10 Best Rotary Hammer Drills 2025 in the United States

The DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Drill (DCH172B) is a versatile and powerful tool ideal for various heavy-duty tasks. With 1.4 joules of impact energy, it delivers fast drilling in concrete, making it suitable for rod hanging, concrete forming, and various mounting applications. The brushless motor and German-engineered mechanism enhance performance and runtime, ensuring efficiency during prolonged use.

Additionally, its lightweight design at 4.61 pounds makes it easy to handle and maneuver, reducing user fatigue during extended periods of work. The SHOCKS active vibration control system is a significant feature, as it reduces the vibration felt at the handles, improving comfort and control compared to models without this feature. The cordless design, powered by a 20V lithium-ion battery, offers flexibility and mobility, although it should be noted that batteries are not included and must be purchased separately. The maximum rotational speed of 1100 RPM and variable speed settings provide versatility for different drilling needs.

The mode selector switch allows for quick transitions between drill and hammer drill applications, adding to its user-friendly design. On the downside, the drilling capacity is modest, with 13 millimeters for metal and 26 millimeters for wood, which may limit its use for larger projects. Additionally, while it is OSHA table 1 compliant when paired with specific dust extraction accessories, these are additional purchases. The DEWALT 20V MAX SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Drill is a solid choice for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike, offering a combination of power, portability, and advanced features.

The Milwaukee 2912-20 M18 Fuel 18V 1" SDS Plus Brushless Rotary Hammer is a powerful cordless tool designed for heavy-duty drilling tasks. It offers a maximum rotational speed of 1330 RPM and a power output of 800 watts, making it suitable for both professional and DIY users.

The tool includes AUTOSTOP Control, which enhances safety by sensing and stopping the drill during bind-ups, reducing the risk of injury and equipment damage. This feature, combined with its compatibility with the M18 system (over 200 solutions), makes it a versatile addition to any toolkit.

The drilling capacities are 0.5 inches in metal and 1.13 inches in wood, suitable for most common drilling needs. However, the drill weighs 7.8 pounds, which may be a bit heavy for extended use or for users who require a lightweight tool. Additionally, while it is battery-powered, the batteries are not included, which means an extra expense if you don't already own M18 batteries.

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.