Introduction
Hey, looking for the best cordless hammer drill for heavy-duty work? Do not worry; we got what you need. Click here to check out the top 5 picks.
How fun it can be to do all the indoor and outdoor chores yourself. Be it fixing a tray in the bathroom or working on a treehouse in the yard, one essential tool that you must have in your tool bag is the best cordless hammer drill for heavy-duty work.
Now there are all kinds of hammer drills. Big and small, cheap and expensive, corded and cordless. For general purposes, any kind of drill seems to be working perfectly, but thanks to the newest electric powertrain solutions, the best tool for drilling into concrete surfaces is a cordless one, as it produces more than enough torque and has immense power that can drill through the rugged surfaces, without having to deal with any cord.
The question now arises, which cordless hammer drill is the best and which one you should purchase? Well, there are numerous things that you need to consider before you spend your money since these best drills for masonry do not come so cheap.
We have done the hard work, and we’re here to help you choose the best cordless drills for heavy-duty work. Read along to find answers to all the questions you may have in mind.
Our top 5 picks for Heavy-Duty Work
Here comes the list of the best cordless hammer drills for heavy-duty work. Our top 5 picks will surely fulfil your toughest drilling needs without putting a burden on your budget.
Best Overall Cordless Hammer Drill for Heavy-duty work
Key Specifications
- Power source: XR Li-ion battery (2x5Ah)
- Voltage: 18V (20V MAX)
- Power rating: 820 UWO
- Max speed: 2,250 RPM
- Number of speed settings: 3
- Max torque: 918 in-lbs
- Dimensions (LxHxW): 8.4 x 8.2 x 2.8 inches
The first heavy-duty drill on our list of the best cordless drills for heavy-duty work is none other than the one making headlines, the DEWALT 996P2.
It is one of the best hammer drills that people around you and me use. This drill is suitable for all. From beginners to professionals- for housework or fieldwork. It is brushless and has three different speed settings. As the title of the article suggests, it is cordless so you can carry it around wherever you want.
Comparing it to 18V NiCad brushed motors, it delivers 75% extra runtime & much higher power and torque due to its high efficiency. With the 820 unit watts out power and 918 in-lbs of torque, there is no need for compromises.
In order to work on your toughest projects for extended hours, the XR lithium-ion batteries with fuel gauges provide 33% more capacity than most standard packs.
The heavy-duty 1/2 inches ratcheting nitro carburized metal chuck is built superiorly for excellent bit gripping strength.
The fully rubberized ergonomic handle provides the perfect grip for your hands too, which is one of the most liked features of this hammer drill among all its users.
Just like the three speeds that you can use according to the task for optimization and fastest application, the drill features 3 LED modes that are used to provide lighting while working in tight spaces and can shine 20 times brighter than the previous model of the same kind.
User ratings for this heavy-duty hammer drill are above average, and there is nothing that will stop you from buying it and adding it to your collection. It is pretty reasonable and is often available at sale prices.
Best Drill for Concrete
Key Specifications
- Power source: CORE Li-ion battery (2x4Ah)
- Voltage: 18V (20V MAX)
- Power rating: 525 UWO
- Max speed: 2,100 RPM
- Number of speed settings: 2
- Max torque: 490 in-lbs
- Dimensions (LxHxW): 7.6 x 8.4 x 3 inches
Let us begin with the eco-friendly brushless motor, which is highly efficient and delivers higher torque than any drill machine of the same kind with a brushed motor. It is precisely 15% more than the previous generation.
Next, we have the kickback control with a precision clutch featuring 26 settings that are designed to provide accuracy and reduce damage to the concrete, masonry, brick, or tile that you are drilling.
The bare tool weighs just 3.5 pounds, but even with a battery, it goes up to only 4.6 lbs, which is surprisingly low, if we check its capacity (4Ah) and the power of the tool (525 UWO). It delivers up to 31,500 beats per minute at full speed, which is one of the highest impact rates in this category.
