Tear it All Down With the Best Demolition Hammers

Tear it All Down With the Best Demolition Hammers

It doesn’t matter whether you need to tear up pavement, rock, or concrete — a demolition hammer will get the job done. These powerful tools have been used for decades on everything from construction sites to personal home improvement projects.

However, there are several types of demolition hammers to consider and some common metrics we can use to judge them. Not to mention, there are plenty of products to choose from. We’ll discuss what you should look for in a demolition hammer, break down some of the best options on the market today and end by showing you how to choose the right hammer for your needs. Let’s get started!

What to Know About Choosing a Demolition Hammer

Like many other power tools, demolition hammers come in several varieties, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. We’ll provide a quick rundown of what a demolition hammer is before going over the types of demolition hammers you’ll come across while considering your purchase.

What Is a Demolition Hammer?

A demolition hammer is a power tool that combines a chisel with a hammer. It moves a chisel back and forth with extreme force, concentrating that force in a small area at the end of the chisel to break through concrete, brick, masonry and other surfaces.

There are several kinds of demolition hammers on the market, the three most common being hydraulic, pneumatic and electric. All of the hammers on our list are electric, but you may come across one of the other types while considering your options.

Electric/Electropneumatic

This type of demolition hammer runs on an electric motor and needs a power cord to operate. Since they don’t need an air compressor, electric demolition hammers are a better choice for working in indoor, cramped, or busy spaces. Since these are the most manageable demolition hammers to use, these are the only types of hammers we feature on our list.

Hydraulic

As the name suggests, a hydraulic demolition hammer is powered by pressurized fluid. That is, a contained amount of liquid has pressure applied to it in order to generate power.

Pneumatic

Like other pneumatic tools, a pneumatic demolition hammer is powered with compressed air. It requires a hosed connection to an air compressor at all times.

Choosing the Best Demolition Hammers of 2021

Luckily, there are a few universal factors by which we can judge demolition hammers. Let’s take a minute to review them.

Strength

When it comes to raw power, not all demolition hammers are created equal. The same is true for speed. A hammer’s power, sometimes called its impact force, is usually measured in joules or foot-pounds while speed is measured in blows/beats per minute (BPM).

How much impact force and speed you need depends on the job at hand. If you need a tool to delicately chisel out a wall, then a smaller, less powerful demolition hammer will provide greater precision. If you need to tear up a massive concrete driveway, then you’ll need the power that a larger, heavier hammer provides.

You don’t want to get a hammer so powerful that it’s overkill, but you also don’t want a tool so weak it’ll take forever to finish the job or break before you’re done.

Durability

There’s no way around it: demolition hammers are an expensive investment. Most of them cost upwards of $100 with some high-end models weighing in at over $1,000! If you’re going to drop that much cash on a tool, you want it to last.

To maximize durability, look for a hammer with a metal casing instead of a plastic casing. Also look for a nice finish meant to increase the tool’s longevity.

Ease of Use

Most demolition hammers require some degree of physical strength and finesse to operate properly, but some are more user-friendly than others. It’s best to find an ergonomically-designed hammer so using it is less awkward.

Similarly, while you want a tool that’s powerful enough to complete the job you have in mind, you shouldn’t buy a hammer that’s much heavier than you need. The last thing you want is to get tired after using the tool for only a minute or lose control and accidentally damage something you didn’t intend to replace.

You also want changing bits to be as easy as possible so you can alter the tool on the fly to fit your needs. Additionally, the controls shouldn’t be hard to reach or manipulate while wearing gloves. Finally, you’ll want to buy a hammer with sufficient vibration control measures like padded grips, rubber vibration bumpers, or vibrating components being isolated from other parts of the tool.

Now that we’ve gone over the must-know information about selecting a demolition hammer, let’s explore the best options on the market.

