Finding the right hammer drill hole saw can feel like a chore when you are staring at a thick concrete wall. If you have ever tried to run a pipe or a vent through masonry with the wrong bit, you know the frustration of heat, smoke, and zero progress. A proper set of carbide-tipped or diamond core bits is the difference between a five-minute job and an all-day struggle. To help you choose, we have tested and reviewed the best options on the market to ensure your next project goes smoothly without burning out your tools.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 10 Hammer Drill Hole Saw Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Alloy Steel 22-Piece Hole Saw Kit
This massive 22-piece kit is a dream for anyone dealing with various wall thicknesses and hole sizes. It covers everything from small 30mm pipes to large 110mm vents with ease. The high-tensile tungsten carbide ensures the teeth stay sharp even after repeated use in tough cement.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 7 Different hole saw sizes ranging from 30mm to 110mm
- ✓ Premium Tungsten Carbide tips for high hardness and durability
- ✓ Includes 3 dust collectors to keep your workspace cleaner
- ✓ Compatible with SDS Plus shanks for standard hammer drills
Why We Recommend It
We love the versatility of this set because it includes sizes that most other kits leave out. The addition of dust collectors shows the manufacturer actually understands the mess of drilling through stone.
Best For
Professionals and DIYers who need to install various pipe sizes, from sump pumps to AC exhaust vents.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely wide range of sizes included
- High-quality carbide tips resist wear
- Useful accessories like dust bags and spare screws
- Clean cutting performance in brick
Cons:
- Requires a high-powered drill for the 110mm bit
- Pilot bit screw can loosen with heavy vibration
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I purchased this in particular for just one hole I needed to drill. I felt since I was doing the installation of the sump pump on my own, I had a few extra bucks to invest in the tools that i needed to make the job easier.”
Customer Review: “This worked to drill through brick on my house. All the teeth still seem to be pretty much in the same condition they were when it arrived.”
2. DAIMIT 20-Piece Concrete Hole Saw Kit
DAIMIT has put together a very robust kit that feels significantly heavier and sturdier than budget alternatives. It handles 8-inch concrete blocks like they are made of butter, making it a reliable choice for structural work.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Dual-shank system fits both SDS Plus and SDS Max drills
- ✓ Hardened tungsten steel body for impact resistance
- ✓ Optimized tooth geometry for faster material removal
- ✓ Deep drilling depth suitable for standard wall thicknesses
Why We Recommend It
The build quality on these cutters is exceptional. They “rip” through concrete without the teeth chipping off halfway through the job, which is a common failure in cheaper sets.
Best For
Heavy-duty construction where you might alternate between different hammer drill sizes or types.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Works with both SDS Plus and SDS Max tools
- Very aggressive cutting speed in stone
- Comes in a well-organized carrying case
- Great value for the number of bits included
Cons:
- Bits can be difficult to unscrew from the arbor after use
- The case latches are a bit flimsy
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Man, these hole saws rip! I’m not sure how long they’re going to last but I feel like I got my moneys worth already. They eat concrete like it’s soft wood.”
Customer Review: “Worked perfectly for my application. Grinds through 8 inch block and concrete like butter. This kit will save you time.”
3. SDS Plus 20-Piece Hole Saw Kit
If you only need to drill a few holes and don’t want to break the bank, this 20-piece set is the perfect middle ground. It provides reliable performance for cement slab work without the high price tag of name brands.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Includes 6 hole saws for common plumbing and electrical diameters
- ✓ Crafted from high-grade tungsten steel for longevity
- ✓ Comes with 5 dust collectors to simplify cleanup
- ✓ Optimized for use with SDS Plus hammer drills
Why We Recommend It
It is hard to beat the value here. While it might take a bit more muscle in solid cured concrete, it performs admirably in brick and standard block walls.
Best For
Homeowners on a budget who need to run dryer vents or electrical conduit through exterior walls.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very affordable entry point for masonry drilling
- Effective dust management system included
- Good selection of smaller to medium diameters
- Handles brick and adobe easily
Cons:
- Needs a powerful drill (12+ Amps) to avoid overheating
- Requires significant pressure for thick concrete slabs
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The drill must be minimum 12 Amps to get it to turn without getting hot and burning, and you do have to put all your body weight to drill the hole on cement slab, but it does work.”
Customer Review: “Great for the price. I used it for a one-off project through my foundation and it held up well.”
4. 9-Piece Masonry Concrete Hole Saw Kit
This kit features extra-long 300mm shanks, making it ideal for thick exterior walls or layered masonry. The high-quality tungsten carbide tips are designed for impact resistance, allowing you to use the hammer function safely.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Extra-long 300mm (approx. 12 inch) SDS Plus and Max shanks
- ✓ 5 High-quality hole saws from 30mm to 100mm
- ✓ Easy 3-step installation for quick bit changes
- ✓ Premium steel construction for better impact durability
Why We Recommend It
The long shanks are the real hero here. Many standard kits struggle with thickness, but this one reaches right through thick brick and block without needing extensions.
