A standard drill won’t cut it when working with tough materials like concrete or masonry. That’s where cordless hammer drills and chisels come in. But can a hammer drill handle chiseling, and what’s the best option for professionals?

Yes, a hammer drill can be used for chiseling, but only if it has a chisel or rotary stop mode. Standard hammer drills won’t work for heavy-duty chiseling.

Let’s break down everything you need to know about hammer drills, their versatility, and how to choose the right one.

Can a Hammer Drill Be Used for Chiseling?

Hammer drills are designed for drilling into hard surfaces, but some models can also chisel¹.

A hammer drill can be used for chiseling only if it has a dedicated chiseling or rotary stop mode. Standard hammer drills don’t have the necessary mechanism to sustain heavy chiseling work.

When to Use a Hammer Drill for Chiseling

1. Rotary Hammer vs. Standard Hammer Drill

• A rotary hammer (SDS drill) is better suited for chiseling due to its piston-driven hammering action.
• A standard hammer drill uses a mechanical clutch, which isn’t ideal for chiseling.

2. Chisel Mode Feature

• If your drill has a chisel mode (or "rotation stop"), it can be used for chiseling.
• Without this feature, the drill bit will keep spinning, making chiseling ineffective.

3. Best Applications for Chiseling with a Hammer Drill

• Removing tiles or plaster.
• Light-duty concrete chipping.
• Carving into stone or masonry.

Can You Use a Cordless Hammer Drill as a Regular Drill?

Hammer drills are powerful, but can they replace a standard drill?

Yes, you can use a cordless hammer drill as a regular drill by switching off the hammering function. This makes it suitable for wood, metal, and plastic drilling.

How to Use a Hammer Drill for Regular Drilling

• Turn Off the Hammer Function – Most hammer drills have a switch to disable hammer mode.
• Choose the Right Drill Bit – Use standard twist bits for wood and metal.
• Mind the Weight – Hammer drills are heavier than regular drills, which can be tiring for long tasks.

What Brand Is the Best Hammer Drill?

The best hammer drill depends on your needs—whether for DIY, professional, or industrial use.

Top brands for hammer drills include Makita, DeWalt, Bosch, and Milwaukee, known for durability, power, and battery performance.

Comparing Top Hammer Drill Brands

What’s the Difference Between a Cordless Drill and a Cordless Hammer Drill?

At first glance, both drills look similar, but they serve different purposes.

A cordless drill is for standard drilling and driving, while a cordless hammer drill adds hammering action for tougher materials like concrete and brick.

Key Differences

What Does SDS Drill Stand For?

SDS drills are a step up from standard hammer drills, but what does SDS mean?

SDS stands for “Slotted Drive System” or “Special Direct System.” It refers to the unique bit attachment system that improves hammering efficiency.

Why Choose an SDS Drill?

• Stronger Impact – Uses a piston-driven mechanism for better force.
• Faster Bit Changes – SDS bits lock in place without needing a chuck key.
• More Durable – Designed for heavy-duty drilling and chiseling.

Conclusion

If you're working with concrete or masonry, a cordless hammer drill—or better yet, an SDS drill—is a must. Choose a model with chisel mode for light chiseling work, and go for a top brand like DeWalt, Makita, Bosch, or Milwaukee for long-term reliability.