The Best Demolition Hammer Reviews for 2020

Updated by Brandon F. on July 31, 2020


best demolition hammer ultimate guide

A construction or demolition job oftentimes can’t be complete without a quality demolition hammer.  And a quick search will reveal just how many different models there are to choose from.  It can be quite overwhelming!  We are here to help.  After spending over 100 hours researching, testing, and writing, we have amassed this huge Ultimate Guide to Demolition Hammers.  We use multiple metrics (Performance, Reliability, Comfort, and Cost) to come up with an overall rating.  Check out the table below for our top 5 choices.  And if you simply wish to read our full reviews of each product, hop on below!


 

Best Demolition Hammers – Top 5 Picks

Rank
1
2
3
4
5
Product
Makita HM1307CB 35-Pound Demolition Hammer, Blue
Bosch 11321EVS Demolition Hammer - 13 Amp 1-9/16 in. Corded Variable Speed SDS-Max Concrete Demolition Hammer with Carrying Case
DEWALT Demolition Hammer, SDS MAX with Shocks, 23.4-lbs (D25901K)
Hitachi H90SG 70-Pound Demolition Hammer, 1-1/8-Inch
Hilti 3484793 TE 700-AVR Demolition Hammer Performance Package
Makita HM1307CB 35-Pound Demolition Hammer, Blue
Bosch 11321EVS Demolition Hammer - 13 Amp 1-9/16 in. Corded Variable Speed SDS-Max Concrete Demolition Hammer with Carrying Case
DEWALT Demolition Hammer, SDS MAX with Shocks, 23.4-lbs (D25901K)
Hitachi H90SG 70-Pound Demolition Hammer, 1-1/8-Inch
Hilti 3484793 TE 700-AVR Demolition Hammer Performance Package
Price
Price not available
$599.00
$775.00
Price not available
$1,807.45
Prime
-
-
-
Overall Rating
Pros
Enormous Selection, Nice Warranty, Very Safe to Use
Good for Commercial Applications, Many Patented Features, Nice Grips
Long Warranty, Many Options for Home Use, Good Job of Handling Vibrations
Great Power for the Size, Nice Materials for Components
Toughest Tools You Will Find, Extremely Powerful
Cons
Expensive
Smaller Warranty, Pricey
Can be Quite Heavy, High Price
Not as Big of a Selection, Limited Warranty, No Variable Speed
Extremely Expensive, Smaller Selection, Not as Many Features
Impact Energy (ft-lbs)
8.4 - 53.9
5.6 - 43
9.8 - 38.4
9.2 - 40.6
6-50
Operation Speed (BPM)
870 - 2,650
850 - 2,900
900 - 2,705
850 - 3,000
860 - 3,180
Variable Speed Options?
Breakdown of Ratings
Makita
Bosch
Dewalt
Hitachi
Hilti
Performance
Reliability
Comfort
Cost
Our Full Review
Rank
1
Product
Makita HM1307CB 35-Pound Demolition Hammer, Blue
Makita HM1307CB 35-Pound Demolition Hammer, Blue
Price
Price not available
Prime
-
Overall Rating
Pros
Enormous Selection, Nice Warranty, Very Safe to Use
Cons
Expensive
Impact Energy (ft-lbs)
8.4 - 53.9
Operation Speed (BPM)
870 - 2,650
Variable Speed Options?
Breakdown of Ratings
Makita
Performance
Reliability
Comfort
Cost
Our Full Review
Rank
2
Product
Bosch 11321EVS Demolition Hammer - 13 Amp 1-9/16 in. Corded Variable Speed SDS-Max Concrete Demolition Hammer with Carrying Case
Bosch 11321EVS Demolition Hammer - 13 Amp 1-9/16 in. Corded Variable Speed SDS-Max Concrete Demolition Hammer with Carrying Case
Price
$599.00
Prime
Overall Rating
Pros
Good for Commercial Applications, Many Patented Features, Nice Grips
Cons
Smaller Warranty, Pricey
Impact Energy (ft-lbs)
5.6 - 43
Operation Speed (BPM)
850 - 2,900
Variable Speed Options?
Breakdown of Ratings
Bosch
Performance
Reliability
Comfort
Cost
Our Full Review
Rank
3
Product
DEWALT Demolition Hammer, SDS MAX with Shocks, 23.4-lbs (D25901K)
DEWALT Demolition Hammer, SDS MAX with Shocks, 23.4-lbs (D25901K)
Price
$775.00
Prime
Overall Rating
Pros
Long Warranty, Many Options for Home Use, Good Job of Handling Vibrations
Cons
Can be Quite Heavy, High Price
Impact Energy (ft-lbs)
9.8 - 38.4
Operation Speed (BPM)
900 - 2,705
Variable Speed Options?
Breakdown of Ratings
Dewalt
Performance
Reliability
Comfort
Cost
Our Full Review
Rank
4
Product
Hitachi H90SG 70-Pound Demolition Hammer, 1-1/8-Inch
Hitachi H90SG 70-Pound Demolition Hammer, 1-1/8-Inch
Price
Price not available
Prime
-
Overall Rating
Pros
Great Power for the Size, Nice Materials for Components
Cons
Not as Big of a Selection, Limited Warranty, No Variable Speed
Impact Energy (ft-lbs)
9.2 - 40.6
Operation Speed (BPM)
850 - 3,000
Variable Speed Options?
Breakdown of Ratings
Hitachi
Performance
Reliability
Comfort
Cost
Our Full Review
Rank
5
Product
Hilti 3484793 TE 700-AVR Demolition Hammer Performance Package
Hilti 3484793 TE 700-AVR Demolition Hammer Performance Package
Price
$1,807.45
Prime
-
Overall Rating
Pros
Toughest Tools You Will Find, Extremely Powerful
Cons
Extremely Expensive, Smaller Selection, Not as Many Features
Impact Energy (ft-lbs)
6-50
Operation Speed (BPM)
860 - 3,180
Variable Speed Options?
Breakdown of Ratings
Hilti
Performance
Reliability
Comfort
Cost
Our Full Review


 

The Competition

best demolition hammer the competition

It is easy to become overwhelmed when you begin shopping for your next demolition hammer.  With dozens of brands and hundreds of specific models, it can be tough to grasp all of your potential targets.  To help with this, we briefly discuss some of the top brands below.  And for our full review of a particular brand, simply click on its corresponding link below!

Arksen

ARKSEN 3600W Electric Demolition Jack Hammer Heavy Duty Concrete Breaker Punch Bit w/Chisel + Carrying Case Hand Glove

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ARKSEN is a very popular general brand that sells many different types of tools online.  They are known for their very reasonable prices while still managing to have specifications that can rival more expensive brands.  However, it does come at the sacrifice of potential quality due to lower-end materials that have to be used to meet this price point.  The small lineup of ARKSEN demo jackhammers includes 3 models.

ATE Pro

Demolition Jack Hammer 1400 RPM Electric Demolition Jack Hammer

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ATE Pro is a wholesale retail distributor company that primarily deals in bulk orders.  As such, as a personal consumer, you may actually have a hard time getting access to their full product catalog.  Their product line spans a wide array of products including air tools, automotive tools, and various hand tools.  As for their demolition hammers, we are personally aware of two models: their 97890 and 97891 models.

Bauer

Bauer 12.5 Amp SDS Max Type Pro Demolition Hammer Kit (1631E-B)

Buy on Amazon $379.49 and save 

Check Out our Full Review

Like many of you, hearing the name “Bauer” will probably make you picture the popular hockey gear company.  This Bauer is a different brand and it appears that their selection of demolition hammer is limited to just one: their model 1631E-B.  But despite its limitation of product choices, this Bauer unit is quite popular and is sold on many different online and brick-and-mortar stores.

Beamnova

BEAMNOVA Demolition Hammer Gas Powered Demolition Drill Jack Hammer Hand-held Rock Drill with Point and Flat Chisel, Punch Single Cylinder, Gloves, Air Cooling

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Beamnova might have an interesting name but they are very familiar with what it takes to be successful in a huge range of product categories in various online marketplaces.  They appear to focus on importing items from outside manufacturers and then selling them under the Beamnova name.  As for their available demolition jackhammer, you can purchase their gasoline-powered 52CC model.  This is an extremely powerful unit that is still reasonably priced considering the power output.

Bosch

Bosch 11321EVS Demolition Hammer - 13 Amp 1-9/16 in. Corded Variable Speed SDS-Max Concrete Demolition Hammer with Carrying Case

Buy on Amazon $599.00 and save 43%

Check Out our Full Review

Bosch is one of the largest and most recognizable brands in this review so it is no surprise that they also have one of the largest selections of demolition hammers.  Bosch demolition hammers are all electric-based but range in size and scope from applications as small as small work around your garden all the way up to large commercial applications.  And being that they have the reputable Bosch name behind them, you know that the quality standards are in place.  However, you will pay a premium for this honor.

Chicago Pneumatic

Chicago Pneumatic CP7150 Heavy Duty Pistol Grip Air Hammer, 2,300 BPM

Buy on Amazon $60.00 and save 48%

Check Out our Full Review

Chicago Pneumatic may sound like they focus on Illinois but they are, in fact, a huge international company.  And this comes with a large selection of products in a wide span of categories.  As their name also suggests, they deal heavily in air-powered equipment and this is the foundation of their large air hammer lineup.  And while most of their air hammers are designed for more fine-tune work, there is still a large selection with various scope and power capabilities.

Dewalt

DEWALT Demolition Hammer, SDS MAX with Shocks, 23.4-lbs (D25901K)

Buy on Amazon $775.00 and save 52%

Check Out our Full Review

Dewalt is a household name in just about every residence that is familiar with outdoor equipment.  Their selection of products is enormous and spans numerous categories.  So it is no surprise that their selection of demolition hammers is large as well.  They also have what are called rotary hammers (which can sometimes accomplish similar tasks) but we will be focusing strictly on their traditional demolition hammers in this review.  And while the Dewalt name does come with a great reputation, you will pay for this honor some in the asking prices.

E7tools

Heavy Duty 1-1/2' Demolition Jack Hammer Concrete Breaker

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E7tools has made a name for themselves in the online world by offering various products in a huge scope of categories at a very reasonable price.  But as we have seen time and time again when it comes to cheap power tools, it does come with some sacrifices.  Their single demolition hammer that we could find is pretty popular online and will be within most people’s budgets.  But are the quality issues too noticeable to ignore?

F2C

F2C 2200W Heavy Duty Electric Demolition Jack Hammer Concrete Breaker Power Tool Kit 2 Chisel 2 Punch Bit Set W/Case, Gloves

Buy on Amazon $121.99 and save 

Check Out our Full Review

F2C stands for “Factory to Customer” and their approach is to get products directly from manufacturers to consumers’ hands without going through various stores.  The results are products that are very reasonably priced compared to many options that you would typically find in a store.  They are very diverse in what they sell and in regards to their demolition hammers, you will only have a single model to choose from: their 2200W Model.

Gizmo Supply Co

Gizmo Supply 2200W 1900RPM Electric Demolition Jack Hammer

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Gizmo Supply Co certainly has a unique name.  Also unique to them is their enormous and diverse selection or products that span dozens of different product categories.  Within their tool category, you will find an above average selection of demolition hammers.  There are specialty hammers that come with unique bits but the foundation of their selection lies with three different power selections: 2200W, 2800W, and 3600W.

Goplus

Goplus 2200 Watt Electric Demolition Jack Hammer Concrete Breaker Punch Chisel Bit Hd

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We have experience with Goplus through some other products that we have reviewed before on the site.  They sell many different items that are in just about every type of product category that you can think of.  They are known more for their reasonable prices than their cutting-edge technology or performance.  And true to form, their small selection of demolition hammers follow this.

Gracelove

Gracelove HD 3600Watt Electric Demolition Concrete Jack Hammer Breaker w/ Case New

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Gracelove is another brand that doesn’t specialize in any particular product line.  Rather, they appear to outsource most of their products.  Their approach entails finding proven products from other companies and selling it under their label for a reasonable asking price.  As for their available demolition hammers, they only one that we came across is their 3,600W unit.

Hiltex

Hiltex 10513 1-1/2 Inch SDS Rotary Hammer Drill | Includes Demolition Bits, Flat and Point Chisels

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Hiltex has many different tools to choose from related to drill bits and drilling.  In fact, they technically don’t have a traditional demolition hammer in the sense that we define it.  Instead, they have included what they call demolition bits with one of their popular rotary drills.  The result is a sort of “hybrid” demolition/rotary drill that attempts to find the best of both worlds.

Hilti

Hilti 3484793 TE 700-AVR Demolition Hammer Performance Package

Buy on Amazon $1,807.45 and save 

Check Out our Full Review

Hilti is definitely one of the most recognized brands in this review.  Their scope of products is quite wide and includes things ranging from home improvement tools all the way to software and fire safety devices.  Within this is their proven line of demolition hammers.  Their hammers offer great power and features, making them capable of a wide range of applications. But they are also extremely expensive.

Hitachi

Hitachi H90SG 70-Pound Demolition Hammer, 1-1/8-Inch

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Hitachi is another extremely popular brand that has a nice selection of demolition hammers.  They offer up the popular horizontal “gun-style” hammers as well as the larger and more capable vertical demolition hammers.  Typical of other Hitachi product, you will enjoy great performance features but it does come with a hefty price tag.

Homgrace

Homgrace 5.4 Amp Electric Hammer Drill, 1/2' Keyed 3 Jaw 800W Variable Speed Drill Chuck & Shiled Rotary Tools Kit

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Homgrace is another brand that appears to import various products in many different categories to sell online.  They don’t really specialize in any one thing other than trying to offer up products for cheap.  They sell essentially the same Demolition Hammer that we have seen many other brands sell (2200W Electric) and for a similar price.

Hoteche

Heavy Duty 1-1/2' Rotary Demolition Jack Hammer Concrete Breaker With Core Drill Bit 2 in 1

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Hoteche is a Chinese company that sells many different tools in various categories.  In regards to their demolition hammer, the only model that we could find is their compact 110V electric model.  While it may not be the largest unit you have seen, the asking price is quite reasonable.

Ingersoll-Rand

Ingersoll-Rand 3A2SA Heavy-Duty Chipping Hammer

Buy on Amazon $559.99 and save 

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Out of all of the companies that we have reviewed, Ingersoll-Rand may very well be the most industrial-driven one.  All of their models are of extremely high quality and designed for demanding applications in the commercial and industrial world.  They have a nice selection of demolition hammer-related products including jackhammers, chipping hammers, and pavement breakers.  And all are powered by air.  And within each model series are a plethora of specific models with varying attributes such as stroke length.

I_S Import

3000BPM 900W 1-1/2' Electric Demolition Hammer Concrete Breaker W/Chisels Bits

Buy on Amazon $155.84 and save 

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I_S Import is heavily involved in the household tool marketplace.  Within their demolition category, you will find an electric model that is specially designed for breaking concrete.  As is typical of many of I_S Import’s other products, this unit is likely imported and comes in at a very reasonable asking price.

Lotus Analin

Lotus Analin HD 3600 Watt Electric Demolition Jack Hammer Concrete Breaker Punch + Chisel Bit

Buy on Amazon $395.99 and save 

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Lotus Analin offers up many different products in quite a few different product categories.  As for their selection of demolition hammers, their selection is small but diverse.  They sell a small air-powered air hammer, a 3,000 RPM 1000W Electric Concrete Breaker, and a 3,600W Jack Hammer.  It is worth mentioning that all of their products appear to be imports from other brands that we have already discussed elsewhere in this Ultimate Guide.

