, in which the working tool is fixed. Knowing the basic structure of perforators, it is easier to understand the principle of its operation. What happens after applying voltage to the motor?

  • What is a puncher and how does it work?
  • Rotary hammer design and working principle:
  • Electrical engine
  • Reducer
  • Safety clutch
  • Impact mechanism
  • Anti-vibration devices
  • The principle of operation of the punch
  • What to look for when choosing a hammer drill?
  • How to use a puncher correctly?
  • The best brands of rock drills in 2020

Impact mechanism

A very important and loaded element of the device can be of an electromechanical or electro-pneumatic type. The first is considered morally obsolete and is currently not used. The electro-pneumatic one consists of a movable bearing (drunk) that reciprocates. It drives the piston, housed in a special bushing, compresses the air and moves the striker. There is a straight hit at the end.

How to choose a hammer drill for home?

What does the different location of the engine on the rock drill mean?

A device with a horizontal engine, along the shock axis, is convenient for short-term work, but such a tool cannot boast of great power, heats up quickly and cools for a long time. The hammer drill can fail without timely interruption.

A rotary hammer with a vertical engine, perpendicular to the impact axis, has a higher power and does not need constant cooling. Suitable for long-term trouble-free operation.

Rotary hammer markings

What indicators influence what:

Often in the product labeling you can find different letters and numbers. Here are some of them: P. This model is intended for home use by hobbyists; G. Model tool for professionals; 2-26 means that the weight of this model is 2 kg, and 26 is the maximum diameter (in mm) of drilling in concrete; d. Chiseling mode in the device; f. Presence in the kit of a replaceable chuck for a drill / drill.

What indicators influence what:

  • The power of the hammer drill motor is not so important in practice, since the rock drill shaft does not require excessively high rotational speed during drilling. For home use, a 500-1000 W instrument is suitable. If you need to drill holes in concrete more than 50 cm deep, choose a hammer drill more powerful.
  • The force of the impact affects the diameter of the hole: the higher, the larger the hole the puncher can make. Take it according to your needs, the device with 27 joules will resemble a road jackhammer and weigh 12 kg. For drilling holes up to 3 cm, 1.5 2.5 joules are sufficient.
  • There can be three modes of operation. The best option would be a model where they are all available. than half of light and medium-weight rock drills are equipped with SDS plus chucks, for which drills, drills, blades, chisels, crowns and various attachments are available. We get a universal tool that can not only drill, chisel and drill, but also knead cement or tile glue, screw screws.

A drill for a perforator for concrete has two fundamental characteristics: diameter and length. For SDS plus chucks, when working with concrete, a drill with a shank diameter of 10 mm is widely used. If necessary, you can use a drill with a shank diameter of 18 mm, but this is already a professional tool and requires a SDS max chuck.

For household needs and apartment renovation, choose a lightweight electric puncher. They are powered by mains or a battery that attaches either to the device itself or to the belt.

The light hammer drill weighs up to 4 kg, the average power is 300-700 W, the impact force is 1.2 3 J. The average hammer drill already contains the requirements for a professional device. Its weight is from 4 to 8 kg, power 800 1200 W, impact force 3 8 J. These can be used in production.

How to decipher the marking when choosing a puncher

When choosing a hammer drill, first of all look at the power indicator. The frequency of beats per minute directly depends on it. Power indirectly affects the weight of the tool. The impact force must also be spelled out in the documents (household models from 2.2 to 3 J, everything higher is closer to professional ones).

How to choose a puncher

Perforator. An irreplaceable thing in the household. It is not known when there will be an urgent need to cut in a new outlet, switch, hang a shelf, curtain, throw wiring on the loggia, and improve the dacha. Better to have the tool close at hand. How to choose a puncher? You need to understand how often it will be used and for what purpose. There is no point in overpaying for a professional unit just to be. You may never need all of its fancy options.

Why a hammer drill if you have a hammer drill?

In a hammer drill, the rotary movement is an auxiliary function. In the first place are reciprocating or shock effects on the material. In advanced machines, vibration can be turned off and the hammer drill can be used like a familiar drill. For example, when working with a tree.

Impact drill device is not heavy, relatively small. Although there are models with power up to 1200 W (weighs over 3 kg). Ideal for drilling in wood, tiles, plastic. Suitable for screwing screws, self-tapping screws at low speeds. Holes in walls made of reinforced concrete, stone, brick can be made with a drill, unless overlapping with the entire body weight, if this mass is enough.

The hammer action is based on an electromechanical or electro-pneumatic type mechanism. The blow comes from a simple push of a button, its force can reach several tens of joules. Enough to make a hole in any partition, knock down tiles, grind walls for wiring, remove plaster. Pressure on the tool is not recommended.

