The Hilti Nuron Cordless Impact Driver Packs A Serious Punch In A Compact Frame

The Hilti Nuron cordless impact driver is part of the latest generation of tools coming down the pipe from Hilti and it’s boasting eye-opening performance improvements. We’re putting it to the test and diving deeper to see how it compares to Hilti’s other cordless impact drivers.

Pros

• Strongest impact driver we’ve tested
• Significant improvement in performance compared to the SID 4-A22
• More compact than the previous model
• Excellent ergonomics
• LED light ring surrounding the collet
• Nuron technology

Cons

• Slower driving light and medium-size fasteners than some competitors
• On the heavy side when you’re not using the most compact battery

Hilti Nuron Cordless Impact Driver Performance

Diving into the details on this impact driver reveals some truly impressive specs. It’s Hilti’s most powerful 1/4-inch impact driver and the most powerful we’ve seen on paper. The brushless motor produces up to 2,655 in-lbs of torque. The previous leader was Flex at 2500 in-lbs.

For speed, it’s a bit slower than some of the top dogs, topping out at 3600 RPM. With some models hitting 4000 RPM or more in high speed, we expect this to run a little slower with light to medium-size fasteners.

That’s not an unusual move with impact tools, though. If you consider impact wrenches, as they grow in overall power from compact through mid-torque all the way to high-torque, the top speed tends to drop.

That’s what we saw in our 8-inch GRK rugged structural screws test. Driving into stacked OSB, Hilti’s Nuron impact driver averaged 10.4 seconds. That’s significantly slower than the 5.8 seconds of Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel which currently holds the record.

Before we close the door on this part of the conversation, there are a couple of important takeaways. First, it’s a big jump from the SID 4-A22 on Hilti’s previous line. That one had just 2700 RPM and a max torque of 1717 in-lbs.

The other side is the impressive torque level. Particularly in wood fastening when adapters and bits hold up better, you can drive lag screws and other large fasteners… all the way up to M16 bolts according to Hilti’s ratings.

Hilti Nuron Cordless Impact Driver Design Notes

Ergonomics

The textured and contoured grip is very comfortable and gives you a ton of control during long periods of use, or when working overhead. With the recommended B 22-85 battery in place, the SID 6-22 has a good balance and isn’t too top or bottom-heavy.

While it’s still a beefy tool (2.2 pounds bare, 3.9 pounds with a 4.0Ah battery), it’s more compact than the SID 4-A22. Measuring 5.4 inches from front to back, it’s about 1/2 an inch shorter.

LED Worklight

One thing we love about this impact driver is the LED light ring surrounding the collet. It helps to fully illuminate the work area and has a diffuser on it which softens the light and cuts glare on your material.

Additional Features

• Protective rubber bumpers
• One-handed bit insertion

Hilti Cordless Impact Driver Quick Comparison

Nuron Technology Benefits

With Nuron’s updated battery design, we expect longer runtime, especially when you need to keep the tool under a heavier load for longer periods of time. It’s a combination of cell selection, cooling technology, and lower resistance of the pack design that makes it happen. All of that works together to power this impact driver more efficiently than before.

On the inventory management side of things, the batteries’ ability to automatically store and transmit data about the tool and battery can be a big help. Even if You’re using multiple tools with one battery, it stores the data and transmits it via the charger when you put it on.

Hilti Nuron Cordless Impact Driver Price

This Hilti Nuron retails for $169 as a bare tool. From there, you can customize your kit with the exact batteries and chargers you want. Hilti backs the tool with its signature 20-year warranty, 2 years of free service, and 1-day turnaround on service.

If you’re looking to outfit an entire tool crib, be sure to check out Hilti’s fleet pricing program. It includes free service, maintenance, and loaner tools to help mitigate downtime. On this program, the price for the SID 6-22 comes to $5.50 per month.

Compatible Batteries

• 2.5Ah (B 22-55): $84 each (most compact option)
• 4.0 Ah (B 22-85): $114 each (best for balancing size and weight with performance and runtime)
• 8.0 Ah (B 22-170): $174 each (best for long runtime and extra performance but heavy)
• 12.0 Ah (B 22-255): $204 each (compatible but not recommended due to size and weight)

The Bottom Line

The Hilti SID 6-22 impact driver is another example of how Nuron technology is resulting in significantly higher performance. It leaves its predecessor in the dust with far greater speed and torque. While it still has some room to grow in speed, its impressive power makes it far more capable of driving large fasteners than its competition.

Hilti Nuron Cordless Impact Driver Specifications

• Model: Hilti SID 6-22
• Power Source: Hilti Nuron 22V battery
• Chuck Type: 1/4 in. hex collet
• Max Torque: 2655 in-lbs
• No-Load Speed: 1800/2700/3600 RPMs
• Impact Rate: 4250 IPM
• Weight: 2.2 lbs (bare), 3.9 lbs (with recommended B 22-85 battery)
• Dimensions (LxWxH): 5.4 x 2.7 x 8.1 in.
• Warranty: 20-year
• Price: $169 (bare tool), $5.50/mo. (fleet pricing)

The post Hilti Nuron Cordless Impact Driver Review SID 6-22 appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Ryobi 1/2-Inch Compact Impact Wrench Puts Power And Control In The Palm Of Your Hand

Any auto mechanic will tell you that an impact wrench is a must-have—and you’re likely going to need more than one. Ryobi is improving its game with an 18V One+ HP Compact Brushless 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench and we’re taking a closer look to see what benefits it offers.

Ryobi 1/2-Inch Compact Impact Wrench Performance

Fastening Power

Many fastening jobs don’t require a ton of power to tighten or remove nuts and bolts, especially in the automotive industry. Too much force while tightening can damage your material, strip threads, or even snap the head off altogether.

Stepping down to the compact class from the larger P262 and PBLIW01 models, the Ryobi PSBIW25 is capable of producing up to 275 ft-lbs of breakaway torque. It can also reach speeds up to 2,800 RPM and has a max impact rate of 3,800 IPM.

