A combination hammer is probably the most expensive tool you'll buy for the job site, and with this Bosch, you know you're getting top performance for your money. This model is enormously efficient, powerful and versatile, turning stubborn tile into rubble and drilling effortlessly into 3-inch thick concrete.Part of the beauty of this combination hammer is that it actually doesn't want you to do the work for it; we found that exerting force on it actually slows you down. Instead, firm, steady pressure got us the best results.
First, the features: Bit changes couldn't be faster or easier, to the credit of the SDS-max bit system. Just twist the bit and push it in until it locks into place automatically, and you're ready to work. Set the selector lever to one of three clearly marked positions: hammer only, if you're chipping or demolishing; rotary hammer for drilling; or the 0 (horizontal) setting to use the great vario-lock feature, an ingenious setting that lets you position your spade or gouge at exactly the attitude you need. While in the vario-lock setting, you just rotate the locking sleeve to one of 12 positions at 30-degree increments, then switch the selector back to hammer mode. An easy twist of the locking sleeve secures the bit in position. And when you're in hammer-only mode, the tool automatically boosts power by 20 percent for maximum chiseling.
Maximum speed is controlled by the Auto-Max® dial on the tool body, just above the service reminder and power indicator lights, another top-of-the-line Bosch feature we love. The Service Minder light illuminates when it's time for preventative maintenance, and the beautiful Bosch design lets technicians quickly replace your brushes or power cord and get your tool back in your hands as fast as possible.
Aside from its incredible power, the feature that stands out for us is the ergonomics Bosch is famous for. They've been working on it since the 1950s, decades before most of us even heard the word. In this tool, you'll notice the distinct reduction of vibration, the lion's share of it absorbed by the tool's handle, not your arm. The auxiliary handle swivels a full 360 degrees, so you're never straining and risking injury at an awkward work angle.
We rarely find a tool that we can't tack a wish list of changes onto, and this is definitely one of them. It's the quality, power, comfort and dependability Bosch is deservedly known for. -- Kris Jensen-Van Heste
What's in the Box
Combination hammer, auxiliary handle, carrying case
This tough new SDS-Max combination hammer offers dual mode operation for hammering with or without rotation. It features a variable-speed 11 amp motor that provides 170 to 340 rpm and 1,700 to 3,300 beats per minute. The hammer delivers 6.2 foot-pounds of impact energy in regular operation, and up to 7.4 foot-pounds in turbo mode. The tool's constant response circuitry ensures a soft start and a constant speed under load. The combination hammer also includes an indicator light to let you know when preventative maintenance is required and a power light that indicates when the tool is plugged in and ready for use. This hammer is 17-1/4 inches in length, weighs 14 pounds, and has a maximum bit size of 1-9/16 inches.
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