The name impact wrench describes exactly what makes this tool full of power. It is designed to insert screws into the hardest woods, using a hammer effect to provide much higher torques than even a heavy-duty drill can achieve. Another great advantage of the impact wrench is that the high hammering impact torque is not reflected in the hand holding the tool.
The tool bit does not require much force with the hand to hold it attached to the screw head, so the probabilities that the screw is ‘barred’ by damaging the bit and destroying the screw head are almost nil, and it works in places where a heavy duty screwdriver simply cannot be used, and even with one hand, if necessary.
The other great advantage is that a cordless impact wrench is fast. The shaft rotates almost twice as fast as a regular drill, which means that inserting very long screws, 10 inches or more, takes much less time. And despite its high torque and speed, the cordless impact wrench is lighter than the screwdriver drill, a great benefit when working above head height or when working on a project where many screws must be inserted.
The only disadvantage of a cordless impact wrench is the noise it makes and the cost, as both factors may be a limitation of use for some contractors and remodeling professionals. Still, for long-term daily use, it pays for itself in productivity. Take into account that all cordless impact wrenches have a quick-change hexagonal chuck, so having one also involves an investment in drills, adapters and screwdriver bits needed for the tool. These drills are special and robust, and require drills made to withstand the impact shocks.
The cordless impact wrench offers different options in battery size, type and voltage. In general, lithium-ion and nickel-cadmium battery models are preferred due to their improved recharge and battery discharge capabilities. For medium jobs, a lighter 12 volt tool should, despite its lower voltage, perform impressively well.
An impact screwdriver puts a lot of power, convenience and versatility in your hands and causes much less strain on your arm than conventional ones. If you already have a cordless impact wrench, you probably want to keep using the brand you have, since the batteries are interchangeable. You may even be able to buy a loose tool at a lower price and use batteries and charger you already have or find a kit that includes an impact wrench and a hammer drill in the same carrying case. In this way, you will get a tool for general construction and another for drilling concrete and masonry, and you will probably save money.
When selecting this tool, compare the maximum torque generated by the tool, the speed of the shaft, and whether the tool snugly fits in your hand. Other attractive features include tool lighting, energy conservation switches, tool belt clips, and special handles, all of which add to the versatility, capability and comfort of the tool. When comparing prices, remember to read the specifications, so that you can also compare performance and do not forget the durability factor. This is a tool that will probably be widely used.