Best For
HVAC technicians installing mini-split units through insulated or multi-layer walls.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Reaches through very thick walls
- Fast setup and bit swapping
- Teeth hold up well to high-impact hammer action
- Clean holes with minimal blow-out
Cons:
- Smaller number of saw sizes compared to larger kits
- Long shanks can vibrate more than short ones
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This thing is great. It payed for itself the first project. Put two 3” holes thru my block home to install a couple mini split units. Worked as it should.”
Customer Review: “Great product. It reached all the way through my brick veneer and block backup wall without an issue.”
5. 13-Piece Tungsten Masonry Hole Saw Kit
This TGFTGF kit offers a balanced mix of sizes and high-wear resistance. It is designed for those who need a clean, round hole in concrete walls without the bit “walking” across the surface during startup.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Seven hole saws covering the most common utility diameters
- ✓ High-hardness steel and tungsten carbide construction
- ✓ Compatible with standard SDS Plus and Max hammer drills
- ✓ Pilot drill includes a secure locking screw to prevent slippage
Why We Recommend It
The stability of the pilot drill in this kit is better than average. It stays centered even when you are starting a hole on a rough stone surface.
Best For
General contractors who need a reliable set for various masonry drilling tasks.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Includes both SDS Plus and Max shanks
- High resistance to heat and friction
- Simple to assemble and use
- Durable welds on the carbide tips
Cons:
- The storage case is a bit tight for all the components
- Requires cooling breaks for very deep concrete pours
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “The bits are very sharp and cut clean holes in my cinder block foundation. Very happy with the performance for the price.”
Customer Review: “Solid kit. I used the 2-inch bit for some electrical work and it went through the wall without vibrating my teeth out.”
6. 17-Piece Masonry Hole Saw Kit
The 17-piece kit is a workhorse for brick and cinder block applications. It includes both SDS Plus and SDS Max rods, making it a “universal” set that fits almost any impact drill you already own.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Sizes range from 30mm (1-3/16″) to 110mm (4-5/16″)
- ✓ Robust tungsten steel body construction
- ✓ Dual SDS Plus and SDS Max connecting rods
- ✓ Specifically designed for brick, cement, and block
Why We Recommend It
This is a high-performance set that survives jobs where others fail. It is particularly good at drilling multiple holes in sequence without losing its edge.
Best For
Full-home generator installations or large electrical projects requiring multiple entry points.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Can handle multiple layers of brick and block
- Universal compatibility with major drill brands
- Aggressive tooth design for faster progress
- Good price-to-performance ratio
Cons:
- Connecting rods can occasionally get stuck if over-torqued
- Pilot bit screws require periodic tightening
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I got these expecting to return them but I installed a whole home generator today and they went through multiple layers of brick and cinder block multiple times.”
Customer Review: “Great value. They took a beating and kept on drilling. The pilot bit did get loose once, but that’s common with these.”
7. SALI 2-Inch Diamond Core Drill Bit
Unlike standard carbide saws, the SALI uses diamond segments. This is a “core” bit designed for cured concrete and hard masonry. It provides a massive 10-inch drilling depth, which is enough to go through almost any foundation wall.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 10-Inch usable drilling depth for thick foundations
- ✓ Diamond segments for cutting cured concrete and asphalt
- ✓ 5/8″-11 standard thread with SDS Plus adapter included
- ✓ Works in rotary-only mode for cleaner holes
Why We Recommend It
If you are drilling through old, high-PSI cured concrete, diamond is the only way to go. It saves you from renting an industrial rig for a single hole.
Best For
Drilling deep holes for water lines or plumbing in thick basement walls.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Way deeper than standard hole saws
- Cuts through cured concrete with ease
- Professional finish with very clean edges
- Cost-effective alternative to tool rentals
Cons:
- Only includes one size (2 inches)
- Must be used with the hammer setting OFF
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I almost rented an SDS Max and 2″ core bit from HD which would have been $157 for the four hour minimum. I own the SDS Plus 8 amp corded so I opted for trying this.”
Customer Review: “Worked great. Held up well to 100+ year old 4 brick thick walls. I used it on rotary mode and it cut perfectly.”
8. ZELCAN Hole Saw Kit for SDS Plus Hammer Drills
Zelcan is known for heavy-duty tools, and this 9-in-one kit is no exception. It is made from 40Cr steel and tungsten alloy, specifically designed to handle the high-vibration environment of an SDS hammer drill.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 5 Diameter sizes perfect for AC tubing and pipes
- ✓ Custom shanks that work with all major SDS Plus brands
- ✓ Heavy-duty 40Cr steel body for years of service
- ✓ Two 4.3″ pilot drill bits included for better precision
Why We Recommend It
This kit is incredibly tough. It handles old, thick-walled cinder block containing large rock aggregate without snapping the teeth off.
