The Best Hammer Drills for Your Tool Collection

Most DIYers own a cordless drill that allows them to drill holes and drive screws into softer materials with ease. However, for any DIY job that requires boring holes into stone, brick, or metal, nothing beats the convenience of a high-quality hammer drill. Here are some fantastic options we recommend you add to your toolbox.

Shopping for a Hammer Drill

Consider these factors when picking out your new hammer drill:

• Torque: Hammer drills vary in terms of available torque. Naturally, products that have more torque at their disposal are better-suited for heavy-duty applications but are usually a step up in the cost department as well. Before selecting a hammer drill, think carefully about how you are likely to use it in order to avoid selecting a product that will not meet your future needs. Additionally, this is definitely an area where people tend to overspend, especially if they are new to the world of power tools, so remember that a heavy-duty, job-site-ready tool might not be the most effective option for the average DIYer.
• Durability: Since hammer drills are heavy-duty tools, they need to be durable to withstand long-term usage. Looking for a model with all-metal chucks is always a good option, although non-metallic chuck construction has come a long way over the years in terms of durability. It’s also a good idea to check product reviews and gauge the experiences others have had with the tool you plan to purchase.
• Chuck Size: Depending on the type of jobs you will complete with your hammer drill, chuck size can be a key consideration. For one thing, you want the chuck size to match the drills and accessories you plan on utilizing. For DIY projects that will feature some heavy-duty applications, a 1/2-inch chuck is recommended, but 3/8-inch chucks also accept a wide variety of bits, making them a versatile option.

Best Cordless: DEWALT 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill

For those seeking a cordless hammer drill that offers the best power and durability for your hard-earned money, the DEWALT 20V MAX XR Hammer Drill is the way to go. Featuring a high-efficiency brushless motor, nitro-carburized metal ratcheting chucks, and great torque, this is a monster of a hammer drill that eats through wood, concrete, and brick like no other. It’s efficient in terms of maximizing battery life and minimizing vibration and heat. Lastly, at 4 pounds, this drill feels great in hand, thanks to its ergonomic design, and it holds up especially well during long periods of heavy-duty usage. While this drill doesn’t come with a battery or charger, it’s still worth every penny given its price tag.

Best Value: TACKLIFE Corded Hammer Drill

For anyone seeking a great corded hammer drill that won’t break the bank, this offering from TACKLIFE is a great option. Featuring a pure copper motor of 6 amps and a high-quality metal chuck, this hammer drill outperforms every competitor in its price range. The rotatable side handle is especially useful for those who find themselves drilling in awkward positions for DIY jobs, as it provides extra grip and stability that even more expensive models lack. And, with an adjustable speed of up to 44,800 bpm and plenty of torque to spare, this hammer drill makes quick work of concrete and brick. As a bonus, this product comes with a 10-drill-bit set for steel and brick applications, solidifying it as the top budget-savvy pick.

Best Hammer Drill Kit: Makita XPH10R 18V Compact Lithium-Ion Cordless Hammer Driver-Drill Kit

For those seeking a lightweight hammer drill that comes with everything you will need to keep it charged and safely stored, the Makita XPH10R 18V Compact Lithium-Ion Cordless Hammer Driver-Drill Kit is for you. Weighing only 3.4 pounds, this is the lightest drill we’re featuring today and one of the easiest to use, thanks to its rubberized soft grip and ergonomic design. Featuring 480 pounds of max torque and an adjustable speed trigger that maxes out at 28,500 bpm, this hammer drill definitely has the power for a wide array of applications, from metal to wood and concrete. Although this product lacks a metallic chuck, it is still very durable if used properly and comes with two quick-charging 2.0Ah batteries that reach a full charge in less than half an hour.

Also Great: CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hammer Drill Kit

Rounding out our list is the CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Hammer Drill Kit, which comes with two 20-volt lithium-ion batteries and a battery charger. This hammer drill features a wealth of torque control settings besides full drill torque and the hammer setting, making it a great choice for jobs that demand a high degree of precision. While we wouldn’t recommend this drill for heavy-duty job site applications, the 25,500 max bpm hammer drill mode is ideal for all sorts of DIY projects, and the overall durability is nothing to scoff at. This hammer drill is slightly heftier than most but really does a great job dissipating heat, making it a worthwhile addition to any DIYer’s toolbox.