Best SDS Drill for Metalwork: 7 Top Picks Compared
Most SDS-plus rotary hammers are built for concrete, not steel. For metalwork the Makita HR2661 stands out because its rotation-only mode and AVT anti-vibration housing keep bits centered on metal without the hammer action that can walk a bit across a smooth surface. The Bosch Bulldog Xtreme 11255VSR and Ryobi P222 round out the top picks for shops that also need masonry capability or a lighter cordless option. Picking an SDS drill for metal is tricky because most spec sheets highlight impact energy and BPM, numbers that matter for concrete but say little about how cleanly a tool switches to rotation-only mode for steel. We compared published specifications, chuck adapter compatibility, and control features like speed dials and mode switches across seven current SDS-plus models to find the ones that handle metal drilling without sacrificing masonry versatility.
Quick answer
For metalwork, the Makita HR2661 offers the best rotation-only control among SDS-plus hammers. The Bosch Bulldog Xtreme 11255VSR gives more power for mixed masonry-and-metal shops. Budget-focused buyers do well with the Ryobi P222, an 18V cordless option that handles occasional steel drilling without a corded tether.
Why trust ToolBuyerHub
- Specifications pulled directly from manufacturer listings and Amazon product pages
- We compared rotation-only mode availability, a key factor for metalwork accuracy
- No sponsored placements; product order reflects feature fit, not price
- Owners report chuck adapter compatibility, cross-checked against SDS-plus standards
- We favor tools with clear mode switches over marketing claims
- Listings rechecked periodically so discontinued models are dropped from the list
Research updated August 2026.
Makita HR2661 SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer
Makita's HR2661 pairs a 6.
| Model | Best for | Key specs | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Makita HR2661 SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer | Best Overall for rotation-only metal drilling | Corded, 6.7 Amp, 0 to 1100 RPM | 4.8/5 |
| Bosch Bulldog Xtreme 11255VSR | Best for shops splitting time between masonry and metal | Corded, 7.5 Amp, 0 to 1300 RPM | 4.7/5 |
| Milwaukee 2912-20 M18 FUEL SDS Plus Rotary Hammer | Best for pros already on the M18 battery platform | M18 18V cordless, 0 to 1400 RPM | 4.7/5 |
| DeWalt DCH133B 20V MAX XR Brushless SDS Plus Rotary Hammer | Best cordless option for fabrication shops on DeWalt's platform | 20V MAX cordless, 0 to 1400 RPM | 4.6/5 |
| Hilti TE 6-A36 Cordless Rotary Hammer | Best premium option for daily commercial-duty use | 36V cordless, 0 to 1050 RPM | 4.5/5 |
| Ryobi P222 18V ONE+ SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer | Best budget cordless option for occasional metalwork | 18V ONE+ cordless, 0 to 1200 RPM | 4.4/5 |
| Craftsman CMED741 SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer | Best budget corded option for occasional metal and masonry drilling | Corded, 7.5 Amp, 0 to 900 RPM | 4.3/5 |
Makita HR2661 SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer
Best OverallPros
- True rotation-only mode for clean steel drilling
- AVT anti-vibration reduces arm fatigue
- Variable speed dial for material-specific control
Cons
- Corded design limits mobility on job sites
- SDS-plus chuck still needs an adapter for round-shank bits
Makita's HR2661 pairs a 6.7 Amp motor with true rotation-only mode, letting it run as a straight drill for steel and sheet metal. AVT anti-vibration technology reduces operator fatigue during extended use. A variable speed dial helps match RPM to bit size and material thickness.
Bosch Bulldog Xtreme 11255VSR
Best for Mixed Masonry and MetalPros
- Strong 7.5 Amp motor handles thick steel stock
- Constant Response circuitry holds speed under load
- Rotation-stop function for hammer-free drilling
Cons
- Heavier than the cordless options in this list
- Vibration control is basic compared to Makita's AVT
The Bulldog Xtreme delivers 7.5 Amp of corded power with a 0 to 1300 RPM range, enough torque for both masonry and heavier metal drilling tasks. Its Constant Response circuitry maintains speed under load. A rotation-stop function isolates hammer action when it is not needed.
Milwaukee 2912-20 M18 FUEL SDS Plus Rotary Hammer
Best for Heavy-Duty ProsPros
- Brushless motor extends runtime and tool life
- Shares batteries with the wider M18 lineup
- REDLINK PLUS electronics prevent overload damage
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately on the bare tool
- Bulkier than compact 18V drill-drivers for tight spaces
Milwaukee's M18 FUEL SDS Plus rotary hammer uses a brushless motor and REDLINK PLUS electronics to protect against overload while drilling steel. It runs on the same M18 battery platform as the rest of Milwaukee's cordless lineup. A one-mode selector switches between rotation-only and hammer-drill settings.
DeWalt DCH133B 20V MAX XR Brushless SDS Plus Rotary Hammer
Best CordlessPros
- Two-mode selector for rotation-only steel drilling
- Compact head fits tight fabrication spaces
- LED light aids visibility on dim job sites
Cons
- Bare tool ships without battery or charger
- Lower RPM ceiling than some corded rivals
The DCH133B is a 20V MAX brushless SDS Plus rotary hammer with a two-mode selector for hammer drilling and rotation-only work. Its compact head design improves access in tight metal fabrication spaces. An LED work light illuminates the bit area in low light.