I got the opportunity to put this model to work when I changed out the brakes on my Honda Ridgeline. This compact impact wrench had no problem loosening the lug nuts or breaking those stubborn caliper bolts. That’s not a surprise with the power level this model is at. What’s nice is how easily I was able to work in tighter spaces (more on that in a minute).

Thinking more broadly, Ryobi touches a higher power level than most compact impact wrenches. It can handle most of your passenger vehicle needs along with large construction fasteners. Stubborn lugnuts and neglected fasteners may still need a true mid-torque or even a high-torque option, though.

4-Mode Speed Selection

Control of the performance centers around a 4-mode speed selection that dials in the brushless motor. The controls sit on the foot of the tool. Just press the button to cycle between its three standard modes and an auto mode.

The auto mode is incredibly helpful. In forward, it runs at 2,200 RPM, similar to mode 2, up until the first few impacts before automatically shutting off. Once it sets lightly, you can use your torque wrench to set the proper torque without worrying about over-torquing.

When in reverse, the auto mode will automatically stop rotation once the nut or bolt breaks loose. This is really nice because it allows you to hand-thread it the rest of the way instead of having it roll away.

Ryobi 1/2-Inch Compact Impact Wrench Design Notes

Ergonomics

The grip on this compact impact wrench is definitely on the larger side compared to many of the tools that pass through our shop. That’s normal for Ryobi, though. It has the feel of a full-sized tool and feels very secure in my hand. They even incorporated a small finger choil on the front of the rubber overmold for a little extra bit of comfort while using this tool.

From end to end this impact wrench measures 5.75 inches and it stands 9.75 inches tall with a 4.0Ah High Performance battery. As far as weight is concerned, it hit the scale at 2.4 pounds as a bare tool and 4.0 pounds even with a 4.0Ah High Performance battery. If you wanted to lighten things up a little, consider using one of Ryobi’s 2.0Ah High Performance batteries—this configuration only weighs 3.4 pounds.

Remember the higher power level we talked about? This is where the trade-off occurs. Compact impact wrenches are typically a bit smaller and lighter than Ryobi’s when you’re looking at premium professional brands. What we have is an impact wrench that sits in between premium compact and mid-torque classes.

But what about other Prosumer specialists in the 1/2-inch class with similar power? Compared to the high-value Skil PWRCore 20 IW5739, Ryobi offers a 3/8-inch shorter length. It’s more than 1 1/4 inches shorter than Craftsman’s CMCF921. It’s also lighter than both.

LED Light

One thing I really like about this tool is that Ryobi moved away from the typical foot-mounted light and instead uses a tri-beam design around the anvil. This style provides much better visibility in low-light situations. The only real disadvantage to this setup is larger sockets can obstruct the light and cast a shadow on your work surface. Other than that small issue, we’re happy with this design.

Ryobi 1/2-Inch Compact Impact Wrench Price

This compact impact wrench retails for $139.00 as a bare tool and at the time we’re writing this there are no kit options available. Ryobi warranties this impact wrench for 3 years so be sure to register your tools for fast and easy customer service!

The Bottom Line

We’re used to Ryobi bridging the gap between DIY and Pro models. By moving ahead of its Prosumer competition in both power and size, the PSBIW25 bridges the gap between Prosumer and Pro models and stands alone as the top Prosumer compact impact wrench currently available.

Check out more Ryobi impact wrenches by clicking here.

Ryobi 1/2-Inch Compact Impact Wrench Specifications

• Model: Ryobi PSBIW25
• Power Source: Ryobi 18V battery
• No-load Speed: 0-850/2,100/2,800/2,200 RPM
• Max Torque: 275 ft-lbs
• Impact Rate: 3,800 IPM
• Anvil Size: 1/2 in.
• Anvil Type: Friction ring
• Weight: 2.4 lbs (bare), 3.4 lbs (with 2.0Ah High-Performance battery), 4.0 lbs (with 4.0Ah High-Performance battery)
• Head Length: 5.75 in.
• Warranty: 3-year
• Price: $139 (bare)

The post Ryobi HP Compact Brushless 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Skil 20V Compact 3/8-Inch Impact Wrench Improves Performance While Reducing Size

If you’re in the market for a compact impact wrench, oftentimes you’ll have to sacrifice performance for size…but what if it didn’t have to be that way? As we’re continuing our dive into the updated Skil PWRCore 20C lineup, we turn our attention to the Skil Compact Impact Wrench.

Skil 20V Compact 3/8-Inch Impact Wrench Performance

Under The Hood

On paper, you can expect up to 170 ft-lbs of fastening torque, 220 ft-lbs of break-away torque, and 3,950 IPM for driving tough nuts and bolts. Additionally, the brushless motor peaks out at 2,850 RPM—450 RPM faster than PWECore 20 1/2-inch model.

Drive Modes

Skil’s 20V compact impact wrench features three main speed modes as well as a reverse control mode. This allows you to dial in the speed to match whatever material or fasteners you’re working with. Here’s a quick look at the speed you can expect in each mode:

Skil 20V Compact 3/8-Inch Impact Wrench Quick Comparison

The big deal with Skil’s next-generation compact lineup is that Skil is making smaller tools that are outperforming their previous versions, like the Skil IW5739. There is a considerable jump in speed, torque, and impact rate when looking at this compact model.

Using Reverse Control Mode

In reverse control mode, the tool loosens a bolt or nut at high-speed first. Once the nut or bolt
is completely loose, the tool will stop automatically to prevent it from threading off.

The mode is available only when the tool is set in reverse rotation. If you switch the tool to forward rotation while in reverse control mode, the impact force and speed are the same as the high-speed mode 3.

Applications

With 170 ft-lbs of forward torque and 220 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque, there’s a wide range of light to medium-duty tasks you can accomplish. It should be plenty to remove properly-fastened lug nuts on passenger vehicles, handle the fasteners in tight spots around your brake calipers, and deal with the many of the hex-head construction fasteners you come across.

You still need a mid-torque impact wrench for stubborn or larger fasteners, but you might be surprised just how much of your work this compact model can do for you.

