Best Rotary Hammers with 1-1/8 Inch: 5 Spec-Based Picks

Quick picks

The best fit for you

• You need corded power with vibration control DEWALT 1-1/8-Inch Corded SDS Rotary Hammer It is a corded unit designed for heavy concrete drilling with vibration control.
• You want the most compact model on the list Bosch 1-1/8-Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Its length is 7.48 inches, making it the shortest tool in this group.
• You require cordless convenience for concrete work DEWALT 1-1/8 Inch 20V SDS Plus Rotary Hammer It is a 20V cordless rotary hammer that fits users prioritizing portability.
• You prioritize extended runtime with dual batteries Berserker 1-1/8-Inch Cordless Rotary Hammer It includes 4.0 Ah batteries to ensure continuous work on masonry tasks.

Our 5 picks

1 Best overall

DEWALT 1-1/8-Inch Corded SDS Rotary Hammer

Best for: heavy concrete drilling with vibration control

Chuck Size

1-1/8 Inch (what this guide is about)

Power Source

Corded, 8.5 amp, 115 Volts

Impact Energy

3.0 joules

Bit System

SDS

Included Tools

Drill Driver, Hammer Drill, Rotary Hammer

Dimensions

19.2 × 12.8 × 5.28 inches

View on Amazon: DEWALT 1-1/8-Inch Corded SDS Rotary Hammer Affiliate link

This DEWALT corded rotary hammer features an 8.5 amp motor and delivers 3.0 joules of impact energy for fast drilling and chipping. It includes Active Vibration Control to reduce handle feedback and an integral clutch to prevent sudden torque reactions. The 1-1/8 inch SDS chuck accepts standard bits. It suits users who need reliable power and comfort for concrete work.

Pros

• 3.0 joules of impact energy for speed
• Active Vibration Control reduces handle feedback
• 8.5 amp motor delivers high performance
• Integral clutch prevents sudden torque reactions

Cons

• Corded design limits mobility
• 19.2 inch length adds bulk
• No brushless motor technology

Good fit if

• You need high impact energy for concrete
• You want vibration reduction for comfort
• You have access to a power outlet

Skip if

• You require cordless portability
• You need a compact tool for tight spaces
• You prefer brushless motor efficiency

Verdict: DEWALT 1-1/8 In. Rotary Hammer fits users who prioritize vibration control and high impact energy for heavy concrete drilling. It is a solid choice for stationary work where corded power is available.

2 Also great

Bosch 1-1/8-Inch SDS-Plus D-Handle Rotary Hammer

Best for: Heavy duty concrete drilling with vibration control

Chuck Size

1-1/8 Inch (what this guide is about)

Power Source

8.5 Amp

Impact Energy

2.4 Ft.-Lbs.

Bit System

SDS-plus

Operating Modes

3 modes: drilling, hammer, chiseling

Weight

6.39 lbs.

View on Amazon: Bosch 1-1/8-Inch SDS-Plus D-Handle Rotary Hammer Affiliate link

This Bosch rotary hammer features an 8.5-amp motor and 2.4 ft-lbs of impact energy. It includes a 1-1/8 inch SDS-plus chuck and vibration control shocks. The D-handle design suits overhead work. KickBack Control stops rotation during bit bind-up. It offers three operation modes for drilling or chiseling. This tool fits users needing reliable power and comfort for masonry tasks.

Pros

• 8.5-amp motor delivers 2.4 ft-lbs impact energy
• KickBack Control sensor stops rotation during bind-up
• Counter-balanced Vibration Control improves comfort
• Vario-Lock rotates chisel to optimize working angle
• Variable-speed trigger with reversing for accurate starting

Cons

• Heavier at 6.39 lbs than some competitors
• Only includes the rotary hammer in base configuration
• No cordless battery option available in this model

Good fit if

• You need strong impact energy for concrete
• You value vibration reduction during long use
• You require KickBack Control for safety

Skip if

• You prefer a lightweight cordless tool
• You want a kit with included bits
• You need a lighter tool under 5 lbs

Verdict: Bosch 8.5 Amp SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer suits professionals who prioritize safety features and vibration control. It delivers solid power for heavy masonry drilling.

3 Best premium

DEWALT 1-1/8 Inch 20V SDS Plus Rotary Hammer

Best for: cordless concrete drilling tasks

Chuck Size

1-1/8 Inch (what this guide is about)

Power Source

20V

Bit System

SDS-plus

Included Tools

Rotary Hammer

Dimensions

21.7 × 1 × 5.5 inches

Weight

16 pounds

View on Amazon: DEWALT 1-1/8 Inch 20V SDS Plus Rotary Hammer Affiliate link

This 20V cordless rotary hammer uses an SDS-Plus bit system and a 1-1/8 inch chuck. It weighs 16 pounds and measures 21.7 inches long. The tool includes the rotary hammer only. You get power without a cord, but the weight adds up. It suits users who need concrete drilling without outlet access.

Pros

• 20V battery power source
• SDS-Plus bit system
• 1-1/8 inch chuck size
• Includes rotary hammer

Cons

• Heavy 16-pound build
• Long 21.7-inch length
• No battery or charger listed

Good fit if

• You need cordless power for concrete
• You use SDS-Plus bits
• You can handle 16 pounds

Skip if

• You want a lightweight tool
• You need a complete kit
• You prefer corded power

Verdict: DEWALT 20V SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer offers cordless convenience for concrete work. It fits users who prioritize portability over weight savings.

