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Best Makita Jack Hammer by Job: HM1812 vs HM1214C vs HM0870C
For breaking thick concrete slabs, choose the 31.3-pound Makita HM1812; for a more manageable 27.8-pound demolition hammer with substantial impact energy, choose the HM1214C; for lighter wall and renovation work, choose the 12.3-pound HM0870C. The HM1812 and HM1214C use 1-1/8-inch hex bits, while the HM0870C accepts SDS-MAX bits—so match the chisel system as well as the hammer’s weight to the job.
At a glance: impact energy, weight, and shank
Makita’s published figures below make the key trade-off clear: the heaviest models deliver the most impact energy, while the HM0870C is designed for control and access rather than fast removal of large amounts of concrete. Weights are tool-only figures; a bit, power cord, and any accessories add to what you handle.
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| Model | Impact energy | Tool weight | Bit system | Best-fit work |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makita HM1812 | 72.8 J (53.7 ft-lb) | 31.3 lb (14.2 kg) | 1-1/8-inch hex | Heavy floor-slab and foundation demolition |
| Makita HM1214C | 28.7 J (21.2 ft-lb) | 27.8 lb (12.6 kg) | 1-1/8-inch hex | General heavy demolition where a somewhat lighter tool helps |
| Makita HM0870C | 11.4 J (8.4 ft-lb) | 12.3 lb (5.6 kg) | SDS-MAX | Wall work, renovation, and more controlled chipping |
Impact-energy figures are manufacturer specifications; actual progress depends on concrete, aggregate, bit condition, and technique. These are corded tools, so access to suitable power and cord management matter on site.
Pick by job, not by the biggest number
HM1812: the slab breaker
The HM1812 is the clear choice when the main task is breaking thick, substantial concrete and the work area lets you operate a large floor breaker. Its 72.8 joules of impact energy are far above the other two models, but that power comes with more weight and less flexibility. It is a poor match for overhead chipping, tight interiors, or a job that requires repeatedly lifting and repositioning the hammer.
Makita equips the HM1812 with AVT (Anti-Vibration Technology), intended to reduce vibration transmitted to the operator. AVT is valuable on a demanding breaker, but it does not make a 31-pound tool light or eliminate the need for sensible work intervals, secure footing, and correct technique.
HM1214C: heavy demolition with a little more mobility
The HM1214C gives up a substantial amount of impact energy compared with the HM1812, while saving only about 3.5 pounds. Choose it when you need a heavy-duty breaker but expect to move around more, or when the work does not justify the HM1812’s maximum output. Its AVT system is another reason to consider it for extended demolition, though the operator still has to manage a roughly 28-pound tool.
It also offers electronic speed control and a soft-start feature. These help with controlled operation and startup; they do not change the underlying rule that an oversized breaker can be awkward in confined or elevated work.
HM0870C: the practical choice for walls and renovation
At 12.3 pounds, the HM0870C is easier to position for wall, masonry, and renovation work. Its lower impact energy suits removing tile beds, chipping mortar or concrete, and breaking up smaller sections—not replacing a high-energy floor breaker for thick slabs. It has vibration control features, but is not the same AVT-equipped heavy-breaker package as the larger models.
The HM0870C’s SDS-MAX holder is a significant buying distinction. It accepts compatible SDS-MAX accessories, not the 1-1/8-inch hex bits used by the HM1812 and HM1214C. Check the bit shank specification before buying: “fits Makita” alone is not enough to confirm compatibility.
Decision matrix
| Your situation | Best pick | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Repeated thick-slab or foundation demolition | HM1812 | Highest impact energy; suited to heavy floor work |
| Heavy demolition, but frequent repositioning is expected | HM1214C | Still a substantial breaker, with a modest weight saving |
| Wall chipping, indoor renovation, or a tighter work area | HM0870C | Much lighter and uses widely available SDS-MAX-style tooling |
| Occasional DIY slab removal | Rent or hire the right breaker | A large purchase may not make sense for one project; confirm bit system and power needs before renting |
Chisel choice and setup affect the result
For a slab, start with a compatible point or flat chisel and work methodically rather than trying to force the tool through the full depth in one spot. Breaking the concrete into manageable sections makes debris easier to clear and gives you room to reposition. For wall demolition, a narrower chisel can help with controlled removal, but avoid levering hard against the bit: side-loading can damage the accessory or holder.
- Verify the shank: HM1812 and HM1214C take 1-1/8-inch hex bits; HM0870C takes SDS-MAX bits.
- Inspect the bit: Replace badly worn or damaged accessories. A blunt edge can slow work and encourage excessive pressure.
- Use steady contact: Let the hammer do the impact work; pushing harder does not increase its rated energy.
- Plan the power route: Keep the cord clear of the chisel, debris, and travel path, and use a supply appropriate to the tool and site.
Wear eye, hearing, and respiratory protection suited to concrete demolition, and control dust using methods appropriate to the site and tool. Check the manual for the model-specific bit installation, lubrication, inspection, and electrical requirements.
Ownership considerations
Bits and retainers are wear items, and concrete dust is hard on equipment. Keep the holder clean, inspect the accessory and retainer regularly, and follow Makita’s maintenance instructions rather than applying lubricant indiscriminately. A loose or poorly retained bit is a reason to stop and inspect the holder—not to keep working and hope it settles.
Also account for the task’s true operating cost: compatible chisels, protective equipment, power access, transport, and storage. For a contractor who breaks slabs often, the HM1812’s extra energy can justify its size. For occasional work, a rental may be more economical and avoids storing a heavy tool. If wall work is the priority, spending up on a floor breaker can make the job less comfortable without making the tool a better fit.
Bottom line
Buy the HM1812 for frequent, heavy slab demolition; the HM1214C for demanding work where slightly easier repositioning matters; and the HM0870C for lighter, more controlled wall and renovation jobs. Before ordering, confirm the bit shank you already own or plan to buy—the difference between 1-1/8-inch hex and SDS-MAX is as important as the impact-energy rating.