Skil 20V Compact 3/8-Inch Impact Wrench Notes

Ergonomics

The Skil compact impact wrench weighs in at 2.0 pounds even as a bare tool and 3.1 pounds with the kitted 2.0Ah battery. Keeping with the compact theme, it also measures 4.8 inches from end to end which makes it ideal for accessing those hard-to-reach nuts and bolts.

Ergonomically, this impact wrench feels really good in the hand. The contoured grip features some aggressive grooves and texturing that helped me maintain a firm hold on the tool even in the sweltering central Florida heat.

LED Light

Much like most modern tools, this impact wrench features an LED light for low-light conditions. This tool includes a diffused halo-style light that surrounds the anvil and it’s a more effective way of lighting than foot-mounted lights.

In addition to the trigger activation, there’s also an option to turn it on for 10 minutes and to turn it back off if you don’t need the light for the full time.

Additional Features

• Tether ready
• Reversible belt hook

Skil 20V Compact 3/8-Inch Impact Wrench Price

This cordless impact wrench kit retails for $129.99 and includes a single PWRCore 20V 2.0Ah battery and a PWRJump charger. Skil accompanies this kit with a 5-year tool warranty and a 2-year battery warranty when you register.

The Bottom Line

Overall, we really like the performance and design improvements of the Skil 20V Compact Impact Wrench. The boost in speed, torque, and control cement this tool’s reputation as a true workhorse for serious DIYers. It’s also a great option for Pros on a budget who need the benefits of a compact impact wrench from time to time.

Skil Compact Impact Wrench Specifications

• Model: Skil IW6739B-00
• Power Source: Skil PWRCore 20V battery
• Anvil Size: 3/8 in.
• Anvil Type: Friction Ring
• Fastening Torque: 170 ft-lbs.
• Break-Away Torque: 220 ft-lbs.
• No-Load Speed: 0-1,500/2,250/2,850 RPM
• Impact Rate: 2,100/3,400/3,950 IPM
• Weight: 2.0 lbs. (bare), 3.1 lbs (with 2.0Ah battery)
• Warranty: 5-year
• Price: $129.99

The post Skil 20V Compact 3/8-Inch Impact Wrench Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Skil 20V Compact Impact Driver Delivers Higher Performance In A Smaller Package

If you take a look at the best names in the business, many offer a compact impact driver with lower weight and smaller size to fit in tighter spaces. The trade-off is performance, and you need to jump up to the more expensive flagship models to get the best. Is that always the case? We got our hands on the Skil 20V Compact Impact Driver to see what the product team came up with.

Skil 20V Compact Impact Driver Performance

Speed and Power

The Skil ID6739B features three standard drive modes and a Control Mode, which is an upgrade from the previous model’s 2-mode system. In high, the brushless motor tops out at 3100 RPM—400 RPM higher than the previous PWRCore 20 brushless model. The impact rate is higher as well, jumping from 3400 IPM all the way to 3950 IPM.

The only thing that stays the same is the torque. At 1800 in-lbs, it didn’t really need to increase, though. That’s enough power to drive the majority of fasteners you come across. Considering it’s also enough to break those socket adapters you might be tempted to use, the speed increase was a more important improvement.

It’s still not as fast as some of the top-tier Pro models, but it drives with confidence in an array of deck screws, structural screws, and small-diameter lag screws. Here’s a quick look at some recommendations for each mode:

Using Control Mode

In control mode, the tool runs at low speed at first to help engage the fastener into your material. Once the screw is well engaged, the tool increases the speed automatically to finish the work efficiently. The control mode only functions when the tool is set in forward rotation. If you switch to reverse rotation while in control mode, the impact rate and speed are the same as in Mode 2.

Skil 20V Compact Impact Driver Design Notes

Ergonomics

This compact impact driver weighs in at 2.1 pounds bare and 3.1 pounds with the kitted 2.0Ah battery, which is what we expect from this category. Additionally, it measures 4.9 inches from tip to tail which makes it ideal for working in tight spaces such as a cabinet or crawlspace.

These are both significant improvements as well. The weight is down by nearly 1/2 a pound and the length is 8/10ths of an inch shorter. Holding them side-by-side, it’s an obvious difference.

Ergonomically, this impact driver feels pretty good in the hand. The compact battery doesn’t throw the tool off balance at all and the handle has a nice form-fitting curve to it. Skil also added some larger texturing and grooves to channel away sweat to maintain a secure hold while it’s in use.

LED Light

Much like most modern tools, this impact driver features an LED light for low-light conditions. This tool is equipped with a diffused halo-style light that surrounds the collet and it’s a more effective way of lighting than foot-mounted lights. In addition to the trigger activation, there’s also an option to turn it on for 10 minutes and to turn it back off if you don’t need the light for the full time.

Additional Features

• One-hand collet
• Onboard bit storage
• Reversible belt hook
• Tether ready
• Battery doubles as a USB-A power supply
• Compatible with all Skil PWRCore 20 batteries

Skil 20V Brushless Impact Driver Quick Comparison

Skil 20V Compact Impact Driver Price

This compact impact driver kit retails for $99.99 and includes a single PWRCore 20V 2.0Ah battery and a single-port charger. Skil gives it a 5-year limited tool warranty and a 2-year limited battery warranty.

The Bottom Line

The Skil 20V Compact Brushless Impact Driver improves its performance while dropping in size and weight. Combined with a sub-$100 price tag, it’s one of the best values currently available. Add in more control than its predecessor and you have an outstanding impact driver for your weekend projects and home repairs that might also tempt value-minded Pros into pulling the trigger.

Click here to check out Skil’s entire line of power tools!

