Rotary hammers and demolition hammers are both built for concrete, but they solve different problems. The rotary hammer is a drilling and light chipping tool. The demolition hammer is a pure breaking tool. Picking the right one improves productivity and protects the tool from overload.
How they work
- Rotary hammer: Combines rotation with a hammering action. The bit spins and impacts, so it can drill deep anchor holes quickly.
- Demolition hammer: Only hammers. No rotation. It delivers higher impact energy to break slabs and remove tile.
If you need clean holes for anchors, you want rotation. If you need to break material fast, you want impact only.
Typical use cases
Use a rotary hammer for:
- drilling anchor holes in concrete,
- installing rebar dowels,
- light chipping for conduit or cable runs.
Use a demolition hammer for:
- breaking slabs and footings,
- removing thick tile or mortar beds,
- cutting channels in masonry for plumbing runs.
Bit and accessory differences
Rotary hammers often use SDS-Plus or SDS-Max shanks, built for drilling and light chiseling. Demolition hammers use larger chisels and spade bits designed to pry and break. Matching the wrong bit to the wrong tool can damage both.
Weight and handling
Rotary hammers are lighter and easier to control overhead. Demolition hammers are heavier, and that weight adds stability for floor-level breaking. If you need to work above shoulder height, choose a rotary hammer whenever possible.
Quick selection checklist
- Need holes? Rotary hammer.
- Need to break? Demolition hammer.
- Mixed work? Use a rotary hammer for drilling, then switch to demolition for heavy removal.
Not sure which hammer fits your project?
Tell us the material, thickness, and daily volume. We will recommend the right impact class.
Contact our team