Makita DHR242Z 18V Brushless SDS+ Rotary Hammer

Makita DHR242Z 18V Brushless SDS+ Rotary Hammer

By Makita · Model: DHR242Z · Tools

18V brushless SDS+ rotary hammer drill with 2.0J impact energy, three-mode operation, and anti-vibration technology.

  • 2.0 joules of impact energy
  • Three-mode operation: rotary only, hammer drill, hammer only
  • Brushless motor for longer runtime
  • Anti-vibration technology (AVT)
  • Compatible with Makita 18V LXT batteries
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Overview

The Makita DHR242Z is a cordless SDS+ rotary hammer designed for drilling into masonry, concrete, and stone. The brushless motor delivers efficient power while anti-vibration technology reduces operator fatigue.

In-Depth Look

The DHR242Z fills the SDS+ slot in the Makita 18V LXT range, providing genuine rotary hammer capability without a mains cable. With 2.0 joules of impact energy, it handles the masonry drilling tasks that a standard combi drill cannot — anchor holes in blockwork, cable routes through brick, and fixing positions in concrete.

Impact Energy and Drilling Capacity

The 2.0J impact energy places the DHR242Z in the mid-range for cordless SDS+ tools. It drills up to 24mm in concrete using SDS+ bits, with a recommended maximum of 30mm in masonry. For anchor holes up to M12 and typical first and second fix electrical and plumbing drilling, this is entirely adequate. For larger holes in hard concrete — M16 anchors, soil pipe penetrations, or heavy structural fixings — a 3J or higher SDS+ or SDS-Max machine is more appropriate.

Anti-Vibration Technology (AVT)

Makita’s AVT system uses an internal counterweight mechanism that oscillates to cancel the vibration transmitted to the operator’s hands and arms. Reducing hand-arm vibration (HAV) is important for compliance with the Control of Vibration at Work Regulations 2005, which set daily exposure limits for vibrating tools. The AVT system measurably reduces the HAV value compared to equivalent non-AVT hammer drills, extending safe daily operating time within the legal limit.

Three Operating Modes

Rotary-only mode for drilling into timber and steel; hammer drill mode for masonry and concrete; and hammer-only (chisel) mode for light breaking, chasing, and removing tiles. The mode selector is accessible with one hand and clearly indexed between modes.

Platform Integration

The DHR242Z is body-only (bare tool), accepting any Makita 18V LXT battery. For the best performance on sustained drilling, a 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah battery is recommended.

Verdict

A practical cordless SDS+ for everyday trade drilling tasks. The AVT system and brushless motor make it a sensible long-term investment for tradespeople already on the Makita 18V LXT platform.

Specifications
Voltage18V
Impact Energy2.0J
No-Load Speed0-950 RPM
Drilling Capacity (Concrete)24mm
Chuck TypeSDS-Plus
Weight (bare)3.3kg

Who It's For

  • Electricians drilling cable routes through masonry
  • Plumbers installing pipework fixings into concrete
  • General tradespeople needing cordless SDS capability

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Genuine cordless SDS+ performance for site work
  • Anti-vibration technology reduces fatigue
  • Three modes cover drilling, hammer drilling, and chiselling
  • Part of the extensive Makita 18V LXT platform

Cons

  • Battery and charger sold separately
  • Not suitable for heavy-duty concrete breaking
  • Heavier than a standard combi drill at 3.3kg
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