Ingersoll Rand 116 Air Hammer, 3500 BPM, 2-5/8ft Stroke - Durable

Our review of the Ingersoll Rand 116 air hammer finds it best suited to mechanics and fabricators who need a compact, dependable tool for cutting, panel work, and general repair. The single biggest reason to buy is its combination of up to 3500 BPM and a longer life alloyed steel barrel and heat-treated piston, which together deliver consistently powerful blows and a durable service life even under frequent use. It feels built for workshop environments where ease of chisel changes and robust construction matter more than extra bells and whistles.

Key Features

• High impact rate: Up to 3500 blows per minute gives fast cutting and chipping action for exhaust, panel, and repair work.
• Durable construction: An alloyed steel barrel and heat-treated piston extend tool life under repeated heavy use.
• Versatile stroke: The 2-5/8' stroke provides leverage for cutting and removal tasks without excessive vibration.
• Easy chisel changes: A coil spring retainer lets you swap chisels quickly so you can keep downtime to a minimum.
• Compact footprint: With package dimensions under 10' by 7' the tool fits into crowded toolboxes and service vans.

Who It's For

This air hammer is aimed at professional technicians, body-shop and exhaust specialists, and serious DIYers who need a reliable hand tool for medium cutting, panel removal, and general repair tasks. Its strength and construction make it a practical choice for daily use where durability and consistent power delivery matter.

Those who rely on very large compressors or require variable-speed electronic controls should look elsewhere, as this model emphasizes straightforward pneumatic power and rugged mechanics rather than electronic features or ultra-high airflow demands.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Strong performance with up to 3500 BPM, making cutting and chipping efficient.
• Long-life alloyed steel barrel and heat-treated piston improve durability for heavy use.
• Coil spring retainer allows fast and simple chisel changes on the job.

Cons

• Some users report chisel deformation under prolonged hard use, so chisels should be inspected and replaced as needed.

Specifications

Model	116 air hammer
Blows per minute	Up to 3500 BPM
Stroke length	2-5/8' stroke
Barrel and piston	Alloyed steel barrel, heat-treated piston
Typical applications	Cutting, panel work, exhaust repair, general repair
Package dimensions	9.3' L x 6.7' W x 2.5' H

Our Verdict

The Ingersoll Rand 116 is a straightforward, value-driven air hammer for professionals and serious hobbyists who need reliable cutting and chipping performance. With a durable barrel and piston and a high-impact rate, it represents good value for workshop use, though users should monitor chisels for wear during heavy-duty applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

What tasks is this air hammer best for?
The 116 excels at medium exhaust work, panel cutting, and general repair tasks where fast cutting action is required.

Is it durable for daily shop use?
Yes, the alloyed steel barrel and heat-treated piston are designed to withstand repeated use in a workshop environment.

Are chisel changes difficult?
No, the included coil spring retainer allows quick and easy chisel changes with minimal downtime.