How to choose the right puncher based on the work front

Rotary hammers can do three things: drill with chiseling (models with combined mode), drill without chiseling, just chisel (function of a jackhammer). To begin with, perforators are usually divided into professional and household. Some manufacturers (Bosch, Kress) produce a line for professionals in blue.

  • Household rock drills are designed for intermittent use, their continuous operation time does not exceed 25 minutes, and it is recommended to work with them no more than 4 hours per shift. Their main problem is overheating.
  • Professional rotary hammers are used for regular work in large volumes. They are more powerful, heavier (up to 11.5 kg), more expensive and of a slightly different design. In high-power units, the engine is located vertically.

Simply put, if you choose a hammer drill for renovating a new apartment, the household option may not withstand the load. For household work, a simple model of a punch will work from time to time.

KRÜGER 1400 W

The KRUGER electric rotary hammer impresses with its impact-resistant body and rich equipment. The product is ergonomic and well thought-out design:

  • A powerful engine will last a long time and will help solve many everyday tasks;
  • Several operating modes, DFR and SDS chucks make the tool versatile;
  • The switch with the accelerator function allows smooth adjustment of the drilling speed;
  • The switch lock provides convenience during long-term operation;
  • The reverse makes it easier to work with complex materials;
  • Additional handle makes the device more ergonomic;
  • The power cable is located where the place will not interfere with it during operation

The kit includes the actual rock drill, an additional keyless chuck, an additional rubberized handle and depth gauge, 3 drills, a lance and a drill.

Characteristics Values

Weight, kg 3.1
Drill fixation option SDS
Operating modes drilling, hammering, hammering
Impact frequency, beats / min 4000
Power consumption, W 1400
Drilling wood / metal / concrete, mm 30/13/26
Add. Functions reverse, switch lock, switch with accelerator function
Power cable length, m 2
Development of Germany

Review of the 16 best rock drills for the DIYer

Why does the choice of a hammer drill put the amateur in a difficult position? We most often approach the issue based on a certain budget. Upon closer inspection, in addition to cost and power, new criteria for comparison are revealed. Among others, the location of the drive, the number of operating modes, and this is just a small part of the parameters that should be considered. We have compiled a list of the most reliable rock drills for 2019. We hope you find a tool that will become a faithful friend for years to come.

The chance of finding the perfect option increases if you remember that similar externally models can differ significantly even in terms of maintenance, despite the power and weight.

Selection criteria Criteria options Basic properties and purposes of options

Weight up to 3 kg Lightweight and convenient models for solving a limited list of tasks
3-5 kg A tool with versatile functionality
from 5 kg Highly specialized heavy rock drills
Location of the actuator Vertical It has a positive effect on the cooling of the motor and gearbox. As a result, models with a vertical engine have a certain margin of endurance.
Horizontal The horizontal arrangement guarantees a high level of comfort when working with the hammer drill.
Power supply type Network Always ready to work, the right balance of cost and performance
Rechargeable All possible losses (from impact force to operating time) are fully compensated for by mobility
Attachment system for drills, bits and peak SDS Common variant, for 10 mm shank
SDS-max Professional equipment for sds equipment with a base of 18 mm
Operating modes Drilling The usual set of puncher. The absence of the first or last function is not an indicator of low-grade equipment. Because rational decisions of manufacturers allow you to exclude unbearable or unnecessary operations for a specific tool
Impact drilling
Chiselling
Accessories and functions Thrust handle Due to the ability to change its position, a high level of safety is achieved during operation
Depth gauge Prevents over-immersion of the drill
Set of drills, lance, chisel A set of different combinations of these elements makes the hammer drill a versatile tool
Replaceable or additional (keyless, key) chuck with SDS adapter
Control electronics Control of the number of revolutions and frequency of impact
Safety clutch When the drill is jammed, it stops the transmission of torque from the engine to the shaft
Reverse Equally effective rotation of the rig in different directions
Trigger lock Facilitation of labor when mixing building mixtures
Backlight Increases the accuracy of the work performed
Dust extraction system Passive (basic equipment) or forced additional equipment. On many models, this feature is preventive (nozzles directing air over the top of the drill), preventing debris from entering the tool and user

The power consumption should be taken into account when working in an unstable power supply. When choosing a perforator for working on bricks and lightweight concrete, you should pay attention to the power and frequency of impact, indicators of shaft rotation. The table below will help you get the right idea about models from different price categories.

Hitachi DH24PC3

Professionals say that the accuracy of the Hitachi dh24pc3 rotary hammer is ensured not only by the simultaneous increase in the impact frequency and shaft rotation speed.

