Makita HR3210C/2 Review

Between compact 25 mm-class SDS-Plus rotary hammers and massive SDS Max demolition tools sits a middle ground that many professionals find hits the sweet spot. Rotary hammers with a 32 mm concrete drilling capacity offer a meaningful step up in power — typically 800 to 900 watts and around 5 to 6 joules of impact energy — without the extreme weight and cost of full SDS Max tools. This extra capacity opens up possibilities that smaller rotary hammers cannot touch: drilling 25 mm holes through heavily reinforced concrete without stalling, running 32 mm core bits for pipe penetrations, and light demolition work that would overheat a compact tool. For general builders, electricians, and plumbers who need one rotary hammer that handles the majority of on-site tasks — from 6 mm anchor holes all the way up to 32 mm through-holes — this mid-power class offers the best balance of capability, weight, and price.

Rotary hammers in the 850 W, 32 mm class are the versatile heavy-lifters of the SDS-Plus world. They bridge the gap between compact 2-joule tools and full SDS Max demolition hammers, offering enough impact energy for serious drilling and light chiselling while remaining manageable at around 5 kg. When comparing models, look at impact energy — 5 to 6 joules is typical and determines how fast you drill through reinforced concrete. Three-mode operation is the professional standard: rotation-only for wood and metal, hammer-with-rotation for concrete, and chisel-only for demolition. A variable speed trigger helps match the tool's pace to the material and bit size. Safety features like a torque-limiting clutch protect your wrists if the bit jams. Makita's HR3210C has been a staple in this class for years, manufactured in Spain and trusted by European tradespeople.

This review examines the Makita HR3210C, an 850 W corded SDS-Plus rotary hammer with 32 mm concrete capacity, three operating modes, and variable speed control. We cover drilling performance across the full bit range, chiselling capability for light demolition, ergonomics at 5.2 kg, and how it holds up against newer models. With a 4.1 out of 5 star rating from 29 reviews, we assess what users consistently praise and where they have encountered issues.

The Makita HR3210C is an 850 W corded rotary hammer built on the SDS-Plus platform with a maximum concrete drilling capacity of 32 mm — a full step above the 25-28 mm ceiling of compact rotary hammers. The motor delivers 630 RPM and 4.7 foot-pounds (approximately 6.4 Nm) of torque through a three-mode selector offering rotation-only (wood and metal up to 13 mm), hammer-with-rotation (concrete up to 32 mm), and chisel-only demolition. Crucially, this is a 240V European-specification tool — one of the few listings on this Amazon.fr page that plugs straight into a standard European socket without a transformer. The tool is manufactured in Makita's Spanish facility and ships with a side handle, depth gauge rod, bit grease, and a Makita toolbox.

The HR3210C features electronic variable speed control, allowing you to feather the trigger for precise bit positioning when starting a hole and then ramp up to full speed once the bit is engaged. This is particularly useful for larger-diameter bits where a sudden full-speed start can cause the bit to wander off the punch mark. The three-mode selector is a recessed dial — protected from accidental bumps on the job site, though some users find it stiff to operate with gloved hands. The SDS-Plus chuck provides tool-free bit changes, and 32 mm capacity means you can run everything from 6 mm pilot bits up to 32 mm through-hole and core bits, covering virtually every on-site drilling need.

At 5.2 kg, the HR3210C is heavier than compact rotary hammers but still manageable for horizontal and overhead work. The side handle rotates 360 degrees for optimal positioning, and the depth stop rod ensures consistent hole depths for anchor installation. The main grip is a D-handle with rubber overmould, and while the HR3210C predates Makita's AVT anti-vibration system, build quality and motor balance keep vibration at acceptable levels. The tool includes a torque-limiting clutch that disengages if the bit jams, protecting the operator from violent tool-body spin that can cause wrist injuries.

The HR3210C ships with a side handle, depth gauge rod, tube of bit grease (essential for maintaining the SDS-Plus chuck and extending bit life), and a Makita moulded toolbox. The inclusion of grease signals that Makita expects professional users to maintain the tool properly. Carbon brushes are user-replaceable, extending service life. Spare parts are widely available through Makita's European dealer network, and given the long production run, both genuine and aftermarket parts are easy to source.

The tool measures 44 × 60 × 16 cm and weighs 5.2 kg — compact enough for a standard tool chest yet substantial when leaning into a 32 mm bit through reinforced concrete. Customer feedback averages 4.1 out of 5 stars from 29 reviews, with a bestseller rank of #495 in Hammer Drills. At €451.46, the HR3210C is priced at the premium end of the 32 mm class, reflecting European manufacturing, established reputation, and a comprehensive kit. It competes with Bosch's GBH 2-32 and remains a solid choice for tradespeople valuing proven reliability over the latest features.

The Makita HR3210C is built for professional builders, electricians, and plumbers who need a single rotary hammer covering everything from 6 mm anchor holes to 32 mm through-holes, with enough power for light chiselling and demolition.