How do I Compare 18V Cordless Impact Wrenches?
Remember the aggravation of using tools with power cords, stringing cords together with extensions and keeping them from becoming entangled messes? Cordless operation was a power tool advance long overdue. Thankfully, better battery technology and longer lasting, more powerful batteries are gradually diminishing early battery issues, making them even more desirable. Buying an 18-volt cordless impact wrench will give you sufficient power and less battery hassle. This level of quality also puts the shopper into the heavy duty, commercial end of cordless wrenches. To get the best cordless impact for the money, and one that matches your needs, compare features. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Research the tool's battery technology. Compare the thicker, wider lithium battery with nickel cadmium batteries. Pay special attention to the recharge options. Look to see if the batteries are built in, or if they come in a slide-on pack or pod. Study the advantages and disadvantages of each to clarify your preference.
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Batteries and rechargers take away a lot of elbow grease from most jobs. Examine the switch of the impact wrench. Decide whether you like a paddle, rocker or trigger switch. Keep in mind that a paddle switch can break if the tool is used roughly, since it protrudes more than a rocker or trigger switch.
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Look for the multi-speed option, because some situations require a more delicate touch than wide open power. Buy either a two- or three-speed option to match how you use it.
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Bolts broken off in holes present a real headache. Read the list of features to see the torque range of the tool. Torque, in everyday language, is twisting power. Think about how you will use it, on what materials you will use it, and whether you need 100 foot-pounds or up to 600 foot-pounds of torque. Remember insufficient torque leaves loose bolts, but over-tightening will strip and break bolts.
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Check motor speeds. Look for the RPM rating of the tool. RPM stands for revolutions per minute, which means how many times the tightening cylinder makes a complete revolution every minute. Make your decision based on how much turning speed you want the wrench to have.
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Cordless tools have freed us from those cumbersome cords. Read the packaging to find the chuck size along with the drive type. Choose a ¼-inch chuck, which is usually standard with 18-volt drivers. Select the drive type by size and shape.
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Review the makers of the tool. Read consumer response, and weigh the evidence of tool quality before buying the driver.
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Tips & Warnings
Visit the tool store, and personally examine the different models to get a feel for how they fit your hand.
Select a size you most commonly use, from ¼-inch, ½-inch, ¾-inch or 7/16-inch in a hex (6-sided), square or square with hog ring, depending upon how you will use the driver.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit wrenches image by FXTW from Fotolia.com battery image by Edsweb from Fotolia.com nuts and bolts image by Darren White from Fotolia.com drill chuck image by jovica antoski from Fotolia.com
