To remove reinforced concrete quickly and easily, replace tiles, and scrape plaster, walls, and tiles, here are the best demolition hammers and how to choose the right model according to your professional or domestic needs.
The demolition hammer is one of the most effective tools for construction, do-it-yourself renovation, and restoration. For craftsmen, bricklayers, and hobbyists, demolition hammers find many applications.
They are suitable for professional use on construction sites, for removing plaster, demolishing reinforced concrete, restorations, peeling walls of different hardness, crushing stones, and removing glues.
In demolition hammers, the operation is rather simple. A striking body repeatedly hits a tool (e.g., a chisel) located in the spindle, the piece that supports the tip. The movement is similar to a hammer or chisel used manually, but demolition is faster and less tiring than physical work.
Table of Contents
How to choose a demolition hammer: Types and Characteristics
Choosing the best demolition hammer is fundamental to asking yourself what you need exactly and knowing the different types.
The basic aspects common to all models and extras in professional demolition hammers or the most advanced tools must be identified.
A basic tool suitable for occasional use, light, low vibrations, ergonomic handles, and discrete power is sufficient to remove the plaster or for small jobs. Certainly, no professional machinery is needed to demolish the road surface, which is more useful for construction companies.
Let’s examine the most important features, accessories, and elements of a pneumatic hammer to make the right purchase.
Type and Feeding
On the market, we find mainly two types of demolition hammers. The first is activated by compressed air through diesel or an electric compressor. The compressed air drives a piston located inside the hammer. It is ideal for concrete and asphalt.
On the other hand, the second is the so-called electro-pneumatic electric demolition hammer, on which we focus in this guide, where an electric motor drives the tips or the chisel (foil).
The aesthetic is similar to a drill, but the movement is percussive. Although less powerful than compressed air, it is effective in many situations. Also, it is easier to handle, requires no compressor, and is easier to transport.
Among these demolition hammers, we find both electricity and battery-powered ones. Electric current models are more powerful, but a power outlet is always needed, and the cord could disturb your work if you are not careful. On the other hand, the battery models are practical for DIY and portable but not very effective on concrete. If they download, they require a waiting time.
The hydraulic and internal-combustion demolition hammers are also used only in construction. They are often placed on operating machines outside and run on diesel or petrol. We find vertical demolition hammer models for works on the road surface in this category.
Sometimes the demolition hammer is also called a perforator. The primary function is the same, but the pneumatic rotary hammer uses rotary and percussion motion (helical chisels). In contrast, the demolition hammer has the chisel’s function with straight percussion motion (rectangular chisels).
Weight and Class
A demolition hammer’s weight is fundamental: one must hold it in hand for a long time, so everyone must consider their strength and endurance. Also, the weight defines the pressure of the tool on the material.
This is because the operator should not press on the surfaces to be demolished but let the weight of the hammer push. Therefore, it is important to check the size and the pounds for effective work without fatigue.
Generally, staying on professional models (not for large building works) ranges from 6 lbs to over 44 lbs. There are also specific weight classes. A greater weight does not necessarily refer also to a greater power.
Lightweight and compact demolition hammers are recommended for horizontal or oblique maintenance work, have a compact body, and can be used longer without straining the arms too much, even when working in small or uncomfortable places.
They may not be suitable for complex demolition work. The vertical or column demolition hammer models, on the other hand, are the most common for road-building operations where stability is required. In addition, the specific shape ensures that the power is effectively transferred vertically to the precise point.
Power
Power is another of the first aspects to evaluate. The value depends on the ability to effectively and quickly demolish cement and other materials.
With this data that defines the tool’s performance, it is necessary to consider the number of strokes per minute (on average from 1,300 to 3,000 strokes/min) and the joules, the impact force transmitted with every single stroke.
The best demolition hammer models have a power of 1600-2000 watts, but some very high-performance products, such as the Hitachi H41MB demolition hammer, can have just 930 watts and some even 650 watts.
Instead, the joules go on average from 7 to 43 per stroke, but some professional versions reach 110. Models with less than 35 joules are used for precision interventions, while above 30-35 joules, the impact force is suitable for the demolition of reinforced concrete.
The number of strokes per minute, on the other hand, determines the quality and precision of the work, as well as the speed if supported in terms of power.
A model with more strokes per minute will have more precision and less engine power to be clear. One with fewer strokes per minute will be less precise but more powerful. The more the engine is designed with a rigid structure, the more vibrations are reduced, and the operator’s work is lightened.
On the other hand, a high number of turns is difficult for beginners because the chisel slides more, and greater force and a great grip are required. The number of vibrations transmitted to the arms per second is also specified in all models.
Materials
The quality of the materials for a demolition hammer guarantees durability over time. If the tool body is robust, it resists vibrations and shocks better.
In general, all models today meet very similar quality standards. They are light-resistant, and the only variant is the presence or absence of non-slip details and rubber handles that cushion vibration.
Some new models also have shock absorbers to dampen the stresses.
Functions
The Vario-Lock variable locking system is a beneficial function in the best demolition hammer models. This mechanism lets you quickly set the chisel’s cutting angle, usually between 12 different positions, and work precisely in all situations.
Another strong point is the lock button for the switch, with which the demolition hammer works in continuous mode. The on/off button controls the action instead.
In addition to the handle absorbing vibrations, the latest-generation demolition hammers recognize empty blows reducing wear and effort. The performing ones are also equipped with an electronic system that regulates the revolutions and strokes/m according to the work carried out, even if it could jam due to dust.
Attack
Drills, demolition hammers, and dowels are spindle-supporting tools such as drills and chisels necessary for demolition work. The older products require wrenches to assemble and disassemble the various tips, while the more modern ones have simplified connections that do not require any tools.