Top 10 Best Demolition Hammers 2023

1. Best Overall Demolition Hammer: XtremepowerUS 2200-Watt Heavy Duty Tool Kit

XtremepowerUS 2200-Watt Heavy Duty Tool Kit

Why we like it: The XtremepowerUS Heavy Duty Electric provides solid performance at a great price. When you add in all the accessories that come with it, you’ve got the best overall product on our list.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • Type: Electric
  • Voltage: 110V
  • Amperage: 9.09A
  • Weight: 46 lbs
  • Chisel Size/Range: 1-1/8” hex shank

The XtremepowerUS is a fantastic all-around demolition hammer. It has enough power to break through concrete, brick, or tile, and its adjustable foregrip provides extra maneuverability. It also comes with plenty of accessories including several chisels, safety gloves and goggles, an oil bottle, hex wrenches and a carrying case.

Strength

With a solid 1,900 BPM at 45 foot-pounds (about 61 joules), the XtremepowerUS generates enough force to break concrete slabs, brick, or tile. Given its speed and strength, this tool is best suited for larger, more demanding jobs.

Durability

The XtremepowerUS is remarkably durable, but it does have some issues with overheating. Make sure you don’t block the intake of cool air into the tool. The tool usually lasts for about a year, and you should make sure you oil it before use.

Ease of Use

While the tool is somewhat heavy, its weight is well-distributed throughout the body. It also has a 360-degree adjustable foregrip, which helps when you need to fit the tool in awkward spaces without losing control.

If you’d prefer a tool that has most of the benefits of the XtremepowerUS but is a bit lighter and has a smaller risk of overheating, consider the TR Industrial-Grade TR89100.

Pros

  • Comes with safety gear, maintenance equipment and carrying case
  • Strong enough to break through anything from rocky soil to concrete
  • Adjustable foregrip helps you keep control of the tool

Cons

  • Some issues with overheating
  • At nearly 50 lbs, it’s a bit heavy

2. Best Complete Demolition Hammer Kit: TR Industrial TR89100 Demolition Jack Hammer

TR Industrial TR89100 Demolition Jack Hammer

Why we like it: The TR89100 is another great all-around option, offering solid strength and durability at a reasonable price. Plus, it comes with everything you need for safety and maintenance.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • Type: Electric
  • Voltage: 120V
  • Amperage: 11A
  • Weight: 31 lbs (Hammer only), 42 lbs (With bit installed)
  • Chisel Size/Range: SDS bits

The TR89100 offers significant all-around value. It earns solid marks in all of our metrics and it comes with lots of accessories. These items include a pointed, flat, and spade chisel, two wrenches, an oil container, safety goggles and gloves, an extra set of carbon brushes, and a rolling storage case.

Strength

Offering 33.2 foot-pounds (45 joules) and 1,800 BPM, the TR89100 can penetrate concrete, clay, brick and tile with ease. That said, it’s not as strong as some other demolition hammers on our list, even if it’s listed as an industrial-grade tool.

Durability

The tool is made of steel and is intended for hundreds of hours of use, so you can trust it to last provided you maintain it properly.

Ease of Use

The TR89100’s side handle is 360-degree adjustable, allowing for easier navigation of tight or awkward spaces. It’s also not too heavy, weighing in at 42 pounds once the bit is inserted. Unfortunately, its cord is only 6.5’ long so you might want to buy an extension cord, especially if you’ll be working outdoors or away from an outlet.

Pros

  • Comes with steel carrying case and plenty of accessories
  • 360-degree adjustable side handle
  • Intended for hundreds of hours of use

Cons

  • Listed as heavy duty, but not as strong as some other demolition hammers
  • Power cord it comes with is a bit short at 6.5’ long

3. Best Premium Demolition Hammer: Makita HM1307CB

Makita HM1307CB

Why we like it: Coming from a trusted brand, the Makita HM1307CB costs a lot up front, but offers great performance and plenty of features in return.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • Type: Electric
  • Voltage: 120V
  • Amperage: 14A
  • Weight: 38.2 lbs
  • Chisel Size/Range: 1-1/8” Hex

If price isn’t a concern for you, there’s no better choice than the Makita HM1307CB. This hammer doesn’t offer as much strength as some other models, but it can still handle concrete and asphalt. It also offers durable construction and lots of features that make using it a breeze. Plus it comes with a carrying case on wheels for easy storage and transportation.

