Rotary Hammers
Rotary Hammers for Concrete and Masonry
A rotary hammer drills concrete with a piston-driven blow that hits much harder than a hammer drill. Most models in this collection are cordless SDS Plus. DeWALT runs from the 12V XTREME DCH072 to 20V MAX ATOMIC DCH172 and 1-inch and 1-1/8-inch D-handle models. Milwaukee covers M12, M12 FUEL, M18, and M18 FUEL in 1-inch and 1-1/8-inch sizes, plus a 1-3/4-inch SDS MAX kit with One Key. Makita offers 18V LXT sub-compact and 1-inch models, Festool has the KHC 18 and BHC 18, and Bosch has the corded Bulldog Xtreme.
What to Look For
- Bit system. SDS Plus suits anchor holes and light chipping. SDS MAX handles large holes and heavier demo.
- Size class. The inch rating is the maximum bit size in concrete. Sub-compact 5/8-inch tools are lighter for overhead anchors.
- Modes. 3-mode tools add chisel-only for chipping tile and mortar.
- Dust control. Kits with a dedicated extractor, like the Milwaukee 2912-22DE, collect dust at the bit.
Shop rotary hammers at The Tool Nut, an authorized dealer since 1994, with free shipping on most orders and rewards points on every purchase.
Rotary Hammers FAQ
Rotary hammer or hammer drill?
A hammer drill works for occasional small holes in brick or block. For concrete, repeated anchor holes, or chipping, a rotary hammer drills faster with less effort. See hammer drills for lighter masonry work.
D-handle or L-shape?
D-handle models put the motor in line with the bit for straight-on drilling into walls and floors. L-shape bodies are shorter front to back and fit between obstructions.

