10 Best Impact Driver For Automotive Use – (Review And Buying Guide)

Since impact drivers are so useful, a good impact driver should be on top of your must-haves when you are building up your TOOLKIT. When it comes to driving long fasteners into hard material such as WALLS and CONCRETE BLOCKS, impact drivers are the handiest tools for both professionals and hobbyists. Yes, this can also be done with regular DRILLS, but impact drivers are much better at this job as they provide more TORQUE as compared to regular drills.

Impact drivers provide better torque than even the best of the range COMBI DRILLS. They can also eliminate half sunk screws and rounded off heads. Undoubtedly, they make the job much simpler and easier.

The sole purpose of the motor in an impact driver is to generate the largest amount of torque that can be produced, in the smallest area. Impact drivers also help produce the VIBRATIONS and decrease the impact on your wrist.

In addition to protecting your WRIST, impact drivers also get the job done much faster. As compared to traditional drill machines, impact drivers work at a much quicker speed and can drive screws and long fasteners much faster. While working with drill machines you are required to drill pilot HOLES in the material you are working on, whereas using an impact driver does not require you to drill pilot holes.

Now that we know that impact drivers are very useful and pretty efficient at their job, it is also important to know that for the best outcome you need the best impact driver.

Like all other power tools, the market is saturated with different models and brands of impact drivers. It’s not easy to choose one from such a huge variety. There are a couple of things you need to consider and compare before you purchase an impact driver.

This guide will provide you all the information you might need to find the best impact driver and will help you choose the best impact driver by reviewing the 10 best impact drivers.

Reviews Of  The 10 Best Cordless Impact Wrenches:

The market is saturated with various impact drivers that come in different shapes, sizes, models, and colors. No doubt this makes it harder for the buyer to choose among such a large variety. To make it easier for you, after a lot of research, we have picked out the top 10 best impact drivers out of the thousands of models and brands offered in the market.

Below mentioned are detailed reviews and the pros and cons of our best picks.

Model	Weight	Battery	Dimensions	Power	Price
Dewalt	2.2 pounds	Lithium Ion	5.8 x 6.7 x 4.1"	Battery	Check Price
Ryobi	2.7 pounds	Lithium Ion	12 x 3 x 9"	Battery	Check Price
Dewaltdc	2 pounds	Lithium Ion	8 x 3 x 5.9"	Battery	Check Price
Milwaukee	2.3 pounds	Lithium Ion	7 x 1.8 x 6.5"	Battery	Check Price
Porter	1 pounds	Lithium Ion	12.8 x 4.2 x 11.2"	Battery	Check Price
Hitachi	7.4 pounds	Lithium Ion	15.1 x 11.4 x 4.2"	Battery	Check Price
Black+Decker	16.09 pounds	Lithium Ion	17.5 x 8.5 x 11.2"	Electric	Check Price
Hammerhead	5.55 pounds	Lithium Ion	2.4 x 3.8 x 10.5"	DC	Check Price
Dewalt18V	1.1 Kg	Lithium Ion	14.1 x 7.8 x 23.6 cm	Battery	Check Price
Makita	0.3 ounces	Automated	0.6 x 5.4 x 4.2 in	Manual	Check Price

1. DEWALT DC825B – Best 18 Volt Impact Driver

This impact PORTABLE driver is one of the best options as compared to other drillers since it is ranked as number one in accordance with the durability. The machine delivers about 1330 in/lb of torque at about 2400 RPM and 2700 RPM, this frequency makes it as one of the most powerful drillers and makes it eligible to perform heavy-duty tasks such as driving fasteners into metal, concrete or WOOD.

Moreover, this driller comes with a variable speed trigger which helps you in controlling the speed and also the frequency, this allows the user to have control on the desirable drilling power. This trigger is responsive which makes it easier for the user to handle.

The other plus point is that it is lightweight, which makes it easy to carry as compared to other drillers, its accessory change can be done easily as it comes with replaceable brushes and if the brushes get damaged you can replace them with the new ones. It has an anti-slip ergonomic grip which makes it safe to use. The fact that it is made up of magnesium and metal, makes it durable since it won’t corrode like many of the machinery does.