Strength

The HM1307CB offers 25.7 foot-pounds (34.9 joules) of impact force and 730-1,450 BPM. It has a speed dial you can use to adjust the BPM to the job at hand.

Durability

The HM1307CB really shines here. The tool’s internal design promotes the efficient transfer of energy to boost its longevity. It also has LEDs which light up to inform you when switch failure or cord damage has occurred or when the carbon brushes need to be replaced within 8 hours. Combine all of that with a metal body, and this hammer is made to last.

Ease of Use

The HM1307CB features soft start, which reduces start-up reaction and helps the tool turn on more smoothly, allowing the user to keep control. The side handle is also 360-degree adjustable, so it’ll be easier to keep a good grip on the hammer even in awkward spaces. At just under 40 pounds, the HM1307CB is somewhat heavy but not unreasonably so.

Pros

  • Variable speed control dial allows you to adjust BPM
  • Soft start allows for better accuracy and control
  • Comes with a wheeled carrying case
  • 360-degree adjustable side handle

Cons

  • Not as powerful as some other models
  • Costs more than most other demolition hammers

4. Best Budget Demolition Hammer: F2C 2200W Heavy Duty Demolition Tool Kit

F2C 2200W Heavy Duty Demolition Tool Kit

Why we like it: If you need a reliable demolition hammer but are short on cash, the F2C has you covered. With an outstanding performance and plenty of safety and maintenance gear offered with every purchase, the F2C is easily our favorite budget demolition hammer.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • Type: Electric
  • Voltage: 110V
  • Amperage: 20A
  • Weight: 44.3 lbs
  • Chisel Size/Range: 1-1/8”

The F2C is easily the cheapest option on our list, but it provides a surprising amount of value. Its strength and speed are comparable to other demolition hammers we’ve discussed, and it comes with accessories as well even if they’re not as high-quality as those offered with other hammers. If you need a demolition hammer for the occasional job around the house, then the F2C is a great choice!

Strength

The F2C packs an impact force of 55 joules (40.57 foot-pounds) and a speed of 1,900 BPM. Like other demolition hammers, it can break through concrete, brick and tile.

Durability

The tool is made of stainless steel except for the plastic handles. It also must be oiled before use. You should also use the F2C for short periods of time as it can overheat if it’s used for longer than 10-15 minutes. If you need it for longer than that, set it aside until it has cooled down.

Ease of Use

The F2C features a decently ergonomic design, however the side handle isn’t adjustable, which could make fitting into awkward spaces more difficult. At just under 45 pounds, it’s a bit heavy.

Pros

  • Comes with plenty of accessories, including a case
  • Can break through concrete, brick, or tile
  • Strength and speed are on par with higher-priced demolition hammers
  • Great for the occasional home project

Cons

  • Risk of overheating if used for a long period of time
  • Case and other accessories aren’t the highest quality
  • Side handle isn’t adjustable

5. Best Lightweight Demolition Hammer: Bosch 11316EVS

Bosch 11316EVS

Why we like it: The Bosch 11316EVS may be smaller than most of the other entries on this list, but its surprising strength and multitude of user-friendly features help it stand out from the pack.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • Type: Electric
  • Voltage: 120V
  • Amperage: 14A
  • Weight: 22.5 lbs
  • Chisel Size/Range: SDS-Max

With a trusted name like Bosch, you know to expect quality, but the 11316EVS may still surprise you with just how much it offers. The tool is capable of breaking tile, stone, mortar and clay, and it has more user-friendly features than any other product on our list. However, unlike other choices on this list, the 11316EVS doesn’t come with any accessories besides a carrying case. You’ll have to purchase bits separately.

Strength

The 11316EVS boasts an impact force of 12.4 foot-pounds (16.8 joules) and a speed that can be set anywhere from 900 to 1890 BPM thanks to the tool’s variable speed dial. With this feature, tailoring the hammer’s tempo to the job at hand won’t be an issue. The 11316EVS doesn’t offer as much strength as some other models, but its power is impressive for its size.

