There’s only one definitive method to determine the leading cordless impact gun – a direct, head-to-head comparison. After rigorous testing of a dozen tools, powered by various batteries and spanning several days, our team has conclusively identified the best cordless impact gun for everyone from seasoned professionals to DIY enthusiasts. We offer specific recommendations for auto mechanics, construction experts, heavy equipment operators, and even those in landscaping, MRO, and utilities.
Let’s be clear: not all battery-powered impact guns are created equal.
Most reputable brands can handle typical tasks. If you’re already committed to a particular battery ecosystem, chances are your preferred brand offers a serviceable cordless impact gun for your needs. However, this review will give you crucial insights into how your current tools stack up against competitors and how they might perform with enhanced battery technology.
Want to understand the difference? Check out our article on impact drivers vs. impact wrenches!
Our Top Picks for the Best Cordless Impact Gun
Best Cordless Impact Gun Overall
DeWalt 20V Impact Wrench (DCF891)
- Fastening Torque: 600 ft-lbs
- Nut-Busting Torque: 800 ft-lbs
- Top Speeds: 600/1200/2000 RPM
- Bare Weight: 3.81 lbs
- Length: 6.95 in
DeWalt boasts a wide array of cordless impact guns within its 20V Max series. While the appealing 1/2-inch Atomic model (detailed below) is a strong contender for its compact design, the DCF891 emerges as the top choice for professionals seeking comprehensive performance. This mid-torque impact gun delivers a robust 600 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 800 ft-lbs of breakaway force. This represents a significant upgrade from DeWalt’s prior mid-range models, even with some weight reduction.
DeWalt provides options for hog ring (DCF891) and pin detent (DCF892) drive styles, along with kits featuring oil-resistant batteries. While we appreciated the compactness of the Milwaukee, DeWalt excelled in overall consistency. For those requiring even greater power, the high-torque DeWalt DCF961 is worth considering, boasting an impressive 1750 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque!
The primary drawback of this impact gun is its length. At nearly 7 inches, it is a full inch longer than the more compact Milwaukee mid-torque model.
Reasons to Buy
- Most powerful with a standard battery in its class
- Excellent power-to-weight ratio for demanding tasks
- Offers solid value for professional-grade performance
Consider Another Model if…
- Compactness is your priority for working in tight spaces
Hands-on Testing Results
| 5.0Ah Battery(vs Primary Batteries Only) | 5.0Ah Powerstack(vs ALL Batteries) |
|---|---|
| Weight | 5.25 lbs (5th place) |
| Breakaway Torque | 0.73 sec (1st place) |
| Inertia Torque | 382.8 ft-lbs (5th place) |
| Lag Bolt Test | SUNK (1st tie) |
| Power-to-Weight | 72.9% (3rd place) |
Most Powerful Cordless Impact Gun
Makita 40V XGT Mid-Torque (GWT07)
- Fastening Torque: 560 ft-lbs
- Nut-Busting Torque: 810 ft-lbs
- Top Speeds: 600/1200/1900/2300 RPM
- Bare Weight: 4.37 lbs
- Length: 6.75 in
Determining the ultimate model for the top title in 1/2-inch mid-torque impact guns is consistently challenging due to intense competition. Ultimately, the higher cost of the Makita, approximately $150 more than Milwaukee and DeWalt, was a factor in it not achieving our overall top pick. However, regarding sheer power, the Makita GWT07 40V XGT impact gun series surpasses most competitors, with the exception of the lag bolt test.
With 560 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 810 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, it stands as the most potent performer we’ve encountered in the mid-torque category. Beyond specifications, its real-world performance validated its impressive power.
It also excels in control, offering 4 standard speeds plus 3 forward and 3 reverse assist modes. A flexible joint is incorporated to mitigate vibration before it reaches the battery. While not the most compact among mid-torque models, professionals may accept the added length for the enhanced power.
