What is the Difference Between Hammer Drill and Impact Drill?

The main difference between a hammer drill and an impact drill lies in the direction and type of force they apply to the bit. Here are the key differences:

Hammer Drill:

• Exerts greater force directly into the bit as it hits the material being drilled.
• Designed for drilling holes in hard materials like concrete, brick, and stone.
• Uses a pounding force along the path of the bit to drive it into the material.
• Commonly used in masonry work.

Impact Drill:

• Increases the force being delivered perpendicular to the bit.
• Designed for driving screws and lag bolts in various materials.
• Creates rotational impacts that are excellent for driving screws and fasteners in wood, steel, and other materials.
• More compact and lightweight compared to a hammer drill, making it suitable for drilling holes up to 1/2″ in diameter.

In summary, a hammer drill is better suited for drilling holes in hard materials, while an impact drill is more versatile and can handle various fastening tasks in different materials. If you already have a regular drill and need a more powerful tool for driving screws and lag bolts, an impact drill would be more useful. On the other hand, if you need a drill for heavy-duty drilling tasks in materials like concrete, an SDS rotary hammer drill is recommended.

Comparative Table: Hammer Drill vs Impact Drill

Here is a table comparing the differences between hammer drills and impact drills:

In summary, hammer drills are used for drilling holes in masonry materials, while impact drills are designed for driving screws and bolts. Both types of drills have their unique features and capabilities, making them suitable for different tasks.