Lovshare

Mophorn 3600W Electric Demolition Hammer Heavy Duty Concrete Breaker 1800 RPM Jack Hammer Demolition Drills with Flat Chisel Bull Point Chisel (3600 W)

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Lovshare definitely has an interesting name.  Equally surprising is that they are heavily invested into selling tools online.  However, their demo hammer options are a bit limited: your only choice is the same 3600W hammer that other brands in this Ultimate Guide also sell.

Makita

Makita HM1307CB 35-Pound Demolition Hammer, Blue

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Makita has been an industry leader for many years in just about every type of tool you can think of.  So it is no surprise that they have one of the largest and most diverse selections of demolition hammers as well.  The products come in many different sizes and intended applications but one thing remains constant across all of them: you will enjoy fantastic performance, great reliability, and a high asking price.

Milwaukee

Demolition Hammer, SDS Max

Buy on Amazon $549.99 and save 8%

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Milwaukee is another very reputable tool brand that dips their hands in many different categories.  As for their demolition hammers, there are currently three different models to choose from (along with various rotary hammers which we won’t get into in this review).  All three of their units are electric powered and follow the typical “gun style” design that we are used to seeing in small to mid-sized demo hammers.  And while they do offer up great performance, you will have to pay a hefty price tag for one.

Nenz

NENZ NZ30-02 Demolition Drill SDS-plus Electric Lightweight Concrete Breaker,AC Jack hammer,Orange

Buy on Amazon $128.00 and save 

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Nenz focuses more on rotary hammers than demolition hammers but it was at least worth mentioning them in this review since their rotary hammer selection is so huge.  You will have to use one of their rotary hammers with a demolition bit to fully tap into its potential: otherwise, it is essentially just an impact drill.

OrangeA

OrangeA Electric Demolition Hammer 3600 Watt Heavy Duty Concrete Jack Hammer with Point Flat Chisels Electric Demolition Jack Hammer Concrete Breaker (3600Watt Hammer)

Buy on Amazon $399.99 and save 

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OrangeA is another online retailer that deals in various goods that span many different categories.  Their selection of demolition jackhammers is pretty lacking: they offer up the same 3,600W electric unit that we have reviewed several times already.  The only noticeable difference is in the color of it which matches the name of the brand.

O&HP

Mophorn 3600W Electric Demolition Hammer Heavy Duty Concrete Breaker 1800 RPM Jack Hammer Demolition Drills with Flat Chisel Bull Point Chisel (3600 W)

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O&HP has a lot of experience in automotive, plumbing, and outdoor equipment.  As for their selection of demolition jackhammers, we could only find one.  And it is the same 2,200W electric jackhammer that we have reviewed many times on here already.  The main issue we have is that the asking price is much higher for it compared to other brands that sell essentially the same product.

Selva

Selva Multipurpose 1' SDS Electric Hammer Drill Rotary Demolition Set with Variable Speed | Heavy Duty High Speed Powerful Motor with Non Slip Handle | Perfect Time Saver Durable Tool Kit Blue

Buy on Amazon $139.95 and save 

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Selva is a brand that we don’t know much about.  We did see that they have a small rotary hammer that have offer with demolition bits.  While not a true “demolition hammer”, we figured we would at least mention it.

Sullair

Sullair MPB-90A Paving Breaker

Buy on Amazon $1,299.00 and save 

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Sullair is a brand that focuses on demanding commercial and industrial applications.  Also, their products utilize pressured air as their driving force rather than gasoline or electricity.  They have an enormous selection of chipping hammers, pavement breakers, and rock drills that vary greatly in their overall power output and capabilities.  No matter what model of Sullair Demolition Hammer you go with, you are guaranteed great quality but at a pretty high asking price.

Totool

TOTOOL Electric Demolition Jack Hammer Concrete Breaker 3600W Electric Demolition Hammer 1400RPM Heavy Duty Jack Hammer with Bull Point Flat Chisel (3600W)

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Totool sells a small array of various tools for both residential and commercial applications.  As for their available demolition hammers, you can pick just one model which is their 3,600W electric unit.  This is a small step up from some of the other more generic demo hammers that we have reviewed but it is still a very common configuration.

TR Industrial

TR Industrial IS-500 15 Amp 42-Pound Demolition Jack Hammer with Anti-Vibration Design

Buy on Amazon $500.23 and save 

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TR Industrial specializes in a handful of particular tools, with their demolition hammer being one of them.  They currently have three different Series: the IS Series, the TR-100 Series, and the TR-300 Series.  Depending on the model, you will have a product designed for anything from professional-level construction work down to more residential types of applications.

Vevor

VEVOR 3600W Demolition Jack Hammer 1400 RPM Electric Demolition Hammer Heavy Duty Jack Hammer Demolition Drills with Flat Chisel Bull Point Chisel (3600W)

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Vevor sells items from just about every category that you can think of.  So it is no surprise that their selection of demo hammers is limited to the same 3,600W model that you have seen countless other brands sell on this Ultimate Guide.

Voyager Tools

Electric Jack Hammer 3600W Demolition Jack Hammer

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Like many other brands, Voyager Tools has a limited selection of demolition hammers.  And their lone model is the popular 3,600W electric unit (but with a twist).  While the overall size, shape, and features are quite similar, you will enjoy a higher operating speed compared to most other similar models (but it does come with a higher asking price as well).

XtremepowerUS

XtremepowerUS 2200Watt Heavy Duty Electric Demolition Jack hammer Concrete Breaker W/Case, Gloves

Buy on Amazon $124.95 and save 

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XtremepowerUS has some of the best-selling demolition hammers available online.  This is thanks to their simple construction and very affordable pricing.  However, they are on the smaller side, making them more intended for home applications rather than commercial.

Yescom

Yescom 3600W 1800BPM Electric Demolition Jack Hammer with Double Insulated Motor Casing 2 Chisels Case

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Yescom may not be a household name when it comes to tools but they actually have one of the larger selections of demolition hammers that we have come across.  In addition, their selection has a nice variety: they have both gasoline and electric-powered models that range in capability from smaller tasks up to medium and even large residential and commercial jobs.

Zenstyle

ZENSTYLE Heavy Duty Electric Demolition Jack Hammer 2200W Concrete Breaker Power Tool with 2 Chisel, 2 Punch Bit Set, Gloves, Oil Feeder Wrench, Mask, Safety Goggle and Case

Buy on Amazon $116.99 and save 

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The Zenstyle Demolition Hammer is a bit of an oddball.  This company is more known for their furniture and house accessories but, as you can tell here, they do branch out of that some.  Similar to other brands that don’t specialize in tools, their only offering for demo hammer is the popular 2,200W electric model that we have seen quite a few times already.

Zeny

ZENY 2200W Heavy Duty Electric Demolition Jack Hammer Concrete Breaker Drills w/Case, Gloves 2 Chisel 2 Punch Bit Set

Buy on Amazon $113.99 and save 

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Zeny is another brand that sells many different products in quite a few product lines.  The exception to them is that they also have their own self-sustained website to buy items from.  However, you will find a lot of overlap between them and other brands in this review that offers up low-cost imported demo hammers.  Zeny offers up the same popular 2,200W Electric Demolition Jack Hammer that we have discussed quite a few times already.


 

Rating Metrics

best demolition hammer rating metrics

There can be many factors that you consider when shopping for your next demolition hammer.  However, in our experience, certain ones tend to rise to the top of a person’s considerations.  We discuss each of our Rating Metrics below.

Performance

Performance relates to how well the demolition hammer is at demolishing things!  However, this isn’t just tied to raw performance: just because one model may have a bigger engine than another doesn’t mean that it will always receive a higher rating.  Rather, we look at a host of factors: engine power, engine efficiency, available operating settings, and more.

Also, things such as operating speed come into play.  For instance, simply running a demo hammer at faster RPMs isn’t always a good thing: it could result in significant vibrations and potential damage to the tool.  This is a big reason why many of your larger demolition hammers with huge power output have much lower BPMs than some of the smaller tools.

Furthermore, certain sizes and types of demolition hammers may be optimized for specific applications.  For instance, some versions specialize in breaking up concrete and others that are best used on sheetrock.  You need to figure out what sort of applications you plan on using your hammer before you buy one.

Reliability

Reliability is pretty self-explanatory.  It is how long and smoothly the product will operate.  Demolition jackhammers undergo much more demanding operating loads than your typical tools.  They have to be able to handle extreme vibrations, demanding outdoor conditions, and high levels of heat.  Not only that, but they are oftentimes used in commercial settings where having a tool go down is simply unacceptable.

There are many ways that brands try to improve the reliability of their demolition hammers: higher quality materials, thicker pieces, and specialized designs that try to reduce the level of vibrations.

Comfort

If you have never tried using a jackhammer before, it can be quite challenging if you don’t know what you are getting into.  The combination of the heavy weight and the high vibrations can be quite memorable.  However, there are many features and design changes that can be made to promise as easy of operation as possible.  Things such as cutting down on weight, more intuitive control features, and anti-vibration methods are common ones.

Price

Price is related to how expensive (or cheap) the tool is.  As we have said in other reviews, just because one tool is cheaper than another doesn’t automatically mean that it will get a higher rating here.  Rather, we compare the cost of a tool to other similarly-priced tools in the industry.  We like to see great bargains at whatever price point and those are the examples that will score well in this category.

Overall Rating

The Overall Rating gives us a “big picture” of how well the tool performs across the board.  It takes into account performance, reliability, comfort, and price.  A good rule of thumb from us is that anything that scores a 3.5 or above is a good buy, a 4 or above is a great buy, and a 4.5/5 is a fantastic buy.


 

Full Reviews

best demolition hammer full reviewsBelow are our full reviews for the various demolition hammers that we tested.  You will find an informative discussion of each rating metric as well as a value from 0 to 5 for each metric.


 

Arksen Demolition Hammer Review

ARKSEN 3600W Electric Demolition Jack Hammer Heavy Duty Concrete Breaker Punch Bit w/Chisel + Carrying Case Hand Glove

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Models: 2200, 2800, and 3600W

Performance – 3-5-stars

In terms of power, you will find 2200, 2800, and 3600W units.  All models are powered by standard outlet electricity.  They all also operate between 1700 and 1800 impacts per minute which is about average for the industry.  For helping to break up clay, rock, etc., you will enjoy a maximum of 55 ft/lb of energy.  While this isn’t anything overly impressive, it is still strong enough for your typical household chores and perhaps some very light commercial work.  In terms of thickness, we think that ARKSEN’s demolition hammers are good for around 6” thick concrete.  Anything more than that and you should step up to a larger model.  If you do plan on using it on more challenging materials then make sure you go with the 3600W model.  It is more expensive but the added boost in performance is helpful.

Reliability – 3-stars

This is a rather low-cost set of demolition jackhammers.  And you will notice this when you inspect it.  The hammer itself is made of a cheap metal that is more prone to cracking than in other higher-end metals that you will find on more expensive units.  The housing and cooling fins are also made of plastic instead of metal.

Several people have gone ahead and “upgraded” these units themselves to make them more capable of long-term use.  This includes doing things such as beefing up the thin plastic base, adding a grounding wire, etc.  Many people simply don’t want to deal with doing this so be prepared for components that may not last as long as you would have hoped.  But still, for the price, we can’t be too picky.

Comfort – 3-stars

Due to using thinner plastics instead of metal in many areas, the overall dimensions and weight are very easy to handle.  Depending on the specific model and attachment that you go with (usually the included spade shovel), you can expect it to weigh around 40 to 50 pounds and be around 4 feet tall.  A big reason for this lightweight quality is because it doesn’t utilize an external air compressor.  This makes it pretty easy for just about anybody (no matter size or weight) to be able to control the demolition hammer.  There is also a 360 degree fore grip handle which gives a nice boost to user control.

Price – 4-5-stars

Probably the biggest selling point of the ARKSEN Demolition Hammer is in its very competitive asking price.  For the power output, it is among the most affordable models you will find.  As you can see in the above metrics, that great asking price does come with some sacrifices when it comes to materials used and component quality, however.  But for those on a tight budget, the negative issues will be easy to ignore.

Overall Rating – 3-5-stars

While there are some quality concerns, the ARKSEN Demo jackhammer is a solid buy for the budget-minded user who only needs a simple tool for smaller household tasks.  The power output, even in the largest model, is nothing incredible but it can still handle normal concrete of up to around 6”.  And despite using some cheaper materials, it is surprisingly reliable (as long as you follow general maintenance instructions such as monitoring oil levels).


ATE Pro Demolition Hammer Review

Demolition Jack Hammer 1400 RPM Electric Demolition Jack Hammer

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Models: 97890, 97891

Performance – 3-5-stars

Both models of ATE Pro Demolition hammers are corded electric units.  The smaller of the two, the 97891, is capable of a load rating of 1,400 impacts per minute.  While the larger unit, the 97890, bumps this up to 2,900 impacts per minute.  These models are powered by either a 120 Volt power source or a 230 Volt power source.  Given these specifications, both units are good for typical residential use.  Concrete or rock up to around 4 inches thick seems to be a good target for these.  For anything larger scale or if you plan on trying to cover a huge area, you are probably better off going with a bigger unit from another brand.

Reliability – 4-stars

We haven’t heard any complaints about reliability.  These are pretty simple in function so there aren’t a lot of things that can break.  One neat feature with these demo hammer is their ability to be able to be operated for up to 20 days without needing oil.  This shows us that they are quite reliable and the motor is of high quality.  That being said, we always encourage you to use the recommended amount of oil when possible.

Comfort – 4-stars

We prefer the style and shape of the 810T-900 (97890) model.  It comes with a nice rubber grip handle that allows you to hold the hammer from both the back and underneath.  This gives you great user control and the trigger’s optimal location means that you will always feel that you have a nice grip on the unit’s power source.  It is worth mentioning that you will find quite a bit of plastic on these hammers.  And while this may impact longevity (since metal almost always outlasts plastic), it does provide some noticeable weight loss.  You will find that ATE Demolition Hammers are more lightweight than much of the competition that we will discuss in this review.

Price – 4-stars

A great positive of these units are their competitive asking price.  Since they are pretty simple and without a ton of bells and whistles, they become quite reasonably priced.  Someone who is on a tight garden budget and doesn’t need a huge hammer will find that these products should align with your budget.  But obviously, you will be limited in what you can do with them given their small stature.

Overall Rating – 4-stars

ATE Pro offers up a couple of simple demolition jackhammers that are targeted for lighter applications.  While they do seem to be quite reliable, the overall power and settings are lacking.  Because of this, these models will only make sense for you if you are after the most simple of outdoor tasks.  And considering that, it is no surprise to us that they won’t make a huge dent in your pocketbook.


Bauer Demolition Hammer Review

Bauer 12.5 Amp SDS Max Type Pro Demolition Hammer Kit (1631E-B)

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Models: 1631E-B

Performance – 4-stars

The Bauer 1631E-B Demolition Hammer is, a Bauer suggests, a “professional” hammer.  And while we don’t think that you should try to use it on a huge industrial application, it does have enough grunt to make short work of most typical residential or light commercial demolition tasks.  This comes thanks to its proven 12.5 amp motor that delivers up to 18 ft-lb of energy load at an impact rate of 1,900 BMP.  This means that it should be able to handle most concrete and rock up to 6 inches thick if not more.  And since it can handle just about any standard SDS Max-Type bit, you will be able to use it in a host of applications.  Finally, we appreciate Bauer including a variable speed control that allows you to fine-tune the speed for your desired application.

Reliability – 4-stars

We have heard good things about Bauer products and that is certainly the case here as well.  This unit is incredibly reliable and, with proper annual maintenance, should last for many years.  It also utilizes a ball bearing construction which helps to maximize tool life.  And while you will find a plastic outer housing, it is plenty thick and never felt “cheap” to us.

