A new Hilti core drilling machine typically costs about $3,000-$12,000 for the drill, with complete stand-and-accessory packages often reaching $4,000-$15,000. Model, drilling capacity, included equipment, condition, and local dealer pricing drive the final quote; used machines can cost substantially less.
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New drill unit | $3,000 | $6,500 | $12,000 | Model and capacity affect price |
| Drill, stand, and basic accessories | $4,000 | $8,000 | $15,000 | Package contents vary |
| Used drill system | $1,000 | $3,000 | $6,000 | Condition and model matter |
| Diamond core bit | $100 | $300 | $800 | Diameter and bit length change price |
What Hilti core drilling machines cost by system size
For budgeting, a smaller handheld or lighter-duty Hilti setup may fall around $3,000-$5,500 for the drill, while a midrange rig suitable for common concrete openings may run $5,000-$8,500. Higher-capacity systems intended for larger diameters, deeper drilling, or demanding jobsite use can reach $8,000-$12,000 or more before accessories. Assumptions: U.S. dealer pricing estimates for new equipment, before sales tax; exact model and package availability vary.
A stand, water-management equipment, and compatible accessories can add roughly $800-$3,000 to a bare-machine budget. Buying a complete kit may simplify compatibility, but the quote should identify the exact drill, stand, adapter, and included items rather than just saying “core drill package.” A practical new-system budget is $4,000-$10,000 for many standard concrete drilling setups.
How drill, stand, and accessory charges shape the quote
Equipment quotes can separate the motor unit from the support hardware and consumables. The ranges below are budgeting estimates rather than fixed Hilti list prices; dealer discounts, package contents, and regional availability can change the total.
| Quote component | Low | Average | High |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core drill unit | $3,000 | $6,500 | $12,000 |
| Drill stand and fastening hardware | $500 | $1,200 | $2,500 |
| Water supply or collection gear | $150 | $500 | $1,200 |
| Diamond core bit | $100 | $300 | $800 |
| Delivery or setup charge | $0 | $100 | $400 |
Bits are generally purchased separately and wear according to concrete hardness, aggregate, reinforcement, and operating technique. Ask whether the quoted price includes the stand, bit, water equipment, and any required connection hardware.
Why diameter, motor capacity, and drilling depth change price
Maximum drilling diameter is a major price divider. A system intended for openings around 2-4 inches may cost less than equipment designed for holes above 6 inches; heavy-duty setups for diameters near 10-14 inches can require a more powerful motor, larger stand, and higher-cost bits. Confirm the manufacturer’s capacity for the exact material and drilling orientation.
Longer holes can require extension segments, additional bit barrels, or staged drilling, adding about $100-$600 or more depending on the setup. Reinforced concrete and hard aggregate can also accelerate bit wear. Compare capacity at the diameter and depth actually required, not only the machine’s maximum advertised specification.
What operator labor adds to a drilled opening
When the machine is used as part of a contractor’s coring service, labor commonly prices around $75-$150 per hour for an operator, with a one- to three-hour minimum possible. Setup, anchoring, water control, access, and cleanup can take as much time as drilling a straightforward opening. A difficult overhead or confined-space job may require additional labor or safety equipment.
For example, 3 hours at $100-$150 per hour produces $300-$450 in labor, before travel, equipment rental, or disposal. For a machine purchase, labor is separate; for a completed hole, request a quote that states setup and cleanup charges.
When core bits and water handling raise ownership costs
Budget for more than the initial drill price if the equipment will be used regularly. Common diamond bits may cost $100-$400, while larger or specialized bits can approach $800. Water-feed components, slurry collection, adapters, and extension barrels can add $150-$1,200 depending on the job. Consumable costs are higher when drilling abrasive concrete, dense reinforcement, or many large openings.
Rental can be economical for occasional work: a core drill setup may rent for roughly $100-$300 per day, with bits, deposits, delivery, or damage coverage billed separately. Compare the rental’s included bit and accessories with the cost of buying a complete system.
How U.S. location and buying channel affect Hilti pricing
Dealer quotes can differ by roughly 5%-15% across markets because of freight, local competition, inventory, and sales tax. Major metro areas may have more rental and dealer options, while remote locations may face delivery charges of $50-$400 or longer lead times. Tax is location-specific and is not included in the equipment estimates above.
Authorized dealers can clarify compatibility, warranty coverage, and service options; used-equipment listings may be cheaper but vary in condition and support. Compare the same model number and package contents, and check whether warranty and service coverage transfer with a used unit.
Three equipment budgets for common concrete drilling needs
| Example setup | Equipment estimate | Typical scope |
|---|---|---|
| Light-duty used rig | $1,500-$3,500 | Used drill and stand, limited accessories |
| Standard new setup | $5,000-$9,000 | Midrange drill, stand, basic water gear, one bit |
| Higher-capacity new package | $9,000-$15,000 | Heavy-duty drill, robust stand, accessories, larger bit |
These are planning ranges, not quotes for a specific Hilti model. A dealer may package equipment differently, and specialized bits or water collection can add to the totals. Ask for an itemized written quote tied to the exact model and included accessories.
Which buying choices can lower the machine price
Buying only the capacity needed can avoid paying for a larger motor and stand that will rarely be used. For one or two jobs, compare daily rental with the full purchase price, including bits and water equipment. For frequent use, compare new and inspected used machines, but verify operating condition, included parts, service history, and warranty before paying.
Request separate pricing for the drill, stand, bits, and accessories, then remove duplicate items already owned. Avoid buying specialty bits until the hole diameters and materials are confirmed. The most reliable savings come from matching the system to actual diameter, depth, and use frequency rather than cutting necessary safety or compatibility items.