If you’re looking for a lightweight demolition hammer with a bit more strength, check out the DeWalt D25901K.

Durability

The tool offers decent durability with its joint metal and plastic construction. It also has a Service Minder light that turns on to tell you when maintenance is needed.

Ease of Use

The 11316EVS can’t be defeated here. In addition to the aforementioned variable speed dial, the hammer has many features that help it handle like a dream. The inserted chisel can be rotated and locked into any one of twelve different positions, and the side handle is 360-degree adjustable so you can work from whichever angle you choose and fit the tool into awkward spaces.

The 11316EVS also has soft start capability, which helps you better control the hammer from the moment you turn it on. Finally, the padded rear handle makes using the tool more comfortable.

Pros

  • Wealth of user-friendly features
  • Decent strength for its size/weight
  • Service light tells you when it’s time for maintenance

Cons

  • Besides the carrying case, doesn’t come with any other accessories, including bits
  • Pricier than most other options on our list
  • Offers good strength for its size/weight, but weaker than other demolition hammers

6. Best Heavy-Duty Demolition Hammer: Mophorn 3600W Concrete Breaker

Mophorn 3600W Concrete Breaker

Why we like it: The Mophorn 3600W Concrete Breaker is a demolition hammer that truly earns the heavy-duty label. It can break through all kinds of tough surfaces, is built to withstand frequent use, and was clearly made with user convenience in mind.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • Type: Electric
  • Voltage: 110V
  • Amperage: Information Not Given by Manufacturer
  • Weight: 42.5 lbs
  • Chisel Size/Range: 16”

If you need a demolition hammer with power and durability above all else, then the Mophorn is the tool for you. It also comes with two 16” chisels (one bull point and one flat), a pair of gloves, two carbon brushes, two hex wrenches and a user manual. Unfortunately, no oil or carrying case is included.

Strength

The Mophorn sure packs a punch, offering 3600W of power and 1800 RPM. The tool can break through concrete, asphalt, brick and tile.

Durability

The Mophorn doesn’t sacrifice durability for strength as it’s made of many strong metal components. It has an insulation protection shell that resists corrosion, a ventilated protective cap to encourage heat dissipation, and a sheath around the root of the cable. With these safeguards, the tool is made to withstand all sorts of wear and tear.

Ease of Use

The tool is a bit on the heavier side, but it offers some convenience features. The side handle is 360-degree adjustable and the rubber rear handle is made to absorb vibration so you can use it longer before getting tired.

Pros

  • One of the strongest options on our list
  • Lots of durability-promoting features
  • Vibration-resistant

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with carrying case or oil

7. Best Small Demolition Hammer: Bosch 11321EVS

Bosch 11321EVS

Why we like it: As the lightest demolition hammer on our list, the 11321EVS may seem underpowered, but it’s as capable as any of the other products. It offers all the great features of other Bosch hammers, but is lighter and smaller than most of them.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • Type: Electric
  • Voltage: 120V
  • Amperage: 13A
  • Weight: 13.7 lbs
  • Chisel Size/Range: SDS Max

If you need a demolition hammer that’s light and small but still packs a punch, then the 11321EVS is right up your alley. Although it possesses less strength than every other product on this list, it can still break through concrete and tile. It has all the positives of its fellow Bosch hammers, but retains their weaknesses as well. For instance, the 11321EVS only comes with a carrying case and you’ll have to buy bits separately.

Strength

The 11321EVS has an impact force of 6.1 foot-pounds (8.27 joules) and a maximum speed of 2,900 BPM. The variable speed dial lets you adjust the tempo of the chisel between 1,300 and 2,900 BPM so you always have the right speed for your current project. The 11321EVS doesn’t have the power of many other hammers, but it’s among the best in its weight class.

Durability

Like other Bosch demolition hammers, the 11321EVS has a metal and plastic makeup. Its Service Minder light lets you know when it needs preventative maintenance.

