BEST HEAVY DUTY AIR HAMMER ON THE MARKET

Buyer’s Guide

There are a variety of air hammer brands and models. For the most part, they all have the same characteristics and features. Some come as kits that include several chisel bits while others are super heavy-duty professional tools.

Price, durability, and reliability are important criteria. Prices vary on similar models and you may be tempted to purchase a lesser-quality air impact tool. A less expensive air impact tool may serve its purpose in the short-term, but will not be long-lasting or reliable with extended use.

There are brands that have been in business a half-century or longer. Chicago Pneumatic and Ingersoll Rand, for example, have been manufacturing and marketing automotive, professional, and industrial tools for more than 100 years!

Best Cheap Air Hammer – Ingersoll Rand 114GQC

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Ingersoll Rand 114GQC Quick Change Air Hammer 3-Piece Chisel Set, 3500 BPM, 2-5/8" Stroke, .401 Shank
  • The hammer is equipped with a quick-change retainer that makes it easy to swap chisels, giving you flexibility you can count on
  • Longer life alloyed steel barrel and heat-treated piston ensure this hammer will withstand harsh environments, repeated drops and harsh chemicals
  • Ergonomic grip reduces vibration and increases comfort while operating, keeping you on the job longer and finishing tasks efficiently
  • Other features include a diffused handle exhaust, built-in power regulator, professional touch trigger, and .401" shank
  • Comes with 3 chisel attachments (Tapered Punch, Panel Cutter and Flat Chisel) making it a handy power tool for cutting metal panels, fixing exhaust systems, scraping surfaces, chipping and making auto body repairs

The Ingersoll Rand Air Hammer 114GQC model is a sturdy, compact, lightweight, standard-duty air impact tool. It offers more features than comparable air hammers. It is designed to efficiently cut metal and facilitate chipping and surface scraping.

It also makes cutting panels and exhaust system maintenance/repair faster and easier. This air hammer features a durable, long-lasting, medium-length, alloyed steel barrel. It is powered by a heat-treated piston which is attached to an air compressor. It has a built-in power regulator.

The 114GQC’s award-winning ergonomic design includes a contoured comfort-grip handle that enhances torque accuracy, efficiency, and safety. It has a professional- style touch trigger and the ability to safely diffuse exhaust from the handle’s bottom. The vibration factor is 7.5 m/s2 (ISO 8662-1).

Specifically, the 114GQC is a lightweight 4.1 pounds, measures 8½ inches long, and has a 0.401 in. tool shaft/shank. It offers a 2⅝” (2.63 in.) piston stroke and it delivers 3,500 blows per minute (BPM) at maximum 90 psi and average air consumption of 4 CFM. Blow strength (power)/speed are adjustable.

This Ingersoll Rand air hammer kit includes a 3-piece chisel set (tapered punch, panel cutter, and flat). The quick-disconnect retainer enables quick chisel exchange.

Specifications

Weight, lbs.: 4.1

Stroke, in.: 2.63

Blows per Minute: 3,500 BPM

Dimensions: 10.3 x 8.3 x 2.3 in

Air inlet nptf in.: 1/4″

Overall length in.: 8.5

PROS

  • Reasonable price
  • High quality
  • Compact and durable
  • Convenient quick-release
  • Includes a 3-piece chisel set
  • Ergonomic design
  • 1-yr. limited warranty

CONS

  • Case not included
  • Ear protection recommended

Best Powerful Automotive – Chicago Pneumatic CP717

Chicago Pneumatic CP717 - Air Hammer, Welding Equipment Tool, Construction, Heavy Duty, 0.498 Inch (12.7mm), Round Shank, Stroke 2.68 in / 68 mm, Bore Diameter 0.75 in / 19 mm - 1800 Blow Per Minute
  • Most powerful CP air hammer for automotive, truck and off road equipment
  • Positive action trigger for precise control because of spool valve
  • 1,800 blows per minute
  • Longer stroke heavy duty piston

The Chicago Pneumatic CP717 model is the most powerful, durable, super-duty Chicago Pneumatic air impact tool specifically designed for truck, automotive and off-road equipment maintenance and repair. It is recommended “for professional use only!”

The CP717 has a positive action trigger and spool valve which allow greater operator control. The vibration factor is 13.0 m/s2 (ISO 8662-1). The CP717 is designed for durability and comfort, and reduces fatigue.

The CP717 requires a ⅜” size hose that ensures maximum air flow/pressure. The minimum sized air compressor required is 7 CFM at 90 psi. The maximum allowable air compressor is 2hp, 40 gal. air tank. An air regulator is optional.

Specifically, the CP717 is a lightweight 4.75 pounds, and measures 9¾ inches long. It has a ¾” bore diameter and an extra-large ½ “ (0.498 in.) tool shaft/shank for heavy-duty applications, such as front end work, truck springs, king spring bushings, rusted bolts, heavy-duty spring bushings removal, and more.

It offers a longer 2-11/16” (2.69 in.) piston stroke and it delivers 1,800 blows per minute (BPM) at average air consumption. Its minimum noise level is 95 dBA.