However, the machine runs over Nickel-cadmium batteries whereas most machines work on Lithium-ion batteries. This has an effect on the memory discharge and if the user doesn’t take care of good care of the machine, then the driller’s uptime will eventually be reduced.

Moreover, the machine’s batteries are quite expensive, as it operates on DEWALT’s XPR 18 volt battery which costs about $ 150 to $175. This is higher than the price of the machine itself, as the machine costs only up to $ 100. The buyer might feel deceived by the price of the machine when he gets to know the price of the batteries.

Though the Dewalt DC825B is a very efficient impact driver, it still has a few negative points that you should be aware of.  Let’s looks at the pros and cons of this model.

2. RYOBI P236 ONE PLUS – Best Impact Driver On The Market

If you are searching for an impact driver that has a strong build, is affordable, has great features and a powerful battery then we would suggest you to have a look at RYOBI P236 ONE PLUS. This impact machine is of a much lower cost as compared to the driller above. It also uses Lithium-ion batteries which are better and cheaper. Despite of its lower cost, it still has a superior torque than the DEWALT.

However, the reason that it cannot be considered as the better of the two, is because of its lesser durability.

It has moving internal parts which means that there would be more wastage. However, it does have some important features such as LED light, magnetic holder and screw holder. Changing the bits has also been made very easy by this machine. Overall this model has a really good ergonomic design. The handles it comes with are neither too big for comfort, nor too small. Hence, the provide you with a good grip.

A notched rubber mold is present on the handles of the impact driver which ensures a firm and comfortable grip. Moreover, it has a 3-year limited warranty which is a huge plus point, since if the machinery is damaged it can be repaired within this time. RYOBI P236 is a very suitable option for the individuals who have not used a drill machine before or the people who might need to use a drill machine intermittently but not frequently.

One of the downsides of this model is that it does not have any switch control for adjusting the power or the speed. In order to control the power and the speed of the tool then you need to adjust the way you press the trigger. This can be a little difficult to handle for the beginners but once you get a hold of it, it makes handling the machine easier.

The RYOBI P236 ONE PLUS has some pretty good features but at the same time, it does have some negative points that you should look into before you consider buying this model. Below mentioned are the pros and cons of this model.

3. DEWALT DCF887B – Best Impact Driver To Remove Lug Nuts

Up next on our list we have another Dewalt DCF88878 and this model can easily be regarded as one of the best models that Dewalt provides. It delivers an excellent torque because this drill has a 3-speed operation. For light operations, you can utilize this machine on its first level of speed that operates at 240 in/lb.

Heavier duty tasks can be accomplished by the second level of speed that is 1500in/lb. And if the speed still doesn’t satisfy your purposes, then you can choose to turn up the speed till 1825in/lb. This tool can also be utilized as a drill cum driver since the first speed offers a low torque.

Hence, you can use the same tool instead of buying a separate drill and driver. If you don’t already own a drill, this would be an indirect advantage for you. The model is equipped with a brushless motor, an LED illumination light, a one-handed loading system, a belt hook, and a compact lightweight design.

One of the best additions to this impact driver is the brushless motor. The internal body of the machine consists of a very few moving parts, this makes the machine all the more durable. This model runs on a 20V Lithium-ion battery, unlike the other Dewalt model that runs on 18V. Hence, you can get the battery charger and the battery of this model at a cheaper price comparatively but on its own, it is still pricey.

Li-ion battery packs are not likely to cause any self-discharge and memory issues which means a consistent uptime provided by the battery as well. Moreover, this model comes with a 3-year warranty, a 90 days money-back guarantee and a year of full service.

If you are looking for an impact driver that is durable, powerful and can do the job of a drill alongside a driver, then you should consider buying DEWALT DCF887B.  You get the benefit of two machines from one!

