The Tool Desk
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Why won’t a hammer drill go through concrete?
Concrete drilling depends on more than the motor spinning: the tool must deliver impact as well as rotation, and the bit and technique must suit the tool. A setting, bit, or drilling problem is a sensible place to start, but the exact cause cannot be diagnosed without knowing the drill model and conditions.
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Check the tool’s mode and settings
Make sure the drill actually has a hammer function and that its selector is set to hammer-drilling, not rotation-only. A regular drill—or a hammer drill in rotation-only mode—does not provide the percussive action used for masonry. The Oklahoma State University EHS guide explains that hammer drills and rotary hammers combine impact with rotation to drill masonry: Oklahoma State University’s hand and power tool safety guide.
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1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsCheck the manual for the correct direction, gear, clutch, and speed for your tool and task. Controls and recommendations vary by model; do not assume a selector position or setting based on another drill.
#1 Best Overall
- 2 cutter carbide tip of masonry drill bit set maximizes carbide surface contact for longer bit life.
- Four flute design cleans debris out for fast, efficient drilling
- Three flats on shank eliminate bit slipping in chuck (except DW5232, DW5233, DW5237, DW5238)
Check the bit and chuck
- Use a sharp masonry bit explicitly rated for percussion drilling; carbide-tipped masonry bits are one common option.
- Confirm that the bit’s shank matches the chuck and that the bit is held securely.
- Keep the diameter within the drill’s stated capacity. The manual also determines which materials and hole sizes the tool is rated to handle.
A worn or incompatible bit, a loose fit, or a hole size beyond the drill’s rating can all prevent progress. The checks above identify possibilities, not a diagnosis of your specific tool. The DEWALT hammer-drill guidance and the Craftsman/Sears manual provide examples of manufacturer guidance; use the manual for your own model.
Adjust your drilling technique
Start at the speed recommended in the manual. Hold the drill perpendicular to the surface and apply steady, controlled pressure. Do not lean hard on the tool or push sideways: excessive force can slow drilling and overheat the tool, while side pressure can interfere with clearing debris. DEWALT’s cited manual warns, “Too much force will cause slower drilling speeds, overheating, and a lower drilling rate.” It describes a smooth, even flow of dust as an indication of a proper drilling rate.
Rank #2
- FOR HARD SURFACES: Wear-resistant tungsten carbide tip drills into brick, concrete, tile, glass, ceramic, travertine and hard plastic without slipping. Reinforced tip keeps its edge to deliver clean, steady holes for wall anchors, grab bars and shelves
- FAST DUST REMOVAL: Dual U-groove flutes clear debris quickly, reducing clogging for smoother drilling. The masonry drill bit set is ideal for DIY and home repair. Start at low speed with light pressure and let the bit cool between holes to extend its life
- 10 BITS IN 7 SIZES: This concrete drill bit set includes 1/8", 5/32", 3/16", 1/4" (4 pcs), 5/16", 3/8" and 1/2" bits, Extra 1/4" bits provide handy spares for common drilling tasks. Comes with a storage case to keep all bits organized and easy to find
- FOR BATH, KITCHEN & CRAFTS: Ideal for drilling bathroom tile, mounting mirrors, cabinets and grab bars, or making drainage holes in ceramic pots. For tile and glass, use painter's tape to stop slipping, drill slowly & use water cooling to reduce chipping
- 3-FLAT SHANK FOR STANDARD DRILLS: Anti-slip shank fits standard keyed or keyless 3-jaw chucks on corded, cordless and hand drills, plus drill presses for a wobble-free hold. Use rotary mode only, Not for hammer drills, impact drivers or SDS rotary hammers
Clear dust from a deep hole
When drilling deeper, periodically draw the running bit partway out to help clear debris from the hole. Follow your tool’s manual for dust-clearing instructions. In the cited DEWALT manual, the manufacturer warns against pouring water into the hole because it can clog the bit flutes and cause binding; that instruction is specific to the guidance cited, so do not assume it applies to every tool or drilling process.