Hilti TE 6-A36 Cordless Rotary Hammer
Best PremiumPros
- Active vibration reduction eases prolonged steel drilling
- Metal gear housing built for daily commercial duty
- Fleet management options suit multi-tool shops
Cons
- Highest cost tier of any tool on this list
- 36V battery platform is proprietary to Hilti
Hilti's TE 6-A36 runs on a 36V battery platform and pairs an active vibration reduction system with a rotation-only mode for steel work. Its metal gear housing is built for daily commercial use. Hilti's tool tracking and fleet management options suit larger shops.
Ryobi P222 18V ONE+ SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer
Best Budget CordlessPros
- Works with the wide ONE+ battery ecosystem
- Rotation-only mode suits occasional metal drilling
- Lightweight and compact for a rotary hammer
Cons
- Less impact power for heavy masonry work
- Not built for continuous commercial-duty cycles
Ryobi's P222 brings SDS-plus rotary hammer function to the 18V ONE+ battery platform at an accessible entry point. A rotation-only mode allows steel and wood drilling without hammer action. Its compact size suits occasional metalwork alongside general home projects.
Craftsman CMED741 SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer
Best Budget CordedPros
- Rotation-only switch enables clean metal drilling
- Budget-friendly corded price point
- Side handle improves control on larger bits
Cons
- Fewer speed settings than premium models
- Vibration dampening is minimal during hammer mode
The CMED741 is a corded SDS-plus rotary hammer with a 7.5 Amp motor and a switch to disable hammer action for straight rotation. It targets budget-conscious buyers who need occasional metal and masonry drilling. A side handle helps control torque on larger bits.
What Makes an SDS Drill Good for Metalwork
SDS-plus rotary hammers are designed around a spline-shank chuck that locks bits without a keyed collar, a system built for concrete and masonry. For metalwork, the deciding factor is whether the tool offers a true rotation-only mode that disables the hammer mechanism. Without it, the pounding action can crack drill bits or distort holes in sheet metal. Motor amperage and RPM range matter too, since steel needs slower, steadier speeds than masonry.
Rotation-Only Mode vs Hammer Mode
Hammer mode adds a pneumatic pounding action layered on top of rotation, useful for boring into concrete and brick. Steel and other metals do not need that impact force and can be damaged by it. Look for a clearly labeled mode selector, usually a dial or switch marked with a drill-bit icon for rotation-only. Models without this option are poor choices for regular metalwork, even if their masonry performance is strong.
Choosing Between Corded and Cordless SDS Hammers
Corded rotary hammers generally deliver more sustained power for thick steel stock and long drilling sessions. Cordless models trade some torque for mobility, useful on job sites without nearby outlets. Battery platform compatibility matters if a shop already owns tools on a system like M18, 20V MAX, or ONE+. Runtime drops faster in metal drilling than in wood, since steel demands steadier pressure over longer cycles.
Chuck Adapters and Bit Compatibility for Steel Drilling
Most SDS-plus rotary hammers accept only spline-shank bits by default, which limits metal-specific bit options. A keyless or keyed chuck adapter lets the tool run standard round-shank twist bits and step bits designed for steel. Not every rotary hammer ships with this adapter, so buyers drilling metal regularly should confirm compatibility before purchase. Adapter quality varies, and a loose fit can cause bit wobble that ruins hole accuracy.
FAQs
Can you use an SDS drill for metal?
Yes, as long as the tool has a rotation-only mode that disables the hammer action, and a chuck adapter for round-shank metal bits.
What is the difference between SDS drill and hammer drill?
An SDS drill uses a spline-shank chuck system for tool-free bit changes and stronger bit retention, while a standard hammer drill uses a keyed or keyless chuck. Both can add hammer action, but SDS models typically deliver more consistent impact force.
Do I need a chuck adapter to drill metal with an SDS drill?
Most SDS-plus rotary hammers need a separate chuck adapter to accept standard round-shank twist bits used for steel.
Is a rotary hammer better than a regular drill for steel?
Not usually; a regular drill or drill press gives better control for steel, but a rotary hammer with rotation-only mode works fine for occasional metal drilling.
What RPM is best for drilling steel?
Lower RPM generally works better for steel, often in the 300 to 1000 RPM range depending on bit size and steel thickness.
Can SDS-plus bits drill through metal?
Standard SDS-plus masonry bits are not designed for metal; use HSS or cobalt round-shank bits through a chuck adapter instead.
Which brand makes the best SDS rotary hammer?
Makita, Bosch, Milwaukee, DeWalt, and Hilti all make well-regarded SDS-plus rotary hammers, with the right choice depending on power source and budget.
Are cordless SDS drills powerful enough for metalwork?
Cordless SDS drills like the Milwaukee M18 FUEL and DeWalt DCH133B handle occasional to moderate metal drilling well, though corded models still lead in sustained power.
How much does a good SDS rotary hammer cost?
Pricing varies by brand, battery platform, and power class; entry-level cordless models sit well below premium corded or commercial-duty units.
Our verdict
For metalwork, the Makita HR2661 offers the clearest combination of rotation-only control and vibration reduction. Shops needing masonry versatility too should consider the Bosch Bulldog Xtreme 11255VSR, while budget-focused buyers get solid value from the Ryobi P222. Match the tool to whichever battery platform or corded setup your shop already runs.