10Best.Guide

Impact Wrench

Top Picks

Last Updated: May, 2023
Pros
  • Powerful - removes rusty hardware and stuck lug nuts with ease.
  • Durable - lasts for years with solid use and abuse.
  • Cordless - convenient to carry around.
  • Good value for the price.
  • Comes new in a box.
Cons
  • Heavy and bulky - may cause fatigue during use.
  • Not as powerful as advertised.
Bottom Line
The DeWalt DCF899B Cordless Impact Wrench is a powerful and durable tool that is convenient to carry around. It may not be as powerful as advertised and may cause fatigue during use, but it is a good value for the price.
Pros
  • Very powerful for its size
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Cordless
  • Can remove rusted bolts and nuts easily
  • Great for automotive work
Cons
  • Friction ring doesn't hold sockets well
  • No 3/8" option
Bottom Line
The Makita xwt14z impact wrench is a powerful and compact tool that is great for automotive work. It has a lot of torque and can easily remove rusted bolts and nuts. However, the friction ring doesn't hold sockets well and there is no 3/8" option.
Pros
  • Powerful
  • Responsive
  • Excellent design with a light
  • Geared towards automotive use
  • Battery lasts a long time
Cons
  • Not powerful enough for some heavy-duty tasks
  • LED light may stop working
Bottom Line
The Ingersoll Rand cordless impact wrench is a powerful and responsive tool with an excellent design and long-lasting battery. However, it may not be suitable for heavy-duty tasks and may require frequent replacements. Customer service may also be unreliable.
Pros
  • Fast delivery
  • Strong, clean, and smooth
  • Impressive torque for the price
  • Lightweight and quiet
  • Quality build and comfortable grip
Cons
  • Difficulty removing lug nuts from certain vehicles
  • Awkward placement of reverse switch
Bottom Line
The Dewalt air impact wrench is a good choice for those looking for a reasonably priced, lightweight, and powerful tool. However, it may struggle with certain jobs and has some minor design flaws. Make sure to have the correct air compressor for optimal performance.
Pros
  • Love the features and quality.
  • Great mid torque solution.
  • State of the art electronic controls for tool operation.
  • Removes lugs with ease.
  • Has torque to it.
Cons
  • Sockets would not stay on constantly falling off.
  • Does not have the torque they say it has.
Bottom Line
The Makita XWT17Z is a great mid torque solution with state of the art electronic controls for tool operation. It has incredible torque and easily removes nuts and bolts. However, some customers have reported issues with sockets falling off and the torque not being as advertised. Additionally, some customers have received the product in bad condition or not as described.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Impact Wrenches: Choose the Best One for Your Needs

Overview

An impact wrench is a powerful tool that is used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts. It is commonly used in automotive repair, construction, and manufacturing. Impact wrenches come in various types, sizes, and power sources. Choosing the right one can be overwhelming, but this guide will help you make an informed decision.

Types

1. Cordless impact wrench: This type of impact wrench is powered by a rechargeable battery. It is convenient to use and provides mobility. However, it may not be as powerful as other types.

2. Electric impact wrench: This type of impact wrench is powered by electricity. It is more powerful than cordless impact wrenches but less mobile.

3. Pneumatic impact wrench: This type of impact wrench is powered by compressed air. It is the most powerful type but requires an air compressor to operate.

Key Considerations

1. Torque: The torque is the amount of force that the impact wrench can generate. It is an important consideration as it determines the wrench's ability to loosen or tighten nuts and bolts.

2. RPM: The RPM (revolutions per minute) is the speed at which the impact wrench rotates. It affects the wrench's ability to loosen or tighten nuts and bolts.

3. Power source: The power source determines the mobility and power of the impact wrench.

4. Battery life: If you are considering a cordless impact wrench, the battery life is an important consideration. It determines how long you can use the wrench before recharging.

5. Weight and size: The weight and size of the impact wrench affect its maneuverability and ease of use.

6. Grip: A comfortable grip is important for reducing hand fatigue and improving control.

7. Socket size and drive size: The socket size and drive size determine the types of nuts and bolts that the impact wrench can handle.

8. Impact sockets: Impact sockets are designed to withstand the high torque of impact wrenches. They are an important consideration when choosing an impact wrench.

9. Anvil type: The anvil type determines the type of socket that can be used with the impact wrench.

10. Noise level: Impact wrenches can be loud. Consider the noise level if you will be using the wrench in a residential area.