Skil 20V Compact Impact Driver Specifications

• Model: Skil ID6739B-10
• Power Source: Skil PWRCore 20V battery
• No-Load Speed: 0-1,800/2,500/3,100 RPM
• Impact Rate: 2,450/3,400,2,950 IPM
• Max Torque: 1,800 in-lbs.
• Torque Settings: 3
• Collet: 1/4 in.
• Weight: 2 lbs. (bare), 3.1 lbs. (with 2.0Ah battery)
• Warranty: 5-year limited
• Price: $99.99

The post Skil PWRCore 20V Compact Impact Driver Review appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Hilti Nuron Cordless High-Torque Impact Wrench Takes On Tough Construction Fasteners

Hilti has been a big player in the construction industry for decades. We’ve seen a few familiar tools hit the market in the wake of the introduction of Hilti Nuron tools and batteries. However, Hilti also brought some newcomers into the group. Among them is the Hilti Nuron SIW 8-22 cordless 1/2-inch high-torque impact wrench which the company claims is its strongest one yet.

Pros

• Highest torque of any Hilti cordless impact wrench
• Upgrades to two speeds
• Nearly a pound lighter than the previous Hilti torque leader
• Excellent ergonomics
• Nuron technology

Cons

• No 3/4-inch option (yet)
• No assist modes

Hilti Nuron Cordless High-Torque Impact Wrench Performance

Speed and Torque

The Hilti SIW 8-22 is part of the Ultimate Class and it’s the strongest cordless impact wrench currently available on the Nuron line. Hilti rates the torque at 443 ft-lbs in low and 738 ft-lbs in high with 1217 ft-lbs of breakaway torque. That’s actually 25% more fastening torque and nearly 90% more breakaway torque than the Ultimate Class SIW 9-A22 from the previous line.

Working with the torque, high gear hits 1500 RPM and 2950 IPM. That speed may seem slow compared to other impact wrenches, but as you go up in torque, the speed tends to drop as the higher mass of the hammer hits the anvil harder. It’s also 100 RPM higher than the SIW 9-A22.

Measuring Torque

We put this impact on our Inertia Torque L-1000 Torque Tester to what kind of working torque to expect. On low, we registered significantly higher torque—640 ft-lbs. On high, we hit 748 ft-lbs, which is very close to Hilti’s specs.

For starters, measuring impact torque is more difficult than measuring it on a drill. In fact, the L-1000 is the first impact tool torque tester we’ve seen to measure it consistently. It measures hard torque—the kind you see in metal-to-metal fastening—rather than the soft torque you get from fastening in wood. We’ve also noticed that high-torque impact wrenches tend to measure higher torque in lower gears on this rig.

It’s possible that it’s a difference in how Hilti tested and the way our rig is designed. It’s not out of range of what we’ve seen in other testing, though. Regardless, it’s obvious this impact wrench hits hard and is extremely strong.

Recommended Applications

• Bolting steel for structures, handrails, racking, machinery, and pipe flanges
• Setting HUS anchors in concrete
• Lag bolting/structural screwing in wood

Hilti Nuron Cordless High-Torque Impact Wrench Design Notes

Ergonomics

The SIW 8-22 impact wrench weighs 5.4 pounds as a bare tool and 7.1 pounds with the recommended B 22-85 battery. That’s nearly a pound lighter compared to the SIW 9-A22 3/4-inch impact wrench which really helps out when you’ve got a long day ahead of you.

The grip has a really comfortable textured rubber overmold that easily channels away sweat on hot days. Like most other Nuron tools we’ve tested, the handle shape is nicely contoured and has a natural fit.

Nuron Technology Benefits

Let’s take a closer look at Nuron’s specific benefits. With the updated battery design, we expect longer runtime, especially when you need to keep the impact wrench under a heavier load for longer periods of time. Part of it is the cell selection, part of it is the cooling technology inside, and part is the resistance reduction of the electrical connections. All of that works together to power the motor more efficiently than before.

For those of you managing an entire tool crib, the batteries’ ability to automatically store and transmit data about the tool and battery is a huge help in making your management duties more efficient. Even if You’re using multiple tools with one battery, it stores the data and transmits it via the charger when you put it on.

There’s a lot more to the Nuron story, so check out our deeper dive here.

Room for Improvement?

Two things stick out to us that the design team may want to consider in the next generation, and both of them are minor.

First, we’d love to have an assist mode for when you’re working with fasteners or materials that have a higher risk if you over-torque. Realistically, that’s the time to use a mid-torque or even compact impact wrench in the first place, but it’s still helpful.

We can also see a benefit in having a 3/4-inch drive option for folks using the SIW 9-A22 who have a full suite of 3/4-inch sockets on hand already.

Additional Features

• LED work light
• 1/2-inch friction ring anvil

Hilti Cordless High-Torque Impact Wrench Quick Comparison

Hilti Nuron Cordless High-Torque Impact Wrench Price

The Hilti Nuron SIW 8-22 1/2-inch impact wrench retails for $389 as a bare tool. Hilti lets you customize your kit by selecting your batteries and chargers based on your needs. If you’re on Hilti’s Fleet Management service, the tool is $11.25 per month.

The tool carries a 20-year warranty and a 2-year free service agreement. While this impact wrench is compatible with all Nuron batteries, some options are better than others.

Compatible Batteries

• 2.5Ah (B 22-55): $99.75 each (compatible but not recommended due to lower run time)
• 4.0 Ah (B 22-85): $136.00 each (best for balancing size and weight with performance and runtime)
• 8.0 Ah (B 22-170): $207.00 each (best for extended runtime applications)
• 12.0 Ah (B 22-255): $243.00 each (compatible but not recommended due to size and weight)

The Bottom Line

The Hilti Nuron SIW 9-22 is the strongest cordless impact wrench in Hilti’s lineup, replacing multiple Ultimate Class models from the previous line. While there are a couple of areas for improvement, the performance and design of this high-torque model set a new standard for what you can expect from Hilti’s cordless impact wrench line.

To check out the full Hilti Nuron lineup, click here.