As we can see from the features mentioned above, the DEWALT DCF887B is a very good model among impact drive, but like everything else this model also has some negative points that you should be aware of. These pros and cons are mentioned below.

4. Milwaukee 2462-20 M12 – Best Impact Driver 1/2

Moving away from the powerful 18 and 20-Volt impact drivers, let’s have a look at 12 V drivers as well. Power is sacrificed in this category for impact drivers for portability. For example, as compared to the DC825B the M12 is around 50 percent more compact. The M12 is an affordable model. On the purchase of the M12 Impact Driver Kit, you get the M12 impact driver, a charger, and a convey case, a charger, and a 12-Volt Li-particle battery.

Generally, affordable impact drivers hold back on providing a good warranty time but not this one. The M12 accompanies a 5-year warranty. As far as the performance of this model is concerned, this model works at a no-load speed of 2500 rpm. 3300 impacts per minute are produced at this speed at a 1000in/lb torque.

Along these lines, this machine compensates for its low generation of torque by expanding the quantity of impact every minute. Because of this, the M12 performs superior to other drivers in its class.

As compared to other batteries this tool delivers 80 percent more runtime because it is powered by the REDLITHIUM™ battery. This model also includes a fuel gauge onboard that keeps you up updated with the remaining runtime. Moreover, the model comes with other expected features such as a tool belt, ergonomic grip, and a one-hand accessory change.

Hence, if you are someone who uses impact drivers for lightweight jobs and wants an impact driver that is cost-effective, light, compact and powerful then the M12 might be a good choice for you. However, if you want an impact driver for heavy-duty tasks and jobs then you might not be satisfied with this model.

Though the Milwaukee 2462-20 M12 is among our top picks, it does not mean it does not have any negative points. Let’s look at the pros and the cons of this model.

5. PORTER-CABLE PCCK640LB – Best Budget Impact Driver UK

We all want an impact driver that is powerful and budget friendly at the same time. Both of these qualities can be found in the porter cable PCCK640LB. The porter cable PCCK640LB is an impact driver kit that includes a charger, two 1.5 Ah battery packs and a 20 V impact driver.

Since speed is one of the most important factors of an impact driver, let’s talk about the speed that this driver offers. It runs at a maximum speed of 2900 rpm, which is a pretty good speed for an impact driver. At 3100 impacts per minute, this model generated torque of 1495 in/lb. At the price, this model offers you a good deal.

The machine has all the common features such as an easy load chuck, a variable speed trigger, a battery charge indicator, and an LED illumination light. However, this is not something that is very noteworthy as all the impact drivers come with these features. Overall, the model is equipped with all the features one may expect an impact driver to have.

One of the features that might be a little off-putting to the customers is the heavyweight of the machine. The machine has a heavyweight because of its large and cumbersome motor. The durability and the efficiency of the machine is average because its internal body has a lot of moving parts.

A warranty of 1 year is offered by the portable cable for this machine. If you are on a budget and want to buy an impact driver that is powerful but has an average performance, then you may consider buying the Porter Cable PCCK640LB.

The PORTER-CABLE PCCK640LB is a good impact driver as compared to many others but there are a few negative points that we think you should be aware of. These are mentioned below.

6. Hitachi WH18DGL 18-Volt Cordless – Best Impact Driver For Woodworking

While searching for impact drivers we tend for look for a machine that has an impressively powerful output, helps you get the job done quickly and work with the sturdiest materials easily. If you are looking for such an impact driver, then the Hitachi WH18DGL 18-Volt Cordless might be a suitable choice for you. This machine generates up to a maximum of 1280 inch/lb of torque and since it features a cordless design you can easily driver fasteners into the tightest corners and spaces.

The variable speed control allows you to choose a speed output of up to 2,400 rounds per minute and 3,200 blows per minute. For each job you will be able to tailor the power output, this helps you find the most suitable speed according to the job you are performing using it. Despite the Hitachi WH18DGL 18-Volt Cordless being a powerful device, it is a small and manageable machine.