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What to do if the drill stalls or stops advancing
If the bit stops or the drill stalls, release the trigger immediately, remove the bit from the workpiece, and determine the cause before trying again. The Craftsman/Sears manual advises users to do this if a hammer drill stalls, rather than repeatedly triggering a stalled tool. Do not force the bit or keep pulsing the trigger. If it stops advancing at one depth after you have checked the mode, bit, and technique, an embedded obstruction is possible, but it cannot be confirmed remotely.
Rank #3
- CARBIDE TIPS AND STEEL BODIES: Each bit combines a spear-shaped carbide cutting tip with a steel body and spiral flutes that guide loosened material along the bit; use speed, pressure, and cooling suited to the surface
- 3-FLAT SHANK FOR STANDARD DRILLS: Fits compatible keyed or keyless 3-jaw chucks on corded drills, cordless drills, hand drills, and drill presses; not for SDS rotary hammers or 1/4-inch impact-driver collets
- 12 BITS IN 7 SIZES: Includes one 1/8", one 5/32", two 3/16", four 1/4", two 5/16", one 3/8 masonry drill bit, and one 1/2" bit for pilot holes and step-up drilling
- FOR MATCHING PROJECT SURFACES: Select masonry drill bits for brick, concrete, cement, stucco, ceramic tile, glass, wood, and plastic; begin at low speed, use light pressure, keep the drill aligned, and add water on hard surfaces
- MARKED SIZES WITH STORAGE CASE: Visible size markings help identify each diameter, while the included transparent case keeps all 12 bits together for selection, transport, and storage between home repair and installation tasks
Before drilling into a wall or another blind area, check for concealed wiring, water lines, and gas lines. Read the operator’s manual and accessory instructions, wear eye protection, and use an appropriate mask or respirator where drilling creates dust. Oklahoma State University’s hand and power tool safety guide covers these precautions and emphasizes matching accessories to the tool.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.When to stop and seek service
If the tool still cannot make progress with the correct mode, a suitable bit, an allowed hole size, and controlled technique, stop and consult the exact manual or the manufacturer’s service channel. Do the same if the drill behaves abnormally, overheats, or repeatedly stalls. The available model-specific guidance does not establish a particular repair cause for an unidentified drill, so avoid opening or repairing the tool based on guesswork.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Up to 5x life in concrete
- SHOCKWAVE Impact Duty engineered for hammer drills and impacts
- Sharpened carbide edges for faster starts in concrete, brick, and block
- Wide flute design removes dust faster, reducing heat & delivering more holes per charge
- ¼’” Hex shank for added tool versatility
Rank #4
- 10PCS Masonry Drill Bit Set: Includes 10 commonly used sizes from 5/32" to 1/2" for different drilling needs. A practical carbide drill bit set for installing wall anchors, screws, shelves, fixtures, bathroom hardware, kitchen accessories, and general home repair projects
- Carbide Tip for Multiple Materials: Designed with carbide tips to drill into concrete, brick, cement, ceramic tile, glass, plastic, and other masonry surfaces. Suitable for home improvement, remodeling, tile work, and everyday drilling tasks
- Hex Shank for Secure Grip: The hex shank design helps reduce slipping in the drill chuck and provides a more stable hold during use. Works with most standard electric drills, cordless drills, and compatible drill drivers
- Clean Drilling with Proper Use: For glass, ceramic tile, and other smooth surfaces, start at a low speed, keep the bit steady, and use water for cooling when needed. Do not use hammer mode on glass or tile to help reduce cracking and bit wear
- Versatile Home and Workshop Applications: Suitable for drilling pilot holes in walls, brick, tile, cement, plastic, and concrete for anchors or fasteners. Please match the drill mode, speed, and pressure to the material for better drilling results and longer bit life
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