Description
Bosch 1-9/16 in. SDS-Max Rotary Hammer Drill, Corded (RH540M). This beast is both a rotary hammer (think big hammer drill) and hammer-only tool (think mini jack hammer). SDS is shorthand for "Slotted Drive Shaft (or System)".
This item's features include:
- 12 Amp
- 1-9/16 in. max bit diameter
- Selector knob to toggle between Drilling/Hammering, Hammering, and"Vario-Lock" modes
- Variable Speed dial
- Drilling capacity (carbide tipped bits): 1-9/16ths of an inch
- Core-Bit drilling capacity: 4 in.
- 6.1 Ft.-Lbs. of impact energy
- 170 to 340 RPM (rotary mode) 1,200 to 2,750 BPM (hammer mode)
- 12 different positions for chisel bit
- 9 ft cord
This item comes with a SDS Plus/SDS Max adapter, an auxiliary handle, and a hard case.
Often Used With: SDS Plus/SDS Max adapter (included), Rotary Hammer Bit Set, SDS-Plus; Extension Cord
Similar To: Hammer Drill
Intended Uses
This item is used for drilling holes in poured concrete and other masonry products, as well as light concrete demolition. Use this tool for drilling holes in concrete for your bike rack!
- SDS-Plus bits (smaller overall and smaller shank) are for small holes and light demolition. SDS-Plus/SDS-Max adapter is required.
- SDS-Max bits (larger overall and larger shank) are for bigger holes and heavier demolition
Drilling/Hammering mode: used for drilling holes in concrete and other masonry applications with a carbide tipped and core bits.
Hammering mode: used for chipping and demolition work with chipping bits, like bull points, spades, chisels, gouges, etc.
When selector lever is positioned anywhere between the Drilling/Hammering and Hammering modes, it is in "Vario-Lock" mode. This selection allows you to use the chisel bit in various orientations for convenience.
There are many types of bits you can use with this item:
- drill bits: carbide tipped for drilling holes in concrete and other masonry material
- chisel bits: for chipping/breaking apart concrete and other masonry material
- core bits: for large diameter holes in concrete and other masonry material
- spade bits: for breaking up hard clay, packed dirt and gravel
- scraper bits: for removing tile, linoleum, laminate, and adhesives
- and more?!!....
Special Instructions
When using smaller SDS-Plus bits, the SDS Plus/SDS Max adapter is required.
Straight from the manual and very good advice: "For the best penetration rates in concrete, run the tool with a steady pressure, but do not use excessive force as this will decrease the efficiency of the tool."
Tool Resources
Diagram
Image source: Operating/Safety Instructions
Instructions
On loading an SDS-Max bit or SDS-Plus adapter see pic, below. To remove bit, simply pull locking sleeve back and pull bit straight out:
Image source: Operating/Safety Instructions
SDS-Plus adapter lowdown:
- This tool is SDS-Max compatible, meaning it requires an SDS-Max bit (they have larger bit shafts with a particular notches). SDS-Max bits are usually very long and can be up to 1-9/16ths in. wide. However, if you need to drill a smaller hole, say a 3/16ths in. hole, you will want to use an SDS-Plus bit. In order to use the SDS-Plus bit in this SDS-Max tool, you simply need to use the adapter provided. Sweet!
Resources
- PDF: Operating/Safety Instructions
- Web Copy: "Differences Between a Hammer Drill and Rotary Hammer" by Family Handyman. Great read with pics–yes, you have to read!
- Video: "How to Use a Rotary Hammer Drill" by First Stop Rentals Ltd (1:35m). A very quick demo using a drill bit and a chisel bit and how to Insert an SDS-Max bit (or an SDS-Plus adapter).
- Video: "When to Use SDS Plus VS When to Use SDS Max and the Differences Between Them" by Sparky Channel (5:43m). Stop at 4:30m where conclusion merges into marketing! Note: DTL rotary hammer does not have a depth gauge or 'just drill' mode like the one in this video.
- Video: "What is an SDS Rotary Hammer Drill? - Drill Bits, Modes and Applications" by Sealey Tools (2:07m). Short, basic, etc.