Makita’s rotary hammer range is one of the most popular in the UK, particularly the HR2630 corded model and the cordless DHR242 and DHR283 from their 18V LXT battery platform. All Makita SDS rotary hammers use industry-standard SDS-Plus or SDS-Max shank systems, which means you’re not locked into Makita-branded bits — you can use any compatible bit from any manufacturer. This guide covers every current Makita SDS rotary hammer model and explains which bits will work with your machine.
Understanding which SDS system your Makita uses is straightforward once you know your model number. All entry-level and mid-range Makita rotary hammers use SDS-Plus; only their professional heavy-duty models use SDS-Max. Once you’ve identified your system, choosing bits is easy — the SDS shank design is universal across all brands.
Which SDS System Does Makita Use?
Makita manufactures rotary hammers in two SDS categories:
SDS-Plus — the standard system used in Makita’s corded range (HR series) and their cordless 18V LXT models (DHR series). SDS-Plus bits have a 10mm shank and are available from 4mm to 32mm diameter. This is the system you’ll encounter on 95% of Makita rotary hammers sold in the UK.
SDS-Max — used only in Makita’s professional heavy-duty models rated 1100W and above. SDS-Max bits have a 20mm shank and are designed for demolition, breaker work, and high-power drilling. Only Makita’s HR5200 and HR5500 series use SDS-Max.
If you own a Makita rotary hammer purchased for general construction or DIY work, you almost certainly have an SDS-Plus model. Makita does not use any proprietary or exclusive shank systems — all bits marked as SDS-Plus or SDS-Max will fit your Makita, regardless of brand.
Makita SDS Rotary Hammer Model Compatibility Table
| Model Number | SDS System | Power / Voltage | Max Bit Diameter | Chuck Type | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HR2600 | SDS-Plus | 680W corded | 24mm | Standard SDS-Plus | 2.2kg |
| HR2630 | SDS-Plus | 800W corded | 26mm | Standard SDS-Plus | 2.6kg |
| HR2470 | SDS-Plus | 780W corded | 26mm | Standard SDS-Plus | 2.8kg |
| DHR171Z (cordless) | SDS-Plus | 18V Li-Ion | 17mm | Standard SDS-Plus | 2.2kg |
| DHR242Z (cordless) | SDS-Plus | 18V Li-Ion | 24mm | Standard SDS-Plus | 2.3kg |
| DHR242ZJ (cordless) | SDS-Plus | 18V Li-Ion with dust jacket | 24mm | Standard SDS-Plus | 2.5kg |
| DHR283Z (cordless) | SDS-Plus | 36V / twin 18V Li-Ion | 28mm | Standard SDS-Plus | 3.6kg |
| DHR283ZJ (cordless) | SDS-Plus | 36V / twin 18V Li-Ion with dust jacket | 28mm | Standard SDS-Plus | 3.8kg |
| HR4013C | SDS-Max | 1100W corded | 40mm | Standard SDS-Max | 6.0kg |
| HR4511C | SDS-Max | 1350W corded | 45mm | Standard SDS-Max | 7.2kg |
| HR5212C | SDS-Max | 1510W corded | 52mm | Standard SDS-Max | 9.0kg |
Makita SDS-Plus Compatible Bits
Any drill bit with an SDS-Plus shank will fit your Makita SDS-Plus rotary hammer — whether it’s from Makita, Bosch, DeWalt, Hilti, or any third-party manufacturer. SDS-Plus is an open standard, not a Makita proprietary system. Bits are available in diameters from 4mm to 32mm, though the largest practical sizes depend on your tool’s power rating.
For a Makita HR2630 or DHR242, a basic kit covering 4mm, 6mm, 8mm, 10mm, 12mm, 14mm, and 16mm will handle 99% of everyday masonry work. Larger bits (20mm, 24mm, 28mm) are for specialist applications like large core holes, foundation drilling, or breaker work.
The cordless DHR283Z (36V twin-battery) is Makita’s most powerful SDS-Plus model and can handle larger bits, but runtime decreases significantly with larger diameters. Budget for extra runtime when drilling large holes cordlessly.
