SDS-Max rotary hammers: the best models and features of the tool
If you are considering buying a new rotary hammer, you will probably come across a choice between the SDS-Plus and SDS-Max drill mounting system. Let's look at the features of such cartridges and the scope. This information, as well as an overview of the best SDS-Max punchers, will help you make a choice and not regret the money spent. When compiling a rating of goods, the feedback of the owners and characteristics of the equipment were taken into account, which will allow you to look at the models objectively.
The selection of goods was carried out on the basis of reviews, opinions and ratings of users posted on various resources on the Internet. All information is taken from public sources. We do not cooperate with manufacturers and trademarks and do not call for the purchase of certain products. The article is for informational purposes only.
Features of rotary hammers with the SDS-Max cartridge
To fix the snap-in, a kind of locks, which are of several types, are installed in the perforator cartridge. In rotary hammers, the most common systems are SDS + and SDS-Max. Drills and a chisel to them must be selected with the corresponding shanks. To understand the advantages of type SDS-Max, compare them with each other.
SDS + was developed in 1975 and is used on light and medium models with three operating modes. The fastening system implies the presence on the tool shank of two grooves into which the locking balls enter. The end of the drill is immersed in the chuck to a depth of 40 mm, and the contact area of the clamping clamps is 75 mm². To install the snap-in, you must press on the retaining ring of the cartridge. This design is designed for a shank diameter of 10 mm and is capable of fixing drills with a working cross section of up to 32 mm.
SDS Plus Tool Shank
SDS-Max rotary hammers are more powerful than their predecessors on the SDS Plus and are designed for serious tasks. It is able to work with drills with a diameter of up to 50 mm and hollow crowns up to 160 mm. To hold such a snap, five grooves are used at once, which include wedges. The total contact area is 389 mm². Shank diameters of 18 mm and immersion of 70 mm ensure a secure fit. But such punchers often support only two modes of operation: clean punch and punch with rotation. Drilling holes with increased accuracy with such a tool will not work.
SDS-Max snap shank.
Cross section of SDS Plus and SDS Max shanks:
In which case should you purchase a hammer drill with an SDS-Max cartridge
If light and medium punchers are suitable for drilling, installing anchors, dowels, wall chiselling to make a hole for communication, then the SDS-Max models can serve as a real jackhammer.
With their help it will easily turn out:
- remove a thick layer of reinforced concrete;
- destroy a wall of brickwork or concrete blocks;
- dismantle the asphalt pavement from the road;
- crack heavy rock.
They can also be used for simpler tasks (drill a hole for a cable or pipe in a wall, ventilate, cut a niche for a power outlet, etc.), but due to the increased power of the tool, such work will be much faster. Therefore, SDS Max punchers are acquired not only for heavy dismantling, but also for laying electricians or plumbing in large volumes. Then they pay off due to performance and help to turn in the object faster.
Hammers with SDS Max cartridges weighing over 5 kg weigh, which is important to consider when choosing, because if you have to work a lot on the ceiling, you will need more frequent breaks. Security requirements are much higher. Lightweight SDS + can weigh 3-4 kg, which greatly simplifies retention at height.Operation of a powerful tool requires a high level of operator skill, which is why it is suitable only for professional use.
Understanding the purpose of a powerful tool, we consider the rating of SDS-Max punchers, which will help to see already tested models with positive reviews. Advantages and disadvantages of the product will simplify the choice and allow you to spend money wisely.
The best SDS-Max rotary hammers with 7-9 J impact power
SDS-Max rotary hammers can be divided into power conditionally. In addition to the indicator of consumed watts (900-2000 W), the performance of the models depends on the impact force, measured in joules. The stronger the push of the percussion mechanism into the equipment, the faster the drill will pass a certain thickness of the material. Here are the TOP punchers with an indicator of 7-9 J.
Bosch GBH 5-40 DCE
The German punch has a long handle with a rubberized back. The mode switch is located on top. The device has a power of 1150 watts and makes 1500-3050 beats per minute. There is a Turbo Power mode, which improves productivity. The maximum allowable diameter of the drill is 55 mm, and a hollow crown - 90 mm. The product is delivered in a durable plastic case, convenient for transportation. The operator can set the rotation speed from 170 to 340 revolutions. The design includes the anti-vibration system Vibration Control, which reduces user fatigue.