  • Correct tool balancing
  • Light weight
  • Ergonomic rubber grips
  • Convenient control of three operating modes and reverse function,

Also have a significant impact on the precision of the workflow.

The absence of any drills or additional cartridges in the package is another point that indicates that the rock drill is intended for professional use. All the necessary equipment is always purchased for a specific type of work. Therefore, the Hitachi dh24pc3 is equipped with only a spacious suitcase, an additional handle and a drilling depth stop.

Characteristics Values

Weight, kg 2.6
Drill fixation option SDS
Operating modes Drilling with and without hammering, chiselling
Impact force, J 3.2
Impact frequency at xx, beats / min 4600
Shaft rotation speed at xx, rpm 1150
Power consumption, W 800
Drilling wood / metal / concrete, mm 32/13/24
Add. Functions Safety clutch, reverse, electronic speed control
Power cable length, m 4
Origin development / of. Production Japan / Japan, China

Interskol PA-10 / 14.4R-2

The modest capabilities of the PA-10 / 14.4R cordless hammer drill (drilling with and without impact) are compensated by the minimum dimensions and sufficient impact energy. According to practicing professionals, this combination of performance characteristics allows for quality holes in wood, metal and concrete.

  • A pair of batteries will be enough to work without long interruptions for recharging (the potential of one 25 holes 8×50 mm).
  • The electronic motor brake prevents the drill or drill from coasting. Stopping rotation at the moment when the master releases the trigger.
  • Illumination helps you see possible drilling errors in poorly lit or hard-to-reach places.
  • Three-section indicator shows the current battery level.
  • The convenient shape of the punch allows you to place it in a belt holster.

All devices necessary for the full operation of the PA-10 / 14.4R-2 are placed in a small case. Therefore, users have no problems with either storing or transporting the cordless tool.

Characteristics Values

Weight, kg 1.4
Drill fixation option SDS
Operating modes Drilling, hammer drilling
Impact force, J 0.9
Impact frequency at xx, beats / min 5400
Shaft rotation speed at xx, rpm 750
Drilling wood / metal / concrete, mm 20/10/10
Add. Functions Reverse, electronic engine speed control, backlight, charge indicator
Battery voltage, V 14.4
Capacity, A / h 1.3
A type Detachable, Li-Ion technology
Charging time, h 1
Origin development / of. Production Russia / China
Price, rub.

Makita HR2470

The proven ease of working with Makita horizontal rock drills is inherent in the HR2470. Relatively light weight with sufficient impact force and smooth adjustment of shaft revolutions, successfully complemented by comfortable anti-slip handles and a full range of operating functions

The existing possibility of fixing the bit in one of 40 preset positions reduces labor intensity and increases the accuracy of the chiseling process.

The SDS system ensures prompt replacement of the drill. The permissible parameters of the processed wood, steel and concrete fully cover the needs of home or summer cottage repairs. Therefore, the model 2470 is in demand not only by amateurs, but also by professionals specializing in finishing work.

Characteristics Values

Weight, kg 2.9
Drill fixation option SDS
Operating modes Drilling, drilling with impact, impact without drilling
Impact force, J 2.4
Impact frequency at xx, beats / min 4500
Shaft rotation speed at xx, rpm 1100
Power consumption, W 780
Drilling wood / metal / concrete, mm 32/13/24
Add. Functions 40 positions of blocking bit, reverse, safety clutch, electronic speed control
Power cable length, m 4
Origin development / of. Production Japan / Japan, China

Dewalt D25103K

Thanks to the cost of the D25103K horizontal rock drill, the potential of professional equipment has become available to the average amateur. This means that the independent execution of a wide range of repair and finishing works will not be overshadowed

  • Frequent overheating of the engine requiring a long rest
  • Unstable operation of the percussion mechanism (due to the design features and, at the same time, an elementary solution to the problem of most models of inexpensive tools)
  • Injuries sustained during operation.

The reasons for this are, respectively:

  • Low shaft speed
  • Impact bolt design features that prevent it from jamming during no-load operation
  • The presence of a safety clutch that stops the transmission of torque to the shaft immediately when blocking a drill, chisel or lance.

Thus, the domestic consumer will never lose interest in a worthy branded instrument, even if it is assembled in China (it affects only the final cost).

Characteristics Values

Weight, kg 2.8
Drill fixation option SDS
Operating modes Drilling with and without hammering, chiselling
Impact force, J 3.1
Impact frequency at xx, beats / min 4200
Shaft rotation speed at xx, rpm 1150
Power consumption, W 780
Drilling wood / metal / concrete, mm 30/13/24
Add. Functions Safety clutch, reverse
Power cable length, m 4
Origin development / of. Production USA / USA, China