Comfort – 4-5-stars

One of our favorite aspects of the 1631-B Demo Hammer is in how easy and comfortable it is to use.  We mentioned the variable speed control earlier which allows for easy and less jerky operation but that is just the start.  Also, there is a 360-degree adjustable side handle that allows for great control.  This side handle also can be oriented in just about any configuration you can think of so that you have the perfect angle of attack.  This is great for working in tight corridors where you may not be able to easily fit larger jackhammers.  Also, while it isn’t the absolute lightest model that we have tested, it comes in at well under 30 pounds.  This means that it is easy for most people to carry and handle.

Price – 3-5-stars

You will pay a bit extra for a Bauer jackhammer than in some of the other brands that we have tested.  However, for this increase in price, you will find improved performance as well as a more comfortable operation.  And it is worth mentioning again just how reliable this product is: consider it more of an investment than a purchase.  And this helps to offset the price some since you will likely have a much longer life expectancy with this product compared to other lower-cost units.

Overall Rating – 4-stars

While we are a bit underwhelmed in the product selection, Bauer certainly hits the mark with their sole demolition hammer that we tested.  The 1631-B is a proven contender and delivers all of the power that most people need for typical small to medium-scale construction projects.  Some multiple features and settings help to make operation and comfortable as possible and the reliability is great.  Yes, you will pay a bit more for it but we feel that the bump up in quality and performance make it worth it.


Beamnova Demolition Hammer Review

BEAMNOVA Demolition Hammer Gas Powered Demolition Drill Jack Hammer Hand-held Rock Drill with Point and Flat Chisel, Punch Single Cylinder, Gloves, Air Cooling

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Models: 52CC

Performance – 4-5-stars

We aren’t going to beat around the bush: Beamnova’s gas-powered jackhammer is extremely powerful.  It comes with a 2-stroke single-cylinder air-cooled motor that has an impressive 52CC of displacement.  You fill it up with up to 1.3L of fuel and you can then tap into all of its 1,700W of power.  This equates to around 2.4 HP at 9,000 RPM.  You have some flexibility with the impact frequency: on the low end, you can adjust it down to 700 BPM.  And if you need to crank things up, it can be increased up to 1,500 BPM.  We must stress again that this is a serious demo hammer.  It will be overkill for many small residential applications.  But for those who are looking for a commercial product or have some serious concrete, rock, or other hard material that needs to be removed, this unit will be great for you.

Reliability – 4-stars

Being a gas-powered motor, it will require a bit more maintenance and upkeep time than most traditional electric motors.  Things such as timely oil changes will be essential to maximizing the operating life.  Outside of this, you will find that the various components that comprise the Beamnova hammer to be quite good.  We are oftentimes wary of Chinese imported products as the quality can be less than great.  But that is not the case here.  This is a tough competitor and will handle just about anything that you can throw at it.  It comes with a high tensile gear set which is designed to last much longer than a typical gear set.  Furthermore, the crankshaft has been reinforced with ball bearing construction for added durability.

Comfort – 3-5-stars

Since this is a commercial-grade unit, it will be on the larger and heavier side.  Due to its size and weight, you will be more limited in the locations that you can use it.  Anything that involves lifting it upwards or at an angle will be quite challenging for most people.  But despite its large stature, it is still pretty easy to control.  There is a throttle control button located where your thumb is at and it is very responsive.  And the side rubber grip handles provide plenty of leverage so that it doesn’t get away from you while operating.  The fact that you can adjust the operating speed also will help reduce vibration (which, on a unit of this size, can be quite significant).

Price – 3-stars

The Beamnova Demolition Hammer is going to be more expensive than many of the products we have tested here.  But then again this is a commercial-grade unit that will out-perform nearly every other product as well.  People that need a commercial-grade demo hammer shouldn’t have an issue with the asking price.  And people who are on a tight tool budget likely won’t need the advanced capabilities of this hammer anyways and will be able to find a smaller model that can meet their needs for much cheaper.

Overall Rating – 4-stars

Beamnova steps things up with their impressive gas-powered hammer.  This thing is designed to move some serious rock/concrete.  Thanks to the large motor, you will make short work of all but the most demanding commercial applications.  But simply put, a lot of people probably won’t need this much firepower.  However, considering its capabilities, the ease of using it, and its overall reliability, the asking price isn’t terrible.


Bosch Demolition Hammer Review

Bosch 11321EVS Demolition Hammer - 13 Amp 1-9/16 in. Corded Variable Speed SDS-Max Concrete Demolition Hammer with Carrying Case

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Models: 11316EVS, 11321EVS, 11335K, BH2760VC, BH2760VCB, BH2770VCD, DH1020VC, DH507, DH712VC

Performance – 5-stars

As you might have suspected, the performance of a given Bosch Demolition Hammer will vary quite a bit depending on which model you go with.  On the lower end are the more portable units such as the DH507 and 11321EVS.  These units are designed for small jobs around your home and excel in particular in hard-to-reach applications.  In the case of the DH507, you will enjoy a 10 amp power source that allows for 5.6 ft-lbs of impact energy with a maximum of 2,800 BMP.  The Bosch 11321EVS SDS-max bumps this up to 13.0 amps which are good for 6.1 ft-lbs of impact energy and a max of 2,900 BPM.  As you scale up, units such as the 11316EVS will be a good choice thanks to its 10+ ft-lb of impact energy.  At this live, you can handle 6”+ thick concrete.

And for those who need the bump things up even higher, in come the top-of-the-line Bosch models such as the BH2760, 11335K, and BH2770VCD.  These hammers will range from anywhere from 35 ft-lbs of impact energy up to an impressive 43 ft-lbs at 1,000 BPM.  These will require a higher power source, however.  Typically a 15 amp outlet or 2,500 watt portable generator will do the trick.

And most Bosch hammers also come with multiple settings that you can fine-tune for your specific needs.  Some of these features include a variable-speed control dial, constant response circuitry, and more.

With such a large lineup of power options to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect Bosch Demo Hammer to meet your needs.  And no matter which model you are after, you will enjoy great efficiency given their size and power requirements.

Reliability – 5-stars

One thing that is synonymous with Bosch is reliability.  Their products, no matter if you are after a power tool, measuring tool, or one of their other products, you will enjoy fantastic reliability.   In our experience, these demolition jackhammers are very robust and should hold up to typical wear and tear for several years.  A really neat feature that certain models also have in place is a Service MinderBrush System.  This will turn off the hammer when it needs preventative maintenance.  This helps to avoid you overworking the motor when it needs to be looked at which can avoid damage.

And all of the components are of great quality and craftsmanship.  The metals and plastics used are nicely crafted and fit together quite well.  And where plastic is used instead of metal, it will oftentimes be double insulated.  And the gearbox and hammer mechanism will already come pre-packed with grease for smooth and long-term operation.

Finally, with Bosch, you will enjoy a proven 1-year warranty to go along with great customer service.  These are products designed for the long-term.

Comfort – 5-stars

No matter if you decide to go with a smaller model or a huge model, you will find them to be quite comfortable to operate. They come with a host of features to make operation, switching bits, and maintenance as seamless as possible.  For instance, on the SDS-Max models, you will enjoy the SDS-Max system that allows for tool-free bit changes along with dust protection and improved impact energy transfer rates.  And they also come with Vario-Lock positioning which means that you can rotate the chisel in 12 different positions to help get in those hard to reach areas.  Plus, the handles are padded and quite comfortable to grip.

In the larger units where impact vibrations can be more significant, you will enjoy Active Vibration Control.  This incorporates a much larger air cushion in the hammer mechanism to help absorb the powerful shocks.  And even in the big units, which traditionally aren’t intended to be mobile, features such as 360 degree articulating auxiliary handles will help you make the most of the power while still being comfortable.

We also really like how Bosch has made specialty models that have a built-in rolling cart.  Specifically, you will find this on the BH2760VCB and BH2770VCD models.  This makes what would otherwise be a pretty heavy product to move much easier.  This is great for large job sites where being mobile is essential.

Price – 3-5-stars

The main negative of Bosch demo hammers is in the asking price.  They will typically be in the premium price tier for a given power rating.  But as you can see above, the higher asking price does come with the inclusion of tons of great features, good build quality, and long-term reliability.  But for someone on a very tight budget, the sticker price may still be tough to swallow.

Overall Rating – 5-stars

Bosch has lead the way in demolition hammers for many years and it is no surprise why.  Their huge selection will meet everybody’s needs, from those looking for a small portable home unit up to professional builders who are after something for commercial jobs.  And no matter which model you decide to go with, you will enjoy some of the best performance in its class (particularly for the weight).  And this performance comes with plenty of features to make it easy for just about anybody to pick up and use.  You will pay a bit more for a Bosch compared to other brands but we feel that it is well worth it.


Chicago Pneumatic Demolition Hammer Review

Chicago Pneumatic CP7150 Heavy Duty Pistol Grip Air Hammer, 2,300 BPM

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Models: CP7110, CP7111, CP7120, CP714, CP7150, CP716, CP717, CP9362, CP9363, CP7373, GV5, RA1, RA2

Performance – 4-5-stars

Being all air-powered units, Chicago Pneumatic air hammers will have unique performance attributes and capabilities that you may not be used to seeing when compared to a more traditional large electric demolition hammer.  First off, these products are more designed for chipping and scaling as opposed to the large-scale destruction of thick concrete or rocks.  This makes them good for applying to walls to chip on small pieces or for removing debris from the bottom of a thick steel shaft, for instance.

There are a lot of models to choose from but many of them are copies of one another with a small tweak such as having a different shank shape.  If you look at core parts, there is a little over a dozen to choose from that will vary in power.

Starting towards the bottom will be models such as the CP7110 series.  This model comes with 3,200 blows per minute with a total power of approximately 7.2 joules.  At this size, it is great to keep around the house for smaller tasks.

As you scale up, you will find units such as the RA2 Series.  Thanks to larger bits and increased air consumption, the power is increased to 3,500 blow per minute with 5.6 joules.  And near the top of the category will be the robust GV5.  It enjoys an impressive 12.2 joules of power with 2,400 blows per minute.

It is worth mentioning that you won’t find a lot of the adjustability features that you are used to seeing in other battery-powered models.  Chicago Pneumatic air hammers are sort of designed to be on or off and will operate at a pretty standard maximum rate.

Reliability – 5-stars

In terms of build quality, Chicago Pneumatic offers up some of the most reliable air hammers in the industry.  They utilize fantastic materials (typically thick metals) and any fasteners or bolts/screws that are needed are of the highest quality.  But beyond this, the simplistic design of them means that there aren’t a lot of things that can break.  In many examples, their air hammers are more or less connected to an air hose with an internal device that manipulates the air into strokes to vibrate a rod.  With such a simple design that doesn’t need a lot of fancy electronics, you can put these through a lot of typical wear and tear and they will still operate without issue.

Comfort – 3-5-stars

The main burden with Chicago Pneumatic air hammers is that they will require you to run an airline through them.  This means that you will have to have a source of air nearby for them to even operate.  And in addition to this, you will have to pull this airline behind you wherever you try to move to.  There are mobile air carts that can be bought to help with this but that is an added expense.

That being said, since they don’t need any sort of power source build into them, the units themselves are incredibly lightweight. They are easy to lift and tilt which makes them great for applying horizontally to walls or even vertically.  Yes, you will be limited in what you can do with them due to the relative lack of stroke, but they are still great for many types of applications.  And Chicago Pneumatic has done a great job in designing them to minimize the number of vibrations that get to your hands.  And in many cases, these models will come with comfortable grips and even a safety lever for added comfort and control.

Price – 3-5-stars

When you buy from this brand, you are buying quality.  And quality does come with a price.  Relatively speaking, Chicago Pneumatic tools will run quite a bit more than many of your lower-tier brands.  And if you are looking strictly at power output relative to cost, you might be quite underwhelmed.

But where this brand stands out is in its quality and construction.  Many years down the road, many of those more affordable brand air hammers will have long since given out.  But a Chicago Pneumatic product will likely still be in operation and performing just as well as it did from day one.

Overall Rating – 4-5-stars

We appreciate this brand’s approach of not skimping on quality.  Their air hammers are simple in design and comprised of premium metals such as steel so they will last for long periods.  However, they will be more limited in raw power and features compared to many electric air hammers that you are used to seeing.  But the real application of these is more for horizontal scraping or fine-tuned chipping where you won’t need immense power.  If you are after something more along those lines (and are willing to pay a premium for a great brand), then Chicago Pneumatic might have just what you are looking for.


Dewalt Demolition Hammer Review

DEWALT Demolition Hammer, SDS MAX with Shocks, 23.4-lbs (D25901K)

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Models: D25892K, D25872K, D259804, D25951K, D25960K, D25851K, D25891K, D25899K, D25980K, D25980, D25831K, D25901K

Performance – 5-stars

No matter if you want a small portable hammer for household chores or if you are a professional contractor looking for something capable of breaking up hundreds of square feet of thick concrete, Dewalt has you covered.  All of their models are powered by standard electricity and can be plugged into most home outlets.

On the lower end will be units such as their popular D25872K.  This is a great household demo hammer and comes with 13.3 joules of impact energy.  The loading speed can be varied from 1,350 to 2,705 BPM which makes it great for many types of applications.  It also gives you great control and to help govern the size of concrete or rock chips that you produce.

Stepping up from this is a good mid-range example: the Dewalt D25960K demo hammer.  This unit also runs off of 15 amps (similar to the smaller models) but ramps things up to an impressive 35 joules of impact energy at 1,460 BPM.  This is a more professional-level demolition hammer so you won’t have all of the adjustable speed rates but it does come with some serious punch.

For the select few who need the maximum of hammer power, models such as the Dewalt D25980K are for you.  This huge hammer comes with 52 joules of impact energy at 900 BPM.  This is a great unit for breaking up large amounts of thick concrete or even the concrete foundation of a building.

Reliability – 5-stars

Dewalt tools come with some of the best warranties in the industry.  On their demolition hammers, you will enjoy a 3-year limited warranty.  For products that are specifically designed to be exposed to extreme vibrations (such as impact and destruction hammers), a 3-year warranty is quite good.

So it is no surprise that the build quality is top-notch.  Many of their models take advantage of 1 1/8” Hex Demo Steel which is among the toughest steels you can find.  And the electronics are safely housed and designed to handle the vibrations that they will experience during normal use.  When you buy a Dewalt Demolition Hammer, you are buying a product that will last!

Comfort – 4-5-stars

Depending on which model you go with, you may find that the weight can get a bit high.  For instance, the larger models will have product weights of 50+ pounds.  This can limit mobility but when you want this kind of performance that is the price that you pay.

But Dewalt has done everything that they can to make them as easy to use as possible.  These demo hammers come with active vibration controls to help minimize how much vibration gets to hour hands.  And the handles are rubber coated to give you increased comfort and control.  Other nice features include a soft start and, in some of the smaller models, the ability to manipulate the speed.  This can help con control chip sick and also fine-tune the settings depending on the thickness and density of the material that you are working with.

Price – 3-5-stars

Dewalt is known for a lot of great aspects: impressive performance, nice user-friendly features, and proven reliability.  But what they aren’t known for is their super cheap prices.  These are higher-caliber units and you will pay a bit extra to enjoy a Dewalt Demolition Hammer when compared to many of the cheap Chinese knockoff units that you may be tempted to buy to save money.

Overall Rating – 3-5-stars

Dewalt is an industry leader in many product lines and their large selection of demo hammers is no exception.  No matter what size or scope of the task you are after, they have a perfect product that will fit your needs.  In terms of raw performance, you will be very impressed with their ability to handle concrete and rock (both thin and thick).  And their user controls help to tap into this power while not being overly harsh on the operator’s hands.  Finally, the build quality and reliability are exceptional.  While you will pay a higher price to enjoy this, we feel that it is well worth it.