Features

1. Variable speed control: This feature allows you to adjust the speed of the impact wrench to suit the task at hand.

2. LED light: An LED light illuminates the work area, making it easier to see what you are working on.

3. Brushless motor: A brushless motor is more efficient and durable than a brushed motor.

4. Quick-release chuck: A quick-release chuck allows you to quickly and easily change sockets.

Prices

Impact wrenches range in price from around $50 to over $500. The price varies depending on the type, power, and features of the wrench.

Tips

1. Always wear safety glasses when using an impact wrench.

2. Use the correct socket size and drive size for the nuts and bolts you are working on.

3. Use impact sockets to avoid damaging the wrench or the sockets.

4. Regularly maintain your impact wrench to ensure it continues to function properly.

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between an impact wrench and a regular wrench?

A: An impact wrench is powered and can generate more torque than a regular wrench.

Q: Can I use an impact wrench to remove lug nuts?

A: Yes, an impact wrench is commonly used to remove lug nuts.

Q: Are cordless impact wrenches as powerful as electric or pneumatic impact wrenches?

A: Cordless impact wrenches may not be as powerful as electric or pneumatic impact wrenches, but they are more convenient to use.

Q: Can I use an impact wrench to tighten bolts?

A: Yes, an impact wrench can be used to tighten bolts, but it is important to use the correct torque setting to avoid over-tightening.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right impact wrench can make your work easier and more efficient. Consider the type, power source, torque, RPM, weight, size, grip, socket size, drive size, impact sockets, anvil type, noise level, and features when making your decision. Remember to always wear safety glasses and use the correct socket size and drive size for the nuts and bolts you are working on.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Small size and powerful enough for most regular fasteners.
  • Same price as big box stores.
  • Great for changing tires and other car and home projects.
  • Exceeded expectations and has lots of power.
  • Zero issues with bolts and lug nuts.
Cons
  • Trigger problem after a few uses.
  • Torpedo design is awkward in certain situations.
Bottom Line
The Craftsman impact wrench is a great tool for most regular fasteners and automotive jobs. It has a few minor issues, but overall, it is a good investment for those looking for a cordless impact wrench.
Pros
  • Professional grade tool with heaviness, backbone, and power.
  • Performs extremely well with a strong compressor behind it.
  • Metal casing with classic design.
  • Sturdy with good customer support.
  • Great value per cost.
Cons
  • Care needs to be given with old rusted bolts.
  • Ingersoll Rand does not provide any type of user manual or customer support.
Bottom Line
The Ingersoll Rand 231c 1/2" drive air impact wrench is a sturdy and powerful tool that performs well with a strong compressor. However, it may struggle with removing stuck on fasteners and does not deliver the advertised torque. Care needs to be given with old rusted bolts, and it does not come with a user manual or customer support. Overall, it is a great value for its cost.
Pros
  • Powerful and versatile
  • Saves time and effort
  • Has multiple speed settings
  • Battery lasts long
Cons
  • Some units may stop working after a short period
  • Forward/reverse selector switch may be loose
Bottom Line
The DeWalt impact wrench is a powerful and versatile tool that can save time and effort for DIYers and professionals alike. However, some units may have issues with durability and some stubborn lug nuts may be a challenge.
Pros
  • Removes rusty nuts and bolts with ease.
  • Great quality.
  • Can break loose anything.
  • Replaces pneumatic impact.
  • Can lock it and nobody else can use it.
Cons
  • Stopped working after 3 weeks.
  • Tool came in a bashed up box and did not work.
Bottom Line
The Milwaukee 3/4" impact driver is a powerful tool that can easily remove rusty nuts and bolts. It is great quality and can replace a pneumatic impact. However, there have been some issues with the tool stopping working after a short period of time and some customers have received damaged products. It is also heavy and better for loosening than tightening.
Pros
  • Powerful for removing stubborn bolts and nuts.
  • No need for an air compressor.
  • Good for quick jobs.
  • Great for removing lug nuts.
  • No torque adjustment needed.
Cons
  • Heavy and large.
  • No torque adjustment for smaller fasteners.
Bottom Line
This corded impact wrench is a powerful tool that is ideal for removing stubborn bolts and nuts. It is a great alternative to air-powered impact wrenches and is perfect for DIY car repairs. However, it is heavy and large, and may not be suitable for use in tight spaces.
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