+ Pros of Bosch GBH 5-40 DCE
- It copes with concrete “with a bang” even with a thick storm of 30 mm in diameter.
- High-quality German assembly.
- Easily passes walls of 50 cm thick for laying pipes from air conditioners.
- High impact force 8.8 J.
- If the equipment sticks, the protective clutch will work.
- Long service life.
- Cons Bosch GBH 5-40 DCE
- The gearbox is heated during operation and breaks are needed.
- There is no reverse to easily remove a long drill from the material.
- Inconvenient to work in tight spaces.
- Turns and frequency of blows are regulated by one wheel - there is no way to set individual values for each parameter.
Conclusion. This is a powerful hammer drill with SDS-Max chuck, which has an affordable price among normal quality products. A great option for starting a business of installing windows, doors, air conditioners. There is also good anti-vibration, which is confirmed by the reviews of the masters.
DeWALT D 25601 K
In second place is the DeWalt hammer drill with the SDS-Max cartridge. The tool is endowed with a power of 1250 W, the rotation speed is 210-415 rpm. When immersed in material, revs do not sag. The device strikes with a force of 8 J, and their frequency is set from 1430 to 2840. It is allowed to use a drill with a cross section of 45 mm and a hollow crown with a diameter of 100 mm. The side handle is multi-position type and is mounted relative to the body at any angle. The gearbox is located in an oil bath, which reduces overheating and increases the duration of operation.
+ Pros of DeWALT D 25601 K
- Warranty from the manufacturer 3 years.
- Light bulbs indicating the need for brush replacement and maintenance.
- Dive depth adjuster.
- Easy replacement of graphite brushes through service hatches.
- Comfortable grip and rubberized rear surface of the main handle.
- The sound of work is not louder than a home puncher.
- Cons DeWALT D 25601 K
- When a bit is jammed, the protection does not work every time.
- The additional handle from shaking is untwisted.
- Sometimes throws grease out of the cartridge.
- Hands weighing 6.8 kg quickly get tired, especially when drilling in the ceiling.
- Short wire 2.5 m - you can not do without carrying.
- In the event of a snap with the fittings, it licks the grooves on the shank.
Conclusion. In the reviews, the masters share that the vibration of this hammer drill damps better than that of other models. This is due to the fact that the handle is completely divided with the engine compartment by long spring inserts. Even inside the unit, special dampers are used that absorb vibrations. If you need to work with the tool all day, then this is an excellent device that prevents shaking in the hands.
AEG KH 5 G 418160
The third position in the ranking of the best behind the punch from the brand AEG. The model can be used for drilling holes in concrete with a diameter of 40 mm.Power is 1100 watts, and the impact force is 7.5 joules. Per minute, the striker performs up to 3000 oscillations. The tool operates at a speed of 400 rpm and has internal vibration protection (only blocks for absorbing vibration). The device weighs 6.3 kg. On the lower part of the engine compartment there are rubber pads that allow you to put the case directly on the floor and protect against cracks in case of accidental collision with obstacles during operation.
+ Pros AEG KH 5 G 418 160
- Long trigger to hold with all fingers.
- Completely rubberized handle.
- Suitcase for transporting tools and drills included.
- Rubber pads on the engine compartment.
- The mode switch is recessed into the case so as not to catch it on clothes.
- 4 m long network cable
- Soft start to start work without a jerk.
- Cons AEG KH 5 G 418160
- Weak vibration protection.
- Weight 6.3 kg quickly tires your hands.
- Going model in China.
- The speed is not fixed (only by pulling the trigger).
- There is no reverse to retrieve snap-ins.
Conclusion. The drill with the SDS-Max snap-in system has a 6-year warranty from the manufacturer. This is a great way to protect the funds invested in the tool - if something breaks, the repair will be free. He also has a magnesium alloy in the upper part of the body, which contributes to the rapid removal of heat and preservation of integrity during a fall.
Metabo KHE 5-40
The tool is produced at production facilities in Bulgaria. Power of 1010 W allows you to unwind the rig up to 200-350 rpm and make up to 3200 strokes. A 4 m long cable facilitates operator agility and does not require an extension cord. The impact force is 7.5 J. With this tool, it will be possible to use crowns with a diameter of 90 mm and a drill of 40 mm in thickness. The wear indicator will tell you when carbon brush replacement is required. The motor is equipped with a soft start system.