E7tools Demolition Hammer Review

Heavy Duty 1-1/2' Demolition Jack Hammer Concrete Breaker

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Models: Heavy Duty 1-1/2” Demolition Hammer

Performance – 3-5-stars

On paper, the performance of the E7tools Demolition Hammer isn’t bad.  It comes with 900W of input power which is harnessed to produce 2,900 BMP of hammer frequency.  With the included point and flat chisels (both of which are 270mm long), it is at a size and power that can make it a worthy candidate for most household demolition needs.  However, you will be limited in user controls as there are not advanced speed adjustment settings.

Reliability – 2-5-stars

We have heard quite a few complaints about the build quality of certain components on this model.  Specifically, issues surrounding the rubber handle and metal mounting bracket are common.  In a product that is designed to vibrate excessively, skimping on mounts and attachment features can produce major issues early on.

While the motor and moving mechanisms seem to operate fine for an acceptable period, the lack of handling the vibrations results in the unit beginning to fall apart over time.  This is not good!

Comfort – 3-stars

Since the e7tools demo hammer doesn’t take advantage of thick metal parts or have a host of additional features, the result is a relatively lightweight unit.  This makes it easy to transport and something that you can even lift to apply to non-horizontal surfaces.

However, the major issue is with the vibrations.  This hammer doesn’t do a very good job of controlling them.  Because of this, you will have to deal with some pretty intense vibrations going through your hands.  And the lack of speed control means that if you are working on a particularly dense piece of material, the vibrations can become quite intense.

Price – 4-5-stars

The main positive of this unit is its asking price.  For the given power output, it is among the most affordable demo hammers that we have tested.  However, some notable sacrifices have to be made along the way to reach this price.  For people who are hungry for features and overall power, this may be an issue.  But to everyone else: it shouldn’t be a huge concern.

Overall Rating – 3-stars

E7tools has always been a great source of low-cost products but in the case of their demolition jackhammer, the cost savings don’t compensate for the notable issues with reliability and comfort.  The motor that it uses is fine but the supporting frame and components aren’t up to the task of handling the vibrations that a demolition hammer produces during normal operation.  The result in pieces falling apart and a pretty uncomfortable ride for your hands.  While there are some solid budget models out there, we don’t feel that this particular one is one of them.


F2C Demolition Hammer Review

F2C 2200W Heavy Duty Electric Demolition Jack Hammer Concrete Breaker Power Tool Kit 2 Chisel 2 Punch Bit Set W/Case, Gloves

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Models: 2200W Heavy Duty Demo Hammer

Performance – 3-5-stars

If it wasn’t obvious from the name, F2C’s demo hammer comes equipped with a 2200W power source.  This motor is powered by a 110V power supply which is typically in most homes.  This motor is capable of 1,900 impacts per minute which is around 55J of energy.  It is worth mentioning that there isn’t any sort of speed variability setting so what you see is what you get.  Inside the kit will be a 1-1/8” bull point chisel as well as a 1-1/8” flat chisel.  These two chisels along with a decent amount of power results in a demolition jackhammer that is good for a wide variety of applications including breaking rock, chipping concrete, making trenches, and more.  We have found that 3 to 4” material should be no problem for this demolition hammer.

Reliability – 3-5-stars

This is an imported unit (likely sourced from China) so the quality won’t be up to the high standards of more expensive USA-made products.  You will find plastic used instead of metal to save on costs.  And while we always prefer metal components over plastic, the housing seems to hold up pretty well.  And the most important part, the motor, should operate without issue for an acceptable period.  The most common complaint that we saw was with the sizing of certain elements.  In particular, some people commented that the bit doesn’t always fit correctly into the bit housing.  However, this wasn’t an overly common issue so we wouldn’t worry too much about it.

Comfort – 3-5-stars

The F2C Electric Demolition Hammer is a bit on the bulky side since it does house an electric motor (and is pretty large, to begin with).  Because of this, you will likely be limited to vertical operation.  But to help with ease of use, there are a few notable features.  They include things such as a lock rotating chisel that allows you to orient the position in a way that makes it most comfortable for you, an overhead rubber grip handle, and extra plastic to help absorb the vibrations.  However, we did feel a good amount of vibrations still make it to your hands so we recommend wearing gloves and having a strong grip while using this.  Furthermore, the lack of adjustable speed settings means that things may get pretty shaky if you are trying to tackle a particularly hard piece of material.

Price – 4-5-stars

One thing that we love about F2C products is their great asking price.  Since they don’t deal with a middleman store, their prices are typically very reasonable across the board.  And that is also the case here with their demolition hammer.  For the power output, you will enjoy a great bang for your buck.  Yes, it is lacking in some features and the overall “fit and finish” might not be the best, but you can’t deny that it gets the job done for cheap.

Overall Rating – 3-5-stars

For someone on a tight budget and simply looking for a capable demolition hammer for their next mid-size job, F2C’s jackhammer makes a solid choice.  It is pretty raw: you won’t find many features and it can be a pretty shaky ride while using.  But for many, that is easily overlooked when you consider that it is pretty reliable and produces some nice power.


Gizmo Supply Co. Demolition Hammer Review

Gizmo Supply 2200W 1900RPM Electric Demolition Jack Hammer

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Models: 2200W Electric, 2800W Electric, 3600W Electric

Performance – 4-stars

All of Gizmo Supply Co’s demolition hammers are electric-powered and their specific power rating is displayed on the title of the product.  You can choose between three models: 2,200W, 2,800W, and 3,600W.  Despite varying in power output, all three models operate very similarly.  They offer very similar impacts per minute (1,900 in the 2200W model and 1,800 in the 2,800 and 3,600W models).  This is a proven RPM that can really tear up some hard material but not go so fast as to get too out of control or become overwhelmed with vibrations.

It is worth noting that there aren’t any advanced features such as the ability to manipulate impact speed at full throttle.  This can be helpful for someone who is a bit heavy-handed and using it on extremely hard concrete or rock.

A really neat feature that is somewhat unique to Gizmo Supply Co is their specialty models that come pre-equipped with a nice chisel.  For instance, there is a model specially designed for handling concrete as it comes with both a flat chisel and a bull point chisel.  And for someone who plans on using their demo hammer for trenching instead, there is a model that comes with a large scoop and spade hex shovel.

Overall, we are pleased with the power that is generated with any model that you select.  However, if you plan on using your hammer for more intense applications such as 5”+ thick concrete, you are probably better off going with one of the larger models.

Reliability – 4-5-stars

Demolition hammers are notorious for having extremely short warranties.  This can be attributed to the fact that, while in operation, they undergo a lot of wear and tear in short order.  With all of the vibrations occurring, it is natural for things to break.

So it refreshing to see Gizmo Supply Co. offer a year warranty on their hammers.  This may not sound like a lot, but it is among one of the longest warranties in the industry and is proof that their products are designed to last.

The overall build quality is great.  You will found metal housing and thick steel components in areas that other cheaper brands would try to get away using plastic.  Furthermore, the electric motors are very reliable and shouldn’t give you much headache as long as you properly maintain them.

Comfort – 4-stars

These units are a bit on the heavy side due to their thick metal construction.  Because of this, you will have to be extra careful while using it.  And if you happen to be on the smaller side, the larger models may simply be too heavy for you to comfortably lift and apply at any sort of angle.

However, outside of the weight issue, they are very easy to use.  You will find a 360 Degree Swivel Foregrip Handle that adds some much-needed flexibility and comfort.  And the rear handle with the throttle is placed in a good spot to allow you to maintain good user control.

Price – 3-5-stars

Gizmo Supply Co. Demolition Hammers are a bit pricier than many of the other models that we have tested.  But this can be attributed to their superior quality and proven reliability.  If you are on an extremely thin budget and simply looking for something to tear up some rocks, there are cheaper options out there that will deliver similar results.  But the longevity and build quality of these models is where you will stand out from the cheaper competition.

Overall Rating – 4-stars

We are quite pleased with Gizmo Supply Co’s potent lineup of electric demolition hammers.  There is enough of a variety to meet the needs of everything from small residential tasks up to mid-commercial tasks.  And the fact that there are specialty models that come with bits for certain applications is a nice touch.  The build quality and reliability are great and the warranty isn’t too shabby, either.  That being said, these will run you a bit more because of this.


Goplus Demolition Hammer Review

Goplus 2200 Watt Electric Demolition Jack Hammer Concrete Breaker Punch Chisel Bit Hd

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Models: Hyet Model, FOS Model

Performance – 3-5-stars

Goplus doesn’t appear to sell any actual name-brand demo hammers and instead offers up a couple of very similar electric hammers that are under the name of other brands (Hyet and FOS).  We have seen other brands sell these same types of demo hammers so we can only assume that they are mass-produced units likely made in China that are then bought by large distributors such as Goplus.

No matter which model you go with, they will essentially have the same performance: 2,200W with 1,900 RPM.  This is enough power for your typical home application but may struggle with anything more than this.

We do like that these models come with two bits to choose from: one is better for hard materials such as concrete and rocks while the other is better suited for tearing up dirt or mulch.  Also, the pointed chisel is great for initial drilling to open up a material.  Then, you can switch over to the flat bit to help further break down the material.

Reliability – 3-stars

We have received several complaints in regards to the reliability of Goplus Demolition Hammers.  While the electric motor seems to operate fine, the cheap plastic handle tends to crack and break in a short period.  The intense vibrations that are transferred through the handle just aren’t up to the task.  This can be quite frustrating as a broken handle on a demo hammer means that you don’t have anywhere to stabilize it.

The rest of the unit is made of decent metal.  But Goplus needs to sort out their handle issue before we can recommend it in regards to reliability.

Comfort – 3-stars

There aren’t any features to help minimize vibrations so it may be a pretty rough going while using this (particularly on harder materials).  Also, there is nothing in the way of speed variability so, when at full throttle, the hammer may want to jump or kick.

A nice positive is relatively lightweight compared to other electric units that we have tested.  While it is by no means light, the size and stature of it mean that you should be able to hold it horizontally to apply to a vertical surface without too much strain.  That is, of course, assuming that the handle stays in one piece!

Price – 4-5-stars

As is typical of Goplus products, the asking price is very attractive.  Goplus is an extremely popular online brand because they offer various tools at price points that many other companies simply can’t compete with.  However, this does come with some quality sacrifices as we discussed above.

Overall Rating – 3-5-stars

While we appreciate the great asking price of the Goplus Demolition Hammer, its glaring quality issues stop it from being a strong recommendation in our book.  If all you are looking for is a cheap and simple hammer to knock out one or two tasks then yes, it will work fine.  But if you are looking for a more long-term solution that will hold up to years of wear and tear then you may be a bit disappointed.


Gracelove Demolition Hammer Review

Gracelove HD 3600Watt Electric Demolition Concrete Jack Hammer Breaker w/ Case New

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Models: 3600W Electric

Performance – 3-5-stars

This model is a HYET brand, which we have seen other companies sell as well.  Specifically, this is their largest model and operates at around 1,800 RPM.  As we have discussed in other areas of this review, this RPM strikes a good balance with the impressive power that the HYETT engine produces.  The result is a demo hammer that can handle around 5 to 6” thick maximum concrete in our experience.  We appreciate Gracelove including two separate drill bits to expand the applications that their demo jackhammer can handle.

Reliability – 3-stars

Seeing how this is the same unit other brands have used, you will find the reliability to be about the same.  Overall, the electric motor doesn’t show us any major concerns.  But the plastic handle and housing may be prone to cracking sooner that many (more expensive) electric housings that other models may have. Also, the on/off switch feels a little “cheap”.

Comfort – 3-stars

There are two rotating handles on this model which helps to add to the flexibility of it.  This makes squeezing into tighter corridors or trying to apply this at an angle much easier.  And for the power output, the overall weight isn’t that bad.  Our only complaint is with the location of the power switch.  Rather than having a trigger like on a gun (which we have found to be the best layout for maximum user control), the switch is actually on the body of the demolition hammer.  This results in a somewhat awkward position that reduces how much control you will feel like you have with the throttle.

Price – 4-stars

Because the electric motor used here is on the larger side, the asking price will be a bit higher than many other “budget” brands that you might have read about on this review.  However, compared to similarly-powered units available from other brands, the asking price is plenty competitive.  As you might expect, this does come with a reduction in features and a few shortcuts on build quality and longevity.

Overall Rating – 3-5-stars

If you are simply after a powerful and semi-compact demolition hammer at a reasonable price, then Gracelove makes a good argument.  However, it won’t have very many features and there are some notable issues with the design.  Specifically, we aren’t a big fan of the location of the power switch.  But we must commend them on offering up two rotating handles instead of one.


Hiltex Demolition Hammer Review

Hiltex 10513 1-1/2 Inch SDS Rotary Hammer Drill | Includes Demolition Bits, Flat and Point Chisels

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Models: 10513

Performance – 3-stars

Since this isn’t technically a demolition hammer, the overall performance will be different.  The electric source comes thanks to a 1,000 Watt motor.  This is pretty potent for a normal drill and, thanks to its three function modes (hammer, hammer drill, and drill), it can tap into this motor to produce up to 5 ft-lbs of impact energy.  Also, you will have some flexibility in rotation speed which varies from 0 to 800 rpm.

You may already notice that these numbers, while good for a drill, are nowhere near the metrics that many of the other demolition hammers that we have reviewed achieve.  And you would be correct.

This drill, used specifically as a demolition hammer, will be quite poor.  Hiltex comes out and states that they don’t recommend using it on anything thicker than around 1” of concrete.

However, you will get a lot more versatility out of it since it doubles as a traditional drill.

Reliability – 3-stars

Hiltex is in the market for budget-friendly tools.  So to keep the prices low, they do have to sacrifice some on quality.  In particular, there are quite a few issues associated with the chuck adapter and brushes wearing down prematurely.  And these issues spawn very quickly in hammer mode as this is the mode that produces the most intense vibrations.  In other words, this drill works fine as a drill but when you try using the hammer mode, things just start to fall apart.

Comfort – 3-5-stars

Since this is in the shape of a traditional drill, it is very simple and comfortable to use.  You will find an easy-grip handle with the trigger in addition to a 360-degree swivel handle for added control.  Combine this with the lightweight attribute (under 20 pounds), and you have an incredibly mobile drill.

However, when you do begin trying to use the hammer feature, the vibration can become extremely intense.  You may find that you have a hard time keeping a good grip when trying to hammer into a particularly tough material.

Price – 4-5-stars

This is one of the most affordable products in this review.  But a large part of that has to do with the fact that it isn’t a demolition hammer but rather a beefed-up drill.  So while you may be amazed at the low price point at first, when you see its capabilities strictly as a hammer, you will likely decide to spend a bit more for something more traditional.

Overall Rating – 3-5-stars

While we appreciate the Hiltex Rotary Drill/Hammer hybrid, it just doesn’t perform as a hammer well enough to warrant it.  The build quality and materials used simply can’t hold up to the intense vibrations of a hammer feature.  And the electric motor, while plenty powerful for a drill, doesn’t produce enough impact energy to make it viable for anything but the smallest of demolition tasks.


Hilti Demolition Hammer Review

Hilti 3484793 TE 700-AVR Demolition Hammer Performance Package

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Models: TE 500-AVR, TE 700-AVR, TE 800-AVR, TE 1000-AVR, TE 2000-AVR, TE 3000-AVR

Performance – 5-stars

No matter if you are wanting something for light-duty chiseling or you are after a commercial-grade unit capable of heavy-duty concrete floor demolition, Hilti has something for you.  All of their products are electric powered, with the smaller models having the traditional gun-style design and the larger models stepping up to the vertical design.

