A hammer drill suits mixed drilling and occasional masonry when its model has the needed hammer mode and capacity. An SDS-plus rotary hammer is a closer fit for repeated masonry drilling or chiseling when its model supports that mode. DEWALT's DWE5010 lists dual drill and hammer-drill modes; Bosch's GBH2-26 lists three modes, SDS-plus and 2.0 ft-lbs of impact energy. Compare each tool's manual, bit interface and task capacity.
These tools can both drill masonry, but their bit systems and operating modes lead to different jobs. Compare the mode selector, bit fit and stated capacity on the exact tool rather than assuming every model in a category works the same way.
Compare the task and the tool
| Tool | Model-specific example and fit |
|---|---|
| Hammer drill | DEWALT’s DWE5010 is a 1/2-inch model with drill and hammer-drill modes, listed for wood, steel or masonry. It fits mixed drilling and occasional masonry work when the required bit and hole size are within the manual’s limits. |
| SDS-plus rotary hammer | Bosch’s GBH2-26 lists SDS-plus, drilling-only, hammer-drilling and chiseling modes, 2.0 ft-lbs of impact energy, and a 1-inch maximum concrete hole diameter. Its maker positions SDS-plus hammers for light-to-medium-duty concrete and masonry work. |
The model examples show why a single power ranking is not useful. A hammer drill can cover mixed material drilling with hammer action switched off when needed. A rotary hammer with the right mode and accessory can handle masonry drilling and light chiseling, but mode availability varies by model.
Check the bit interface
An SDS-plus bit has a slotted shank that locks into the compatible toolholder. DEWALT notes that SDS bits are used in rotary hammers and that the slotted shank differs from a round bit held in a standard three-jaw chuck. Do not assume that a drill bit, chuck adapter or SDS accessory fits every hammer drill or rotary hammer.
Before buying, check the shank, bit diameter, hole capacity, mode selector, dust-collection options and whether your common accessories match. Bosch lists the GBH2-26 at 1 inch maximum hole diameter in concrete; that is a specification for this model, not a universal SDS-plus limit.
Plan for silica controls
When construction drilling involves material containing crystalline silica, OSHA Table 1 includes handheld and stand-mounted drills, including impact and rotary hammer drills. For the listed task, it specifies a shroud or cowling with dust collection, operation and maintenance in line with manufacturer instructions, a dust collector with the manufacturer’s recommended airflow and a filter rated at least 99% efficient with a filter-cleaning mechanism, and a HEPA-filtered vacuum when cleaning holes. Employers may use the alternative exposure-assessment method set out in the standard.
Before buying the extractor, compare HEPA filters, dust classes and airflow against the exact drill, shroud and OSHA task.
For the broader choice between drilling and fastener tools, see impact drivers versus drills and impact drivers versus impact wrenches. For silica controls, see construction silica respirators and OSHA Table 1. Browse power tools.
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Common questions
What is the difference between a hammer drill and a rotary hammer?
A hammer drill adds forward percussion to a drill; a rotary hammer uses a separate toolholder and may offer drilling, hammer drilling and chiseling modes. The exact modes and capacities depend on the model.
Can a rotary hammer drill wood or metal?
Only when the specific tool offers a rotation-only mode and a compatible chuck or bit. Follow its manual and keep hammer action off for materials that should not receive percussion.
What bits fit an SDS-plus rotary hammer?
Use bits with a matching SDS-plus shank. Bosch says SDS-plus and SDS-max shanks are different and not interchangeable.
How does OSHA address silica dust from concrete drilling?
OSHA Table 1 covers handheld and stand-mounted drills, including impact and rotary hammer drills. Employers must use its listed controls or the standard's alternative exposure-control method.