# SDS drill settings: rotary stop, hammer and chisel modes

Source: https://drillandbit.co.uk/blog/sds-drill-settings-explained
Published: 2026-10-12
Publisher: Drill and Bit

**In short:** Most SDS plus drills have three or four modes: rotary only for wood and metal with an adapter chuck, rotary hammer for masonry, hammer only or rotostop for chiselling, and often a chisel position setting to turn the chisel before locking it. A mechanical safety clutch, and on newer drills electronic kickback control, reduce the twist if the bit jams.

The selector on an SDS drill usually shows little symbols of a drill bit and hammer, rather than words. Picking the wrong one either slows you down or risks damaging bits and chucks. This guide explains each setting you are likely to see, which jobs it suits and the safety features that work alongside them.

## The main modes

The symbols vary by brand, but the functions are standard across most SDS plus drills.

| Mode | Symbol | Use |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Rotary only | Drill bit | Wood and metal with an adapter chuck, tiles before hammering |
| Rotary hammer | Drill bit and hammer | Brick, block, concrete |
| Hammer only (rotostop) | Hammer | Chiselling tiles, render, small concrete |
| Chisel position (vario lock) | Circular arrow or padlock | Turn the chisel to the angle you want, then lock |

SDS drill modes

## Rotary hammer mode

This is the normal setting for drilling masonry. The bit turns while the piston hammers it forward. Use light pressure and let the hammer do the work. See [how to use an SDS drill](https://drillandbit.co.uk/blog/how-to-use-an-sds-drill) for technique.

Some drills also let you vary the speed with the trigger, which helps when starting a hole on a smooth surface or tile.

## Rotary only mode

Rotary only switches the hammer off. Use it with an adapter or quick change chuck for wood and metal, and with SDS core bits for the first few millimetres to score the circle. See [can you use normal drill bits in an SDS drill](https://drillandbit.co.uk/blog/can-you-use-normal-drill-bits-in-an-sds-drill).

Not all SDS drills have rotary only; very basic models may be hammer drilling and chiselling only. Check the spec if you need it.

## Hammer only and chisel position

Hammer only, sometimes called rotostop, stops the chuck turning so a chisel can work. On many drills you first select chisel position, rotate the chisel to the angle you want, then switch to hammer only to lock it. This lets you hold a flat chisel at the right angle for tiles or chasing.

A combi drill has no hammer only mode and cannot chisel. See [how to break up concrete with an SDS drill](https://drillandbit.co.uk/blog/how-to-break-up-concrete-with-an-sds-drill).

[See SDS drills with chisel mode](https://drillandbit.co.uk/best/best-cordless-sds-drills)

## Safety clutch and kickback control

A mechanical **safety clutch** slips when the bit jams, so the drill does not twist as hard. It is not adjustable like a screwdriving clutch; it is a fixed protection. Many newer cordless and corded SDS drills add **electronic kickback control**, which senses a sudden twist and cuts the motor.

Neither replaces a firm grip and the side handle. Always use both hands on anything but the smallest holes.

Note: A jammed bit can twist the drill with enough force to injure your wrist. Use the side handle, brace yourself and stand stable, especially on ladders.

## Other settings you may see

Some drills have a **soft start** or reduced impact mode for tiles and fragile materials, a **depth rod** on the side handle, and **vibration control** in the handle. Cordless models may show battery charge and temperature warnings.

If you are choosing a drill, list the modes you need. For chiselling, make sure hammer only is included. For mixed use, a quick change chuck and rotary only mode help. For heavy use, look for vibration control; see [power tool vibration explained](https://drillandbit.co.uk/blog/power-tool-vibration-explained).

## Matching settings to common jobs

Most home jobs use only two settings. Hanging shelves, curtain poles and TV brackets on brick or concrete walls need rotary hammer with an SDS masonry bit. Cable holes through timber joists or a door frame need rotary only with an adapter chuck and a spade bit or auger.

Chiselling is the occasional extra. Lifting a few floor tiles, removing a strip of render or chasing a short run for a cable are all hammer only jobs, with the chisel locked at a comfortable angle. Big areas of concrete are better done with a hired breaker. Whatever the setting, switch modes only with the drill stopped, and check the selector has clicked fully into place, as a half engaged switch can damage the gearbox.

## Frequently asked questions

**What does rotostop mean on an SDS drill?** It stops rotation so the drill hammers only, for chiselling.

**Does an SDS drill have a clutch for screws?** No. It has a safety clutch that slips if the bit jams, but it is not for screwdriving.

**Which setting for drilling tiles?** Rotary only until you are through the tile, then rotary hammer for the wall.

**Which mode for wood?** Rotary only, with an adapter or quick change chuck.

## Buying guides on this topic

- https://drillandbit.co.uk/best/best-cordless-sds-drills
- https://drillandbit.co.uk/best/best-power-tool-kits
- https://drillandbit.co.uk/best/best-combi-drill-kits