On the lower end, you will find the TE 500-AVR.  This demo hammer is great for light-duty chiseling and comes with a versatile 3,180 impacts/minute of full hammering frequency.  And each of these hammers has an impact energy of 6 ft-lbs.  This translates to a maximum chiseling performance of 55 in^3/min.  Not bad for such a small device!

If you like the ability to hold the demo hammer vertically or horizontally but need more power, the TE 1000-AVR might be just what you are looking for.  It bumps up the impact energy to 19 ft-lbs at an impact frequency of 1,950 impacts/minute.  This is a great tool as it can still handle wall chiseling due to is relatively small stature but is also much more capable when it comes to raw concrete floor breaking.

Finally, if you are after the absolute best in terms of Hilti performance, look no further than the TE 3000-AVR.  This demolition hammer is designed to just be used vertically and it comes with a whopping 50 ft-lbs of impact energy that is delivered at 860 impacts/minute.  With these kinds of numbers, you should make short work of any concrete floor.  You will enjoy a maximum chiseling performance of 2,400 in^3/min.

Reliability – 5-stars

Hilti has been a staple in construction sites all over the world for many years.  And a big portion of this can be attributed to their build quality.  When you buy a Hilti product, you are buying something that will last for many years.  The fit, finish, and material selection across all product sizes are excellent.  The motors are equipped with Maintenance-free brushless SR motors that have triple-chamber lubrication systems.  This means longer service life and fewer service visits.  And Hilti stands behind their product with an industry-leading 20-year warranty.  Few, if any, other brands can compare to that!

Comfort – 4-5-stars

All of the larger Hilti Demolition Hammers will come equipped with Active Vibration Reduction (AVR).  This helps to absorb a lot of the vibrations that occur while doing demolition work which helps reduce the fatigue in your hands.  And while there always will be some level of vibration, the comfortable grip handles do a great job of ensuring that you always have a comfortable and tight grip on the situation.

As for the weight, we aren’t too disappointed.  While they aren’t the lightest units that we have tested, when you consider the quality of the components and the performance, it is a great package that is surprisingly compact.  All but the largest of models can be lifted and used at an angle without too much strain.

Price – 3-stars

Now for the bad part: Hilti Demolition Hammers are incredibly expensive.  They will be at the top of the premium price tier.  And for some, the asking price may simply be too far out of their budget.  But it is important to remember that you are buying a product that will last for many years.  And in the case that something does go wrong, Hilti will be there to repair or replace it.  So the big question is: are you being more frugal buying a cheaper demolition hammer that will last for a year or buying a more expensive one that will last for 20?  We think that the answer is obvious!

Overall Rating – 4-5-stars

We were blown away by the overall performance, features, and build quality of Hilti’s lineup of demolition jackhammers.  No matter if you are looking for a product to do some light wall renovating or you are a builder who needs something to tear apart the ground of a large commercial building, Hilti has you covered. And their warranty is incredibly impressive and shows us that they stand behind their products.  Yes, they are very expensive.  But you will be glad in the long run that you spent a bit more upfront to enjoy a great product that will outlast almost all of its competition.


Hitachi Demolition Hammer Review

Hitachi H90SG 70-Pound Demolition Hammer, 1-1/8-Inch

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Models: H45, H60, H65, H90

Performance – 5-stars

The name designations of Hitachi Demolition Hammers may be confusing to some but it essentially boils down to four different models: The H45, H60, H65, and H90.  Each of these is sub-categories that comprise of round hex bits, max shank bits, etc.  But in terms of performance, all of the models of a given type are very similar.

On the lowest end is the H45 Series.  Available in Spline Round Hex, SDS Max Shank, and Heavy Duty, the H45 is a great handheld demolition hammer with enough power to be used in a variety of demolition applications but yet still mobile enough to easily carry.  It comes with an 8.3 Amp motor that produces 3,000 BPM at an impact energy of 9.2 ft/lbs.  At this power output, you shouldn’t have any issues doing minor concrete work (up to around 2” thick).

If you need something more powerful, consider trying out the H60 Series.  Its power is bumped up thanks to a larger 12.5 Amp motor that translates to 19.2 ft/lbs of maximum impact energy.  A great feature of the H60 is that you can vary both the impact energy as well as the impacts per minute.  This makes it great for certain applications where you may not want the full operating speed due to high vibrations that could occur.

For the ultimate in Hitachi Demolition Hammers, the H90 is your answer.  This is a large vertical-style demo hammer and is powered by a huge 15 Amp motor.  With this motor, you will have 40.6 ft-lbs of impact energy at 850 BPM at your fingertips.  This is some serious bite and should be able to handle concrete walls and floors of 5”+.

Reliability – 4-5-stars

Hitachi is the go-to brand for many building professionals.  So they must be built to last.  And that is certainly the case here.  One of our favorite features is Hitachi’s IDI (Internal Double Insulation) Technology.  This feature incorporates double insulation into the housing.  This beefs up what can be an otherwise weak point on many demo hammers, resulting in increased durability and tool life.  Also, the larger units will come with idle hammering prevention.  This helps to stop the motor from running when idling which minimizes the wear on the motor over time.  Finally, Hitachi offers up a 1-year warranty on their demolition hammers.  While it isn’t the absolute longest we have seen, it is still solid.

Comfort – 4-5-stars

Hitachi Demolition Hammers are very easy to use.  While they may be a bit on the heavy side, they come with lots of great features to reduce vibration and noise.  Hitachi states that some of their models have up to 40% less vibration and a 30% reduction in tool exertion compared to other models.

We like the variable lock system.  It makes replacing bits quick and easy.  And it offers multiple tool angles which is very beneficial while chiseling.

As we mentioned above, the variable speed controls allow you to find that “happy spot” where you can complete the work that you need to but without excess vibrations.  And for the vibrations that do remain, there are fully adjustable D-handles that rotate up to 360 degrees to find that perfect configuration to help your hands handle it.

Price – 3-5-stars

The biggest barrier to entry with Hitachi is its high price tag.  They are well into the premium price tier.  But like many things in life, you get what you pay for.  And for this high price, you get a great demo hammer that is loaded with comfort features.  And let’s not forget just how versatile they are: when you buy a Hitachi Demo Hammer, you are buying something that can be used for a wide range of demolition applications.

Overall Rating – 4-5-stars

We are extremely impressed with the total package that you get when you buy a Hitachi Demolition Hammer.  In terms of comfort while using, Hitachi leads the pack.  These models do a great job of reducing vibration and tool wear while still delivering excellent and reliable performance.  The only complaint that we have with them is their high asking price.  But in our opinion, the higher price tag is more than worth it considering the great product that you will get to enjoy for many years to come.


Homgrace Demolition Hammer Review

Homgrace 5.4 Amp Electric Hammer Drill, 1/2' Keyed 3 Jaw 800W Variable Speed Drill Chuck & Shiled Rotary Tools Kit

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Models: 2200W

Performance – 3-5-stars

You have likely seen this performance before: a gun-style demo hammer with a 2,200W electric motor.  However, the one area that this product appears to differ is with the impact rate.  While most of the other 2,200W models that we have tested operate at 1,800 to 1,900, this unit is advertised as going at 1,400.  This is much lower speed and will limit the overall impact energy that is exerted over some time.  The benefit is that lower operation impact speed usually means lower vibrations.  For a product of this caliber, small-size concrete walls should be doable.

Reliability – 3-stars

Being a budget item, the overall fit and finish aren’t the best here.  We do appreciate Homgrace using metal components in most pieces but the metal is a bit on the thin side.  And there have been some complaints about the drill bit connection piece breaking prematurely as well as the handles cracking early on.  This is quite common in lower-end demo hammers due to the vibrations.

Comfort – 3-5-stars

For helping with holding, you will find a 360-degree swivel side handle.  This, combined with the rear handle where the trigger is located, allows you to easily hold this demo hammer upright or sideways.  And combined with its reasonable size, you should have no problem getting into tight areas with it.  Also, the vibrations are for the most part kept in check due to the lower impact rate.

Price – 4-5-stars

Homgrace’s Demolition Hammer is quite affordable.  It is at a price point very similar to the other brands that sell essentially the same unit so if you are set on trying the 2,200W model out, go with whichever brand has it for the cheapest at the time.

Overall Rating – 3-5-stars

The Homgrace Demo Hammer is a simple and affordable solution for someone who is only looking to tackle smaller residential tasks.  The average-powered motor combined with below-average impact speed does limit how thick of concrete and rock you can tackle.  But it also means a smoother ride with fewer vibrations.  We do have a couple of issues with the quality of certain components but at this price point, we can’t be too picky.


Hoteche Demolition Hammer Review

Heavy Duty 1-1/2' Rotary Demolition Jack Hammer Concrete Breaker With Core Drill Bit 2 in 1

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Models: 110V Electric

Performance – 3-stars

The Hoteche Demolition Hammer is powered by a 110V electric motor that produces 1HP of power.  This power is translated into 440 BPM which is quite low compared to most of the other electric demolition hammers of this size that we have tested.  The maximum drill capacity diameter is 1.5” which is about average.  With this overall output, this demo hammer is suitable for smaller tasks such as breaking up thin concrete walls and demolishing concrete flooring up to around 2 inches.  Anything thicker than this and you will probably want to go with a larger unit.

Reliability – 3-5-stars

We are sometimes wary of Chinese tool companies as their products, while affordable, oftentimes lack in the quality department.  This is particularly true of something like a demolition hammer which has to be able to handle a lot of vibrations.  To our surprise, this Hoteche hammer is pretty reliable.  The components are mostly quality metal instead of cheap plastic and the little 1 HP motor seems to operate within its parameters for quite a while.  Just make sure that you properly maintain it and you should have a proven demo hammer that will meet your needs.  Our only issue is that if you do happen to have any issues with the product malfunctioning, you may have a difficult time working with Hoteche.  They seem to be quite difficult to get a hold of and their website needs a huge facelift.

Comfort – 3-stars

Since this hammer does operate at a pretty low RPM, you won’t deal with the high vibrations that some models with faster impact rates deal with.  And this is a good thing as Hoteche’s demo hammer doesn’t come with any of the more advanced anti-vibration features that we have seen in other models.  Also, we are a bit underwhelmed with the gripping features of the unit.  The rear handle with the trigger isn’t bad but the front handle is quite lacking and not very comfortable.

Price – 4-stars

One of the best positives of this model is its very reasonable price.  For a 1 HP electric motor, the price is very competitive.  Yes, it is lacking in features and comfort levels, but for someone who needs something cheap, reliable, and simple for smaller tasks, it is an attractive purchase.

Overall Rating – 3-5-stars

The Hoteche Demolition hammer didn’t take our breaths away but for a simple, affordable demo hammer, it will do the trick.  The lack of features and the somewhat Spartan design are good indications that it is a lower-cost product but the reliability of it can’t be ignored.


Ingersoll-Rand Demolition Hammer Review

Ingersoll-Rand 3A2SA Heavy-Duty Chipping Hammer

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Models: JH40, JRD30, JRD50, A Series, D Series, W Series, MX Series, PB Series

Performance – 5-stars

If you want maximum performance then look no further than Ingersoll-Rand.  They have many different types of products so we will briefly discuss a few including their jackhammers, chipping hammers, and pavement breakers.

Starting with their jackhammers, you have 3 series to choose from.  The smallest models will be the JRD30 Series Rock Drills.  These models offer up a bore diameter of 2 inches and in impressive max hole depth of 10 feet.  They are powered by 73 CFM of air which translates to a robust 2,700 blows per minute.  If you, for whatever reason, need even more jackhammer power, you can step up to the enormous JH40 Series.  These powerful jackhammers also offer up a hole capacity of 2 inches but increase maximum hole depth to an incredible 18 feet.  They specialize in harder rocks, making them quite versatile for any application that you can throw at them. The blows per minute are reduced to 2,000 but the added power increases air consumption up to 115 CFM.  This is a serious competitor designed for the most extreme of jobs.

In addition to this, you will find a new selection of Ingersoll-Rand Chipping Hammers.  All of their models are designed for professional applications but depending on which series you go with, it will be specially designed for either industrial, construction, or heavy applications.  The A-Series is arguably the lightest of the three.  They come in many configurations that vary both in stroke length and blows per minute.  Depending on which model you go with, you can expect stroke length to vary anywhere from 25mm up to 102m, and blow per minute will range from 1,480 to, 2,500.  The W Series is the heavy-duty series.  They are specially designed for harder materials and longer tool life and range in blows per minute from 1,480 to 2,500.

Finally, if you are specializing in pavement demolition, then consider the Ingersoll-Rand Pavement Breakers.  Specifically, if you are doing a lot of asphalt removal, then the MX Series will be your best choice.  It is no surprise that it comes in many different configurations which all have a 5-inch stroke length but vary some in bore diameter and air consumption.  These operate at a much lower rate (1250 blows per minute) which is preferable when dealing exclusively with the pavement.  If you find you or your crew working more on bridges or lightweight demo work, then the PB Series will be better suited for you.  The bore diameter is thinned up to just 1 inch and the blows per minute range from 1,150 to 1,250.

Reliability – 5-stars

All of these models are incredibly reliable.  Since Ingersoll-Rand’s primary customers are professionals, one of their top priorities is in making a long-lasting tool.  You will find thick reinforced metal in nearly every component.  And the overall design of these tools are straight to the point: fewer components means fewer components that can break.

Also, being an air-powered demolition hammer has an added benefit of not having to rely on an electric or gas motor which oftentimes can be the weak point of a tool.

Worth noting are the lock spring retainers, rubber buffer retainers, and threaded barrels in the Chipping Hammers and the drop-in composite valve cartridges and one-piece breaker housings in the Pavement Breakers.

Comfort – 4-stars

When you are having to channel this much airpower, having a comfortable and capable tool is essential.  The great benefit of air-powered tools is that they are almost always more lightweight than a comparable electric or gas-powered demo hammer.  The negative is that you will have to have some sort of airline that goes to it.

We have found that Ingersoll-Rand’s demolition hammers are very easy to maneuver in most tight spaces.  Other features such as the swan neck handle/long nozzle on the chipping hammers and the vibration-reduced flex handle/variable exhaust deflector on the pavement breakers help to make these as user-friendly as possible.

Price – 3-stars

The main negative of these tools is their price.  They are extremely expensive, particularly for what is a pretty simple air-powered demolition hammer.  However, when you pay the high price tag, you are paying for proven quality, unmatched reliability, and great customer support.  For crews who absolutely can’t have a moment of downtown due to a tool failing, this is simply the cost of admission.  But for your casual homeowner looking to work on small tasks, it might be a bit overkill.

Overall Rating – 4-5-stars

We are extremely impressed with all facets of Ingersoll-Rand’s lineup of demolition tools.  No matter if you are after a traditional jackhammer, a pavement breaker, or a chipping tool, they will have dozens of options with unique specifications to meet your needs.  In terms of performance, reliability, and build quality, these lead the industry.  But this does come at a very high asking price and what might quite simply be overkill for your casual user.  But still: if you are after the very best in air-powered demolition equipment, then look no further.


I_S Import Demolition Hammer Review

3000BPM 900W 1-1/2' Electric Demolition Hammer Concrete Breaker W/Chisels Bits

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Models: 3,000 BMP 900W Electric

Performance – 3-stars

The overall power is a bit limited, coming in at just 900W.  For electric models that we have check out, this is towards the lower end of the spectrum.  But I_S Import does translate this into a decent application rate: 3,000 BPM.  At this power and rate, they believe that it is a great answer for those looking to specifically break up the concrete of up to around 3 to 4 inches thick.  And in terms of impact energy, it adds up to around 12 Joules which isn’t terrible.  Noticeably missing is any sort of speed variable setting, however.

