Use hammer mode to drill into masonry—such as concrete, brick, or stone—when your drill supports that mode and you have a compatible masonry bit. Turn it off for ordinary drilling in wood, metal, and plastic, and never use hammer action through tile. The exact modes and switching rules vary by drill, so check the manual for your model.
What hammer mode does
A hammer drill rotates the bit while adding repeated forward impacts. DEWALT Support describes the hammer feature as one that “moves the drill bit in a forward motion as well.” That added action is intended to help the bit work through resistant masonry; it is not a general-purpose setting for every material. DEWALT Support’s overview of hammer drills was updated November 24, 2025.
Choose the mode for the material
| Material or task | Mode guidance | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Concrete, brick, or stone | Hammerdrill mode, if your drill has it | Use a masonry-rated carbide-tipped bit and confirm its shank, diameter, and the tool’s stated capacity are compatible. |
| Wood | Drill-only mode on the cited DEWALT models | Use a wood-appropriate bit. Consult your drill’s manual for its supported materials and settings. |
| Metal | Drill-only mode on the cited DEWALT models | Use a suitable metal bit. The cited DWD520/DWD525 manual discusses cutting lubricant, with exceptions for cast iron and brass. |
| Plastic | Drill-only mode on the cited D253 models | Use a suitable bit and speed as specified by the tool and material guidance. |
| Tile | Hammer action off | DEWALT Support says, “Never use hammer action when drilling through tiles.” Choose a tile-suitable bit and technique. |
These settings are based on the named DEWALT manuals, not a universal rule for every drill. For example, the D25313/D25323/D25324 rotary-hammer manual specifies drill-only for wood, metal, and plastics, and hammerdrill for masonry. Your model may define its settings differently. DEWALT’s tile and masonry guidance was published December 22, 2020.
How to switch modes safely
- Identify the selector on your exact drill. Read the symbols and manual; a selector may combine speed and mode, while a rotary hammer may offer drill-only, hammerdrill, and hammer-only settings.
- Stop the tool before changing modes when required. The D25313/D25323/D25324 manual says to wait for a complete stop before operating its mode selector; changing modes while the tool is still moving may damage it.
- Fit a compatible bit. Check the bit type, shank, diameter, chuck fit, and the drill’s capacity in its manual.
- Use controlled pressure while hammer drilling. Keep the bit straight and apply only enough forward force to keep it engaged. On the cited DWD520/DWD525 models, too much pressure can slow drilling and overheat the tool. If drilling slows or the tool heats up, ease off; for deep holes on those models, partially withdraw the running bit to clear debris if hammer speed drops.
- Disconnect power for adjustments or accessory changes when the manual directs. Follow the specific instructions for your tool.
Control the tool and workpiece
- Clamp or otherwise secure the workpiece as directed by the manual.
- Install and use the side handle when your model provides or requires one. The cited DEWALT manuals advise a secure side handle and two-handed control to manage twisting forces.
- If a bit catches or stalls, release the trigger and find the cause instead of repeatedly pulsing the trigger.
- Bits and tool components may become hot. Follow the manual’s handling precautions.
Hammer drill mode is not hammer-only mode
In hammerdrill mode, the bit rotates and receives impacts. Some rotary hammers also have a hammer-only or chipping mode for chiseling, but only where the specific tool supports it. Do not put a chisel bit in drill-only or hammerdrill mode if the manual forbids that use.