Ease of Use

The tool has no shortage of user-convenience features. The smooth start-up capability and 360-degree adjustable side handle will help you keep control of the hammer at all times. You can also rotate and lock the chisel into any one of 12 different positions so you can always choose the right angle to hammer from.

The 11321EVS also has a padded rear handle and is built to reduce vibrations in the hammer mechanism and grip area so you won’t tire out as quickly while using it. The only serious flaw in the tool’s design is the awkward placement of the on/off switch which can make it easy to turn the hammer off unintentionally while you work.

Pros

  • Lots of user-friendly features
  • Respectable strength for its weight class
  • Reasonably durable with Service Minder light that tells you when maintenance is needed

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with any other accessories besides carrying case, including bits
  • On/off switch placement isn’t ideal

8. Most Durable Demolition Hammer: DeWalt D25901K

DeWalt D25901K

Why we like it: The DeWalt D25901K is another excellent all-around demolition hammer, providing solid value across the board while remaining lightweight.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • Type: Electric
  • Voltage: 240V
  • Amperage: 14A
  • Weight: 23.4 lbs
  • Chisel Size/Range: SDS Max

The D25901K is one of the lighter options out there, but it offers considerable strength. It also boasts several features that improve its longevity and convenience. Its main drawback is that it only comes with a carrying case. You’ll have to buy bits and accessories separately.

Strength

The D25901K offers 3.7 to 18.5 foot-pounds (5.02 to 25.08 joules) of impact force, which you can adjust with the hammer’s variable impact control dial to the job at hand. It can demolish brick, concrete or stone with that power. However, given its lesser strength compared to some other demolition hammers, the D25901K has trouble penetrating concrete over 3” thick.

Durability

The tool is made with longevity in mind as its metal construction attests. It also has features intended to keep its interior safe from harm, like the non-air pumping beatpiece and spring-loaded dust seals which keep dust, debris and other contaminants from getting inside.

Ease of Use

The D25901K sure holds its own in this category. It has the DeWalt Shocks Active Vibration Control system which uses an internal suspended mechanism to reduce the vibration you feel when using it, allowing you to work more without feeling tired.

The D25901K also has several ergonomic features, like its side handle which is 360-degree rotatable and 150-degree adjustable laterally. You can place the chisel in any one of twelve positions, and can do so with just one hand.

If you have issues with the tool after purchase, DeWalt offers a 3-year limited warranty that covers any issues resulting from faulty materials or poor workmanship as well as a 2-year free service contract that guarantees the manufacturer will provide maintenance and replace parts worn out from normal use of the tool free of charge.

Pros

  • Warranty and free service guarantee provide great after-purchase customer support
  • Dial lets you adjust impact force for the job at hand
  • Durability features prevent dust and debris from getting into the tool
  • Lots of convenience-boosting features

Cons

  • Doesn’t come with any bits or accessories except a carrying case
  • Strong for its size, but not the best against thicker concrete

9. Most Oil-Efficient Demolition Hammer: TR Industrial TR89105

TR Industrial TR89105

Why we like it: The TR89105 is another reliable choice from TR Industrial, offering immense strength and efficiency at a price lower than that of the TR89100.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • Type: Electric
  • Voltage: 120V
  • Amperage: 11A
  • Weight: 31 lbs (hammer only)
  • Chisel Size/Range: SDS bits

If you want a great all-around demolition hammer that won’t put too much of a dent into your wallet, then the TR89105 is a solid choice. In addition to providing solid performance across all three of our rating categories, it comes with the same accessories as the TR89100. These include a hex pointed, flat and spade chisel, two wrenches, an oil container, safety goggles and gloves, a rolling carrying case, and an extra set of carbon brushes.

Strength

The tool has 45 joules (33.2 foot-pounds) of impact force and an 1800 BPM. It’s strong enough to penetrate concrete and stone but it takes a bit longer to break through concrete that’s 6” or thicker.

Durability

The TR89105 delivers the goods here as its metal frame ensures the tool will last for years provided it’s properly maintained.