Hilti Nuron Cordless 1/2-inch Impact Wrench Specifications

• Model: Hilti Nuron SIW 8-22
• Power Source: Hilti Nuron B 22 battery
• Anvil Type: 1/2-inch friction ring
• Max Torque: 443 ft-lbs (low), 738 ft-lbs (high)
• Nut Busting Torque: 1650 Nm
• Impact Rate: 2,500 IPM (low), 2,950 IPM (high)
• No-Load Speed: 1,250 (low), 1,500 (high)
• Weight: 5.4 lbs (bare), 7.06 lbs (with Nuron B 22-85 battery)
• Warranty: 20-year
• Price: $334.00 (bare tool), $9.50/mo. (fleet pricing)

The post Hilti Nuron Cordless High-Torque Impact Wrench Review SIW 8-22 appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Kobalt 1/2-Inch Mid-Torque Impact Wrench Gets A Major Facelift

The third generation of Kobalt 24V cordless tools is hitting the market boasting better performance, more features, smaller profiles, and faster charging. Among them is the KIW 124B-03 Kobalt 1/2-inch mid-torque impact wrench. We’re going to dive into the features and upgrades so you can decide if it’s the right choice to fit your needs.

Kobalt 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench Performance

Specs

On paper, Kobalt’s brushless motor produces 500 ft-lbs of fastening and 650 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque. The max no-load RPMs range from 950 on low, 1500 on medium, and 2200 on high. The corresponding impact rates are 1100 on low, 2000 on medium, and 2800 on high. When comparing that to the previous model, we see an increase of 300 revolutions per minute and 400 impacts per minute.

Control Freak

One of the many improvements Kobalt made to this impact wrench is to both the impact rate as well as the drive speed. It uses a 3-speed drive unlike the KIW 1524A-03 it’s replacing which featured a single-speed motor.

Kobalt did a great job of keeping the speed and torque controls simple on this impact wrench. There is a small control panel at the base of the handle with two buttons that allow you to easily cycle through the standard and assist modes.

Special Modes

This tool features two special modes that are specifically designed for those in the automotive sector—”Auto Slow” and “Hand Tight”.

Auto Slow is activated when the tool is set in reverse and will automatically slow rotation once it senses the fastener is loose. This mode helps to prevent the bolt or nut from falling or being thrown out of the socket.

The Hand Tight function is activated when the tool is set to forward and stops rotation once the tool begins to impact. Doing so prevents over-tightening, thus, mitigating potential damage to the threads.

Torque Test

One advantage we have when it comes to getting reliable torque test numbers is our Intertia Torque Impact Tool Torque Tester. We set up the Kobalt KIW 124B-03 on the tester and ran through all three settings to see what it could do. Here are our results:

• Torque 1: 223.5 ft-lbs.
• Torque 2: 248 ft-lbs.
• Torque 3: 418.2 ft-lbs.

As you can see, there’s a pretty big jump between settings 2 and 3. Just to be safe, we retested with a fresh battery to see if the numbers change. After conducting the second round of tests, here are our results:

• Torque 1: 223 ft-lbs.
• Torque 2: 258.6 ft-lbs.
• Torque 3: 437.8 ft-lbs.

Editor’s Note: Our test method is three 5-second bursts with a 3-second break between each. Under a longer load, you can reach higher torque levels such as the 450+ ft-lbs in our photo above.

The first time, we started with a fresh battery and ran each test from low to high. The second time, we topped the battery off for each test and had the advantage of the full max voltage of the pack. For modes 2 and 3, these results show the difference between a battery running at peak voltage vs. nominal voltage. Click here to learn about the difference between the two.

So What?

Why the difference between the torque specs and what our meter measured? The meter’s hydraulic system actually reads ~65% – 85% of the purest hard torque readings. That’s normal because of the way the mechanism works. Kobalt’s numbers are on the high side of the range, which isn’t surprising considering Kobalt’s impact wrenches have historically hit harder than its competition in the same class.

Ridgid’s 18V brushless mid-torque has the same torque specs on paper and measured a maximum of 252 ft-lbs in the same test. Kobalt beat that in mode 2 and was nearly 185 ft-lbs stronger in mode 3. That’s a big difference.

More importantly, it shows us that this is a solid all-around impact wrench. From stubborn bolts on a vehicle to the toughest construction fasteners, Kobalt covers a wide range of applications.

Kobalt 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench Design

Ergonomics

Kobalt did an excellent job shaving some of the excess weight and length off of this tool. They shortened the tool body by about 3 inches making it fit the mid-torque class better in terms of size. Additionally, this model is 1.5 pounds lighter than its predecessor.

The big deal here is that the shorter body and lighter weight allow for better access in tight spaces and a lighter load when working overhead.

The overall feel and balance of this tool are really nice. The grip is draped in a heavily textured rubber overmold and there are a few protective bumpers on the head to help offer some protection to any workpiece you set it on.

Additional Features

• LED light
• Reversible belt clip

Kobalt 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench Price

Right now at Lowe’s, you can get this Kobalt 1/2-inch impact wrench for $229 kitted with a 24V Max 4.0Ah battery. At the time we’re writing, it’s not yet available as a bare tool. As far as pricing is concerned, it’s where we expect to find Prosumer models and earns a high-value rating from us when you wrap in its performance level.

Kobalt includes a 5-year tool warranty and a 3-year battery warranty with this kit as well as a soft carrying case.

The Bottom Line

The Kobalt 24V 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench has you covered when it comes to tackling a full range of mid-torque impact tasks. From our experience, it’s an excellent value when you consider its compact size, feature set, and performance. We recommend it for serious DIYers and for Pros who don’t mind a little more size and weight to gain significant price savings.

For more information on the Inertia Torque L-1000, click here.

Kobalt Cordless 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench Specifications

• Model: Kobalt KIW 124B-03
• Power Source: Kobalt 24V Max battery
• Max Torque: 650 ft.-lbs. (nut-busting), 500 ft-lbs (fastening)
• No-Load Speed: 0-950/1500/2200 RPM
• Impact Rate: 0-1,100/2,000/2,800 IPM
• Weight: 4.25 lbs (bare), 6 lbs (with 4.0Ah 24V MAX battery)
• Warranty: 5-year (tool), 3-year (battery)
• Price: $229 (kit)

The post Kobalt 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench Review: 24V Cordless Mid-Torque appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Kobalt 24V Cordless Impact Driver Delivers Upgraded Torque And Feature Set

We’re constantly on the lookout for the best cordless impact drivers and Kobalt just came out with an upgraded one. Today we’re diving deeper into the next-generation Kobalt 24V impact driver that promises better performance, improved runtime, and more.