Reasons to Buy
- Most powerful mid-torque impact gun available
- Packed with advanced features for greater precision
- Delivers the highest power-to-weight ratio in its class
Consider Another Model if…
- Premium pricing is a concern
- A lighter and smaller tool is preferred
Hands-on Testing Results
| 2.5Ah XGT Battery(vs Primary Batteries Only) | 2.5Ah XGT Battery(vs ALL Batteries) |
|---|---|
| Weight | 5.19 lbs (2nd place) |
| Breakaway Torque | 1.08 sec (3rd place) |
| Inertia Torque | 500.4 ft-lbs (1st place) |
| Lag Bolt Test | 2.0 in. (5th place) |
| Power-to-Weight | 85.2% (1st place) |
Best for the Money
Flex 24V 1/2-in Mid-Torque (FX1451)
- Fastening Torque: 600 ft-lbs
- Nut-Busting Torque: 750 ft-lbs
- Top Speeds: 450/1600/2700 RPM
- Bare Weight: 4.31 lbs
- Length: 6.3 in
In our quest for the best value cordless impact gun, we prioritized power combined with professional-grade quality at a more accessible price point. The Flex 24V 1/2-inch mid-torque impact gun perfectly embodies these qualities. It offers greater power than Milwaukee, delivering 600 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 750 ft-lbs of breakaway torque.
Reaching speeds up to 2700 RPM in mode 3, it also features assist modes for both forward and reverse operation. Under demanding use, an isolation zone between the housing and motor effectively reduces hand vibration. The only trade-off is that it is notably heavier and slightly less compact compared to its closest competitors.
Reasons to Buy
- Unmatched value in the cordless impact gun market
- Exceptionally powerful mid-torque performance for the price
- Delivers impressive performance with a standard battery
Consider Another Model if…
- Weight is a critical factor and you prefer a lighter model
Hands-on Testing Results
| 5.0Ah Battery(vs Primary Batteries Only) | 6.0Ah Stacked Lithium(vs ALL Batteries) |
|---|---|
| Weight | 6.44 lbs (9th place) |
| Breakaway Torque | 0.76 sec (2nd place) |
| Inertia Torque | 361.3 ft-lbs (6th place) |
| Lag Bolt Test | 1.13 in. (2nd place) |
| Power-to-Weight | 56.1% (7th place) |
Need even more torque? Flex also offers a high-torque model that provides exceptional value!
Best for Home Use
Skil PWRCore 20 Mid Torque (IW5761B-10)
- Fastening Torque: 480 ft-lbs*
- Nut-Busting Torque: 800 ft-lbs*
- Top Speeds: 800/1400/1900 RPM
- Bare Weight: 5.06 lbs
- Length: 7.97 in
Until recently, recommending a mid-torque impact gun for home users was challenging. However, the Skil IW5761B-10 stands out in both quality and price, making it an excellent choice for those who don’t require all-day professional performance. While its test results might not appear top-tier, Skil only needs to enhance its speed to better compete with rivals. Given its remarkably affordable price, we believe this trade-off is justified.
Priced under $200 for a kit, this Skil impact gun still includes a useful LED ring light around the collet, delivers respectable fastening performance, and offers comfortable ergonomics. While higher performance options exist, average DIYers and home users likely won’t need them.
Reasons to Buy
- Exceptional value for home use applications
- Integrated LED ring light for enhanced visibility
- Unbeatable kit price for its features
Consider Another Model if…
- A smaller tool is needed for confined spaces
- Maximum power is the primary requirement
- Budget allows for upgrading to a professional recommendation
Hands-on Testing Results
| 4.0Ah Battery(vs Primary Batteries Only) | 4.0Ah Battery(vs ALL Batteries) |
|---|---|
| Weight | 6.62 lbs (10th place) |
| Breakaway Torque | 4.42 sec (11th place) |
| Inertia Torque | 386.8 ft-lbs (4th place) |
| Lag Bolt Test | 4.38 in. (11th place) |
| Power-to-Weight | 58.4% (6th place) |
Most Compact Cordless Impact Gun
DeWalt 20V Max Atomic (DCF921)
- Fastening Torque: 300 ft-lbs
- Nut-Busting Torque: 450 ft-lbs
- Top Speeds: 2500 RPM
- Bare Weight: 2.5 lbs
- Length: 4.97 in
DeWalt surprised us with the Atomic line, introducing a compact “stubby” impact gun with 450 ft-lbs of breakaway torque. We rigorously tested this Atomic impact gun in our shop, verifying its capability to consistently remove 450 ft-lbs using a standard 5.0Ah battery, even breaking bolts torqued to 461 ft-lbs.
Its genuinely compact design, with a sub-5-inch head angled slightly to prevent battery interference, impressed us. The tri-LED lights effectively illuminate the work area, enhancing usability.
For control, DeWalt offers two standard and two assist modes. While some brands provide more advanced control features, they often compromise on power. Pairing this tool with DeWalt’s 5.0Ah Powerstack battery can further boost its performance.
