Hammer Drills

About Hammer Drills

Hammer drills, also known as impact drills or percussion drills, are essential power tools that combine rotary drilling with rapid percussive action to tackle demanding materials like concrete, brick, masonry and stone. This distinctive hammering mechanism delivers thousands of blows per minute whilst the bit rotates, allowing efficient penetration through dense surfaces that would overwhelm standard drills. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks an extensive range from trusted manufacturers including Makita, Bosch, DeWalt, Einhell, Sealey, Black & Decker and Draper, catering to both professional tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts.

Modern hammer drills offer remarkable versatility with switchable hammer functions, transforming them into conventional rotary drills for wood, metal and plastic when percussion isn't required. Available in corded models ranging from 500W to 1000W+ and convenient cordless variants, these tools deliver superior drilling speed and power compared to standard drill drivers. Whether you're fixing to concrete walls, installing brackets, or undertaking renovation work, MyToolShed.co.uk offers hammer drills engineered for every budget and application, from compact 500W DIY models through to robust 1000W+ professional machines built for demanding site work.

Applications

Hammer drills are indispensable across numerous trades and projects:

• General Builders: Daily drilling into concrete, blockwork and brickwork on construction sites and renovations
• Electricians (Sparkies): Installing back boxes, conduit and cable clips to masonry walls and ceilings
• Plumbers: Fixing pipe clips, radiator brackets and boiler mountings to brick and concrete surfaces
• Carpenters (Chippies): Securing timber frames, door linings and skirting boards to masonry walls
• Kitchen & Bathroom Fitters: Mounting wall units and shower enclosures requiring secure fixings into tiled surfaces
• Maintenance Teams: Installing shelving systems, signage and fixtures to commercial premises
• Landscape Gardeners: Fixing outdoor structures to brick walls and concrete bases
• DIY Enthusiasts: Hanging shelves, TV brackets, curtain poles and picture frames on masonry walls

Choosing The Right Hammer Drills

Power Output: For occasional DIY tasks, 550-650W models provide ample power for hanging shelves and light drilling. Professional tradespeople working daily with larger diameter bits should consider 700-1000W models offering superior drilling speed and continuous performance.

Corded vs Cordless: Corded hammer drills deliver unlimited runtime and consistent power delivery, ideal for extended sessions where 240v mains power is available. Cordless variants offer greater mobility for working in locations without power access, though battery capacity limits continuous use.

Chuck Capacity: Most models feature 13mm keyless chucks accommodating standard drill bits. Keyless designs allow quick bit changes without additional tools, improving efficiency on site.

Key Features: Variable speed triggers provide precise control for different materials. Forward/reverse switches enable screw driving and help release jammed bits. Auxiliary handles improve control and reduce fatigue, particularly important when drilling masonry where sudden bit binding can occur. Depth stops ensure consistent hole depths for professional results.

Build Quality: Professional-grade tools from Makita, Bosch Professional and DeWalt offer superior durability for daily trade use. DIY-focused brands like Einhell, Draper and Black & Decker provide excellent value for occasional home use. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks options across all price points to match your requirements and budget.

Safety Information

Personal Protection: Always wear safety glasses to protect against flying debris, particularly when drilling masonry. Hearing protection is advisable for extended use due to significant noise levels. Dust masks should be worn when drilling concrete or materials producing harmful dust.

Electrical Safety: Ensure corded models are rated for UK 240v mains supply. Use an RCD (residual current device) when working outdoors or in damp conditions. Check cables are in good condition before use.

Safe Operation: Always use the auxiliary handle for better control, especially with larger bits where sudden binding can cause violent twisting. Check for hidden cables and pipes before drilling using a detector. Switch off the hammer function when drilling wood or metal. Allow tools to reach full speed before applying pressure, and let the drill do the work without forcing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between a hammer drill and an SDS drill?

Hammer drills use a ridged clutch system and accept standard round-shank bits in a keyless chuck, providing sufficient power for most DIY and light trade work. SDS drills use a pneumatic mechanism delivering much greater impact energy, making them more suitable for heavy-duty concrete drilling and demolition work with special SDS+ grooved bits.

Can I use a hammer drill for screwdriving?

Yes, most hammer drills feature forward/reverse switches and can drive screws when the hammer function is switched off. However, they lack the torque control and clutch settings of dedicated drill drivers, making it difficult to avoid overdriving screws. They're acceptable for occasional screwdriving but not ideal for regular use.

How do I drill into tiles without cracking them?

Start with the hammer function switched off using a tile or glass drill bit. Mark your position with masking tape to prevent the bit wandering. Drill at low speed with light pressure until you've penetrated the tile surface, then switch on the hammer action once you reach the masonry behind to prevent percussive blows from cracking the tile.