Replies

1. 
   webby | Dec 20, 2006 12:47am | #1

   Hi PaulGC,

   I have the two speed Dewalt hammerdrill. It works just fine. I only use it for small holes, 1/4 to 3/8 inch. I also use it for softer material like brick or old lime mortar.

   However,

   If you do alot of drilling of holes larger than 3/8th inch I would recommend that you get an sds rotary hammer, much, much faster than a straight hammer drill. the bits also last longer too. Dewalt, Bosch, Hilti, Makita, and Milwaukee all make sds rotary hammers.

   SDS stands for slot detente system which is a different drive and chuck system than a plain three jawed chuck. SDS and SDS plus are the same thing. The bits cost a little more but you can drill more holes with them and alot faster too. Also compared to a regular hammer drill, you don't have to lean as much on an sds drill if you do it lessens its efficiency.

   Hope this helps

   Webby

    

    

   
   

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   Edited 12/19/2006 4:51 pm ET by webby

1. 
   dieselpig | Dec 20, 2006 01:39am | #2

   Great answer Webby!View Image

2. 
   rasconc | Dec 20, 2006 02:50am | #3

   Excellent advice.  The only time I reach for a hammer drill is it is a one shot deal that I can do with my 14.4v DW.  I have a 3/8 Milwaukee that I have relegated to Kreg pocket hole duty (in non hammer mode).  

   I have the Bosch Bulldog and another older Bosch a step or two above that are my go-to hole punchers in masonry.  The chipping function is pretty darn useful also.  Current job had a bunch of concrete splatter on some concrete steps, cleaned it up in a heartbeat.  Used them to punch a 3'0" door in cement block wall at my house.

   The difference is day and night unless you only want to drill soft brick or mortar.

   Bob