This is very beneficial to the user as not everyone is capable of handling heavy machines. The machine weighs around 3 pounds and is easy to work with. You can work for prolonged hours without getting tired or fatiguing your arm. You can switch between fastener sizes through the quick-change chuck that switches out ¼ inch hex bits without any difficulty.

Now that we have looked at most of the features of Hitachi WH18DGL 18-Volt Cordless, let’s take a brief look at the pros and cons of the model.

7. BLACK + DECKER 20 Volt MAX Combo Kit – Best Impact Driver For Lug Nuts

The BLACK + DECKER 20 Volt MAX Combo Kit features a powerful motor that has a maximum rating of 3000 revolutions per minute and generates up to 1375 lb/inch of torque. For changing the bits, you can use the ¼inch hex chuck that comes out easily, however, at times the chuck may freeze in place when used at a setting or a high speed for a long time.

The model comes with a cordless drill and a battery that works with this machine. The clutch of the model can be adjusted so you may pick from 11 different positions. The chuck also features an inbuilt illuminator that helps light up the area that you need to see.

If you are looking for an impact driver that is good for lightweight jobs, then this kit might be a good option for you.

Let’s look at the pros and the cons of this model.

8. HAMMERHEAD HCID120-30 12V – Best Impact Driver For Working On Cars

One of the most unique impact driver to make it to our list is undoubtedly the HAMMERHEAD HCID120-30 12V. Among the best features of this model is its super small size. It generates a torque of 700 lb/inch. Though the torque generated by this model is quite less as compared to the torque generated by the rest of the models listed in our picks, it is still a very efficient small machine that is great for some uses.

The machine can easily be utilized in tight and small areas because of its super small size. You won’t have to worry about hitting on anything.  The model features an integrated 12 V battery that can be charged using a 120v outlet. The variable speed control allows you to choose the speed of your choice. Hence you can work at different speeds depending on the material you are working on.

Tough as an impact driver, the model is a good catch and well worth the price, but it is not good as an auto-hammer.

It’s better that you invest in a compact hammer rather than using the one that this model offers. As compared to other picks in the list, this model is the smallest and generates the lowest torque, but it is also extremely useful as not all impact drivers can be used in small tight areas.

If you are mostly required to use impact drivers in such areas, then you should consider getting this one. Now that we are aware of most of the features that this model has to offer, let’s also take a quick look at its pros and cons.

9. DeWalt 18V XR Lithium-Lon Impact Driver – Best Impact Driver For Contractor

Another good addition among our picks is the DeWalt 18V XR Lithium-Ion impact driver. This model is as stable as it looks from its appearance. The construct of the machine ensures the right channeling of the power generated by the machine. The machine provides you a maximum torque of 165Nm. At such a high torque you can tackle most tasks with ease. Both reverse and forward functions are provided to you through this impact driver.

This model is easy to use and offers a friendly interface and adjustable features, so you can adjust the settings to the ones you prefer to work with. It gives you a complete charge of what you want to do and how you want to utilize the machine. Those who haven’t used an impact driver before might find it difficult to use an impact driver.

However, if you are a seasoned user you might know very well that it is necessary to have adjustable settings. The model also features LED lights that illuminate dark areas, so you can clearly see where and what you are working on in a small, enclosed space. This model also comes with a 1-year warranty, and overall this machine is a good pick as it is durable, powerful and offers you multiple settings.

If you are looking for a good impact driver, then this model is a good choice. Though the DeWalt 18V XR Lithium-Ion impact driver is a good option among many of the impact drivers available in the market, it still has a few negative points that should be considered well before purchasing.

10.MAKITA LXDT06 (BRUSHLESS) LXT LITHIUM-ION 3-SPEED – Best Impact Driver For Home Handyman

If you are searching for an impact driver that delivers a lot of torque but does not weigh heavy enough to cause you fatigue, you should consider the MAKITA LXDT06 (BRUSHLESS) LXT LITHIUM-ION 3-SPEED. This model weighs only 2.3 pounds, hence it is very lightweight and compact. It features triggers that allow quick shift modes.

