Bosch is one of the leading developers of hand-held power tools. Representatives of the hammer drill family regularly confirm the high operational characteristics of the products, meeting the needs of both the domestic segment and professional builders. Now we are considering a Bosch GBH 2-28 rotary hammer, which can be called a hybrid or an intermediate link between different classes. The device is positioned as a professional, but in its ergonomics and working power qualities there are many features of a household tool. Such a combination is not necessarily a minus, but it makes you take a closer look at the analysis of the model from the point of view of choice.
Rotary hammer design
The model represents the classic design of a rotary hammer, oriented towards the fulfillment of basic drilling tasks with increased impact. The power base of the model is formed by an electric motor, which provides impact impact through the spindle, gear reducer and equipment. In terms of the locking mechanism of the working element, the punch device focuses on the SDS-plus system. What does this mean for the end user? This is one of those parameters that just conditionally relates the model to the segment of lightweight household appliances. This is not to say that the tool is very close in capabilities to a drill, but the same SDS-plus chuck mechanism allows the use of drills with shanks up to 10 mm in diameter. For comparison, the full-format professional segment models are now equipped with SDS-max systems, allowing integration of nozzles with 18 mm shanks.
The external design is standard for the German line - in the case a high-strength plastic alloy was used, supplemented by inserts from a tenacious rubberized material. The device turned out to be small by average standards for perforators, so even inexperienced owners can use it.
Specifications
The power qualities of the tool also do not set records for the class, but this shortcoming is compensated for by the wide possibilities of adjustments. Both in terms of shock function and speed of rotation, the user will be able to individually configure the Bosch GBH 2-28 rotary hammer, the technical characteristics are presented below:
- The power of the device is 850 watts.
- Impact force - maximum 3.2 J.
- Nozzle torsion frequency - up to 900 rpm.
- The frequency of the shock function is from 0 to 4000 beats / min.
- The diameter of the holes in the concrete base is up to 28 mm.
- Holes in wood - up to 30 mm.
- Masonry holes up to 68 mm.
- Drilling in metal structures - up to 13 mm.
- The length of the power cord is 3 m.
- Weight - 3.1 kg.
Compared to entry-level budget punchers, the model has a high margin of impact force and a wide range of spindle settings for rotational speed. However, even representatives of the middle segment, this modification loses significantly in terms of power, which, however, opened up opportunities for creators to improve other operational qualities of the device.
Bosch GBH 2-28 rock drill set
The fashion for rich equipment has long left the major manufacturers of the Bosch level. Manufacturers try to attract the main technical and operational properties, while saving on additional accessories. This is partly true, because it allows users to select exactly those devices that really will benefit without extra costs. Nevertheless, in this case, the Bosch power tool received a very balanced kit consisting of the necessary devices and consumables:
- Corporate case made of high-strength plastic.
- Second handle to support power shock function.
- Keyless chuck format 13 mm.
- Cartridge of the SDS-plus system.
- Depth gauge for 21 cm.
Functionality and new technologies
Among the common functions, one can note the presence of a reverse stroke, a vibration damping system, the same limiter for drilling depth, the presence of a safety clutch and the possibility of adjusting for operating parameters. These options are supplied with a Bosch power tool both in the budget class and in the premium link. But there are a number of less popular technological solutions that can be called unique.
In particular, the model in some versions received the function of turning the bit, which makes it possible to carry out processing at different angles. By the way, the reverse stroke of drilling is also realized by turning the tooling. Modification of the Bosch GBH 2-28 F Professional rotary hammer received the innovative KickBack Control protection system. It is known that working with rotary hammers is one of the most time-consuming from the point of view of physical process control. In turn, KickBack Control technology, thanks to the intelligent filling of the tool, automatically controls the work process, minimizing the risk of injury to the operator.
Modifications and versions of the punch
The GBH series offers several options for a rotary hammer, which differ in the features of the device for fixing the snap mechanism, power base and other already insignificant technical and operational nuances. It should be noted right away that the Bosch GBH 2-28 DFV rotary hammer is positioned as a balanced basic solution provided by a quick-change drill chuck. But there are also versions of DV, DRE and DFR. How do they differ among themselves?