The most common attack is called SDS present in the best demolition hammers. However, we also find the SDS Plus and SDS Max bindings among the professional versions, the best performing ever.
In addition to making it easier to change the tips and chisels, it holds the shank firmly (i.e., the part that attaches to the tool) and, in this way, reduces vibrations. This is why masons and carpenters also choose demolition hammers with SDS max connections to work with reinforced concrete and other tough materials that stress the appliance.
This attack is always present in the best demolition hammer models to drill cement and inert materials. In addition to the SDS bindings, we find hexagonal bindings quickly replacing the tip.
Practicality and design
The practical use is paramount for all work tools. In the case of the demolition hammer, this must be kept perpendicular to the intervention area. The thrust must be continuous to ensure that the vibrations spread only in the material, not the machine body, risking ruining it.
It is not simple, especially when demolishing a wall or large area. Compact dimensions, lightness, comfort, compact design, and handling must also be evaluated, especially in intensive use.
Some brands of tools also give importance to aesthetics and color. Certainly, the eye wants its part, but all aspects must work in synergy with functionality, safety, and ergonomics, which are the priority.
It is better than choosing a model with an additional or decoupled handle: non-slip, soft, and ergonomic material. It can be in the shape of a knob near the tip or a handle near the motor.
This ensures a good grip and absorbs vibrations. A 360° swivel handle and rear handle simplify work and improve posture.
Accessories included
The accessories are supplied to make our tool more versatile, and although we can purchase them separately, their presence allows immediate use.
Usually, the best demolition hammers have two chisels, one flat and one-pointed. Some also include a specific chisel for thin joints and removing floor tiles.
The additional side adjustable handle and the metal tool case should never be missing, such as the one present, for example, with the Eberth 1600-watt demolition hammer.
This is useful for storing accessories orderly and transporting the instrument to various work locations. Better with wheels to facilitate movement.
Precautions and safety
Despite the intense use, the best demolition hammer models last many years. This ensured the tool was always clean and lubricated, replacing and sharpening the tips.
It is good to know that these tools, due to vibrations, can lead to physical repercussions, such as discomfort in the carpal tunnel or vascular problems, such as Raynaud’s syndrome.
The more powerful the demolition hammer, the stronger the vibrations and, consequently, the shaking could be. For this reason, it is necessary to wear specific gloves to cushion vibrations and avoid long demolition sessions that tire arms, neck, and hands.
Always wear work glasses, headphones, and hearing protectors during use to preserve hearing. In addition, dust masks, suitable clothing, a work helmet, and safety shoes must never be missing to protect yourself from falling debris.
Before each use, ensure that there are no children or animals in the area, that the cable is connected and free from interference, and that the work surface is stable to not lose balance due to vibrations.
The best demolition hammers to buy
Below is the list of recommended demolition hammers with comparable technical data and prices.
- Powerful Motor: This rotary hammer drill is equipped with 13AMP high-power industrial...
- 4 Functions: Two different switches for easy switching. Hammer - applicable to concrete...
- Efficient Drilling Capability: SDS plus high strength chuck for easy and safe drill bit...
- It is perfect for demolition, trenching, chipping, breaking holes in concrete, block,...
- Adjustable 360 degree foregrip provides extra control that makes it easy to conveniently...
- Available for Home and Commercial with the voltage of 110v/60 HZ, it's suitable for you to...
- Replacement Chisels Included- 4 chisels bits：clay spade chisel, scraping chisel, flat...
- Exceptional Performance & Top Quality: Electric hammer features MAX 2200W and 1350BPM of...
- 360°Rotary & Vibration-proof Handle: Adjustable 360 degree fore handle provides greater...
- Superior Performance & Top Quality: A MAX 1400W industrial motor with 19J impact energy is...
- Designed To Go Above And Beyond: Continuously working can be tiring. That is why we...
- Shock Absorbing Handle: The upgraded shock absorption structure, adding more springs, can...
- 【AVAILABLE MODE】The ENDH45 demolition jack hammer only has hammer-only function and...
- 【SAY GOODBYE TO BULKY MACHINES】At just 12.8 lbs, this lightweight demolition jack...
- 【THOUGHTFUL HUMANIZED DESIGN】With an anti-scald front housing, 0845MB jack hammer is...
- 【Exceptional Performance】Powerful 1,700 Watts motor delivers maxmium 2,100 BPM and 45...
- 【Lightweight & Ergonomic】Only 25 lbs, lightweight and compact design allows users to...
- 【Easy to Operate】The 6-level available device can switch 200-2,100BPM, which is...
- 【Lightweight but powerful】Weight only 12 pounds, Facilitates both horizontal and...
- 【Easy to operate】SDS-Max bit system provides tool free bit changes with automatic bit...
- 【Ergonomic design】360°adjustable accessory handle and ergonomic grip area applies to...
- Tips: Berserker 55HDdemolition hammer only have "hammer only" function and "variable-lock...
- Lightweight but Powerful: Weighing only 15.58 pounds, it's easy to control and operate....
- Easy to Operate: SDS-Max bit system provides tool free bit changes with automatic bit...
- 【Exceptional Performance & Safty assurance】Powerful 1,700 Watts 14 AMP motor delivers...
- 【Easy to operate】SDS-Hex bit system provides tool free bit changes with automatic bit...
- 【Ergonomic design】360°adjustable accessory handle and Ergonomic grip area applies to...
- 【POWERFUL MOTOR】 Our ENRH3201 high-performance electric rotary hammer features a 13Amp...
- 【FOUR FUNCTIONS】 Our rotary hammer offers four different functions of drill...
- 【THOUGHTFUL HUMANIZED DESIGN】 For your safety and comfort, we have designed the...
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