Ease of Use

Like many other products on this list, the TR89105 has a 360-degree adjustable side handle so fitting the tool into tight spaces will be easier. Unfortunately, it also shares the same weakness as other TR Industrial products since its cord is only 6.5’ long, which means you might have to buy an extension cord, especially if you’re working outside.

Thankfully, the TR89105 is remarkably efficient when it comes to oil consumption and only needs to be re-oiled occasionally.

Pros

  • Can easily break concrete up to 6” thick
  • Minimal oil consumption
  • Comes with plenty of accessories

Cons

  • Like other TR Industrial hammers, the cord is a bit short

10. Best Massive Demolition Hammer: Makita HM1812X3

Makita HM1812X3

Why we like it: The HM1812X3 is massive and, like the other Makita option on our list, it carries a premium price, but its incredible performance is undeniable. The sheer quantity of durability and convenience features earn it a spot on our list.

Editor’s Rating:

Quick Facts:

  • Type: Electric
  • Voltage: 120V
  • Amperage: 15A
  • Weight: 70 lbs
  • Chisel Size/Range: 1-1/8” Hex

The Makita HM1812X3 is somewhat niche given its high price, massive size and heavy weight. However, we had to give it a spot on our list due to its incredible performance across all of our rating categories. It also comes with hammer cart, hex wrench, two flat chisels, and two self-sharpening bull point bits.

Strength

The HM1812X3 is the strongest demolition hammer on our list, packing 72.8 joules (53.9 foot-pounds) of impact force and an 870 BPM. However, it’s very large and also the heaviest hammer we’ve discussed, weighing in at 70 pounds. It’s best for jobs that require raw power, not finesse and precision.

Durability

The HM1812X3 has a number of features meant to increase its longevity, some of which are included in other Makita hammers as well. These include the LED power light that indicates switch failure or cord damage and the LED service light which turns on 8 hours before the carbon brushes need replacement.

The tool’s “no hammering when idling” function automatically reduces the motor speed when it’s not in use, which lengthens the hammer’s life. Its other significant longevity feature is the automatic brush cut-off which protects the motor’s commutator from damage.

Ease of Use

The HM1812X3 excels here. It has a synchronized, three-component system that reduces vibration, consisting of a mechanical counterbalance system, vibration-absorbing housing, and rubberized fixed handles.

The mechanical counterbalance system helps direct more of the impact force to the work surface. The vibration-absorbing housing isolates some of the vibration from the user and moves independently of the motor and hammer mechanism. Finally, the rubberized fixed handles dampen vibration as well.

The HM1812X3 also has the soft start feature, and the integrated cord guide directs the 16.4’ cord away from the working area.

Pros

  • Tool’s design is intended to reduce vibration and noise as much as possible
  • The strongest demolition hammer on this list
  • Lots of longevity-boosting features

Cons

  • By far the most expensive option on our list
  • Very heavy and large

How to Find the Right Demolition Hammer for You

worker using demolition hammer on asphalt

Still have questions about demolition hammers? We’ve gathered everything you need to know to be completely confident in your choice.

What Kind of Demolition Hammer Is Right for You?

Like with many tools, which demolition hammer is right for you depends on the scale of the project for which you’ll use it.

You’ll want a heavier, more powerful demolition hammer for a bigger project where you’ll be removing lots of concrete, asphalt or pavement. A tool like the Makita HM1812X3 or the Mophorn 3600W Concrete Breaker would be best for a job like that.

Likewise, a lighter, less powerful hammer is better for a smaller project since their increased precision offsets their lower impact force. For such a job, consider a hammer like the Bosch 11316EVS or the DeWalt D25901K.

In general, you’ll want a heavier demolition hammer for horizontal surfaces and a lighter one for vertical surfaces. If you’re breaking up a horizontal surface, then a heavier hammer will do more of the work for you because gravity will help out. On the other hand, you’ll have to keep the hammer upright during work on a vertical surface, and you’re less likely to tire out quickly if you use a lighter hammer.

