Also known as an impact gun or impact driver, an impact wrench delivers high torque output to tighten and loosen bolts. If your small business is in the automotive, construction, machine tool production, equipment repair, and assembly industry, you will need the best impact wrench to get the job done.
You can choose an air impact wrench, a cordless impact wrench, or an electric impact wrench to do the job. However, depending on the power you need, you will have to be more selective.
What is an Impact Wrench?
An impact wrench tightens or untightens bolts using an impact mechanism made-up of an anvil, an impactor (hammer), and a spring. Using torque and impact it produces a lot of power for mechanical and industrial applications. It is designed to especially tighten and loosen hex-head bolts, nuts, and lag screws.
The Best Impact Wrench to Get the Job Done
| Feature/Aspect | Top Pick: DEWALT 20V Max XR Impact Wrench Kit | Runner Up: MILWAUKEE M12 Fuel Stubby 1/2″ Impact Wrench | Best Value: Makita 1/2” 18V LXT Brushless High-Torque Impact Wrench |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Advantage | Top Pick: Reliable for heavy-duty tasks | Runner Up: Space efficiency & accessibility | Best Value: Power, precision, and longevity |
| Torque Performance | 700 ft-lbs max torque, 1200 ft-lbs breakaway torque | 250 ft-lbs of breakaway torque | 740 ft.lbs. fastening torque; 1,180 ft.lbs. nut-busting torque |
| Build/Size | 8-13/16-inch length, 7.2 lbs. weight | 4.9 inches length | 9″ length |
| Speed Control/Versatility | Multi-speed: 0-400, 1,200, 1,900 RPM | 4-Mode drive | 3-speed power selection (varied RPM & IPM) |
| Anvil/Socket Retention | 1/2-inch anvil with detent pin | – | 1/2″ anvil with a friction ring |
| Visibility & Safety | Integrated LED light with 20-second delay | Auto-shut off mode | – |
| Package/Kit Contents | Wrench, 20V XR battery (4.0 Ah), Fast Charger, Tool bag | M12 Wrench, M12 4.0AH & 2.0AH battery, Charger, Bag | Wrench |
DEWALT 20V Max XR Impact Wrench Kit
Top Pick: Introducing the DEWALT 20v MAX XR Brushless Impact Wrench – your reliable partner for heavy-duty tasks. This compact tool, despite its size, delivers a powerful punch with high torque and breakaway force. Navigate seamlessly through various applications with its versatile speed control and enhance your working accuracy in dim settings, thanks to the built-in LED light. Moreover, its lightweight build ensures minimal hand fatigue, letting you work longer and more comfortably.
Product Features:
- Torque Performance: Up to 700 ft-lbs max torque and 1200 ft-lbs breakaway torque.
- Compact Build: Measures 8-13/16-inch in length and weighs a mere 7.2 lbs.
- Speed Control: Multi-speed settings (0-400, 1,200, 1,900 RPM) cater to diverse tasks.
- Robust Anvil: Heavy-duty 1/2-inch anvil equipped with a detent pin for secure socket retention.
- Enhanced Visibility: Integrated LED light with a 20-second delay illuminates dim workspaces.
- Package Contents: Impact Wrench, 20V XR Lithium-Ion battery (4.0 Ah), Fast Charger, and a Tool bag.
DeWALT 20V MAX XR Impact Wrench Kit
MILWAUKEE M12 Fuel Stubby 1/2″ Impact Wrench
Runner Up: The Milwaukee M12 FUEL Stubby 1/2″ Impact Wrench Kit is a trailblazer in the compact tool category. Crafted to be the most space-efficient impact wrench in the industry, this device prioritizes performance and accessibility. Its reduced size ensures it can navigate confined areas with ease, ensuring enhanced productivity. The tool doesn’t skimp on power either, boasting an impressive torque that handles stubborn bolts effortlessly. For added versatility and precision, the 4-Mode drive control guarantees unmatched command across varied fastening applications.
Product Features:
- Space Efficiency: At 4.9 inches, it’s the market’s most compact impact wrench.
- High Torque: Offers an industry-leading 250 ft-lbs of breakaway torque.
- M12 System: Part of a wide array of 90+ tools.
- Versatile Control: 4-Mode drive allows precision control across applications.
- Safety Feature: Auto-shut off mode prevents over-fastening during reassembly.
- Kit Contents: M12 FUEL Stubby 1/2 in. impact wrench, M12 4.0AH battery, M12 2.0AH battery, M12 charger, and carrying bag.
MILWAUKEE M12 Fuel Stubby 1/2″ Impact Wrench
Makita 1/2” 18V LXT Brushless High-Torque Impact Wrench
Best Value: The Makita XWT08T 18V LXT® Impact Wrench Kit is the ideal tool for professionals seeking power, precision, and longevity in one compact package.Engineered with the innovative BL Brushless Motor, it ensures durability by eliminating carbon brushes. This extends the life of the motor by allowing it to run cooler and more efficiently. The kit stands out with its impressive torque capacities, providing unmatched fastening strength. Furthermore, its three-speed power selection switch ensures precision for a multitude of applications. Socket changes are seamless thanks to the 1/2″ anvil with a friction ring.