The grip of this model is firm, and the design is sleek. It does look like a modern heavy-duty drill machine that sits amazingly in your garage. The most surprising feature that we found while researching this product is that it can be equipped with the Bosch Connectivity Module, which offers a state of the art solution for managing your power tools through your smartphone.
With all the striking features, the box includes 2x CORE18V Lithium-Ion 4.0Ah Compact Batteries, Auxiliary Handle, one 4x Bit Holder, an 18V Charger, and 4x Bits, Belt Clip, and one Carrying Bag. You know it is a complete package.
Best Drill for Masonry
Key Specifications
- Power source: REDLITHIUM XC Battery Pack (2x5Ah)
- Voltage: 18V (20V MAX)
- Power rating: 1,180 UWO
- Max speed: 2,000 RPM
- Number of speed settings: 2
- Max torque: 1,200 in-lbs
Number three on our list of the best cordless hammer drills for heavy-duty work is this compact-sized, easy-to-carry around but super-efficient drill from the US, the Milwaukee 2804-22.
This power tool has a bright cherry red hard case in which all the external accessories- along with the drill itself come. Its motor is purposely built for the M18 half inches hammer drill so that it can deliver 60% more power than any other drill of the same category.
We understand that you might have to work for longer hours, especially while working outdoors. To prevent overloading and the motor burning out, the redlink plus intelligence ensures optimal performance and comes with an overload protection technology- so that there is minimal damage to all the tools and the battery itself.
Moreover, this cordless drill machine comes with two excellent red lithium XC5.0 batteries that deliver extra hours of work- so you can keep going for as long as you want.
The drill machine is compatible with all M18 batteries- hence there is nothing that bounds you to purchase a specific type. One of the most attractive features besides the drill machine being highly compact is the LED on the base of the tool- so that you can have a better working experience in darker places.
Best low budget drill
Key Specifications
- Power source: Li-ion battery (2×1.3Ah)
- Voltage: 18V (20V MAX)
- Power rating: 280 UWO
- Max speed: 1,500 RPM
- Number of speed settings: 2
- Max torque: 450 in-lbs
- Dimensions (LxHxW): 8 x 8.3 x 2.9 inches
Another cordless hammer drill that embraces you with power and high efficiency is none-other than CraftsMan CMCD711C2. This power-pack hammer drill never disappoints you with its performance, being lightweight and ergonomic in design. The handle is designed curvy to fit in your palms and let you work comfortably.
The 280 watts unit with 1,500 RPM of speed and 25,500 BPM of impact rate makes drilling faster. This power unit is also potent enough to handle mainly medium and some heavy-duty work too. CraftsMan CMCD711C2 is part of the V20 cordless system, so whether you drill, repair, maintain or build, it will never let the performance go off the beat.
The 1.3Ah 20V MAX battery provides a decent amount of work time and if you run out of energy, you can always put it on charge and use the spare one. The Craftsman CMCD711C2 is compatible with wall maintenance and organising accessories and clips. It comes with LED work light, which increases the versatility of it and lets you work hassle-free in dark areas.
Best low budget drill
Key Specifications
- Power source: LXT Li-ion battery (2x2Ah)
- Voltage: 18V (20V MAX)
- Power rating: 470 UWO
- Max speed: 2,000 RPM
- Number of speed settings: 2
- Max torque: 530 in-lbs
Time to wrap up the review section! The thing we loved the most about the Makita XPH12R is the all-in-one package. You got a hammer drill, tool bag, batteries, and rapid optimised charger- Simply astounding, right?
The tool delivers a maximum speed of 2,000 RPM and 30,000 BPM impact rate. You can effortlessly drill holes in steel bars, brick walls, and other heavy-duty works at this range. Depending on the work type, you can choose between 2-speed ranges (0-500, 0-2000).
The full metal gearbox ensures durable performance and withstands job site damages. The purpose-built brushless motor has up to 50% longer lifetime than competitors and delivers maximum 530 in-lbs of torque.
