Hammer-Drill For Heavy Duty Handyman Work

Hammer-drills are also known as "Rotary Hammers", "Roto Hammers" or "Rotary Hammer Drill". The names basically described the different variations of these tools. The smallest version of which is usually referred to as a hammer-drill. Larger versions typically have three functions and are called Rotary Hammers. Before I get into the different types and their functions, let's talk about the basic function and uses of the tool.

The tool has a special clutch that allows the drill, not only to spin... but also punches or "hammers" the drill bit in and out along the bit's axis (hence the name). The force of the bit's blow and travel along it's axis is very small but the hammering action is extremely rapid. The Blows Per Minute (BPM) or Impacts Per Minute (IPM) as they call it are happening in the thousands which is more than enough to break up concrete or brick. A masonry bit must be used in conjunction because it has a carbide wedge to pulverize concrete or brick and the spiral flutes to whisk away the dust. So... if your handyman job this weekend involves drilling holes in concrete, this drill is much fast and some times the only way to go when compared to regular drills.

Check out the photo of my cordless Hammer-drill, you will notice just behind the clutch is a selector which spins to select the speed of the drill or the hammer Function. This special clutch enables you to use it in a conventional manner such as drilling wood or metal or selecting the hammer function for brick or concrete. The drill pictured above came in a power tool combo pack so it's what I consider a small to mid-sized drill capable of drilling up to 1/2 inch holes in brick or concrete. It's a little more bulky than regular drills, but preferred by the professional since the material to be drilled (concrete block or wood studs) is sometimes unknown. What a bonus... Two Handyman-tool in one!

Rotary Hammers have the same function as a hammer-drill in that it spins and pounds at the same time. The major difference is that they use a piston mechanism instead of a special clutch which delivers a much more powerful hammer blow. The drill shown in the image below is perfect for the handyman who may only need it on occasion since it's typically less than $100. Much larger ones are made and of course come with a heavy duty price tag and are used by professionals who have a need to use it everyday.

This one is a powerful 110V, 1/2 HP drill, hammer-drill and power chisel in one. It can be set to drill with the hammer function on or off drill bigger holes much faster or function as a power chisel for small chipping jobs. Rotary Hammers also take a special SDS bit because they have such force. A regular masonry bit with it's smooth shank would be pounded loose from the tools chuck seconds after starting. This special SDS bit locks into the rotary hammer-drill allowing it to continue to spin while smashing away at the concrete.

Safety is built into the chucks as well which cuts in when a drill bit jams. Imagine what would happen if you were drilling at full capacity and the drill bit jammed by hitting the reinforced steel inside the concrete you are drilling! The chuck cuts in saving the you and your tool from serious damage. Many times the drill must be disengaged from the bit and the bit muscled out of the hole using a vise grip or monkey wrench. A worn bit could also cause a jam so always be sure to replace you bits when they become too worn