The manufacturer recommends performing routine maintenance (disassemble and inspect) every three months when this air impact tool is being utilized daily.

Specifications
Weight, lbs.: 4.0
Stroke, in.: 2.69
Blows per Minute: 1,800 BPM
Dimensions: 10 x 8.1 x 3.2 in
DBA: 105 db(A)
Min. hose size: 3/8″

PROS

  • Reasonable price
  • Powerful
  • High quality
  • Durable
  • For professional use
  • Online owner’s manual
  • 1-yr. warranty on materials and workmanship

CONS

  • Case not included
  • Limited attachment options
  • Chisel bits not included
  • Professional maintenance and repair only
  • Ear protection recommended

Best Short-Barrel/Anti-Vibe Air Hammer – Ingersoll Rand 119MAXK

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The Ingersoll Rand Air Hammer 119MAXK model is a sturdy, quiet, compact, lightweight, standard-duty, anti-vibration air impact tool. It is essentially designed for punching, hammering, chipping, cutting, and scraping, such as pin driving and bolt-cutting. It also makes front-end and body shearing work easier to complete.

The 119MAXK is durable and long-lasting with a short, alloyed steel barrel. It has a powerful heat-treated piston when attached to an air compressor. It provides 5 percent more impact force than competitive standard air hammer products.

The 119MAXK air hammer features anti-vibration technology that reduces vibration more than 30 percent over comparable air hammers. The vibration factor is 7.5 m/s2 (ISO 8662-1). The 119MAXK is designed for durability and comfort, and reduces fatigue.

The 119MAXK requires a ⅜” size hose that ensures maximum air flow/pressure. The minimum sized air compressor required is 6 CFM at 90 psi. The 119MAXK’s ergonomic design includes a pistol-grip handle that enhances torque accuracy, efficiency, and safety.

Specifically, the 119MAXK is a lightweight 4 pounds, measures 8½ inches long, and has a 0.401 in. tool shaft/shank. It offers a 2⅝” (2.63 in.) piston stroke and it delivers 3,500 blows per minute (BPM) at maximum 94.7 psi. The average noise level is 94.7 – 105.7 dBA.

This Ingersoll Rand air hammer kit includes a 5-piece chisel set, including a tapered punch, panel cutter, and flat chisel, and carry case. The quick-disconnect retainer enables quick chisel exchange.

Specifications

Weight, lbs.: 4.5

Stroke, in.: 2.63

Blows per Minute: 3,500 BPM

Dimensions: 10.4 x 2.2 x 6.9 in

Vibration M/S2: 7

Power (DBA): 94.7/105.7

PROS

  • High quality
  • Quiet
  • Anti-vibration mechanism
  • Compact and durable
  • Convenient quick-release
  • Includes a 5-piece chisel set
  • Protective carrying case included
  • Online user manual
  • 1-yr. limited warranty

CONS

  • Somewhat expensive
  • No air regulator

Best Mechanic’s Long-Barrel Hammer – Sunex SX243

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The Sunex SX243 Hd 250-Mm long barrel air-powered hammer is sturdy, durable, cost-effective, ergonomically designed and adjustable with minimal vibration. It is essentially designed for drilling, punching, hammering, chipping, cutting, sanding, and spraying.

It allows faster and easier completion of front-end, body shearing work, and other heavy-duty applications. The SX243 Hd is durable and long-lasting with a long hardened steel barrel. It has a built-in air regulator with knob for easy adjustment.

The SX243 Hd air hammer has aluminum alloy housing and ergonomic comfort pistol grip handle that enhances torque accuracy, efficiency, and safety. The SX243 Hd is harder-hitting than most of its competitors. It is heavy-duty, durable, and ergonomically-designed for comfort to reduce fatigue.

The SX243 Hd requires a ⅜” size hose that ensures maximum air flow/pressure. The average air consumption is 4 CFM at 90 psi.

Specifically, the SX243 Hd is 5.7 pounds, measures 10⅝ inches long, has a ¾” bore, and has a 0.401 in. tool shaft/shank. It offers a 3¾” (2.75 in.) piston stroke and it delivers 2,200 blows per minute (BPM) at maximum 90 psi. Its noise level is 110 dBA.

Specifications

Weight, lbs.: 4.8

Stroke, in.: 2-11/16

Blows per Minute: 2,200 BPM

Min Hose Size: 3/8

Sound Level (dBA): 110.00

Dimensions: 7.4 x 10.7 x 2.5 in

PROS

  • Reasonable price
  • Powerful
  • Sturdy; durable
  • Online user manual
  • 1-yr. limited warranty

CONS

  • Case not included
  • Chisel bits not included
  • No variable speed
  • Ear protection recommended

Best For All Needs – Astro Pneumatic Tool 4980

Astro Pneumatic Tool 4980 0.498" Shank Super Duty Air Hammer/Riveter
  • Maximum power air hammer for heavy dutyoff-road, industrial and automotive applications
  • Remove or install rivets in I-beam suspension and work site equipment, heavy duty servicing of truck bushings, springs, king pins and more
  • Speed: 1800 RPM
  • Bore: 3/4-inch
  • Stroke: 2-11/16"

The Astro Pneumatic Tool 4980 is a “big ‘n’ nasty” powerful, super-duty, durable air hammer and riveter combined.