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- ATTENTION: This rotary hammer can only be used with SDS Plus (SDS +) bits--NOT with regular drills, SDS Max, or other types of bits(PLEASE CHECK BEFORE ORDERING)
- Efficient Use: The lightweight rotary hammer weighs only 7.19 lbs. and is ideal for overhead or downward drilling applications.The SDS-Plus bit system offers tool-less bit changes and maximum impact energy transfer. Ideal for DIY enthusiasts, not suitable for heavy-duty demolition work
- Power: 9 AMP motor delivers 0-1,100 RPM and 0-5,300 BPM, 2.21 ft.lbs.(3 Joules) of impact energy for fast drilling in concrete, cement, brick, masonry and tile removal
- 4 Modes: "Rotary Hammer" mode is ideal for quickly drilling in concrete. "Rotary Only" mode is suitable for light drilling in masonry or brick work. "Hammer Only" mode is perfect for tile removal. "Chisel position Adjustment" mode allows free adjustment of the chisel angle
- Convenient Use: Equipped with forward and reverse buttons for easy removal of tightened bits. Variable speed trigger with locking button to accurately start the drill and reduce fatigue
What to check when choosing a drill or bit
If your current tool lacks a suitable setting, compare drills by their available modes, stated masonry capacity, speed or impact settings, and side-handle provision. For a bit, check its material suitability, shank and chuck compatibility, diameter, and the drill’s stated capacity. A selectable-mode hammer drill/driver is one possible option; for example, Bosch lists distinct hammer, drilling, and driving modes for its GSB18V-490N. That example is not a head-to-head recommendation, and no general speed or accuracy advantage should be assumed without model-specific evidence.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Versatility at its best - From tightening screws to drilling into wood, metal and even concrete, this versatile hammer drill is the ideal DIY tool for a variety of home projects.
- Powerful - This drill is equipped with a high torque 7.5 Amp motor that makes it ideal for the most demanding projects.
- TACKLES TOUGH JOBS - This ½” heavy-duty keyed chuck allows for larger bits to power through heavy duty jobs.
- Speed control - The 2-finger variable speed trigger provides increased control.
- Drill longer and more comfortably - The lock-on button lets you to drill for long periods of time. This prevents finger fatigue and allows for different holding options for greater stability.
Rank #4
- Powerful 7. 5-Amp Motor – Corded hammer drill tackle the most demanding projects
- Keyless 1/2 Inch Metal Chuck – Powerful hammer drill Provides great convenience for frequent bit changes. Please note that this hammer drill can NOT be used in reinforced concrete walls.
- 2-in-1 Multi-Function - Easy switch , select the right function for each application in an instant
- Variable Speed Trigger - With preset selector and lock on, increased control and continuous operations, choose the speed you need as materials and conditions change
- Soft Grip Handle – Maximum comfort with relentless drill hammer in the palm of your hand
Rank #3
- Powerful Motor: Features a 4.5 Amps copper motor which delivers a very nice performance at 3000RPM. Providing additional durability to support overload production for drilling and chipping on wood, masonry, steel, wall, concrete and other hard materials
- 2 Functions in 1: Equipped with a green dual-mode selector on the top, you can easily switch between hammer and drill functions by one button according to various work requirements. Twelve adjustable speeds can handle different impact intensities of operation, selecting the proper from 12 sections to make the work more convenient
- 1/2 Keyed Metal Chuck: Our drill has a sturdy and durable metal chuck, its maximum chuck diameter is 1/2''. A variety of replaceable drill bits can meet the needs of different drilling materials
- 360 °Rotatable Handle: The ergonomic and rubberized grip offer a comfortable and pleasant working environment. The included 360 °adjustable side handle can ensures the best possible control of the machine
- What you will get: 1 x impact drill, 5 x construction drill bits, 1* auxiliary handle, 1 x chuck key, 1 x manual
Rank #2
- OUR SHORTEST 20V MAX* HAMMER DRILL** at 6.49 in. (tool head length only) to access hard to reach areas.
- GET UP TO 14% MORE POWER***and up to 1,650 RPMs for a variety of drilling applications.
- HIGH BIT RETENTION with 1/2 in. ratcheting chuck.
- UNLOCK POWER IN A COMPACT SIZE with 552 UWO and up to 28,050 BPMs to tackle tough jobs in tight spaces.
- ILLUMINATE WORKSPACES using the on-tool LED work light.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