How to Use a Demolition Hammer

The process we’re about to describe works as a general how-to for most demolition hammers, but you should always consult your product’s owner’s manual or the manufacturer’s website before you use your new hammer the first time. They might have directions specific to your demolition hammer that you should know.

  • First, hold the demolition hammer upright and pull down the collar on the chuck. Insert the bit as far as it will go, release the chuck, and then pull on the bit. It should lock itself in place.
  • Next, put on your safety gear (we will discuss safety in the next section) and plug in the tool. Some demolition hammers will have you push a button to turn it on, after which you flip a switch to make the tool start moving the bit.
  • Keep a firm grip on the side and rear handles. Start at the edges of the surface you’re demolishing and apply force downward and toward the edge to break it up. Try not to drive the tool too deeply into the surface away from the edges or the bit might get stuck.

If you’d like to see the process we just described in action, check out this video.

Safety Precautions

Whenever you work with power tools, safety goggles or glasses are required. Normal prescription eyeglasses aren’t sufficient. You should also use protective hearing equipment like earmuffs or earplugs. Demolition hammers are often incredibly loud and operating one for long periods of time without hearing protection can cause long-term damage to your ears.

Don’t wear loose clothing or jewelry while using a demolition hammer since you don’t want the tool to strike or snag anything you’re wearing. Consider wearing a pair of strong or steel-toed work boots so your feet are protected in case you accidentally drop the tool, or you have to worry about falling materials. A hard hat can also protect your head from any flying debris.

As we’ve already discussed, demolition hammers can produce significant vibrations, so a pair of thick gloves is recommended to reduce this effect. Finally, you should wear a respirator or a mask since demolition hammers can kick up lots of dust, which you risk breathing in, especially if you’re working indoors. Thankfully, manufacturers have spent years modifying their designs to help reduce vibrations and contain dust when using their products.

Demolition Hammer FAQs

We’ve answered the most common questions about demolition hammers below, so that you can feel fully prepared to select and use the right demolition hammer for you.

What’s the Difference Between a Rotary Hammer and a Demolition Hammer?

These terms tend to get confused a lot. You may even find that some search engines give you links to pages about rotary hammers when you’re looking for a demolition hammer. However, these tools are different enough that the terms shouldn’t be used interchangeably.

The most important difference between these tools is that demolition hammer bits don’t rotate, they chip away at the targeted material. Unlike rotary hammers, demolition hammers don’t drill holes. Instead, they attack the object with a hammering action to break it.

For more information on the differences between rotary and demolition hammers, you can read this article.

When Do I Need to Oil My Demolition Hammer?

You should check your hammer’s oil level every time before you start to use it. Hold the hammer with the rear handle toward the ceiling and the chisel side pointing to the floor. Look at the oil window. If you don’t see any oil, or if less than half of the window is full, then it’s time to add more. If the window is more than halfway full, you’re good to go!

If you’d like more information on maintaining your demolition hammer, check out this article. You can also watch that article’s accompanying video. If you still have questions about your specific model, then you should read your owner’s manual if it came with one. If there’s no owner’s manual, check out the manufacturer’s website.

What Else Should I Keep in Mind About Demolition Hammer Maintenance?

After looking through our product descriptions, you’ve probably noticed that we mention carbon brushes a lot. That’s because they’re an essential part of any electric demolition hammer. They carry electrical current back and forth from the stationary parts of a motor to its moving parts.

Carbon brushes wear down over time, and dirt/debris buildup can occur over time, so you’ll want to examine your hammer’s brushes regularly. The more often you use the hammer, the more often you’ll have to replace the brushes. Thankfully, some demolition hammers come with extra brushes like the TR Industrial TR89105.

If you’d like a more in-depth look into why carbon brushes are so important for electric motors, feel free to check out this article.

It’s Demolition Time!

By now, you’ve certainly noticed that there’s no shortage of great demolition hammers on the market. If you know what qualities make a good hammer and how to determine which type will work the best for your needs, then you’re on your way to owning a tool that will save you a lot of time and effort during your demolition projects. Good luck!