Reliability – 3-5-stars

We don’t have a lot of experience with this brand but, from what we have gathered, these demo hammer appears to be pretty reliable.  There is a bit more plastic than we would like to see but this does help in reducing overall weight.  Also, since the overall impact energy isn’t extremely high, vibrations should be kept down.  We have found the small electric motor to be quite reliable.  And the included carbon brush should last for around 60 hours before having to replace it.

Comfort – 4-stars

Coming in at under 20 pounds, this is one of the lightest demolition hammers that you will come across.  And it is also equipped with a 360-degree rotary side handle.  These two factors make it very easy to tilt at an angle and reach into tight corridors.  We have talked to some people who prefer lower BPMs for dealing with concrete, however.  So if you are trying to break up particularly hard concrete, the vibrations may be a bit more intense than you would like.

Price – 4-stars

The I_S Import Demolition Hammer is very reasonably priced.  For a small household demo product, it should fall within most people’s budgets. That being said, the power output and features are a bit lacking.  But for someone who simply wants a tool that works and at a low cost, then it makes a strong argument.

Overall Rating – 3-5-stars

This demo hammer is small, simple, and it works.  While you will be limited in what you can do with it, its ease of use and reliability make it easy to forget that.  And we love the very affordable cost of it.  All in all, we give it our seal of approval.  But it won’t be quite up to the task of your larger heavy-duty applications.


Lotus Analin Demolition Hammer Review

Lotus Analin HD 3600 Watt Electric Demolition Jack Hammer Concrete Breaker Punch + Chisel Bit

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Models: Air Hammer, 1000W Electric, 3600W Electric

Performance – 4-stars

As you might suspect, the specific performance of your Lotus Analin Demolition Hammer will depend on which model you go with.  And some models may simply be overpowered or underpowered for what your specific application is.

The smallest example is its air-powered unit.  This hammer hooks up directly to an airline and offers up speeds of 3,500 RPM at 90 psi of air.  This isn’t a lot of air movement: just 5.5 CFM.  So you will be quite limited in what you can do with this.  We recommend sticking primarily to smaller tasks such as rust removal or trimming of metal edges rather than large-scale demolition.  There are 5 different bits that it comes with which is quite nice.

For something with a higher ceiling, you will want to go with one of the two Electric Models.  You can choose between a 1000W Electric and a 3600W Electric.  The smaller 1000W model delivers a hammer rate of 3,000 BPM.  This is transferred through one of two include chisels (both are 1 – ½” diameter).  The larger model bumps the power up to an impressive 3,600W.  This motor delivers a slower load rate of 1,400 BPM.  This lower rate is better on harder rocks as anything higher may make the vibrations too much to handle.  You can also use this demo hammer on concrete, brick, tile, or any other thick hard material that you need to break apart.

Reliability – 3-5-stars

These models are imported and run into the same common reliability issues that we are used to seeing on low-cost imports: cheaper materials and questionable fit/finish.  You will see that many pieces are in plastic and thin metal.  This is compared to higher-end models that may come with thick metal instead.  Furthermore, the fit and finish of the various components aren’t the best.  We had some minor fitment issues with the exchangeable bits.  And when you are dealing with high impact frequencies, any sort of non-flush fitment can cause some major vibrations.  The strong point is the electric motors which seem to hold up to typical wear and tear just fine.

Comfort – 3-5-stars

There isn’t much in the way of anti-vibration elements here.  The good side is that these demolition hammers are on the smaller side and don’t operate at crazy high load energy rates so that should help keep the vibrations somewhat in check.  We do like that they include multiple bits.  Also, the 360-degree foregrip handle that we are used to seeing on demolition hammer of this size are present.

Price – 4-stars

The cost of the various Lotus Analin Demolition Hammers is quite fair.  This is particularly true in the smaller models (the air-driven and 1000W units).  The 3600W, while a bit more expensive, is still very competitive compared to similarly powered units on the market.

Overall Rating – 3-5-stars

We can appreciate the diversity of Lotus Analin’s demo hammers but the same quality issues that we have seen time and time again on cheap imports are present here.  These units will work fine in a casual residential setting but if you plan on trying to push them in an industrial setting, the weakness of the materials may come out to haunt you.  However, for the price, they do what they intend to and without too much concern.


Lovshare Demolition Hammer Review

Mophorn 3600W Electric Demolition Hammer Heavy Duty Concrete Breaker 1800 RPM Jack Hammer Demolition Drills with Flat Chisel Bull Point Chisel (3600 W)

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Models: 3600W Electric

Performance – 3-5-stars

Lovshare’s electric 3600W demolition hammer is powered by a 3600W electric motor.  This motor at full power (which is all it can to since there are no speed control adjustability options) spins at 1400 RPM which means 1400 BPM.  This is a bit lower than many people are used to seeing but, in our experience, it is still plenty fast to tear up materials of medium to medium-high hardness.  And speaking of tearing up, the drill bit comes in at 95mm.  This is a “happy medium” between large enough to make a large effect yet small enough to still have a good user control.

Reliability – 3-5-stars

The main bright spot here lies with the electric motor.  It is very reliable and should last for a few years with proper maintenance.  Also, it is protected by a double insulated motor case.  Where we have some issues are with the outer housing as well as the flushness of the drill bits.  The housing has some aluminum in it but it is a bit on the thin side: things that we don’t like to see in a unit that is supposed to handle a lot of vibrations.  Also, we wouldn’t mind if the drill bit holder mechanism was a bit more flush to allow the bits to sit inside a bit better.

Comfort – 3-5-stars

The weight of this, considering the power output, is about average.  But not having any sort of significant anti-vibration features is negative.  We do like the 360-degree swivel foregrip handle (which should almost be mandatory for a demolition hammer with this level of power).

Price – 4-stars

The Lovshare Electric Demolition Hammer is very reasonably priced.  The “power per dollar” ratio is quite good here.  You won’t find a lot in the way of features or additional creature comforts but for someone who is on a tight budget and simply wants plenty of power, this will spark their interest.

Overall Rating – 3-5-stars

Loveshare brings to the table the same 3600W Electric Demolition Hammer that we have seen other companies sell.  It is a reliable and relatively powerful hammer albeit lacking in features.  While we could do with a bit thicker metal components and more in the way of anti-vibration features, the unit overall is pretty reliable and at a price point that makes it easy to overlook any shortcomings.


Makita Demolition Hammer Review

Makita HM1307CB 35-Pound Demolition Hammer, Blue

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Models: XRH07PTU, XRH07ZKU, HM1214CX, HM1203C, HM0870C, HM1812X3, HM1812, HM1111C, HM1810X3, HM1810, HM1211B, HM0810B, HK1810, HM1307CB, HM1317CB, HM1214C

Performance – 5-stars

There are a ton of different Makita Demolition Hammers to pick from so your performance attributes will vary depending on which model you go with.  It is worth noting that all of their models are electric-powered.

Starting with its smallest and most mobile, Makita offers a small selection of lithium-ion battery-powered tools.  This takes away the necessity of having to be plugged into an outlet to operate but at the expense of reduced power.  Their 18V X2 LXT runs a 1-9/16” Advanced AVT Rotary Hammer and delivers 84 ft-lbs of impact energy.  You will enjoy a varying operation speed, going as long as 250 RPM and up to 500 RPM which translates to 1,450 to 2,900 BPM, respectively.  Due to its small size and stature, it is best intended for use on concrete for drilling/coring.

If you need something a bit larger, Makita has gun-style hammers that come in 11 lb, 20 lb, 27 lb, 35 lb, and 42 lb varieties.  Also, certain models are designed to accept 1 1/8” hex bit while others use SDS-Max bits.  Starting at the bottom, the HM0810 and HM0870C are the 11 lb units.  The “11” value represents the breaker/demo class (essentially the weight) and isn’t representative of impact energy or some other metric.  For instance, the HM0810B (8.3 AMP) delivers 5.6 ft-lb of impact energy at 2,900 BPM while the HM0870C (10 AMP), with its superior SDS-MAX bit capability, increases impact energy up 8.4 ft-lb.  And while you won’t be able to vary the impact speed, these units do come equipped with constant speed control which automatically applies additional power to the motor when necessary to ensure a consistent speed.

This similar approach is applied to the larger units, all the way up to powerful 42 lb HM1317CB.  This unit runs off of a 14 AMP motor that produces between 730 and 1,450 BPM with 34.9 joules of impact energy.  This lower operation speed is great for heavy structure demolition such as driveways, sidewalks, asphalt removal, and more.

For the select few who need even more demolition power, the Makita HM1810 and HM1812 Series will be your answer.  These enormous models come with a 15 AMP motor and deliver a whopping 46.5 ft-lbs of impact energy.  The motor runs at a steady 1,110 BPM and 63 joules and can easily handle huge projects such as pools, laying plumbing, remodeling homes, and more.  So as you can tell, Makita has you covered no matter what your desired intentions are.

Reliability – 5-stars

While the performance of Makita Demolition Hammers if fantastic, it is easily rivaled by their reliability.  All of their demo hammers come with an impressive 3-year warranty which is among the longest in the industry.  And there are plenty of features and specifics within the manufacturing and assembly of these tools that make that level of warranty possible.

First, you will find things such as a torque limiting clutch, constant speed control, and soft start technology which help to reduce unnecessary strain on the motor and its components.  And in the case of the battery-powered models, you will find Star Protection Computer Controls which allows the tool to exchange data in real-time and monitor conditions related to overloading, over-discharging overheating, and more.  This helps to make your battery lasts as long as possible.

We also like the extended life brushes that are designed to last as long as possible before requiring downtime.  The largest models also offer automatic brush cut-off to protect for overworking damage.

As for the body itself, features such as field core interlocking steel laminations, dual ball bearing armatures, copper commutator bars, and overall fantastic and attentive construction result in one of the toughest competitors in the business.

Comfort – 5-stars

While Makita Demolition Hammers may be powerful, they do an excellent job of remaining very easy and comfortable for the user to operate.  There are tons of features in place that help to minimize the amount of heat and vibrations that you will experience while using.  The list of features is simply too long to list completely out but some of the most notable once include three-component systems that reduce vibration due to fewer parts, an air-actuated counterbalance, vibration absorbing housing, an integrated damper, various anti-vibration springs, and more.

And outside of vibration control, you will find plenty of other intuitive features.  In particular, we like the constant speed control, soft start suppressor, electric brake, built-in LED light, variable speed control, three-finger power trigger, the plethora of bit angle settings, one-touch chuck exchangers, comfortable rubber grips, 360-degree swivel side handles, and more.

As you can see, there are a lot!

Finally, we appreciate the easy display LED lights that indicate things such as requiring service, switch failure, cord damage, and more.  Makita has thought of everything.

Price – 3-5-stars

As you can easily see in the metrics above, Makita does it all.  So it is likely no surprise that they are among the most expensive demolition hammers in the industry.  You will certainly have to open up your checkbook if you want to own a Makita but if you are after the very best and something that is designed to last, then it is a price that you should be willing to pay.

Overall Rating – 5-stars

Makita’s lineup of demolition hammers is vast and includes both battery-powered as well as plug-in units of varying sizes and shapes.  No matter if you are looking for something small to remove some rust from an old car or a huge vertical jackhammer that is capable of breaking up foot thick+ concrete, Makita has you covered.  And despite offering up great performance and efficiency, the build quality and creature comforts are equally impressive.  Just about anybody will be able to pick up one of these tools and be able to use it without an issue.  However, all of this does come at a high price tag.  But with the great craftsmanship and components used, these are more of a long-term investment rather than an impulse buy.


Milwaukee Demolition Hammer Review

Demolition Hammer, SDS Max

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Models: 5446-21, 5339-21, 5337-21

Performance – 4-5-stars

There are three models of Milwaukee Demolition Hammer: 1-3/4” SDS Max, 2” SDS Max, and 2 ¾” SDS Max.  All three models follow a very similar design approach but do vary some in other areas.  The smallest of the three models, the 1-3/4” SDS Max, is powered by a 14 AMP 1,300 MWO Milwaukee motor.  This translates to 8.8 ft-lbs of torque.  This is quite a powerful package for such a small demo hammer.  There are also two different speed impact modes: a low setting that runs at 2,200 BPM for light materials and a high setting that runs at 2,840 BPM for hard concrete or rock.  It also comes equipped with Constant Power Technology which helps to deliver a consistent power output when the tool is under load.

The two larger units, the 2” SDS Max and 2 ¾” SDS Max, both run on the same 14 Amp Milwaukee Motor that delivers 19.9 ft-lbs of blow energy along with a variable speed dial.  Where they differ is that the 2” Model uses an SDS Max Shank while the 2 ¾” Model utilizes a ¾” Hex.  Both units are great for a variety of applications including breaking up asphalt, driving ground rods, scraping floors, and more.

Reliability – 5-stars

Milwaukee Demolition Hammers are incredibly reliable thanks to their superior construction and craftsmanship.  They have been the go-to brand for construction crews for decades and their quality speaks for itself.  They use high-quality metal components in many areas and also have things such as a heavy-duty crank piston mechanism for extra durability and a mechanical clutch that helps to protect the motor during binding.  Even more impressive is their 5-year warranty.  This is among the longest in the industry and it shows you that this company is proud of what they do and willing to stand behind their work.

Comfort – 5-stars

When you are trying to control this kind of power, it is important to put in some features that make it more user-friendly.  And Milwaukee has done just that.  We like the variable-position chisel stop that allows you to orient the chisel in 12 different positions.  Also, you will find AVS Anti-Vibration systems installed in all of their demo hammers. The comfortable inline design gives you three different side handle positions along with the rear D-Handle.  And they have also installed a lock-on trigger for added safety.  You will even find a service reminder light that tells you when it is time for a service on your tool.  All in all, Milwaukee Demolition Hammers are incredibly easy to operate.

Price – 3-5-stars

You get a lot with these products, but it will run you quite a bit of money.  The many features, reliability, and amazing warranty do drive up the asking price.  So while you may see a bit of sticker shock, rest assured knowing that this tool will likely outlast and outperform many of the cheaper tools that you had considered purchasing.

Overall Rating – 4-5-stars

Milwaukee Demolition Hammers are among our favorite tools in the industry.  They can live up to their reputation of offering class-leading performance in a long-lasting package that is easy to use.  The only downside is the high asking price.  But if you want the very best and something that will last for years to come, then this is a perfect choice.


Nenz Demolition Hammer Review

NENZ NZ30-02 Demolition Drill SDS-plus Electric Lightweight Concrete Breaker,AC Jack hammer,Orange

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Models: NZ30-02

Performance – 3-stars

The only tool that Nenz considers a “demolition hammer” is their NZ30-02 model.  This unit is powered by a 900W motor that delivers around 4J of impact energy.  This amount of impact energy is lower than most of the models that we have discussed so you will be limited in what you can do with it.  It does come with a decent selection of bits ranging from 30mm up to 75mm so you will be able to do more intricate demolition work compared to many of the larger units.  The unloaded speed goes from 0 to 1000 RPM which is about average.

Reliability – 3-stars

This is a low-cost mass-produced Chinese import so the quality, while acceptable, won’t be able to hang with some of the premier tool brands that we have reviewed.  However, we have seen no major issues with any of the important components such as the motor or moving drill parts.  But the fact that this demo tool doesn’t produce a lot of power helps prolong its life since less power = fewer vibrations.

Comfort – 3-5-stars

The main thing that the Nenz Demolition Hammer has going for it is its light weight.  It is very easy to move around and even hold horizontally as necessary.  It comes with a removable chuck that helps with swapping drill bits as well as a CVS control vibration system to reduce what vibration there is.  Furthermore, you will find a safety clutch, variable speed switch, and a soft-grip handle for added grip while holding.  So all in all, not too shabby.