Reasons to Buy
- Most compact impact gun currently available
- Exceptional power-to-weight ratio for its size
- Lightweight design at only 3.9 lbs with a 5Ah battery
- Four modes for enhanced control in various applications
Consider Another Model if…
- Higher power is needed for demanding tasks
- Yellow color scheme is not preferred
Hands-on Testing Results
| 5.0Ah Battery | – – |
|---|---|
| Measured Weight | 3.9 lbs |
| Max Breakaway Torque | 461 ft-lbs |
Our Process and the Nitty Gritty
Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews
Since 2008, Pro Tool Reviews has been dedicated to testing and evaluating cordless power tools for both construction and automotive professionals. We empower our readers with knowledge of essential features and provide comparative testing data on tool performance and genuine user feedback. We have witnessed firsthand the evolution of brushless motor technology and the emergence of smart tool connectivity.
In essence, we understand professional tool usage. You can rely on Pro Tool Reviews because tools are our focus. When I recommend an impact gun, it’s a tool I would personally purchase. My recommendations are based on over 15 years of industry experience and a genuine belief in the tools’ capabilities. I work with power tools daily. If you choose to buy a recommended product, my goal is for it to perform precisely as expected on your projects.
Other Tools We Tested
Milwaukee 2962 M18 Fuel Mid-Torque with Forge Battery
- Fastening Torque: 550 ft-lbs
- Nut-Busting Torque: 650 ft-lbs
- Top Speeds: 1250/1950/2575 RPM
- Bare Weight: 3.56 lbs
- Length: 6.0 in
Milwaukee’s latest generation of M18 Fuel mid-torque impact guns offers the performance necessary to often avoid needing high-torque models. They deliver up to 550 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 650 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque. For passenger vehicle work, this single impact gun can replace heavier high-torque models in 95% or more of situations. Even heavy equipment and diesel mechanics will find it capable of handling a significant portion of their tasks, excluding lug nuts.
These Milwaukee impact guns are also remarkably compact for their power, measuring just 6 inches in length and weighing slightly over 5 pounds with a 5Ah battery. This combination of real-world torque, compactness, and size makes this generation of M18 Fuel mid-torques a compelling option for professionals.
Available in 3/8-inch friction ring (2960), 1/2-inch friction ring (2962), and 1/2-inch pin detent styles (2962P), you can choose the model that best fits your applications. While not consistently the most powerful mid-torque impact guns in every test, Milwaukee achieves an excellent balance of performance, size, value, and overall features. If subjective preference were the sole criterion, this Milwaukee model would be the top pick for many of our reviewers based purely on feel.
Hands-on Testing Results
| 5.0Ah M18 Battery(vs Primary Batteries Only) | 6.0Ah Forge Battery(vs ALL Batteries) |
|---|---|
| Weight | 5.19 lbs (2nd place) |
| Breakaway Torque | 3.08 sec (9th place) |
| Inertia Torque | 336.2 ft-lbs (7th place) |
| Lag Bolt Test | 2.38 in. (6th place) |
| Power-to-Weight | 64.8% (5th place) |
Ryobi P262 4-Mode Impact Wrench
- Fastening Torque: 450 ft-lbs
- Nut-Busting Torque: 600 ft-lbs
- Top Speeds: 1200/2000/2800 RPM (2000 Auto)
- Bare Weight: 3.69 lbs
- Length: 7.3 in
Hands-on Testing Results
| 4.0Ah Battery(vs Primary Batteries Only) | 4.0Ah Battery(vs ALL Batteries) |
|---|---|
| Weight | 5.24 lbs (4th place) |
| Breakaway Torque | 1.30 sec (6th place) |
| Inertia Torque | 209.1 ft-lbs (10th place) |
| Lag Bolt Test | 1.9 in. (4th place) |
| Power-to-Weight | 39.9% (10th place) |
We not only subjected the Ryobi P262 impact gun to our testing rig but also sent it to the ranch with Eli Mosley for real-world feedback. After tasks on front-end loaders, tractors, and water sprayers, we gained valuable insights. Rusty lugs were easily handled, and Mode 1 proved suitable for more delicate engine work.
Ryobi advertises 450 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 600 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, along with a 2800 RPM top speed for the P262. Three standard speeds and an auto mode provide useful torque control. While not truly compact, the HP Brushless upgrade has reduced the Ryobi P262’s overall profile. At 7.3 inches in length, it’s about three-quarters of an inch shorter than the previous model.