Kobalt 24V Cordless Impact Driver Performance

The first question to answer is… does this model replace the standard brushless impact driver or the XTR version? It replaces the standard model, so it doesn’t quite reach the performance of the XTR (or the price point).

The upgraded Kobalt KID 124B-03 impact driver’s speed tops out at 3,100 RPM and has a max impact rate of 3,800 IPM. Its brushless motor is also capable of producing up to 2,000 in-lbs of torque. Here’s a quick side-by-side look at the previous KID 1324A-03:

Right off the bat, it’s clear that there are significant improvements across the board. These are all right in the mix for mid-level professional impact drivers and frankly, very few people need more than what this impact driver promises. However, it’s the actual testing that shows how motor specs and mechanical design come together to do work.

RSS Screw Test

When testing impact drivers we like to put them up against a few 8-inch GRK rugged structural screws to see how fast they can drive them into stacked OSB subfloor. This gives us an idea of how well the tool balances its speed and torque.

The Kobalt KID 124B-03 powered through five of these screws with an average speed of 8.8 seconds. While it doesn’t challenge the top contenders or the XTR model, it’s within half a second of some big names like the DeWalt DCF887 and Makita’s XDT16. That’s not too shabby if I say so myself!

Specialty Modes

The KID 124B-03 features both a Finish mode as well as a Self-Tap mode.

The Finish mode allows you to work quickly and precisely without damaging your material. It helps to prevent over-tightening screws without stripping out the head by stopping rotation once the impact mechanism engages.

This Self Tap mode starts with fast rotation and then slows down once the impact mechanism engages. Doing this helps prevent screws and other fasteners from breaking, stripping, and over-tightening.

We tested these modes with both drywall screws and self-tapping screws to see the results for ourselves. The Finish mode perfectly countersank the drywall screws and the Self-Tap mode confidently drove our self-tapping screws into our aluminum with enough control to easily avoid damage.

Kobalt 24V Cordless Impact Driver Design

Ergonomics

This Kobalt impact driver tips the scales at 2.4 pounds as a bare tool and 3.4 pounds with a 2.0Ah 24V Max battery—slightly lower than the previous model. Thanks to the brushless motor’s efficiency, the compact battery is a great choice to help keep the overall weight down and still give you plenty of runtime.

While it’s not the most compact impact driver we’ve ever seen, it’s only 5.25 inches from tip to tail and that’s about 0.4 inches more compact than the previous model. As for the height, it stands 9.25 inches tall with the kitted 2.0Ah battery. This makes it a great option for working inside cabinets or other places where space is at a premium.

In general, I really like the feel of this new generation of tools from Kobalt. The grip is slightly more angled than its predecessor which makes for a more comfortable hand position. The grip features an improved rubber overmold that offers more aggressive texturing and larger grooves for channeling away dirt and sweat.

Additional Features

• Reversible belt hook
• LED light
• Tether ready
• One-hand bit insertion

Kobalt 24V Cordless Impact Driver Price

Kobalt’s brushless impact driver is available at Lowe’s and runs $149 for the kit with one 2.0Ah battery, charger, and soft case. It comes with a 5-year limited warranty on the tool and a 3-year battery warranty.

The Bottom Line

As an upgrade, the next-gen Kobalt 24V cordless impact driver makes some very real gains in power and speed, resulting in faster work. Its tweaked ergonomics and more compact build are also welcome improvements. As far as suitability goes, we like this as an option for serious DIYers and value-minded Pros.

Kobalt Impact Driver Specifications

• Model: Kobalt KID 124B-03
• Power source: 24V Max Battery
• No Load Speed: 0-1500/2400/3100 RPM
• Maximum Torque: 0-850/1600/2000 in-lbs
• Impact Rate: 0-1900/3100/3800 IPM
• Bare Weight: 2.4 lbs (bare), 3.4 (with 2.0Ah battery)
• Length: 5.25 lbs
• Height: 9.25 lbs
• Warranty: 3-Year Limited (Battery), 5-Year Limited (Tool)
• Price: $149 (kit)

The post Kobalt 24V Cordless Impact Driver Review: Next-Gen appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

The Greenworks 24V Cordless Impact Driver Balances Power And Value

We initially received this Greenworks 24V Cordless Impact Driver as part of a combo kit, but we think it deserves a moment in the limelight. We ran it through a few of our standard tests here in the shop to see how it fared once we poured on the pressure.

Greenworks 24V Cordless Impact Driver Performance

Performance Specs

This impact driver boasts an impressive 1,950 in-lbs of torque, 3,500 impacts per minute, and 2,600 RPMs. We put it to the test in both drilling and driving applications.

On the drilling side, we easily powered through 2x using a 1/2-inch twist bit as well as a 3/4-inch spade bit, essentially converting our lumber into swiss cheese. That may not be what you typically use your impact driver for—but it’s a great test of capabilities.

Turning our attention to driving capabilities, it unsurprisingly handled small screws and 3-inch lag bolts without any difficulty. Unlike some other compact models, its slim profile doesn’t get in your way during precision fastening.

While power isn’t an issue, it is slower on tough applications compared to other Prosumer tools. In our RSS Test (8-inch rugged structural screws into stacked OSB subfloor), it was able to fully drive them in an average of roughly 22 seconds.

Impact drivers still aren’t the go-to for all drilling applications, so we recommend getting the combo kit that includes their 24V cordless drill driver. However, this impact driver can handle a lot of your basic drilling needs if you want just one tool.

Greenworks 24V Cordless Impact Driver Design Notes

Size and Weight

One area where Greenworks truly excelled is in the compact nature of this impact driver, measuring a mere 5 inches from end to end. As a bare tool, it only weighs 2 pounds and when paired with a 2.0Ah battery it weighs just 3 pounds! This is one of the lightest impact drivers we’ve tested.