Makita SDS-Max Compatible Bits
Makita’s professional SDS-Max models (HR4013C, HR4511C, HR5212C) accept any SDS-Max shank bit — again, regardless of brand. These are specialist professional machines, typically found on demolition sites or in heavy construction work. SDS-Max bits are larger (20mm shank) and are designed for the significantly higher power outputs these tools deliver.
If you own an HR5212C, you’re equipped for sustained high-power drilling and breaker work. SDS-Max bits are more expensive than SDS-Plus, but they’re engineered for tougher materials and higher torque. Stick with SDS-Max bits for these models rather than mixing with SDS-Plus.
Makita Recommended Drill Bits — Nemesis Series
Makita’s own branded bit range, the Nemesis series, is excellent and widely available across the UK. Nemesis bits feature carbide-tipped heads and are specifically engineered to match Makita rotary hammer performance. They’re a popular mid-range choice — quality is excellent, and pricing is competitive with other brands.
Buy Makita Nemesis SDS drill bits on Amazon
Makita also produces standard SDS-Plus bit sets under their main brand. These are reliable and often bundled with tool kits or available as standalone sets. For cordless work with the DHR242 or DHR283, Makita-branded bits are optimised for the tool’s power curve and battery discharge profile.
Third-Party Compatible Bits
You are absolutely not limited to Makita-branded bits. Many excellent manufacturers produce SDS-Plus and SDS-Max bits that work perfectly in Makita tools:
Bosch — German-made SDS bits, often cheaper than Makita-branded options. The SDS-Plus-5X and SDS-Plus-7X ranges are excellent quality and widely available.
Heller — German brand, very popular with UK tradespeople. Known for durability and precision manufacturing.
Alpen — Swiss manufacturer. Produces premium SDS bits in all diameters; particularly strong in larger sizes (20mm+).
Irwin — American brand, widely stocked. Good value for general masonry drilling.
Erbauer — B&Q’s house brand. Budget-friendly for DIY work, not recommended for heavy professional use.
All of these brands meet the SDS-Plus or SDS-Max specification standard. Your Makita will drive them without issue. For everyday use, we recommend Bosch SDS-Plus-5X or Heller bits as the best value-to-quality ratio. For premium performance and maximum bit life, invest in Alpen or Makita Nemesis.
Watch: Video Guide
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use DeWalt or Bosch bits in my Makita HR2630?
Yes, completely. Any SDS-Plus bit works in any SDS-Plus tool. Makita does not use a proprietary shank system. If the bit is marked SDS-Plus, it will fit your HR2630, DHR242, or any Makita SDS-Plus model.
What’s the difference between Makita Nemesis and standard Makita SDS bits?
Nemesis is Makita’s premium mid-range offering. Nemesis bits have enhanced carbide-tipping and a more aggressive flute design, which delivers faster drilling and longer bit life. Standard Makita SDS bits are solid performers for occasional use. For professional or heavy-duty use, Nemesis is the better investment.
How many bits should I buy for my Makita rotary hammer?
Start with a mixed SDS-Plus set covering 4mm to 16mm in 2mm increments (7 bits). This handles 95% of everyday masonry and concrete work. Add larger bits (20mm, 24mm) only as specific jobs require them. For heavy professional use, invest in a full kit with all sizes from 4mm to 32mm.
Are my HR2630 bits compatible with the DHR283Z?
Yes. Both use SDS-Plus, so any bit that fits one will fit the other. However, the HR2630 is rated for slightly smaller maximum bits (26mm) than the DHR283 (28mm), so check your manual. For practical use, bits up to 20mm work well in both models.
Can I use a SDS-Max bit in my DHR242 cordless Makita?
No. SDS-Max bits (20mm shank) do not fit SDS-Plus chucks (10mm). Your DHR242 uses SDS-Plus. SDS-Max is only available on Makita’s professional HR4000 and HR5000 series corded models.
SDS-Plus Drill Bit Sets — Where to Buy
Makita SDS drill bit sets on Amazon
For more on Makita cordless tools and battery compatibility, visit our Makita 18V LXT battery compatibility guide. For broader SDS information, see our complete SDS drill bit compatibility guide.