The ergonomic design of this drill reduces operator fatigue and lets the user get the work done comfortably. The 7-1/8” long body design weighs only 4.2 pounds, which is pretty satisfying. Besides that, the compact body is space-saving, so you can easily get into tight spaces.
Thanks to the integrated STAR PROTECTION power management system, you won’t find the Makita XPH12R batteries heating up despite long hours of use. It provides protection against overload, over-discharge and overheating during working on the toughest tasks. Ultimately it increases battery life and frequent shutdowns.
Want to know another amazing thing? The maximum time the included 2Ah batteries takes to charge is 25 minutes. With the spare battery it basically means all-day-work. If price point seems an issue to you, remember, you are getting a whole drill package.
Comparison
Performance, power of the motor chart
In terms of engine power, the Milwaukee proved to be the strongest; of course, the DeWalt also achieved a good result. Surprisingly, Makita is only in the middle field, maybe slightly behind Bosch's power tool. Of course, this does not mean that their performances are insufficient; rather, the results of the first two hammer drills are outstanding.
Customer popularity chart
In this section, we show the customer popularity of the tools on the chart. This includes the amount and result of online reviews and the evolution of the price of the tool. We also monitor monthly and annual online sales, which we can check using special software in the system of Amazon and other online stores.
In this comparison, Dewalt and Makita won head-to-head completely. This is rather surprising from Makita's side since despite the lower performance and not significantly cheaper price tag, it is still a very popular power tool. However, it is clear from this chart that, except for the Bosch machine (which is more common in the European market), all machines are highly popular among customers due to their quality and reliability.
Value for money chart
Here we show you the price/value ratio of power tools. Many factors go into the final result. The price, brand, performance, quality, accessories, capacity and number of the batteries, the charger, general and innovative features, carrying case… and more.
The comparison of price-value divided power tools into two. The DeWalt, Bosch, and Milwaukee machines almost tied for the win. Surprisingly, Makita slipped back, and Craftsman was at the end of the line; even with the cheapest price tag, they could not compete with the price-value ratio of the others.
The Best Cordless Hammer Drills for Heavy-Duty Work: How to Choose
Learning how to choose the best cordless hammer drills for heavy-duty work can be difficult if you’re not sure what to look for or where to begin. First, there are several different types of cordless hammer drills, which you’ll want to take into consideration when searching.
You also need to consider various specifications and features, as well as the amount of power that you require in your drill. For more information on learning how to choose the best cordless hammer drills for heavy-duty work, keep reading!
Things to Consider When Buying a Cordless Hammer Drill
Before buying a cordless hammer drill, there are some things you should take into consideration before making a purchase. You may want to find out what you need it for and whether or not it is something that will fulfil your needs. Here are some of the things you need to look at when choosing cordless hammer drills.
1. Chuck jaws
Whether you’re looking at corded or cordless, a good chuck is essential. It holds your bit in place and keeps it from moving. The last thing you want is your drill fighting you as you try to drive screws into wood or drill a whole into concrete. Make sure you get a quality chuck that can be tightened with one hand if possible.
That said, many high-quality chucks will require two hands to loosen and tighten, so if you prefer to have a side handle on your drill make sure that the tightening collars are designed so that the side handle doesn’t get in your way when using both of your hands to tighten and release the jaws.
2. Power Source
The most common power source is cordless electric, but there are also corded electric and pneumatic hammer drills. Both of them are using an external power source, either the mains electric grid or an air compressor and connected through a cord or cable, which can be limiting depending on where you’re working. Although air compressors can be mobile, if you need a drill that can go anywhere without being tethered to a wall outlet, then consider a battery powered drill.
Batteries must be charged before each use, but they offer more flexibility than air compressors. However, if you have access to an air compressor at work or home or if your needs aren’t very demanding then it might make sense to choose a pneumatic drill instead of a battery-powered one.