Price – 4-stars

Nenz offers its tool at a reasonable price.  However, as you can tell from above, it is somewhat lacking in most categories.  For the penny-pinchers out there this may be acceptable but for many, the cost savings won’t trump its noticeable issues.

Overall Rating – 3-stars

Nenz’s real expertise is in rotary drills.  However, they have configured one of their rotary drills to perform as a weak demolition drill.  It will be great for very intricate work but for larger-scale demolition projects it will simply be too slow and too week.


OrangeA Demolition Hammer Review

OrangeA Electric Demolition Hammer 3600 Watt Heavy Duty Concrete Jack Hammer with Point Flat Chisels Electric Demolition Jack Hammer Concrete Breaker (3600Watt Hammer)

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Models: 3600W Electric

Performance – 3-stars

Power will come thanks to an electric 3600W motor.  This engine is a 520 two-stroke, single-cylinder that displaces around 52cc.  You probably recognize these specifications as they are the same one used in many other brands that we have listed in this Ultimate Guide.  As for how this translates to usable power, you will enjoy 20 to 55J of impact energy depending on what speed you set it to.  This is about average for a residential-level demo hammer and is designed to tackle normal household jobs.

Reliability – 2-5-stars

There have been quite a few complaints about the reliability of the OrangeA Demolition Hammer.  Many of these revolve around the engine itself.  In some cases, it turns out that the engine is underpowered, making it unable to perform many of the tasks that an engine with this level of alleged power should be able to handle.  And in other cases, the engine ceases altogether.  OrangeA has a 3-month warranty on their product but it appears that they might be hard to get ahold of and deal with.  So tread with caution.

Comfort – 3-stars

This is a very simple product without much in the way of added comforts.  It comes with a rotating front handle and the rear U-handle has the trigger for control.  But you won’t find any of the more exotic anti-vibration features that many other units have.

Price – 4-stars

We can’t deny the competitive asking price here.  But it does come at the cost of some major reliability issues as well as lackluster performance.  These issues may a dealbreaker to you.  But for others who are more concerned about sticking to a budget, it might be possible to overlook.

Overall Rating – 3-stars

OrangeA’s demolition jackhammer might look cool with its orange shell but it has some glaring issues both in the performance as well as the reliability department.  While it is very affordable, save up and buy something that will last longer and perform as it should out of the box.


O&HP Demolition Hammer Review

Mophorn 3600W Electric Demolition Hammer Heavy Duty Concrete Breaker 1800 RPM Jack Hammer Demolition Drills with Flat Chisel Bull Point Chisel (3600 W)

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Models: 2200W Electric

Performance – 3-stars

The demolition power comes thanks to a 2,200W electric motor.  It runs on 120V electricity and spins at 1,900 RPM.  You will have both a 16” long pull point chisel and a 16” long flat chisel to choose from.  This unit is good for small to certain mid-sized residential operations such as tearing up hardened dirt, light demo work, or breaking through wood beams.  But for anything more than this, you will likely need something a bit larger.

Reliability – 3-stars

The build quality of the O&HP Demolition Hammer is about average.  It is made of decent quality steel and also has a toughened crankshaft for extra durability.  The electric motor is the same one used in many other rotary drills and demolition drills and has been proven to be reliable as long as regular maintenance is performed on it.

Comfort – 3-stars

Comfort items include a 360-degree swivel handle with grips and the trigger is located on the back of the hammer on the U-handle.  But beyond this, you won’t find a lot of additional features that help with absorbing vibrations or to adjust user settings.  It is worth mentioning that this product is quite light.  So you should be able to easily lift it and tilt it as necessary to get to the area that you are trying to work on.

Price – 3-5-stars

We have seen essentially this same demo hammer sold by other companies.  But for whatever reason, O&HP is asking a lot more for it.  If you are dead-set on going with this model, then you should shop around because at the time of this writing you could get it from other brands at a lower cost.

Overall Rating – 3-stars

O&HP’s only offering for demo hammers is the popular 2200W Electric Model that we have reviewed.  This product has proven to offer decent performance and good reliability.  However, the asking price here is much higher than we have seen from other vendors.


Selva Demolition Hammer Review

Selva Multipurpose 1' SDS Electric Hammer Drill Rotary Demolition Set with Variable Speed | Heavy Duty High Speed Powerful Motor with Non Slip Handle | Perfect Time Saver Durable Tool Kit Blue

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Models: 110V Electric

Performance – 3-stars

Performance comes thanks to a 110V/60Hz motor that product 650W.  This allows the bit to spin at 800RPM and produce an impact frequency of 3,150 BPM.  You also have two bits to choose from: a cold chisel and a masonry drill bit.  Honestly, given these specifications, you may struggle to use this rotary drill as a true demolition drill.  It will be better of being used for what it is intended for: a rotary drill.

Reliability – 3-5-stars

We haven’t seen any complaints regarding the Selva Demolition Drill.  It is a simple design that uses a proven motor.  However, it does have a lot of plastic parts in it.  But thankfully, due to the small engine size, there won’t be a lot of vibrations, to begin with.

Comfort – 3-5-stars

The best thing that this product has going for it is just how compact and lightweight it is.  This makes carrying it and using it very easy.  We also like the adjustable front grip handle that works in tandem with the rear handle (where the throttle is located).  But outside of that, there aren’t a lot of features related to comfort.

Price – 4-stars

This is an extremely affordable drill hammer.  However, as we have already mentioned, it isn’t a true demo hammer.  The smaller motor, limited features, and lesser capabilities are likely a big reason for the lower price.

Overall Rating – 3-5-stars

While the Selva Demolition Hammer is fine as a rotary hammer, it falls a bit short when it is used as a demo jackhammer.  The demolition bits, while a good thought, just doesn’t compensate for the somewhat weak motor.


Sullair Demolition Hammer Review

Sullair MPB-90A Paving Breaker

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Models: MCH-2, MCH-3, MCH-3S, MCH-4, MCH-4S, MLC-10, MPB-30A, MPB-35C, MPB-60A, MPB-60AF, MPB-60AFS, MPB-90A, MPB-90AF, MPB-90AS, MRD-9, MRD-30, MRD-40, MRD-50, MRD-60

Performance – 5-stars

Sullair Demolition Hammers are broken down into three main categories: chipping hammers, pavement breakers, and rock drills.  While all three come with their specific performance numbers, features, etc., all could still technically be called “demolition hammers”.  We will briefly go over each type below.

Starting with the chipping hammers, you have quite a few choices to pick from.  As the name suggests, these tools are designed for chipping rock, concrete, or other hard materials.

The smallest model with be with MLC-10.  This portable unit is just 14.5” inches long and runs off of 17 CFM of air.  This results in an impact rate of 2,940 blows/min. and is transferred through either a .680 round or .580 hex chuck size.  This scales up to a nice mid-range unit, the MCH-3.  In this model, the impact rate is reduced to 2,280 blow/min but the increased air consumption of 33 CFM results in more powerful blows.  If you are after the pinnacle of chipping performance, then consider the Sullair MCH-4S.  It runs off of an impressive 30 CFM of air at an impact rate of 1,800 blows/min.  And with its increased length of 18”, it provides great impact depth that the smaller models won’t be able to match.

Next up are the Sullair pavement breakers.  Again, you have many great choices to pick from.  These units are more intended for breaking up the concrete pavement.  This is accomplished thanks to their large stroke size and increase chuck size.

The smallest model will be the MPB-30A.  This product has an impact rate of 1,850 blows/minute and air consumption of 37 CFM.  The chuck size is also increased.  For a more powerful unit, the MPB-60 Series is just what the doctor ordered.  It has an impressive 28.25” length and comes with a reduced impact rate of 1,360 blows/minute.  And it is powered via 48 CFM of intake air.  For the ultimate in concrete breaking ability, the MPB 90 Series is the way to go.  There are several models to choose from within this series but the absolute pinnacle is the enormous MPB-90AFS.  It has a similar impact rate of 1,380 blows/minute but increases air consumption to a whopping 62 CFM.  This is some serious power and, with the almost 29” in length, can break up any sort of concrete job that you can throw at it.

Lastly is the Sullair Rock Drills.  These excel it dealing with drilling through hard rocks as opposed to concrete or other material.

The smallest model is the MRD-9.  The number designation is the weight of the product.  With the MRD-9 Rock Drill, you will find an impact rate of 2,800 blows/min and air consumption of 21 cfm.  The 1 11/32” x 1 3/8” bore and stroke are small and compact, making this a good tool for intricate and small rock jobs.  For something more powerful, the MRD-40 bumps things up to 80 CFM of air consumption with an impact rate of 1,800 blows/min.  The impacts are fewer but they are much more powerful.  And at the top of the food chain is the robust MRD-60.  This bad boy weighs a whopping 60 pounds and consumes 91 CFM of air with a 1,800 blows/min.  With over a 2” bore and stroke, it can tear up a lot of rock and quickly.

Reliability – 5-stars

While there is no argument that the performance of the various Sullair Demolition Hammers is some of the best in the industry, how reliable are they?  As you might have guessed, they are extremely reliable thanks to a host of great features that make them as strong as possible.

Sullair has reduced almost all high-wear parts.  And as they state, fewer parts means fewer things that can break.  Also, their chipping hammers have a four-bolt backhead.  This unique design helps to reduce that chance of the handle breaking (which is a common weak point in chipping hammers).  As for various features, almost all are made of high-quality corrosion-resistant metal.  You won’t find any cheap, thin plastic here!

And Sullair stands behind their air products with an impressive 2-year warranty.  This is among some of the longer warranties that you will find.

Comfort – 4-stars

With as much air power as these products move, having them comfortable to use is essential.  It is worth mentioning that the larger models are a bit on the heavy side.  It may be difficult to operate them in any position other than directly below you.  However, outside of this, we are quite impressed with how simple and safe they are to operate.

For instance, the Sullair pavement breakers have no multi-part tappet system.  With this design approach, there are fewer independent impacts which mean less noise and vibration.  In addition to this, they have designed their pavement breakers with a reduced kickback design and also update the latch to a double roll pin configuration for easy steel changing.  Finally, the sheer efficiency of them means that you can operate all of these tools from a single compressor.

As for the Chipping Hammers, we like the large D-Handle.  It provides excellent grip even in the larger models.  There is also a rotatable exhaust deflector that pushes hot and smelly exhaust air away from the user.  And we like the screw0on ball retainer option that allows for lightning-quick steel changes.

And their rock drills have a few tricks of their own.  The Dead Man safety handle is designed so that the tool turns off whenever the operator releases pressure.  There is also a single control for both drilling and blowing in addition to a variable throttle control features.  Another one of our favorite features is the continuous hole cleaning.

All in all, despite their impressive performance, they are quite simple to use.

Price – 4-stars

The main barrier of entry to a Sullair Demolition Hammer is its high asking price.  These models are commercial-grade and designed for the most extreme of conditions.  And, as such, they fetch a premium.  The good news is that if you do open your wallet to buy one, you will have a long-term investment that should pay dividends to your business or personal hobbies.

Overall Rating – 4-5-stars

Sullair is one of the industry leaders in tool design and their large and diverse range of chipping hammers, pavement breakers, and rock drills.  When you go with one of their units, you will enjoy a high-performance, reliable, and easy-to-use tool for breaking any rock, concrete, or other material that you need to work on.  The asking price is high but we feel that you will be glad that you spent a bit extra in the long term compared to going with something cheaper from a competitor that won’t deliver near the results.


Totool Demolition Hammer Review

TOTOOL Electric Demolition Jack Hammer Concrete Breaker 3600W Electric Demolition Hammer 1400RPM Heavy Duty Jack Hammer with Bull Point Flat Chisel (3600W)

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Models: 3600W Electric

Performance – 3-stars

As the name suggests, you will enjoy 3,600W of power at a spin rate of 1,400 RPM.  And standard of most electric demolition hammers, you won’t find any sort of speed adjustments or load speed configurations.  And the hammer power will be applied via a 3.74” drilling diameter.

Reliability – 3-stars

This is essentially the same electric motor that we have seen in quite a few other models that we have reviewed here.  It has proven to be relatively reliable.  You will also find mostly metal components with what Totool states are “industrial grade”.

Comfort – 3-stars

This is a pretty Spartan demo hammer.  The main features are the 360-degree swivel fore-grip handle as well as mounted handles to help reduce vibration fatigue.  But outside of that, it is a rather raw unit.  You probably noticed the slower operation speed.  This will assist some when you are trying to break through harder concretes or rocks as it will help keep the more intense vibrations at bay.

Price – 4-5-stars

This product is at a very attractive price point.  And in terms of bang for your buck, the power to dollar ratio is quite good.  But you are dealing with a simple and limited demo hammer that won’t have the host of features and settings that you may be used to seeing in more expensive models.

Overall Rating – 3-stars

The Totool demolition hammer is a simple and adequately powered tool that is good for small to medium level residential and commercial work.  We do wish that there were a few more features, however.  But the attractive price makes it easy to overlook that issue.


TR Industrial Demolition Hammer Review

TR Industrial IS-500 15 Amp 42-Pound Demolition Jack Hammer with Anti-Vibration Design

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Models: IS-500, TR89305, TR89105, TR89100

Performance – 4-5-stars

The performance of your TR Industrial Demolition Hammer will vary depending on which model you go with.  Starting with the smaller units, the TR-100 is a good entry-level model that still packs a good punch.  It comes with 45J of impact power and operates at a pretty standard 1,800 blows-per minute.  This makes it good for jobs such as installing piping, breaking down medium thickness concrete, or for installing wiring.

The next step up from this is the TR-300 Series.  This is a newer TR Industrial model and it upgrades the power to 60J (or 44.2 ft-lbs) of impact energy.  It also operates at the same 1,800 blows per minute as its smaller brother.  With higher power capabilities, it can handle even thicker concrete or clay.

And for the top of the line model, look no further than the TR Industrial IS-500.  This is a professional-grade unit with best-in-class performance.  You will enjoy 36 ft-lbs of impact energy at 1,400 blows per minute.  While this might not seem like a lot, when combined with its proprietary hammer design, it produces impressive results.  It also is compatible with any TR-HEX chisel or 1-1/8” hex chisel.

Reliability – 4-5-stars

We are quite impressed with the overall reliability of these demo hammer.  They are ETL certified by Intertek which shows that their motor is reliable and efficient.  And you will find that the higher-end models are also equipped with a full-metal housing.  There have been some minor complaints associated with the quality of the case but overall the tool itself is rock-solid.

Comfort – 4-5-stars

These are high-powered hammers but can keep their vibrations in check.  This is particularly true on the IS-500 which is specially designed with various anti-vibration features to help greatly reduce vibrations.  And despite their power, they can stay at a reasonable weight.  You will find that all models are less than 45 pounds.  This makes it easy for just about anybody to pick up one and start using it.  And all models come with the standard 360-degree swivel handle that you are used to seeing.

Price – 4-stars

You will pay a bit extra to enjoy a TR Industrial Demolition Hammer.  While certainly not the most expensive tools in their class, they are noticeably more costly than most of the budget lines that we have discussed.  However, they do come with a step up in performance and build quality.

Overall Rating – 4-5-stars

TR Industrial has a solid line of mid-range demo hammers that are perfect for small to large applications.  Their power, while not industry-leading, is among the most efficient given their light weight.  And the motors are designed to be extremely reliable.  And with the thick metal components (particularly in the outer housing), you will have a solid tool that can hold up to outdoor conditions that are typical on construction sites.


Vevor Demolition Hammer Review

VEVOR 3600W Demolition Jack Hammer 1400 RPM Electric Demolition Hammer Heavy Duty Jack Hammer Demolition Drills with Flat Chisel Bull Point Chisel (3600W)

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Models: 3600W Electric

Performance – 3-stars

Power comes from the built-in 3,600W electric motor that runs on 110V/60Hz.  It spins at 1,400 RPM and produces around 8J of hammering power.  At this power range, it is good for smaller residential jobs and certain mid-level commercial jobs.  We recommend trying to stick to things such as block, tile, and brick rather than thick concrete, however.