+ Pros of Metabo KHE 5-40
- The trigger is pulled with all the fingers of one hand - it is easier to hold with prolonged drilling.
- It will last 3 years without breakdowns.
- Double insulation of the cord does not affect flexibility.
- Working with a 60-80 mm crown is like a knife in oil.
- Strong grip due to ergonomic shape and rubber pads.
- Low vibration.
- Cons Metabo KHE 5-40
- Weight 6.2 kg is not easy to hold while drilling in the ceiling.
- The mode switch protrudes above the body and clings to the clothes.
- Heats up at work.
- Unstable stands at the end of the motor block.
- A difficult brush replacement - you need to disassemble the case.
Conclusion. The main features of this hammer drill with SDS-Max cartridge are the price and increased accuracy of revolutions. If you are not ready to invest a lot of money in a business, then this is a great option to save. Vario-Tacho-Constamatic's full-wave electronics provide precise settings for rotational speed, helping to select the optimal values for accurate drilling.
DEWALT SDS-max D25481K
The puncher with a power of 1050 watts completes this category of rating. The model weighs 5.6 kg, but the impact force is 7.3 joules. Using it, it will be possible to cut a hole in concrete with a crown up to 90 mm in diameter and drill a hole up to 40 mm wide with a drill. The case is equipped with vibration protection. The frequency of beats per minute is 3150, and the maximum spindle speed is 540 revolutions. The mode switch is located on the side, and not on top, like most, which is more convenient.
+ Pros of DEWALT SDS-max D25481K
- Anti-vibration inserts in the main handle.
- Long second handle.
- Rubber wide overlays.
- Warranty from the manufacturer 3 years.
- Roomy suitcase (except for the hammer drill will include drills, pliers, extension cord).
- Attractive price.
- Relatively light weight 5.6 kg, compared with other models.
- Cons DEWALT SDS-max D25481K
- A small trigger for one finger.
- It is made in China.
- Short power cord 2.5 m.
- The mode switch sticks out strongly above the level of the case.
- There is no reverse to remove the drill.
- Construction dust gets in through the upper ventilation hole.
Conclusion. This puncher with SDS-Max is notable for three operating modes. Although it is such a rarity for this category of tools, the manufacturer made an exception to the rule. The device can be hollowed, drilled and drilled.If in your area of work you have to perform the last step often, then the puncher will be able to replace the drill, reducing the number of tools transported with you.
The best SDS-Max rotary hammers with impact force 12-20 J
These are units for the most complex tasks. With their help, it is easy to knock down walls, punch large openings (expand window and door openings), remove concrete layers from floors, etc. But the increased impact force affects the recoil and ease of use of the tool. Here are the best punchers with SDS-Max cartridge and impact force 12-20 J.
Makita HR 4511 C
The first place in the ranking of the best is given to the Japanese Makita punch. The product is notable for a power of 1350 W, an impact force of 13 J, electronic speed control from 130 to 280 per minute and an impact frequency of 1250-2750. The punch weighs 8.5 kg. A long cable of 5 m allows in most cases to do without carrying. To make holes in concrete, you can use drills with a cross section of up to 45 mm and a crown of 125 mm.
+ Pros of Makita HR 4511 C
- Adjustable impact force from 2.7 to 13 J, for materials with different densities.
- 5 m network cable
- The goods are manufactured at production facilities in the UK.
- Good anti-vibration work.
- Cable failure indicator and power buttons.
- The rubberized case will last a long time, despite repeated bumps and falls.
- Cons Makita HR 4511 C
- There is no reverse.
- Hands get tired quickly.
- Screws in the case are gradually untwisted - it is necessary to stretch.
- The mode slider switches tightly.
- Periodically shuts down due to overheating.
Conclusion. The main difference between this punch and other rating participants is compactness. The body length is 458 mm, although most competitors have this figure from 600 mm. Such an SDS-Max unit is suitable for work in tight conditions (installation of plumbing in bathrooms, drilling in the attic, in the basement or inside the switchboard). Here you can choose not only the number of strokes, but also the level of strength. This will help to accurately make a hole in both brittle and very hard material.