It also features a fuel gauge that keeps you notified about the total power that is left in your battery. The body of this machine is made of sturdy and high-quality materials; hence this model is very durable as well.

You can easily adjust the speed of the machine with its 3 adjustable speed setting and an automatic mode, hence you don’t have to worry about working on tough and heavy-duty jobs with too less power and working on lightweight tasks with very heavy power. The automatic mode of this model is also very effective, it allows you to start working at a high speed and reduces to medium speed as the work reaches a certain load.

Overall, this model is very lightweight and efficient and if you are looking for an impact driver that is easy to work with then the 18 V MAKITA LXDT06 is a good choice for you. Like all the other impact drivers mentioned in our list, let’s finish up by taking a look at the pros and cons of this model.

Before we BUY a car OR a house, we look at its features. Each possible car or house has its own different features, which allow us to decide whether or not they should be bought. The same is the case with each model or brand of impact driver you might find in the market. They have different features that make some of them better than others.

Most people are not aware of what features should impact drivers’ offer and what advantages these features may bring. To make things easier for you, we have listed down the most important features of impact drivers that you should look into before you decide to purchase one.

The Motor Of The Impact Driver

The first and foremost factor that you need to consider about the impact driver you are buying is its MOTOR. The motor of the impact driver determines its capacities and performance. Impact drivers have TWO types of motors; brushless motor and brushed motor. The difference between the two and which one is better suited to a particular task will be discussed below in detail.

The Torque That The Impact Driver Generates

Other than the motor, another important factor that should be considered while buying an impact driver is how much torque it provides. The amount of torque that is generated is what actually makes impact drivers better than traditional Drills.

However, it is also to be noted that each model and brand of impact drivers generates a different amount of torque. Before you choose an impact driver, compare it’s torque with other choices. There are many impact drivers that feature different torque settings – these impact drivers are much better than the ones that have only one set because of their versatility.

When you set the torque to you requires setting, your battery will last much longer and overtightening will be prevented.

A 12V impact driver generates a torque between 800 to 1200 inch-pound, whereas 18V impact drivers generate a much large torque between 1320 to 2250 inch-pound. 12V impact drivers are the most suitable for use as light appliances in homes and workshops as the torque generated through these models is sufficient.

On the other hand, professionals may prefer to use an impact driver that generates a much larger amount of torque, like the 18V models.

The Voltage That The Impact Driver Provides

Impact driver batteries utilize either 12 Volt or 18 Volt voltage, depending on the model and the brands. Impact drivers that advertise 20V batteries do not actually utilize a 20V battery. The 20V is an indicator of the maximum voltage, whereas, the battery itself would be working on 18V nominally.

If you need an impact driver for lightweight, DIY work which should also be affordable and easy to use, then a 12V battery is best suited for your purposes. But if you are a professional and need a battery for heavy-duty tasks and intense jobs such as construction, then it is better that you go for an 18V battery.

The Speed/RPM The Impact Driver Is Capable Of Generating

What makes impact drivers better than traditional drills and suitable for heavy-duty jobs is that they produce more RPMs. Increased revolutions get the job done smoother and faster since more force is produced. A lot of impact drivers feature at least 3 RPM ranges, so they can be adjusted to the intensity of the work required.

This is also helpful when different driving applications are required from the same driver. It is better that you choose an impact driver that comes with a variety of RPM options rather than the one that only provides the highest RPMs.

The Comfort Features In The Impact Diver

Even the most powerful impact drivers can become useless for you if you cannot operate them properly. Jobs that require the intensity of an impact driver generally involve utilizing them for some tasks for an extended period.

To reduce work-related strain, many top-of-the-line impact drivers feature ergonomic handle grips, compact designs, lightweight materials, and anti-vibration measures. Some impact drivers also feature power adjustment and rubberized padding to reduced arm and hand fatigue. Hence, look for an impact driver that has these features to ensure comfort.

