HomeBlogBlogDemolition Hammer Chisels: Hex vs SDS-Max + Swapping

Demolition Hammer Chisels: Hex vs SDS-Max + Swapping

What type of chisels fit a typical electric demolition jack hammer, and are the included chisels interchangeable?

Most electric demolition jack hammers accept chisels based on the tool’s chuck (bit holder) style, not the motor size. The two most common systems you’ll see are:

1-1/8 in. (30 mm) hex shank: Very common on demolition hammers/jack hammers designed for heavy concrete breaking. These bits slide into a hex-shaped receiver and lock in place with a retaining pin or spring collar.
SDS-Max shank: More common on rotary hammers and lighter demolition hammers. SDS-Max bits have a grooved shank and click/lock into the chuck.

To know what fits your specific machine, match the shank type and shank size (and sometimes insertion length) to the chuck. If your hammer is the 3500W class tool shown in the guide, it typically uses hex-shank chisels and often ships with two basics: a point chisel (for starting cracks and concentrated breaking) and a flat/spade chisel (for shearing material and removing tile/mortar).

Are the included chisels interchangeable?

Yes—included chisels are interchangeable with each other as long as they share the same shank and are intended for that hammer’s chuck. Swapping between a point and a flat chisel is normal: you remove the current bit, insert the other one, and re-engage the retainer.

What’s not guaranteed is interchangeability across different hammer models or brands. A chisel that “looks close” may still be incompatible if any of these differ:

Shank style (hex vs SDS-Max)
Shank diameter (for hex systems especially)
Retention groove/collar design and insertion depth
Overall length (clearance can vary by housing and retainer)

For a quick visual and specs reference on the included bits and the tool’s setup, see the full guide here: https://perfectpickspalace.shop/guide-3500w-electric-demolition-hammer-1900-bpm-2-chisels/.

FAQ

How do you install and remove a chisel bit from a demolition hammer?

Unplug the tool, pull back or open the retaining mechanism, slide the chisel fully into the chuck, then release the retainer and tug the bit to confirm it’s locked. To remove it, open the retainer again and pull the chisel straight out (wiggling slightly if needed).