It is designed for drilling, punching, hammering, chipping, and cutting as well as sanding and spraying. The 4980 can capably remove or install I-beam suspension rivets and heavy-duty equipment and truck springs, bushings, king pins and more faster and easier.

The Astro Pneumatic Tool 4980 has an alloyed-steel long barrel and feathered trigger control handle that enhances torque accuracy, efficiency, and safety.

The 4980 is harder-hitting than most of its competitors. Its heavy-duty, durable, dual purpose design aids production and comfort to reduce fatigue. It has a spring retainer for faster chisel bit changes.

The Astro Pneumatic Tool 4980’s ¼” air inlet and ⅜” size hose ensure maximum air flow/pressure. Specifically, the 4980 is 4.8 pounds, measures 12 inches long, has a ¾” bore, and an extra-large 0.498 in. tool shaft/shank for automotive, heavy-duty, off-road, or industrial applications. It offers a 2-11/16” (2.69 in.) piston stroke and it delivers 1,800 blows per minute (BPM).

Specifications

Weight, lbs.: 4.1

Stroke, in.: 2.63

Blows per Minute: 1,800 BPM

Air Inlet: 1/4″

Bore: 3/4″

Dimensions: 12 x 4.2 x 2.5 in

PROS

  • Powerful
  • Sturdy; durable
  • Spring retainer included
  • 1-yr. limited warranty

CONS

  • Major vibration
  • Case not included
  • Chisel bits not included
  • Ear protection recommended

Budget Buy – DP Dynamic Power Short Barrel Air Hammer

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Dynamic Power Short Barrel Air Hammer Kit with 4-Chisels, Alloyed steel barrel and heat-treated piston D319115-SA
  • Four round chisels-Include ripper, bolt cutter flat and tapered punch chisels
  • Built in regulator to match speed to the job
  • Alloyed steel barrel and heat-treated piston for longer life
  • The ideal choice for muffler and pipe removal, body shop work.
  • Powerful, valuable, reliable

The DP Dynamic Power Short Barrel Air Hammer is an ideal choice for jobs requiring precision and power. It features a powerful alloyed steel barrel and heat-treated piston to deliver long-lasting performance.

The built-in regulator helps to match the speed to whatever job you’re working on, whether it’s muffler and pipe removal or body shop work. This air hammer also includes four round chisels – ripper, bolt cutter flat and tapered punch chisels – making it a versatile tool for any job.

Overall, the DP Dynamic Power Short Barrel Air Hammer is an excellent choice for those requiring power and precision in their professional or DIY projects.

Specifications

Weight, lbs.: 3.37

Stroke, in.: 0.51

Package Dimensions: 7.13 x 6.69 x 2.24 in

PROS

  • Powerful alloyed steel barrel and heat-treated piston for long lasting performance
  • Built in regulator to match speed to the job
  • Four round chisels included – ripper, bolt cutter flat and tapered punch chisels
  • Versatile tool for any job

CONS

  • Can be somewhat heavy and difficult to use for extended periods of time
  • Must be used with an air compressor to operate properly.

Benefits/Drawbacks of an Air Hammer

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BEST HEAVY DUTY AIR HAMMER ON THE MARKET 10

Air powered tools are generally designed to make particular tasks easier. They are easy to use and provide significant power and torque when connected to an air hose reel or a compressor. They also increase overall productivity, safety and accuracy.

The cost to purchase an air hammer, or any air powered tool, has decreased over the years, making them a practical addition to your truck, automotive, or DYI tool box.

The primary drawback is the fact that a dedicated air source (compressor) is required. Some customers have also found that the chisel bits included with the air impact hammer kits are made of less durable metal, which can bend, wear, or break more quickly.

Conclusion

It is prudent to understand the size of your project. The best air chisels can save time and make completing your biggest job easier. Although most air hammers offer similar features, do your research before buying one. Determine which brand, type, and model is the best one for your particular job. Some include chisel bits and a case, while others only sell you the air hammer tool.

The Ingersoll Rand Air Hammer 114GQC is one of the most popular and generally highly-rated standard-duty air impact hammers on the market. Super-duty pneumatic air hammers such as

the Chicago Pneumatic CP717super-duty and the Astro Pneumatic 4980 are more powerful and better suited for professional, industrial and other heavy-duty applications. Long barrel air hammers also tend to be more powerful than the more compact short barrel ones.

There are brands that have been in business a half-century or longer. Remember that the least expensive air hammer may not be as sturdy or durable, or have the best warranty. Conversely, the most expensive tool may be well-made, but heavy and difficult to control.

The best air hammer purchase is a heavy- or super-duty pneumatic hammer with a warranty that extends longer than one year. High-grade, high-quality carbon steel chisel bits are also the most versatile and long-lasting option. To get the best quality chisel bits, you may have to purchase them separately, rather than rely on those that are included in an all-in-one air hammer kit.

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