The Durability Of  The Impact Driver

Always look for an impact driver that is durable. Since the machine is heavy, it is likely to suffer a lot of damage if you drop it accidentally. You should prefer designs that feature sturdy plastic over molds and all-metal construction for gear housing are usually durable.

Some Other Important Factors You Should Consider While Buying Impact Drivers:

12V vs. 18V vs. 20V Impact Drivers

Choosing between an 12V, 18V, and 20V impact drivers can be a little confusing. Keeping in mind that both are convenient tools, different professionals have differing conclusions on what to purchase first. However, understanding the different characteristics of each tool and what separates them from the others should make the choice much easier for you.

12V Impact Driver

12V impact drivers are usually small in size and are generally less expensive than 18V and 20V drivers. Hence, if you are shopping on a budget, this is the better option for you. These drivers are also much easier to utilize if you are working in a space that is tight and you don’t have much room for maneuvering the tool.

If you need to use your impact driver mostly in small rooms, crawlspaces or attics, the 12V impact driver is a better alternative to the 18V ones. The 12V drivers probably won’t have as much torque and power as the 18V/20V impact drivers, however they do drive with enough power for most of your installations/carpentry works and other lightweight house jobs.

18 V Impact Drivers

As mentioned above 18V and 20V impact drivers usually have the same capabilities. As compared to 12V impact drivers, 18V models generate much more power and pack more torque as well. These impact drivers are the best option if you require to do heavy duty jobs using impact drivers on daily basis.

Since these models are much heavier and bigger in size, handling them can be a little difficult and might require more effort as compared to 12V models. Since 18V models have batteries that last much longer by storing more energy, they can be also used continuously for an extended period of time.

However, since the battery life is longer, it also takes longer for 18/20V batteries to charge. 18/20V impact drivers are much more expensive than 12V impact drivers.

Cordless Impact Drivers vs Corded Impact Drivers:

People often prefer cordless, battery-powered impact drivers to corded impact drivers. Since cordless impact drivers are not wired, you can easily move around with it. Whereas, corded impact drivers don’t allow you to move as your impact driver is constantly connected to the power source. This slows down your work and makes it a little more difficult as well.

Cordless drivers have made work much easier. Let’s see how cordless impact drivers differ from the corded ones.

Cordless Impact Drivers:

Cordless drivers make it much easier to drive almost any type of fastener that you use it with. It is much easier to work with cordless tools as they give you more space and maneuverability to work with. Cordless drivers are the most suitable impact drivers for working on hard materials, but they are also very efficient for lightweight work on soft material.

One of the downsides of cordless drivers is that they tend to warm up if you constantly use it to drive large fasteners. We all know that heat is the worst enemy of electrical tools and appliances. In a situation where your impact driver warms up due to constant use, you should switch to another impact diver for some time, or simply let the tool sit unused for some time in between driving fasteners.

It is also better that you use a corded driver instead of a cordless one for a job that requires you to drive large fasteners into a material in a short period of time. Cordless drivers are best for jobs that require you to tighten or remove nuts and bolts.  This tool works well with both large bolts and fasteners as well as small ones. At times you are required to remove screws or fasteners from an area that is tight or does not have much space.

Cordless drivers come in very handy in such situations. As compared to tightening screws and nuts with hands, cordless drivers do it much easily and much fastener. Hence, as compared to tools such as sockets and rachets, cordless drivers are more efficient and convenient.

 

Corded Impact Drivers:

If you are a person who is constantly having to work on big assembly jobs and projects, then to make your job easier and faster you should consider buying a corded impact driver. Corded impact drivers are very useful tools that can remove and tighten even the most stubborn of fasteners.

As compared to cordless drivers, corded ones have a better gear reduction. Cordless drivers can heat up after constant use of driving last fasteners and bolts whereas corded drivers do not heat up and stay cool even after a lot of use.

However, one of the downsides of corded drivers is that they are much larger and heavier in size as compared to cordless impact drivers. Here is a summarized breakdown of the pros and cons of a cordless versus a corded impact driver.