Reliability – 3-stars

The motor itself is rock-solid.  With proper care and maintenance, it should run for years without any major issue.  However, there have been a handful of complaints about it burning oil from the get-go.  This can lead to the engine malfunctioning early on so keep an eye out for this.  Also, some of the attachments may have some minor fitment issues.

Comfort – 3-stars

There aren’t a lot of creature comforts to mention here.  It does come with a 16” long bull point chisel as well as a 16” long flat chisel.  And you will also find the adjustable front hand mount.  But noticeably missing are more exotic settings or ways to adjust operating speed.  And methods for reducing vibrations are missing.  But thankfully since it only operates at 1,400 RPMs, vibrations shouldn’t be too big of a concern.

Price – 4-stars

This is a very attractively-priced product but you do sacrifice quite a bit.  For someone on a very tight budget and only needing something for smaller tasks, it will do just fine.  But for someone who needs higher levels of performance and more settings, you will likely be more content spending more money for a more capable tool.

Overall Rating – 3-stars

The Vevor Demolition Hammer is essentially the same 3,600W hammer that we have seen other brands sell.  It does run pretty reliably and is quite affordable.  However, it sacrifices quite a bit in terms of capabilities to achieve this price point.


Voyager Tools Demolition Hammer Review

Electric Jack Hammer 3600W Demolition Jack Hammer

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Models: 3600W Electric

Performance – 4-stars

The Voyager Tools Demolition Hammer comes with a heavy-duty 3,600W electric motor.  And the actual output is quite good at 2,400W.  While we are used to seeing this particular power output, this model does have one unique characteristic about it: it has bumped up the operation speed to a whopping 2,900 RPM.  This is much faster than most of the other electric units that we have tested.  And this increase in speed does come with some added pros and cons.  The impact energy is increased but, as you will see in the section below, it does also increase vibrations.

Reliability – 4-stars

This particular motor has proven time and time again to be very dependable.  With proper care, it shouldn’t give you any problems for the duration of owning the equipment.  The outer body, while nothing groundbreaking, will do the job.  The issue comes with the higher vibrations.  This can cause issues to arise much sooner.  So keep this in mind if you plan on using this model on harder materials that typically cause more vibrations.  The one nice additional feature to help with this is the high velocity toughened crankshaft.

Comfort – 3-stars

As is normal, you will find two different attachment pieces: a flat chisel and a point chisel.  Both work perfectly fine.  And as you might expect with this model, you will find a rear handle with the power trigger as well as a front swivel handle.  The main issue that we have is with the vibrations.  The higher spin speed results in much higher vibrations.  And Voyager Tools hasn’t added any features to help with handling these increased vibrations.  The result can be a pretty shaky experience!

Price – 3-5-stars

The other minor issue that we have with this unit is the higher than average asking price.  We have seen very similar demo hammers to this much cheaper one.  Sure, this one has a higher operating speed but that comes with its issues.  While we have no problem with the performance, we would like to see the price come down a bit.

Overall Rating – 3-5-stars

The Voyager Tools Demolition Hammer is a pretty standard tool except for its above-average spin speed.  While this certainly helps with impact energy, it also results in more vibrations.  And on a product that doesn’t have many of the more premium anti-vibration features installed, this can be significant.  And the asking price is higher than we would like to see.


XtremepowerUS Demolition Hammer Review

XtremepowerUS 2200Watt Heavy Duty Electric Demolition Jack hammer Concrete Breaker W/Case, Gloves

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Models: 1000W, 2200W

Performance – 3-5-stars

There are two models to choose from with this brand: a very small 1,000W electric model and a more capable 2,200W electric model.  Compared to the larger units that we have tested, both models are on the smaller side.  But for many homeowners that are looking for something simple to complete small jobs around the home, they will work just fine.

The smaller 1000W unit resembles more of a rotary drill than a demolition hammer.  However, it is surprisingly fast, operating at an impressive 3,000 BPM.  And with the small 1.5” diameter drill, it results in a very agile and accurate drill/hammer hybrid.

The larger model is a very similar 2,200W unit that you have likely seen other brands sell in this review.  The loading speed is slowed down to 1,900 BPM as is the norm.  This is a little bit more capable of a demolition hammer.  It can be used for things such as trenching, chipping concrete pillars, or breaking holes into walls.  However, for a larger demolition job such as sidewalks or thicker concrete, it will still struggle.

Reliability – 4-stars

One of the biggest positives of these products is their reliability.  Typically these budget models come with a host of quality issues.  And while the outer components won’t the on the same level as the thick steel that much more expensive models possess, it should still hold up just fine to typical wear and tear.  And the reliability of both motors is quite good.  They turn on without issue and seem to be able to operate correctly for multiple years.

Comfort – 3-5-stars

These demo hammers are on the smaller side.  And the benefit of that is their light weight.  Both are easy to carry in your hands and even apply at an angle or vertically.  We like the rubber front grip on the 1000W model.  And the 2,220W model has the front telescoping handle that we are used to seeing.  You will find that there can be quite a few vibrations with the 1,000W model due to how fast it runs at but a sturdy grip should still be able to handle it.

Price – 4-5-stars

The asking prices here are simply fantastic.  So it is no surprise that XtrempowerUS Demolition Hammers are among some of the most popular online today.  Sure, they won’t be able to handle the demands of large-scale projects.  But many people don’t need that kind of capability.  And for someone who wants something simple and cheap, these make a strong case.

Overall Rating – 4-stars

The duo of XtrempowerUS Demolition Hammers is simple, reliable, and affordable.  And those three reasons alone are why they are so popular.  They won’t have a ton of features nor the capability to do a larger job, but they are great for around the house.


Yescom Demolition Hammer Review

Yescom 3600W 1800BPM Electric Demolition Jack Hammer with Double Insulated Motor Casing 2 Chisels Case

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Models: YES5027, YES3434, YES3436, YES3492, YES4732, YES4731

Performance – 4-5-stars

The specific performance numbers that you will enjoy will depend on which Yescom Demolition Hammer you are looking at.  On the lowest end will be their smaller electric units.  The smallest of this comes in at just 1,300W and is powered by a 52CC 2-stroke motor.  This produces 1,500 BPM which equates to impact energy that varies from 20 to 55J.  We say it varies because this model can fluctuate its power, torque, and speed.  This opens up the type of job that it can handle and it is something that you won’t find in small units like this very often.

For someone who needs a bit more growl, the 2,400W electric unit might be your answer.  This particular model comes with a 1,550 BMP impact rate which equates to around 45J of impact energy.  And with the included 1.18” W x 15.35” L chisel, it can handle most light to medium residential tasks that you might have in mind.

And for someone who is after the maximum in performance, look no further than Yescom’s 3600W Electric Jackhammer.  This unit bumps up the power to 3,600W and it has an impact rate of 1,800 BPM.  When you fully push into the 55J of impact energy, you can move some dirt, concrete stone, tile, or whatever other types of jobs you have in mind.

It is worth mentioning that Yescom also has a couple of unique 2 in 1 pile driver chisels.  Thanks to their unique 2-stroke gas motor and exchangeable piling heads, they can double both as a pile driver as well as a chisel.  Their power output is a bit limited at just 900W to 1000W but we do like the versatility of them.

Reliability – 4-5-stars

We have come to discover that Yescom Demolition Hammers are extremely reliable.  Their construction is of high quality:  their motors (whether gas or electric) are held to tight EPA standards and many models come equipped with double insulated motor casings for extra security.  Beyond this, the wiring and electrics seem to be in good working order.  And we had no issue with the bits not properly fitting in place when swapping them out.

Comfort – 4-5-stars

There are quite a few features in place to make these units very comfortable to use.  They include having a very responsive thumb throttle control that can fully take advantage of the varying motor speeds, a non-slip handle, 360-degree swivel side handles for added control, shock-mounted handles to absorb vibration, safety lock buttons, and more.  And despite these many great features, they can stay relatively lightweight so that most normal-sized people should be able to handle them pretty easily.

Price – 4-stars

Yescom Demo Hammers will run you a bit more than the budget models out there.  However, they are still noticeably cheaper than the highest-end premium units that we have tested.  You could consider them a mid-priced brand.  And for the features and performance that you get, we feel that these are an excellent deal.  Sure, if you are after bare-bones just to get the job done then there are cheaper options out there.  But for someone who appreciates having more comfort and flexibility while using, the small surcharge is worth it.

Overall Rating – 4-5-stars

We came away quite impressed with the varied lineup of Yescom Demolition Hammers.  We appreciate that they have both gas and electric models.  And that these models range enough in power output to meet all but the most demanding of commercial demolition needs.  And there aren’t just capable in the performance category: several helpful features make them very easy to pick up and use without a lot of prior experience with demolition equipment.  Yes, they do cost a bit more than your ultra-budget lines but it is well worth it.


Zenstyle Demolition Hammer Review

ZENSTYLE Heavy Duty Electric Demolition Jack Hammer 2200W Concrete Breaker Power Tool with 2 Chisel, 2 Punch Bit Set, Gloves, Oil Feeder Wrench, Mask, Safety Goggle and Case

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Models: 2,200W Electric

Performance – 3-stars

The same 2,200W electric motor powers this unit.  This particular power source is good for 1,900 impacts per minute (around 55J).  And you can choose between a 1-1/8” flat chisel and 1-1/8” bull point chisel.  You won’t find any sort of advanced performance features such as the ability to alter application speed.  At this power range, try to limit most of your chores to small-scale household demo projects.  Anything larger than this and you may find that the Zenstyle Demolition Hammer won’t have enough bite.

Reliability – 4-stars

The shining point on these in regards to reliability is with their motors.  These electric motors are pretty resilient despite being a low-cost alternative.  The issues that we have lie with the fit and finish.  You may find that the bits don’t fit snugly into the hammer.  This can increase vibrations further and make for a pretty bumpy ride.  Also, you won’t enjoy a longer warranty as you do in more established tool companies.

Comfort – 3-stars

Everything here is pretty bare-boned.  The handles, while serviceable, are not the most comfortable to hold.  And there isn’t much in the way of anti-vibration features.  The biggest positives are that this demo hammer is pretty lightweight and just about anybody can pick it up and start using it.

Price – 5-stars

While we have seen this model many times (and discussed its pros and cons ad nauseam), Zenstyle does manage to offer theirs up at one of the lowest asking prices that we have seen.  This is a great value for a hammer that does fulfill the requirements most people needs for a simple residential demo hammer.

Overall Rating – 4-stars

The Zenstyle Demolition Hammer is the same unit we have seen several other times in this review.  It is a small hammer that is very limited in its application.  But what it can handle it should do so without too much headache.  Yes, there are some vibration issues but the lower power of the motor and somewhat limited operation speed help to minimize it.  This is a safe budget option.


Zeny Demolition Hammer Review

ZENY 2200W Heavy Duty Electric Demolition Jack Hammer Concrete Breaker Drills w/Case, Gloves 2 Chisel 2 Punch Bit Set

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Models: D1-1109A

Performance – 3-stars

You will find that this model offers up 2,200W of power through 120 Volts.  This power is channeled into 1,900 Impacts Per Minute or 55J of impact energy.  As for taking advantage of this power, Zeny has included a 1 – 1/8” bull point chisel as well as a 1 – 1/8” flat chisel. Depending on your specific application, one chisel will do better than the other.  That being said, the overall size of the chisel and average (at best) impact energy means that if you plan on doing anything larger than light to mid-duty residential demo work, you will probably want to go with a larger unit.  But it will work for trenching, chipping, and creating holes in blocks, brick, stucco, and more.

Reliability – 3-5-stars

You will find very similar build quality with the Zeny Demolition Hammer as you are used to seeing in other brands that offer essentially the same model.  The key bright points lie in the surprisingly reliable motor and decent bits.  The negatives are in the overall fit and finish as well as seeing a bit more plastic than we would like.  The decision to go heavy on the plastic as opposed to a thicker steel material means that you may find cracks and chips being formed sooner due to the vibrations during operation.

Comfort – 3-5-stars

This is a pretty lightweight and compact model so carrying it shouldn’t be too laborious.  But outside of the lightweight attribute, there aren’t a lot of additional features to make it user-friendly to operate.  The trigger location, front handle, and rear handle are all very simple in design and don’t offer up as much adjustability and flexibility as more expensive units.  Also, there isn’t much in the way of vibration absorption.  The good news is that this smaller motor doesn’t create a lot of vibrations.  But the bad news is that most of the vibrations that it does produce will be carried through your hands and arms during use.

Price – 5-stars

While are used to seeing this particular model be quite affordable, Zeny has taken this to heart.  They manage to sell this demo hammer at an extremely affordable asking price.  It is great for someone who is trying to stick to a tight budget.  And while it is limited in features and overall performance, at this price point, we can’t be too picky.

Overall Rating – 4-stars

The Zeny Demolition Hammer is a product that we have seen in many other reviews.  The 2,200W motor is reliable and produces decent power for small residential applications but it may struggle for anything beyond that.  And the build quality could use some improvements.  But this is intended to be a budget model demo hammer and those are the type of sacrifices that have to be made to achieve this price point.


Demolition Hammer vs. Other Types of Hammers

demolition hammer vs other types of hammers

A common question that we are asked is what the difference is between a demolition hammer and other types of hammers.  This is an excellent question as, on the surface, they may seem to be very similar: they can come in similar shapes, utilize a bit that moves, and eat into various types of materials.  However, there are some notable differences between each type that we will discuss in this section.

There are essentially 4 types of hammers.  The demolition hammer is the key point in this Ultimate Guide so we will address it first.

Demolition Hammer

demolition hammer

 

A demolition hammer is a tool that doesn’t operate by drilling.  Rather, the bit will typically operate in an up and down motion.  This makes it great for breaking or chipping through concrete or other hard materials.  You can buy demolition hammers in many different sizes, with quite a few being small and light enough to be used at an angle or even horizontally.  Demolition hammers will also come in a host of operating speeds with some being quite fast.

Breaker Hammer

breaker hammer

The cousin of the demolition hammer is the breaker hammer.  Many people will group this in with a demolition hammer but there is a key difference.  Due to their huge size and weight, they almost always will be operated vertically.  This limits them to break up concrete sidewalks, roads, or building foundations.  But since they are much larger, they can demolish things much quicker than a smaller demolition hammer.  And due to the extreme vibrations that such a large hammer produces, the impacts per minute are typically kept to a lower rate than many of the smaller demolition hammers.

Rotary Hammer

rotary hammer

A rotary hammer, on the other hand, operates in a completely different manner than a demolition hammer or a breaker hammer.  Instead of having a bit that moves in an up and down motion, it spins in a way that you are used to seeing in a traditional drill.  Since it doesn’t need the extra impact force, you won’t find that these need as high of motor torque value (which in turn means that they can get away with a smaller motor).  And since they have a much smaller motor, they are also much smaller in size.  Instead, they will spin at high RPMs which allows you to drill directly into hard surfaces.  That being said, certain rotary hammers will come with a hammer mode that generates the up and down impact motion of a demolition hammer.  But due to the smaller power output and bit size, they won’t be nearly as efficient in this regard.

Combination Hammer

combination hammer

The cousin of the rotary hammer is the combination hammer.  This tool can be simply summed up as a “beefed up rotary hammer”.  They will often come with similar rotating feature/hammer feature toggling but with a bigger emphasis on the hammering.  These tools will be better for those who plan to do a bit more demolition work but still need the portability and convenience of a rotary hammer.

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