Ergonomics

The tool feels very robust in a well-built sort of way. The grip favors larger hands and the rubber over-molded grip offers substantial grip even if you’re not wearing gloves or it’s a particularly hot day and your hands are sweaty.

Greenworks 24V Cordless Impact Driver Price

The impact driver retails for $119.99 from Amazon. It comes with a pair of 2.0Ah batteries, a charger, and a soft carrying case. In addition, Greenworks backs both the tool and batteries with a 3-year limited warranty.

The Bottom Line

The Greenworks 24V Cordless Impact Driver isn’t likely to win any speed awards, but you also won’t have to spend beaucoup bucks to get your hands on it. From a value standpoint, this is a great option for homeowners and serious DIYers by offering ample power and performance without the high price tag.

Click here to check out last-minute deals from Greenworks.

Greenworks 24V Cordless Impact Driver Specifications

• Model: Greenworks ISG402
• Power Source: Greenworks 24V battery
• No-Load Speed: 0-2,600 RPM
• Impact Rate: 3,500 IPM
• Max Torque: 1,950 in-lbs
• Weight: 2 lbs (bare), 3 lbs (with 2.0Ah battery)
• LED work light
• Warranty: 3-year limited tool and battery
• Price: $119.68

The post Greenworks 24V Cordless Impact Driver ISG402 appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

What’s the best Milwaukee impact wrench in 2022? That completely depends on what you use an impact wrench for the most. We’ve compiled our top picks across a wide range of options. Let us know which one is your favorite in the comments below!

Don’t Forget Your Impact Sockets!

If you’re going to trust a Milwaukee impact wrench to help you make money, why not rely on their impact sockets, too? For a comprehensive start, we recommend the 36-piece 3/8-inch set (49-66-6805) and the 31-piece 1/2-inch set (49-66-6806).

Both sets include SAE and metric sizes with 6-point sockets that are stamped and ink-filled, making identification easy. They come in Packout cases and have removable trays if you’d prefer to put them in your tool chest. The trays are also color-coded: red for SAE and black for metric.

Best Milwaukee 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench

M18 Fuel Mid-Torque 2962/2962P

If you’re going to own just one Milwaukee impact wrench for the widest range of tasks, it has to be the 1/2-inch mid-torque model. Available with a friction ring or pin detent, it’s capable of fastening up to 550 ft-lbs and loosening up to 650 ft-lbs.

3 standard modes control your speed and power, and there’s an auto mode to give you more control. It’s also surprisingly compact for its size, taking advantage of the latest brushless motor technology Milwaukee has to offer.

• 4-Mode Drive Control
• No-Load Speeds: 0 – 1250/1950/2575 RPM (2575 in Auto mode)
• Impact Rate: 0 – 3100 IPM
• Max Torque: 550 ft-lbs fastening, 650 ft-lbs nut-busting
• Head Length: 6.0 inches
• Bare Weight: 3.5 pounds bare, 5.1 pounds w/5.0Ah battery
• Also available with a 3/8-inch friction ring (2960)

Best Milwaukee 3/8-Inch Impact Wrench

M18 Fuel Compact 2854

If you’re on the hunt for a 3/8-inch impact wrench, the M18 Fuel line has an excellent compact model that you have to use to believe. It has 250 ft-lbs of torque and broke 400 ft-lbs in our testing. It comes in a package that’s less than 5 inches long and weighs under 2.5 pounds as a bare tool. Even with a 5.0Ah battery, the total weight is just 4.0 pounds.

Like our 1/2-inch recommendation above, there are 3 standard modes and an auto mode for control.

• 4-Mode Drive Control
• No-Load Speeds: 0-800/1650/2400 RPM (2400 in Auto mode)
• Impact Rate: 3500 IPM
• Max Torque: 250 ft-lbs
• Head Length: 4.8 in.
• Bare Weight: 2.4 lbs.
• Also available with a 1/2-inch friction ring or pin detent (2855/2855P)

Best Milwaukee 3/4-Inch Impact Wrench

M18 Fuel High-Torque 2864

Milwaukee has a few 3/4-inch impact wrenches (including a corded model) and the one to target is the 2864 if you’re looking for the best. With a monster 1200 ft-lbs of fastening and 1500 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, it’s a high-torque option that’s still manageable in its weight and compact in size.

This model features One-Key, offering customizable modes you can set along with tool tracking and inventory management.

• No-Load Speeds: 0-1800 RPM (four customizable modes)
• Impact Rate: 0-2400 IPM
• Max Torque: 1200 ft-lbs fastening, 1500 ft-lbs breakaway
• Head Length: 8.6 in.
• Bare Weight: 6.3 lbs.
• Also available with a 1/2-inch friction ring (2863)

Best Milwaukee 1-Inch Impact Wrench

M18 Fuel D-Handle High-Torque 2868/2869

When you need serious power, 1-inch D-handle impact wrenches are the way to go and Milwaukee has two legit cordless models that can replace your pneumatics. They feature a mind-blowing 1900 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 2,000 ft-lbs of breakaway for the toughest jobs. With such a strong brushless motor, they rely on Milwaukee’s 12.0Ah High Output battery as an energy source. It also has a battery isolation section that reduces the amount of heavy impacting that reaches the lithium-ion cells. One-Key integration and four customizable modes are icing on the cake.

Designed around the needs of diesel and heavy equipment mechanics, it’s available with a standard or extended reach 1-inch anvil.

• No-Load Speeds: 0-1200 RPM (four customizable modes)
• Impact Rate: 0-1440 IPM
• Max Torque: 1900 ft-lbs fastening, 2000 ft-lbs breakaway
• Head Length: 17.9 in.
• Bare Weight: 21.5 lbs bare, 25.0 pounds with 12.0Ah battery (add 2.2 lbs for the extended anvil)

Best Milwaukee 1/4-Inch Impact Wrench

M12 Fuel Stubby 1/4-Inch 2552

Moving in the completely opposite direction, we head to the M12 system for our top 1/4-inch impact wrench recommendation. Milwaukee’s M12 Fuel stubby line is impressive across all of its drive sizes and the 1/4-inch version drops down to 100 ft-lbs of torque paired with up to 3000 RPM of speed. It’s a great choice when you’re working with smaller fasteners or softer materials and want to avoid over-torquing. Continuing the trend we’ve already seen, this model has 3 standard modes and an auto mode when you need more control.