Product Features:
- High-Torque Performance: 740 ft.lbs. of fastening torque; 1,180 ft.lbs. of nut-busting torque.
- Adaptable Speeds: 3-speed power selection (varied RPM & IPM settings) catering to diverse tasks.
- Compact Design: Measures only 9″ in length, promoting easy handling.
- Efficient Socket Changes: 1/2″ anvil with a friction ring.
- Enhanced Motor Longevity: BL Brushless Motor operates cooler, reducing wear and extending lifespan.
Makita 18V LXT Brushless High-Torque Impact Wrench
PORTER-CABLE 1/2” Electric Impact Wrench
The PORTER-CABLE brand is recognized for its tools for over 100 years, including this 1/2” electric impact wrench. This unit comes with a 7.5 Amp motor that delivers 450 Ft-Lbs. of torque, 2,200 RPM and 2,700 BPM (Blows Per Minute). The company offers a ?3-year limited warranty.
PORTER-CABLE 1/2” Electric Impact Wrench
CRAFTSMAN V20 1/2” Cordless Impact Wrench
CRAFTSMAN has also been around for almost a century (1927). This cordless impact wrench is made from 100% stainless steel delivering a maximum torque rating of 350 ft. lbs. It is powered by a 4.0Ah 20V MAX lithium-ion battery with fast charging.
CRAFTSMAN V20 1/2” Cordless Impact Wrench
Ingersoll Rand 1/2” Drive Air Impact Wrench
If you are looking for a heavy-duty impact wrench, look no further than the Ingersoll Rand 1/2” air impact wrench. You get up to 1,350 foot-pounds of torque with a four-position power regulator to adjust the torque. It has a titanium hammer case and steel wear plate to protect it from the harshest of environments. Ingersoll Rand backs the wrench with a two-year warranty.
Ingersoll Rand 1/2” Drive Air Impact Wrench
Ryobi 18V Cordless 3-Speed 1/2 in. Impact Wrench
This cordless Ryobi impact wrench delivers 300 ft./lbs. of torque and up to 3,200 impacts per minute with 0-2,900 RPM. It is powered by an 18V 4.0Ah lithium-ion battery with a 3-speed control to adjust the power.
Ryobi 18V Cordless 3-Speed 1/2 in. Impact Wrench
WEN 20V Max Brushless Cordless Impact Wrench
Since 1951 WEN has been making power tools. This cordless impact wrench uses a 20V MAX 2.0Ah lithium-ion battery to power the brushless motor delivering up to 3400 impacts and 2300 rotations per minute for up to 2480 inch-pounds of fastening and breakaway torque. WEN provides a 2-year warranty.
WEN 20V Max Brushless Cordless Impact Wrench
DeWALT Impact Wrench with Hog Ring
The second entry from DeWALT is a pneumatic impact wrench with a hog ring delivering 300 ft. lbs. of torque using a twin hammer mechanism. It generates 11,000 RPM and 1,200 BPM. This is a 3/8” square drive with a composite body and shock-resistant housing bumper.
DeWALT Impact Wrench with Hog Ring
Chicago Pneumatic CP734H Air Impact Wrench
Chicago Pneumatic was founded in 1901 and has been producing heavy-duty tools for many industries. The CP734H delivers maximum torque of 452 ft. lbs. at 8400 RPM. It provides one-handed operation with 4 positive power settings that include full power in reverse. The company offers a 2-year warranty
Chicago Pneumatic CP734H Air Impact Wrench
What to Look for When Buying an Impact Wrench
Adding an impact wrench to your toolkit is a decision that demands careful thought. Given that many professionals heavily depend on this device for their day-to-day tasks, it’s essential to pick one that matches your requirements and ensures user comfort. Here’s an expanded guide to help you make the best choice:
Understanding the Nature of Your Work Before you rush to buy an impact wrench, assess the tasks you’ll frequently use it for. For example, those in the automotive industry might prefer a more robust tool, while DIY enthusiasts might opt for a less powerful but portable version.
Features and Considerations:
- Power Source Variety: Depending on your workspace and mobility needs, consider the following:
- Air-Powered: Often preferred by heavy-duty professionals for its unparalleled torque.
- Electric (corded): Reliable and consistent, especially for indoor spaces with a continuous power supply.
- Cordless: Offers greater mobility and comes handy in places where cords can be restrictive.
- Battery Longevity for Cordless Versions: Ensure the battery can last through your tasks. Lithium Ion (Li-Ion) typically offers a longer battery life compared to Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) and Nickel Cadmium (NiCad).
- Adjustable Torque Settings: Some wrenches allow you to adjust the torque, giving you more control and preventing overtightening.
- Weight and Balance: A well-balanced tool reduces fatigue. Remember, a lighter tool doesn’t always mean it’s the best fit. It’s about how the weight is distributed.
- Additional Features: Some models come with LED lights for better visibility, while others might offer variable speed triggers for enhanced control.
- Warranty and After-sales Service: Always consider the warranty period and the reputation of the brand for after-sales service. A longer warranty often signifies trust in the product’s durability.
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This article, “Impact Wrench: Great Picks For Any Job” was first published on Small Business Trends
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