As for DV, according to some reviews, this tool has a more reliable snap change mechanism. The DRE device offers the usual set of drilling possibilities that is typical for the household level, and the DFR allows you to install a drill chuck without a nozzle - by changing the head of a punch. And again, the Bosch GBH 2-28 rotary hammer is also available in special versions, like the F Professional modification, equipped with the KickBack Control system. Such developments usually appear as new technological improvements are based on existing successful models.
Ergonomic features of the model
The main means of improving convenience when using the tool include anti-vibration protection, the presence of a quick-change cartridge and the ability to turn equipment. Among the new ergonomic solutions can be noted, for example, the ability to connect the device to a wall outlet without grounding. The fact is that the punch device provides double electrical insulation, therefore, if necessary, work in difficult conditions without an appropriate level of network security, there will be no restrictions on the use of this model. The cable itself has a feature in the form of a swivel mount. It protects the contour from excesses, saving the user himself from regular monitoring of the position of the cord. As already noted, the tool received several adjusting capabilities. In this context, it is important to note how the configuration is done. It allows you to implement the control electronics of the instrument through an ergonomic interface.
Positive feedback about the model
The puncher causes more positive impressions. They are associated with directly working properties, and with functionality supported by ergonomics. As for the power output and the efficiency of the apparatus in dealing with concrete, brick and other solid-state materials, of course, the high performance potential is not mentioned, but for its class the model provides acceptable power. By the way, concrete drilling is carried out without problems within the frame size recommended for the model with SDS-plus chucks. Of course, there are difficulties in working with more serious parameters and loads. But the main thing is that the model is focused not on endurance and solving demanding tasks, but on small-format operations that professional builders have to perform in large serial volumes. For this reason, in evaluations, ergonomics and reliability come to the forefront - the main advantages of the tool.
Negative reviews
Of course, large manufacturers are still not able to fully foresee and exclude all possible negative factors for the operation of their products. However, some flaws were admitted quite consciously. The lack of the ability to connect a dust collector is almost the main thing, which surprises users of the Bosch GBH 2-28 hammer drill. Reviews also indicate certain difficulties in handling the keyless chuck. This is just one of those qualities that the tool was oriented to - fast work at the pace of serial hole making. As a result, there remains the risk of a hitch in the process of changing the drill or drill.
Tool recommendations
To prevent many problems with the punch, it is recommended to follow the instructions for its use. Before work, the tool is thoroughly checked for the quality of the fasteners, the integrity and tightness of the case, for the reliability of the installation of equipment, etc. Next, the torque is adjusted with orientation to the target material. After that they get to work.
The most difficult operation for any hammer drill is drilling concrete, which requires both large physical resources and the skillful organization of the process as a whole. Typically, in such works, there is a risk of overheating, so it is necessary to monitor the quality of the cooling system. Many experienced craftsmen also recommend watering the drilling zone. After working measures, the device is disassembled into functional parts, washed, dried, lubricated and, if necessary, subjected to repair operations.
Bosch 2-28 punch competitors
The direct competition of the model is Metabo KHE 2860 and DeWALT D 25144 K. As for the price, both versions cost an average of 10-11 thousand rubles. The German model can 500-1000 rubles. exceed this level, but the premium will have more likely the brand image effect. The offer from Metabo in almost all structural and ergonomic parameters is superimposed on the characteristics of GBH, but at the same time it has a fundamental increase in power - up to 880 watts. And the power potential, in turn, determines even if not significant, but an increase in terms of spindle speed and frequency of impact work. But, strangely enough, the designers of Metabo deprived their device of vibration protection, which is no less an omission than the lack of a dust bag in the Bosch GBH 2-28 rotary hammer as an option.
The situation is similar with the DeWALT model, but in a more pronounced form. Again, all the main parameters except power are kept at the same level. The power potential of D 25144 K is already 900 W, and the impact frequency reaches 5350 beats / min with a maximum spindle rotation of 1450 rpm.
Finally
The manufacturer offers a power tool that may be required for indoor work. It is unlikely to be useful in creating large gating channels or holes for laying main pipelines, but the model will perform typical installation operations as part of apartment repair activities at the highest professional level. But how much can a Bosch 2-28 puncher suit a home foreman? We can say for sure that he will not be superfluous in the household. But there are many other options in the same Bosch line that are specifically designed for the home segment. In addition, the cost of such modifications will be lower.