4 Best budget

Berserker 1-1/8-Inch Cordless Rotary Hammer

Best for: extended runtime with dual batteries

Chuck Size

1-1/8 Inch (what this guide is about)

Power Source

18.5V (20V Max)

Impact Energy

2.1 ft.-lbs. / 2.8 Joules

Bit System

SDS-Plus

Motor Type

Brushless

Operating Modes

4 modes

View on Amazon: Berserker 1-1/8-Inch Cordless Rotary Hammer Affiliate link

This Berserker rotary hammer uses a 20V Max brushless motor to deliver 2.8 Joules of impact energy. It features a 1-1/8 inch SDS-Plus chuck and reaches 5,100 BPM. The kit includes two 4.0 Ah batteries and a fast charger. Weighing 7.2 lbs, it offers four operating modes for concrete and masonry work. It suits users needing portable power with included storage.

Pros

• Brushless motor for efficiency and durability
• Two 4.0 Ah batteries included
• 2.8 Joules of impact energy
• Four distinct operating modes
• Fast 1.5-hour charging time

Cons

• Lower impact energy than corded competitors
• Heavier than some cordless alternatives
• No vibration control shocks listed

Good fit if

• You need high battery capacity for extended runtime
• You want a complete kit with a carrying case
• You require four mode selections for various tasks

Skip if

• You require maximum impact force for heavy demolition
• You need active vibration control for comfort
• You prefer a lighter tool under 6 lbs

Verdict: Berserker 1-1/8" SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer fits users who prioritize battery life and included accessories over raw power. It is ideal for general masonry tasks where two batteries ensure continuous work.

5 Also great

Bosch 1-1/8-Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer

Best for: heavy concrete drilling with vibration control

Chuck Size

1-1/8 Inch (what this guide is about)

Power Source

8.0 Amp

Impact Energy

2.4 Ft.-Lbs.

Bit System

SDS-plus

Operating Modes

3 modes

Weight

3.82 lbs.

View on Amazon: Bosch 1-1/8-Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Affiliate link

The Bosch RH328VC is an 8.0-amp corded rotary hammer designed for concrete drilling. It delivers 2.4 ft.-lbs. of impact energy through an SDS-plus system that accepts bits up to 1-1/8 inch. Vibration Control reduces shake in the grip and mechanism. A variable-speed trigger and Vario-Lock system help with precise bit starting and torque management. This tool suits professionals needing reliable power and comfort during extended use.

Pros

• 8.0-amp motor provides strong 2.4 ft.-lbs. impact energy
• SDS-plus system accepts bits up to 1-1/8 inch
• Vibration Control reduces shake in the grip and hammer mechanism
• Vario-Lock system allows accurate bit starting and fastener removal
• Integral clutch disengages torque if the bit binds

Cons

• Heavier at 7.7 lbs compared to lighter competitors
• Requires a 115-volt outlet, limiting cordless mobility
• No variable speed dial, only a trigger-based control

Good fit if

• You need high impact energy for dense concrete
• You work near power outlets and prefer corded reliability
• You value vibration reduction for long drilling sessions

Skip if

• You require a cordless tool for remote sites
• You need a lightweight tool under 5 lbs
• You prefer digital speed control over a variable trigger

Verdict: Bosch RH328VC 8 Amp Rotary Hammer fits users who prioritize vibration control and consistent impact energy for heavy concrete work. It is a solid choice for professionals who work near power sources and need precise bit handling.

Specifications side by side

Key Specs for Choosing Your Kit

1. Check Power Source Needs

   Decide between corded and cordless based on your workspace. The DEWALT D25263K is a corded unit, which ensures consistent power for stationary heavy concrete drilling without battery anxiety. If you need portability, the DEWALT DCH263R2 offers 20V cordless convenience. Cordless tools suit jobs where outlets are distant, but corded models often provide sustained impact energy for demanding masonry tasks near power sources.

2. Evaluate Included Tools

   Look at what comes in the box to maximize value. The DEWALT D25263K includes a drill driver and hammer drill alongside the rotary hammer, making it a complete kit for varied tasks. In contrast, the Bosch GBH2-28L and RH328VC are sold as rotary hammers only. If you already own drills, a single tool might suffice. If you need a full set, prioritize kits with multiple included tools.

3. Compare Battery Capacity

   For cordless models, battery capacity dictates runtime. The Berserker BSK-111Plus features a 4.0 Ah battery, supporting extended runtime with dual batteries for continuous work. Higher capacity means fewer interruptions for recharging during long concrete drilling sessions. If you prioritize battery life over raw power, this capacity is ideal. Ensure the kit includes the batteries, as some cordless options may require separate purchase for full operation.

4. Assess Weight and Size

   Consider weight for overhead or extended use. The Bosch RH328VC is notably light at 3.82 pounds and compact at 7.48 inches in length, making it easier to handle in tight spaces. The DEWALT DCH263R2 is heavier at 16 pounds, which may affect portability but can offer stability. Choose a lighter tool for overhead drilling or tight quarters, and a heavier unit for stationary, high-energy tasks.

5. Verify Bit Compatibility

   Ensure the chuck size matches your bits. All listed models use a 1-1/8 inch chuck with SDS-Plus compatibility, ensuring you can use standard masonry bits. This consistency allows you to swap tools without changing your bit collection. Confirm that the specific model supports SDS-Plus bits for concrete drilling. This compatibility is crucial for accessing the right drill bits for your masonry projects efficiently.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• 1 18 inch vs 1 14 inch rotary hammer
• 1 18 inch vs 34 inch rotary hammer
• best 1 Inch rotary hammers
• best 1 8 inch wood chippers