Best For
HVAC installations and masonry drilling in older, high-density brick buildings.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Very durable alloy construction
- Compatible with Bosch, DeWalt, Makita, and more
- Great for tough aggregate concrete
- Includes two pilot bits in case one breaks
Cons:
- Bit changes can be slow without proper tools
- Can produce significant heat during long runs
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I am IMPRESSED! I had to drill through 12 inch cinderblock from 75+ years ago and was extremely tough. This stuff was thick walled, had large chunks of actual rock aggregate.”
Customer Review: “The set is high quality. I used it for venting an exhaust fan through a brick wall and it was flawless.”
9. Life Palette 5-Piece Hole Saw Kit
Life Palette offers a streamlined 5-piece kit that covers the basics. It is a no-nonsense set designed for the SDS Plus platform, providing exactly what you need for standard utility holes without the extra bulk.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ 4 Common diameters: 30mm, 35mm, 50mm, and 65mm
- ✓ Extra-long 7.9″ pilot drill for better guidance
- ✓ Made of chromium steel and S45C alloy for impact strength
- ✓ Compact design for easy storage in small tool bags
Why We Recommend It
Sometimes less is more. This kit doesn’t overwhelm you with 30 pieces you’ll never use. It provides the core sizes with excellent durability.
Best For
Light-duty electrical and plumbing projects in residential homes.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent stability thanks to the long pilot drill
- High-grade alloy stands up to repeated impacts
- Very easy to assemble on the fly
- Affordable for occasional users
Cons:
- Limited selection of hole diameters
- Not designed for industrial-level daily use
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “Perfectly works doing the holes in a thick concrete wall. No issues with the teeth or the pilot drill.”
Customer Review: “Great little set for the price. I used it for a kitchen remodel to run new lines through the exterior wall.”
10. ATOLS 34-Piece Concrete Hole Saw Kit
The ATOLS kit is the “kitchen sink” of masonry drilling. With 34 pieces, including chisels and spare screws, it’s designed to ensure you never have to stop mid-job to run to the hardware store for a replacement part.
Key Features That Stand Out
- ✓ Massive 34-piece set including 7 hole saws and a chisel set
- ✓ Extra 10 spare screws and hexagonal wrench included
- ✓ High-tensile tungsten carbide construction
- ✓ Compatible with both SDS Plus and SDS Max hammer drills
Why We Recommend It
The detailed upgrades, like including ten spare screws, are a lifesaver. Anyone who has lost a tiny set screw in the dirt on a jobsite will appreciate this.
Best For
Maintenance professionals and contractors who need a complete, self-contained masonry kit.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Most complete kit on the market
- Includes chisels for clearing out hole centers
- Fantastic value with many spare parts
- Compatible with almost any professional hammer drill
Cons:
- The case is large and takes up significant shelf space
- Many parts to keep track of
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “A very complete kit. I especially like the chisels that come with it; they help finish the hole cleanly after the saw does the work.”
Customer Review: “Great price for so many pieces. It’s solid and hasn’t let me down through several block wall penetrations.”
Complete Buying Guide for Hammer Drill Hole Saws
Essential Factors We Consider
When shopping for a hammer drill hole saw, the first thing to check is the shank type. Most residential tools use SDS Plus, while heavy industrial tools use SDS Max. Understanding the difference between a drill and a hammer drill is crucial here; a standard drill will struggle to spin these larger bits into stone. We also look for Tungsten Carbide tips for general masonry or Diamond segments for cured, reinforced concrete. The length of the connecting rod is another big factor—ensure it is long enough to reach all the way through your specific wall.
Budget Planning
Budget kits are great for one-off DIY projects, but if you’re a professional, investing in a kit with dual SDS Max/Plus compatibility and spare parts (like the ATOLS kit) will save you money in the long run. Buying a single diamond core bit can be expensive, but it often costs less than a half-day tool rental at a big-box store. If you are stuck with a bit and don’t know how to remove the arbor from a hole saw, check our guide to avoid damaging your new investment.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right tool depends on your project’s scale. For a mini-split install, a long-shank carbide kit is best. For deep foundation work, go diamond. Regardless of your choice, always use a drill with enough amperage to handle the load without burning out the motor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a hammer drill hole saw with a regular drill?
A: Technically yes, if you have an adapter, but it is not recommended. Regular drills lack the impact energy needed to break through stone efficiently. You really need the hammer action of an SDS-style tool.
Q: What is the difference between an impact driver and a hammer drill for these saws?
A: An impact driver is designed for screws, not large-diameter holes in masonry. To understand the mechanics, read about the difference between impact drivers and hammer drills before you start.
Q: Should I use water when drilling with these bits?
A: For carbide-tipped saws, it isn’t strictly necessary but can help cool the bit. For diamond core bits, water is often recommended to extend the life of the diamonds and suppress dust.
Q: Why does my pilot bit keep falling out?
A: The vibration of a hammer drill is intense. Always ensure the set screw is tight, and consider using a tiny bit of thread-locker if you are doing several holes in a row.
A hammer drill hole saw is an essential part of any serious toolkit. Whether you are a pro installing generators or a DIYer running new plumbing, having the right carbide or diamond bit makes all the difference. Grab the kit that fits your drill today and get through that wall with confidence!