Bosch GBH 8-45 D
Powerful rotary hammer with 1500 W motor. The maximum dimensions of the tooling diameter are allowed: drill - 80 mm, crown - 125 mm. The impact force is 12.5 J, and the number of shocks is adjustable from 1380 to 2750 per minute. The cartridge rotates at a speed of 305 revolutions. A plastic suitcase and a tube with grease are supplied. There is a soft start for clean drilling. The case behind the cartridge is equipped with abundant perforation for accelerated heat dissipation. When the bite is bitten, a fuse is triggered and the cartridge does not rotate with the engine.
+ Pros of Bosch GBH 8-45 D
- Double main handle that can be held with both hands.
- There is a fixation of the start button for constant chiselling so as not to keep the trigger pressed.
- Recessed mode switch.
- Long additional handle with a change in the angle of position relative to the barrel by 360 degrees.
- Stable platform for placing the tool on a plane.
- It is easily drilled into a concrete screed of the foundation.
- Cons Bosch GBH 8-45 D
- You have to rest your elbow on the leg, stomach, otherwise it is difficult to keep on weight.
- Strong handback during chiselling mode.
- Grease flies out of the SDS-Max cartridge.
- Weight 8.2 kg is heavy for work and transportation.
- Power cord 3 m.
- Without vibration protection.
Conclusion. The product is worth a closer look to those who often work with snap 500-600 mm in length. Usually closer to the end of drilling, equipment speed may drop due to increased resistance. This model is equipped with a Constant Electronic system, which will not allow a drop in speed even with increasing load.
Makita HR5212C
Makita launches this hammer drill with the SDS-Max cartridge as a flagship among the representatives of the professional line. The power of the device is 1510 watts and it is capable of beating up to 1100-2250 times per minute with a force of 20 J. The equipment rotates at a speed of 150-310 revolutions. The case is equipped with vibration-proof inserts. It is allowed to work with drills with a diameter of 52 mm and hollow crowns of 160 mm. All controls are located in the access area of the left hand.The indicator light tells you to replace the brushes.
+ Pros of Makita HR5212C
- Almost completely rubberized body.
- Comfortable grip and non-slip handle.
- A long trigger for all fingers of one hand.
- The mode switch does not cling to clothes.
- Clear operation of operator protection when biting equipment.
- It easily passes clay with a screw, 11 m long and 62 mm in diameter (suitable for drilling wells).
- Cons Makita HR5212C
- Drives the wind from the cooling system right in the face.
- Loud engine operation.
- Weight 12 kg requires frequent interruptions in work.
- There is no reverse.
- Large dimensions 599x140x287 mm.
- Left-handed will be uncomfortable.
Conclusion. This hammer drill is leading in productivity and impact power. Its indicator is 20 J. This makes it easy to crush wall materials and ceilings, remove the upper layers or drill a stone. Users in reviews like the button for continuous chiselling, unloading the finger during prolonged use.
Bosch GBH 12-52 D
Another flagship in the SDS-Max section, only from the German brand Bosch. It has an impressive power of 1700 W and gives out a shock force of 19 J. The “Dual Mode” has dimensions of 600x120x312 mm and can work with giant drills on concrete with a diameter of 80 mm. Among hollow crowns, the maximum figure is 150 mm. The speed of rotation of the cartridge reaches 220 rpm, and the number of strikes is in the range of 900-2000. The chisel can be installed in the cartridge CDC-Max in 12 positions for sampling material from different angles.
+ Pros of Bosch GBH 12-52 D
- Efficient air cooling system.
- Recessed mode switch.
- The main handle is fully rubber coated.
- Can be held with both hands on the main handle.
- It is easily put on the plane for release of hands.
- In the case there is free space for another tool and equipment.
- The second handle is U-shaped to support both the right and left hand.
- Cons Bosch GBH 12-52 D
- High price.
- Large dimensions, which are difficult to manage in a limited space.
- Short power cord 3 m.
- It is difficult to remove long equipment without reverse.
- There is no vibration protection, so hands shake violently at the end of the day.
Weight is 11.5 kg.
Conclusion. The step speed controller has 6 positions, allowing you to quickly set the desired speed. This is useful when working with materials of different densities. It also provides protection against unintentional starting, which increases safety when working at height.