• 4-Mode Drive Control
• No-Load Speeds: 0 – 1300/1900/3200 RPM (3200 in auto mode)
• Impact Rate: 4000 IPM
• Max Torque: 100 ft-lbs
• Head Length: 5.1 in.
• Bare Weight: 1.64 lbs

Best Milwaukee M12 Impact Wrench

M12 Fuel Stubby 1/2-Inch 2555/2555P

Our top choice for the best Milwaukee M12 impact wrench stays with the M12 Fuel stubby line, and it’s the 1/2-inch version we prefer. This compact little impact boasts 250 ft-lbs of torque. Considering it’s using a 12V battery as its power source, that’s impressive.

The 1/2-inch drive is available as either a friction ring or pin detent and has a lot of potential for work across most trades along with its expected automotive uses.

• 4-Mode Drive Control
• No-Load Speeds: 0-1200/1800/2700 RPM (2700 RPM in auto mode)
• Impact Rate: 3200 IPM
• Max Torque: 250 ft-lbs
• Head Length: 4.9 in.
• Bare Weight: 2 lbs.
• Also available with a 3/8-inch friction ring

More Milwaukee Cordless Impact Wrench Options To Note

M18 Fuel Utility High Torque Impact Wrench 2865

Milwaukee’s 2865 is an M18 Fuel impact wrench designed specifically for linemen’s needs with its 7/16-inch hex collet. Behind that specialty connection, the brushless motor is capable of 750 ft-lbs of torque to help set the larger fasteners utility workers frequently deal with. It’s also rated to work around lines up to 69,000 volts and there’s a beefy metal ring at the top for easy tethering.

While the 2300 RPM top speed doesn’t match what hydraulic impacts are capable of, the completely cord-free/hose-free convenience can make up the difference with far less setup time and hassle.

One-Key is onboard offering its tracking and management assets along with the ability to customize your mode settings.

• 4-Mode Drive Control (no auto mode)
• No-Load Speeds: 0 – 900/1200/1800/2300 RPM
• Impact Rate: 2800 IPM
• Max Torque: 750 ft-lbs
• Head Length: 8.2 in.
• Bare Weight: 5.9 lbs.

M12 Fuel Right Angle Impact Wrench 2565/2565P

You can be forgiven if you first look at Milwaukee’s 2565 and assume it’s another M12 Fuel ratchet. However, it’s actually a right angle impact wrench with far greater speed and torque than cordless ratchets have. The dead giveaway is at the head where it’s bulkier than ratchets to make room for the mechanics of an impact wrench.

It tops out at 3000 RPM and 220 ft-lbs of torque. With an overall length of just over 14 inches, it helps you reach into spaces you can’t fit a pistol grip tool while offering the power to deal with most of the fasteners you’ll come across in those spaces.

While the auto-mode that’s on several of Milwaukee’s impact wrenches is helpful, it’s particularly useful on this model. In reverse, the RPMs drop way down once the impact stops, and in forward, it ensures you put no more than 15 ft-lbs of torque into the fastener.

• 4-Mode Drive Control
• No-Load Speeds: 0 – 1550/2300/3000 RPM (3000 RPM in auto mode)
• Impact Rate: 3,600 IPM
• Max Torque: 220 ft-lbs
• Head Length: 2.2 in.
• Bare Weight: 2.85 lbs.
• Available with a 3/8-inch friction ring, 1/2-inch friction ring, or 1/2-inch pin detent

Discover more Milwaukee cordless tools by clicking here!

The post Best Milwaukee Impact Wrench Reviews 2022 appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.

Updated DeWalt 20V Max High-Torque Impact Packs More Power

More power is always welcome for tough fastening jobs, especially in professional or commercial capacities where time is money. DeWalt plans to help with the 20V Max XR High Torque Impact Wrench (DCF900). An update to the previous model (DCF899), this model improves upon the high-torque impact wrench formula.

DeWalt 20V Max XR High Torque Impact Wrench: The Big Deal

DeWalt increased the torque output for the DCF900 impact wrench. In fact, it has a massive 47% more torque when you compare it to the last model. Expect to achieve 1030 ft-lbs of max fastening torque and 1400 ft-lbs of max breakaway torque thanks to the tool’s brushless motor. It pairs with a max speed of 2300 RPM and 2200 IPM. There are four speed control settings to dial things down when you don’t need the highest performance the tool offers.

The DCF900 features DeWalt’s Precision Wrench mode, designed to help prevent overtightening in forward and run-off in reverse.

Additionally, DeWalt brings in BatteryGuard technology, which uses a shock-absorbing battery-to-tool connection to isolate it from the extreme vibration these tools can produce. Vibration is one of the big battery killers, so BatteryGuard is an important step forward.

The DCF900 is ideal for demanding jobs like fastening large pipes flanges and wheel lugs, so pro-grade performance is expected.

Additional Features

• Ergonomic grip
• LED work light with adjustable brightness

DeWalt 20V Max XR High Torque Impact Wrench Price

The DeWalt DCF900 retails for $299 as a bare tool. You have the option to purchase this tool as part of a kit, too, including a 5.0Ah battery, charger, and carrying case for $369. DeWalt backs your purchase with a 3-year warranty.

Discover more DeWalt 20V Max products here!

Specifications

• Model: DeWalt DCF900
• Length: 8.8 in
• Height: 9.1 in
• Weight: 6.4 lbs
• Impacts per minute: 2200
• Max RPM: 2300
• Drive size: 1/2 in
• Battery voltage: 20V

The post DeWalt 20V Max XR High Torque Impact Wrench appeared first on Pro Tool Reviews.