D-Handle Rotary Hammers

Tester Comments
Clear graphics on mode dial. Good vibration control, but still a little noisy. We liked the independent depth-gauge adjustment and the rubber padding on heavy wear spots. Easy-to-operate direction switch with full power reverse. Great rubber grip on side handle. Good box with adequate room for bits and accessories.

Price
$239

Contact
Bosch Power Tools and Accessories
877-267-2499
www.boschtools.com

Tester Comments
Large D-handle allows plenty of room for a glove and has the most comfortable cushioned trigger grip. Easy-to-understand mode icons. We liked the power and ability to handle vibration and the independent depth-gauge adjustment. Decent box with separate bit storage area.

Price
$219

Contact
DeWalt
800-433-9258
www.dewalt.com

Tester Comments
The powerhouse of the group: fastest drilling, hardest hitting, most compact, smallest rated, and cheapest. But along with the speediest drilling and the chiseling power come the most vibration and noise. We did not like the location and feel of the mode dial. Smallest box of the bunch but big enough to house the tool and several bits.

Price
$189

Contact
Hitachi Power Tools
800-829-4752
www.hitachipowertools.com

Tester Comments
Has the easiest-to-operate mode-selection dial. The only tool tested with a mechanically locking side-handle attachment that cannot slide loose. Good all-around tool with nice switches, ample power, and an extra-long cord. Decent box with separate bit storage area.

Price
$229

Contact
Makita USA
800-462-5482
www.makitatools.com

Tester Comments
Our favorite, though it was the biggest and heaviest. Its unique electronics give it reliable performance characteristics such as constant speed under load. We liked the aluminum housing at the front and its capability to change out the chuck for a standard drill chuck. Most comfortable with superior vibration control. Largest box with extra storage space.

Price
$250

Contact
Metabo Corp.
800-638-2264
www.metabousa.com