3. Comfortable Grip
One of the first things you should look at when choosing a cordless hammer drill is comfort. In addition to picking a tool with an ergonomic handle, get a model that has a rubber over-mold on it. This will help ensure you can keep a firm grip on your cordless hammer drill even while wearing gloves.
You’ll also want to consider weight and balance. Avoid tools that feel too heavy or top-heavy in your hand; both of these factors are important in determining how well you can work with it. If possible, try holding different models and see which one feels best in your hand before making a purchase decision. Also make sure that you insert the battery when doing the comparison, as it changes the balance completely. Keep in mind that if you find a cordless drill too heavy, usually there are lighter batteries available within the portfolio of the larger brands.
4. Long Battery Life
If you’re planning on doing a lot of hammering, get a cordless hammer drill with long battery life. This will allow you to work longer without running back and forth to charge your tool. Newer batteries with higher grade cells also offer higher capacity per weight ratio, which helps you lighten your load, literally; some models are so light that they’re easier to use than hand drills.
5. Torque
Without a doubt, it’s one of the most important features of a hammer drill. The torque defines really how much you can push your tool during drilling without stalling and how quick you can finish the given tasks. The torque value of a 20V MAX cordless drill can be anything between 400 to 800 in-lbs, but there are super compact ones with 200 in-lbs only, and also extremely powerful beasts with 1,200 in-lbs too.
If you want to drill through concrete, make sure that your cordless hammer drill has a minimum torque of around 600 in-lbs and variable speed trigger and a maximum impact rate of around 25,000 bpm. Anything lower than these and you might end up burning out your motor – and nobody wants that!
Conclusion
The ride of having the best cordless hammer drill for heavy-duty work is undoubtedly nerve-racking. But we hope we succeed in putting an end to your confusion with this detailed guide. Possibly, your opinion might be different from ours- how about sharing it at the end of this article?
Don’t put money as the priority. Make sure to invest in a high-quality cordless hammer drill. If not, you will suffer during heavy-duty work.
FAQ's
Can a cordless hammer drill go through concrete?
The power rating, maximum torque, drilling speed, impact rate, build quality and other drilling factors will decide whether or not a cordless hammer drill can go through concrete. In most cases, the hammer drill with at least 450 UWO and 500 in-lbs of torque can effectively go through concrete when used with the right accessories.
What is the best drill for masonry work?
The best drill for masonry work is a hammer drill. Compared to ordinary drills, a hammer drill has an impact mode, which makes the drill bit move axially during rotation and breaks the hard material in front of it. Higher power hammer drills can effectively drill through concrete as well, if used with the right accessories.
Are cordless hammer drills as good as corded ones?
Compared to corded hammer drills, cordless hammer drills are more efficient and integrated with the latest high-end technologies, like brushless electric motors, active battery protection and Bluetooth connectivity. Cordless hammer drills are more compact, space-saving, and convenient than the latter ones.
Are hammer drills more powerful?
Yes, they are. As the main use of hammer drills is for masonry works and drilling through concrete, usually they also come with a more powerful electric motor, which delivers higher torque too. On average, a hammer drill works 25% faster and more efficiently than ordinary drills.
What is a brushless hammer drill?
A brushless hammer drill is built with an electric motor, without carbon brushes. Brushless motors are controlled electrically and have much higher efficiency, so they run longer with the same battery than brushed ones. As you don’t have to deal with replacing the worn brushes time-to-time, their lifetime is also significantly longer. Thanks to the electrical control system, these hammer drills can often come with smart power and torque management features. As a drawback, due to the advanced technology, they cost more than simpler brushed ones.
What Is a Cordless Hammer Drill?
A cordless hammer drill is a handy tool that is ideal for medium and heavy-duty tasks, such as masonry work or drilling through concrete. It’s an excellent option when you need to get into hard-to-reach areas, or you don’t have enough room near an outlet. However, before you make your purchase, here are a few things you should know about cordless hammer drills and how they work.
