Combination Hammers

Tester Comments
This is a terrific, well-engineered machine for someone who does more horizontal work than I do. It’s got great power for a mid-weight tool. It’s well balanced, and vibration isolators prevent excessive vibration and operator fatigue, which is vital. I like the power indicator and speed selector switches. It has a good box.

Price
$549

Contact
877-267-2499
www.boschtools.com

Tester Comments
While lightweight, this tool has impressive power. I like the feel and balance, which is good for horizontal work. The tool exhausts cooling air over a wide area, so it kicks up less dust than the others. I like its dual-mount handle, but when in the upper position by the trigger, it blocks the mode selector switch. The box seems tough enough, but the partitions inside could be a little sturdier. *I tested a prototype model. The tool ships this month.

Price
$699

Contact
800-433-9258
www.dewalt.com

Tester Comments
This is the most powerful tool in the group, plus it’s the smoothest to operate. It’s balanced enough for horizontal work, although a bit heavy. I like the switches, especially the 50 percent and 100 percent power selection, which increases both the BPM and RPM. The trigger lock for chipping gives your hand a break from squeezing the trigger. The electronic torque control (ATC) is nice. It needs a box that clearly indicates the top and bottom.

Price
$1,699

Contact
800-879-8000
www.us.hilti.com

Tester Comments
This is a solid tool with very good power. It’s well-balanced and ergonomically advanced. I’m not crazy about the switch design and location (underneath the tool body). It’s got the largest box of the bunch, which can carry plenty of bits and accessories.

Price
$249

Contact
800-829-4752
www.hitachi.com/hpt

Tester Comments
I like this hammer a lot. It’s well designed, nicely balanced, and lighter than most of the tools we tested, so it doesn’t quite pack the punch of the others. However, its compact design and variable handle option make it extremely versatile, especially for horizontal work like masonry demo or breakthrough in concrete. The D-handle is a nice addition for horizontal and overhead chipping. It’s got a good switch and well-designed box.

Price
$249

Contact
800-462-5482
www.makita.com

Tester Comments
Metabo’s is the largest tool of the lot and has enough power to handle any application. It’s a bit heavy for horizontal work but will get the job done well. It’s got a nice, comfortable, and large side handle you can use in two locations — near the chuck and at the trigger grip. I think the function switch needs better graphics to indicate what function the tool is on.

Price
$839

Contact
800-638-2264
www.metabousa.com

Tester Comments
Milwaukee has a well-made, compact tool with nice features. The vibration isolators really reduce fatigue without compromising tool control and feel. There’s a good switch with clear, concise graphics. The Quik-Lok cord is a nice feature that allows for easy storage in the box and damaged cord replacement. I’m not impressed with the traditional metal box, though, it adds weight and dents easily, affecting proper closure.

Price
$499 to $529

Contact
800-729-3878
www.heavydutytool.com