In this comprehensive buying guide, BISON will cover the ins and outs of rotary hammers, including their types, features, applications, and important considerations. By the end, you'll have the knowledge and confidence to choose the best rotary hammer for your project.
What is a rotary hammer?
A rotary hammer, also called a rotary hammer drill or simply a hammer drill, is a powerful tool used primarily for drilling holes in rigid materials such as concrete, masonry, brick, and stone. It's versatile and essential in construction, renovation, and DIY projects where traditional drills may struggle to penetrate hard surfaces effectively.
Unlike standard drills, which rely solely on rotary motion to drill holes, rotary hammers use a combination of rotary motion and pulsating hammer action to break through hard materials. Thanks to the tool's piston mechanism, which quickly strikes the drill bit as it rotates, drilling in difficult materials can be done more quickly and effectively.
In addition to drilling, rotary hammers often feature multiple operating modes, including drilling only, hammering only (chiseling), and hammer drilling, giving users flexibility and versatility for various tasks.
Types of rotary hammers
Rotary hammers come in various types, each designed to meet specific needs and applications. Rotary hammers are categorized based on their bit retention systems, power sources, and motor types. Here are the main types:
Bit Retention Systems: SDS-Plus and SDS-Max
SDS-Plus Rotary Hammers
SDS-Plus rotary hammers are designed for lighter to medium-duty tasks. They use smaller shank bits (usually up to 1-1/8 inches in diameter). These rotary hammers are suitable for drilling and light chiseling in concrete, masonry, and brick. Suitable for home DIY projects and small to medium-scale construction jobs. SDS-Plus rotary hammers are generally more compact and lighter than SDS-Max models, making them easier to maneuver in tight spaces.
SDS-Max Rotary Hammers
SDS-Max rotary hammers are built for heavy-duty applications and use larger shank bits (usually 1-9/16 inches and above). These rotary hammers are designed for heavy-duty drilling and demolition of dense materials. They provide higher impact energy and drilling capacity. They are ideal for professional construction sites, large-scale renovation projects, and extensive demolition tasks.
Whether you need precision drilling or heavy-duty chisels, BISON offers rotary hammers in SDS-Plus and SDS-Max configurations. Choose the right tool for the job and experience unmatched performance and accuracy.
Power Sources: Corded and Cordless
Corded rotary hammers
Corded rotary hammers are powered by electricity from a wall outlet. They provide constant power without needing battery changes or recharges, making them ideal for extended use. Corded models often offer higher power output than cordless versions, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications.
BISON's corded rotary hammers offer unmatched performance in heavy-duty drilling and chiseling applications. Suitable for contractor work requiring sustained power.
Cordless rotary hammers
Cordless rotary hammers run on rechargeable batteries, providing increased mobility and convenience, especially in areas without accessible power sources. They eliminate the hassle of cords, making them easy to use in remote or outdoor locations. Suitable for smaller, less demanding tasks around the house or in construction.
Motor Types: Brushed and Brushless
Brushed Motor Rotary Hammers
Brushed motors use carbon brushes to transfer electricity to the motor. Generally, it is more affordable but requires more maintenance and has a shorter lifespan. Suitable for occasional users or those with light to moderate usage. Such as DIY enthusiasts or small-scale contractors.
Brushless Motor Rotary Hammers
Brushless motors do not have brushes, reducing friction and wear. They are more efficient, and provide a longer lifespan, but may come at a higher initial cost. Suitable for users who looking for advanced features and higher performance.
Key features to consider before purchasing a rotary hammer
When choosing a rotary hammer, it's essential to consider various key features, from power and performance to additional features and cost, to ensure you get the right tool for your needs. Here are the vital features to keep in mind:
Power and Performance
Impact Energy
Impact energy is measured in Joules (J). Higher impact energy allows faster and more efficient drilling in more rigid materials. Choose an impact energy based on your typical job requirements:
Light: 1-2 Joules (ideal for drilling smaller holes and light chiseling).
Medium: 2-5 Joules (ideal for general construction and renovation tasks).
Heavy: 5+ Joules (ideal for large-scale drilling and heavy demolition work).
Strike Rate (BPM)
The strike rate is measured in blows per minute (BPM). It represents the number of times the rotary hammer strikes the material per minute.
Higher rotation speeds are generally better for faster drilling, especially in softer materials. But it may not always be necessary depending on the job. Choose a hammer with a BPM that balances speed and control for your specific task.
Amps
Amps refers to the current used by the motor. Higher amps generally mean more power. Corded models typically have a rotary hammer current range of 6 to 12 amps. Higher amps are better suited for heavy-duty tasks.
Tool Size and Weight
The size and weight of a rotary hammer can affect comfort and ease of use, especially for long projects.
Lighter models: (5-10 lbs) are easier to operate, especially for overhead drilling or prolonged use.
Heavier models: (10+ lbs) offer more power and stability for demanding tasks, but can be tiring to operate for extended periods of time.
Additional Features
Modes of Operation: Rotary hammers with hammer-only, rotary-only, and hammer-drilling modes increase versatility for various tasks and materials.
Variable Speed: Allows for finer control when drilling into different materials, increasing accuracy and safety.
Vibration Control: Reduces user fatigue and discomfort during extended use, improving overall operation and control.
Dust Collection System: Helps maintain a clean work environment, improves visibility, and extends tool life by reducing dust ingress.
Safety Features: Look for features such as a clutch to prevent kickback, overload protection, and a safety trigger to enhance safe operation. For example: Automatically shuts down the tool in the event of overload or overheating, protecting the user and the tool from damage. Prevents sudden kickback or injury by disconnecting the drill bit if it jams during operation.
Ergonomics and design: A well-balanced rotary hammer reduces fatigue during prolonged use and provides greater control and accuracy. Adjustable support handles and ergonomic grips allow for comfortable handling and better control in various positions.
Chuck type and compatibility: Choose the proper chuck type based on the size of the drill bits and intended applications. Certain rotary hammers have a keyless chuck, making changing bits fast and simple without needing extra tools.
Durability and reliability
Look for rotary hammers made of high-quality materials such as metal and durable plastic to ensure longevity and resistance to wear and tear.
Consider the manufacturer's guarantee and the accessibility of customer support services for upkeep, fixing, and diagnosing. Such as BISON offers a good warranty (usually 1-3 years) and has strong customer service support to provide peace of mind in the event of defects or problems.
Price and cost
Based on your unique demands and specifications, decide on your budget and rank the features. In addition to the initial purchase cost, consider factors like maintenance, accessories, potential long-term savings, and investing in better equipment.
Don’t just go with the cheapest or most expensive option. Contact BISON sales to evaluate which models offer the best value for your money.
Ready to experience the ultimate in drilling and chiseling performance? Explore BISON's rotary hammer collection today and take your projects to the next level. With unmatched quality, performance, and reliability, BISON rotary hammers are the perfect choice for professionals and hobbyists.