This impact gun is a solid choice for DIYers or value-conscious professionals. Were it not for the slightly higher price, it would have been our top pick for DIY/home users overall.
Ridgid R86012 Impact Wrench
- Fastening Torque: 450 ft-lbs
- Nut-Busting Torque: 600 ft-lbs
- Top Speeds: 1300/1900/2800 RPM (2000 Auto)
- Bare Weight: 3.69 lbs
- Length: 6.8 in
Hands-on Testing Results
| 4.0Ah Max Output(vs Primary Batteries Only) | 4.0Ah Max Output(vs ALL Batteries) |
|---|---|
| Weight | 5.19 lbs (3rd place) |
| Breakaway Torque | 1.34 sec (7th place) |
| Inertia Torque | 252.2 ft-lbs (9th place) |
| Lag Bolt Test | 2.5 in. (7th place) |
| Power-to-Weight | 48.6% (8th place) |
Given the existence of the Ryobi P262 impact gun, the Ridgid R86012 struggles to differentiate itself. Slightly shorter by half an inch and with comparable performance, the Ridgid lacks a distinct advantage.
With 450 ft-lbs of fastening and 600 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, the Ridgid’s specifications closely mirror Ryobi’s mid-torque impact gun. It showed slightly better performance in our inertial torque test but was outperformed by Ryobi in all other hands-on assessments.
If you are already invested in the Ridgid platform, this tool is a worthwhile addition. However, for those starting fresh, there are more compelling options for the money.
Craftsman CMCF921 Impact Wrench
- Fastening Torque: 275 ft-lbs
- Nut-Busting Torque: ~400 ft-lbs
- Top Speeds: 900/1900 RPM
- Bare Weight: 3.43 lbs
- Length: 8.7 in
Hands-on Testing Results
| 4.0Ah Battery(vs Primary Batteries Only) | 4.0Ah Battery(vs ALL Batteries) |
|---|---|
| Weight | 4.94 lbs (1st place) |
| Breakaway Torque | 3.24 sec (10th place) |
| Inertia Torque | 162.6 ft-lbs (11th place) |
| Lag Bolt Test | 2.75 in. (8th place) |
| Power-to-Weight | 32.9% (11th place) |
The Craftsman V20 RP Brushless CMCF921 consistently ranked in the lower half of our tests, largely due to its lower top speed of only 1900 RPM for a mid-torque model. It even trailed behind the similarly specified Skil PWRCore20.
Its key advantage is its lightweight build – just under 3.5 pounds bare and slightly under 5 pounds with a 4Ah battery. This impact gun might suit DIYers and budget-conscious professionals needing an impact gun for occasional use. For improved performance, consider the CMCF940 high-torque model.
Kobalt KIW 124B-03 Impact Wrench
- Fastening Torque: 500 ft-lbs
- Nut-Busting Torque: 650 ft-lbs
- Top Speeds: 950/1500/2200 RPM
- Bare Weight: 4.25 lbs
- Length: 6.8 in
Hands-on Testing Results
| 4.0Ah Ultimate(vs Primary Batteries Only) | 4.0Ah Ultimate(vs ALL Batteries) |
|---|---|
| Weight | 5.81 lbs (5th place) |
| Breakaway Torque | 1.08 sec (3rd tie) |
| Inertia Torque | 428.3 ft-lbs (2nd place) |
| Lag Bolt Test | 3.13 in. (10th place) |
| Power-to-Weight | 73.7% (2nd place) |
Like many top-tier impact guns, this Kobalt model features specialized modes for automotive professionals. Auto Slow activates in reverse, automatically reducing speed once the fastener loosens, preventing bolts or nuts from dropping or being thrown.
The Hand Tight function stops rotation upon impact initiation, preventing over-tightening and potential thread damage. We found it ideal for pre-setting bolts and nuts before final torqueing with a torque wrench.
This Kobalt 24V 1/2-inch impact gun delivers surprising power and exceptional value at under $150 for a kit. With a relatively compact size, solid features, and above-average torque, it’s recommendable for serious DIYers and professionals seeking a value-driven brand. Kobalt as a brand demonstrates significant potential with a diverse product range.