Brushless Motors:

If you are giving the money to buy an impact driver of quality, you should always buy one that is equipped with a brushless motor. Impact drivers that come with brushless motors can be a little on the costly side but if you are a professional and use your impact driver frequently, then the long service life will benefit you in the long run. Brushless motors are known to run efficiently and extensively expand the working time of a cordless impact driver.

Brushless motors also do not tend to heat up quickly as they generate less heat; hence, there is a less risk of burnouts. There are a lot of technological features that are available to brushless motors exclusively. These exclusive features allow the engine and battery to jive together to upgrade execution and avoid heating up of the drivers that have them.

Some Key Features Of Impact Drivers:

Best Impact Driver FAQ With Answer:

What Makes a Good Impact Driver?

There are many design aspects that need to be considered for the best impact driver, namely: torque rating, ergonomic design, battery life, tool size, and others. The best drivers on the market will hit on these features and more. RPM & Torque are among the top needed features in an impact driver because the tool has to deliver enough force to the bolt to drive it through the hardest of woods or other construction materials while at the same time moving the fastener quickly to not waste time.

Without a good balance of RPM and Torque, the driver underperforms and doesn’t provide the construction quality you need. Second among the features of a good driver is battery life. Without long battery life, it’s impossible to keep working so naturally, this becomes an important feature. Other features such as grip design, overall impact driver size, and cost should also be considered when weighing a choice for an impact driver.

In order of importance and ignoring the cost, key features of the best impact driver are Torque, RPM, Battery Life, Tool Size, Ergonomic Design.

Who Makes the Best Impact Driver?

The tool world is full of name brands, some more trustworthy than others. While many brands compete for the top spot, The brand according to CordlessDrillZone.com is DEWALT. DEWALT has a serious history of good build quality, so it’s no surprise that they come out on top. DEWALT impact drivers deliver the right torque and RPMs while still being compact enough to get tight jobs done. They are also built to last.

Can I use an Impact Driver as a Drill?

A popular question is whether or not you can use an impact driver as a drill. The answer, according to Roy Berendsohn of popularmechanics.com is that yes you can, depending on the bit design. Standard-shank drill bits are fine to use so long as the hole is in softwood or thin gauge steel, and only up to 1/4″ diameter.

If you’re going to go larger than that, you need a bit that is specifically designed for an impact driver. If you don’t, you’ll cause eventual damage to the bit and even cause snapping due to a large amount of torque placed on the bit when it cuts into the wood.

How are Drills and Impact Drivers Different?

Again citing Toy Berendsohn at popular mechanics, the difference between a drill and a driver the way torque is applied to the bit. Impact drivers are designed to transfer a high amount of torque without slippage while a drill is designed with a slip chuck that prevents from over-torquing the bit.

To put things simply, drills are made to “cut” through the wood using low torque and high RPMs, while impact drivers “wrench” a screw or bolt through tough materials.

Which Should I Buy?

The choice to go for an impact driver or a drill is largely influenced by the type of work you’ve got lined up for your project. Are you going to be drilling multiple screws or lag bolts into hardwood for a deck?

Sounds like a job for an impact driver. Are you going to be tightening screws to a lighter torque, and are worried about stripping threads? You might be safer with a cordless drill.

Conclusion:

Impact driver is tools that are most likely to be used in workshops. Driving and drilling jobs can be very hectic at times, but a good impact driver almost always makes the job much easier. It is important that you choose an impact driver that has a sturdy body and has a strong build overall because tools like impact divers are likely to undergo damage from time to time.

This damage can be reduced if your impact driver can withstand damages and blows. It is recommended that you invest in a good impact driver once, instead of paying for the repair of the machine every now and then. Good impact drivers are also most likely to last a long time, hence they need to be a long-term investment.

Whether you are an DIYer or a professional, by considering and buying an impact driver that has a reliable motor, torque and RMP you should get a machine that will make your projects much easier and will help you finish your tasks much faster.

It is also better to go for brands that are well knows such as Milwaukee, DeWalt and Black + Decker. The impact drivers of these brand are more likely to be constructed from high quality materials.

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