Cordless Rotary Hammers Cordless vs. Concrete: Can you finally make the switch to cordless rotary hammers? Check out this test to find out.

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Winner

My choice for overall winner is the Hilti TE 7-AC. It had the best balance of ergonomic qualities and high performance. I really liked its comfortable grips and controls and moderate vibration and noise output, but what put it over the top for me was the combination of the second-fastest hole-drilling time and the best drilling duration.

In a close second is the Bosch 11536VSR, which blasted through concrete with the greatest speed and decent comfort. The noise level and vibration are both high, but that's a price I'm willing to pay to get the job done quickly. The Milwaukee 0756-22 rounds out my top three. It's in the same league as the first two; it's about as fast as the Hilti and outlasts the Bosch.

Next in line is the DeWalt DC233 KL with decent performance and an even better spring-loaded body that significantly reduces vibration and aids the operator in judging how much pressure to use while drilling or chipping. Note that the top four all have the added benefit of a chipping mode.

The Hilti TE 6-A LI is next with average speed and the ability to outlast the remaining tools, followed by the Panasonic EY6813NQKW with mid-line speed and duration results along with its unique speed control.

The DeWalt DC212 KA is compact and well balanced, and has the same body suspension that the larger model has. The Metabo BHA18 had good, low vibration and noise rankings, but it was lacking in performance. The Makita BHR240 couldn't complete my hole test while all the others could, but it did have a comfortable feel and even a chipping mode.

–Rick Arnold owns R. Arnold and Sons Construction in North Kingstown, R.I., and frequently writes for trade magazines and speaks on construction topics across the U.S.

Thanks to Miyanaga America Corp. for supplying the bits for our test. 630-778-3496 www.miyanagaamerica.com