Metabo HPT WR36DE 36V Impact Wrench
- Fastening Torque: 568 ft-lbs
- Nut-Busting Torque: 774 ft-lbs
- Top Speeds: 1500/1800/2100/2400 RPM
- Bare Weight: 4.25 lbs
- Length: 6.75 in
Hands-on Testing Results
| 2.5Ah Battery(vs Primary Batteries Only) | 2.5Ah Battery(vs ALL Batteries) |
|---|---|
| Weight | 5.81 lbs (5th place) |
| Breakaway Torque | 2.44 sec (8th place) |
| Inertia Torque | 417.8 ft-lbs (3rd place) |
| Lag Bolt Test | 1.38 in. (3rd place) |
| Power-to-Weight | 71.9% (4th place) |
As one of two 36/40V tools in our test, the Metabo HPT Multivolt impact gun performed admirably. It excelled in inertial torque testing and held its own in driving large lag bolts, all while maintaining a respectable power-to-weight ratio.
This tool includes four “assist” modes activated on the tool’s base. Each mode varies torque by limiting impact time when driving nuts and bolts forward, stopping after 1/2, 1, 1-1/2, and 2 seconds respectively. This mode is inactive in reverse. An auto-stop mode also prevents over-tightening.
The Metabo HPT WR36DE impact gun incorporates a vibration damper between the handle base and battery interface, protecting the battery without reducing hand vibration. Metabo HPT delivers a high-performing mid-torque tool backed by a limited lifetime warranty. The tool-only price under $200 is also compelling.
Hilti SIW 6-22 Impact Wrench
- Fastening Torque: 332 ft-lbs
- Nut-Busting Torque: 479 ft-lbs
- Top Speeds: 1550/1750 RPM
- Bare Weight: 4.0 lbs
- Length: 7.2 in
Hands-on Testing Results
| 8.0Ah Battery(vs Primary Batteries Only) | 8.0Ah Battery(vs ALL Batteries) |
|---|---|
| Weight | 6.87 lbs (11th place) |
| Breakaway Torque | 1.10 sec (5th place) |
| Inertia Torque | 305.7 ft-lbs (8th place) |
| Lag Bolt Test | 2.75 in. (8th place) |
| Power-to-Weight | 44.5% (9th place) |
Hilti improved upon the brushed 22V SIW T-A “high torque” impact gun by adopting its Nuron battery platform and adding a brushless motor. The result is a significantly shorter tool (almost 2 inches less) that is lighter and delivers comparable torque.
Our Inertia Torque L-1000 tester measured mode 2 performance at up to 305.7 ft-lbs, placing it near the bottom of our test group. For higher torque needs, Hilti offers the SIW 8 impact gun, rated at 1,217 ft-lbs.
While Hilti provides adequate torque, it doesn’t lead in performance categories. The product’s strength lies in its tool warranty, guaranteeing defect coverage for 20 years and no-cost repairs for 2 years. Hilti tools, including this impact gun, are also available through their Fleet Management program with monthly leasing options.
More Recommendations for Pros
For loosening stubborn lugs on tractor-trailers or heavy equipment, brute force is essential. Massive power, exceeding our previous recommendations, is required. Two 1-inch models stand out in this category.
Milwaukee M18 Fuel 1-Inch D-Handle Impact Wrench (2868/2869)
Milwaukee introduced the first genuine cordless D-handle 1-inch impact gun to the M18 platform. Available in standard and extended anvil versions, it delivers up to 1900 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 2000 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, with a top speed of 1200 RPM for swift lug nut removal. If this impact gun can’t loosen a fastener, torching it may be necessary.
To manage battery-damaging vibration levels, Milwaukee incorporated an isolation zone for dampening – setting a new industry standard. Customizable controls, tracking, and inventory management are available through Milwaukee One-Key. Weighing 21.5 pounds before adding the recommended HD12.0 High Output battery, it is built for heavy-duty tasks.
Ingersoll Rand 1-inch Cordless Impact Wrench (W9000 Series)
Ingersoll Rand’s W9000 series 1-inch cordless impact guns are the most powerful, significantly outperforming competitors, including Milwaukee. Boasting 3000 ft-lbs of breakaway and 2200 ft-lbs of fastening torque, they are unmatched. Available with standard and extended anvils, they utilize two batteries to achieve anvil speeds up to 890 RPM. At 25.9 lbs before battery addition, they are hefty but eliminate the inconvenience of air hoses.
For most other professional applications, a 1/2-inch cordless impact gun should suffice.
Bosch GDS18V-770 Cordless Impact Wrench
Bosch revitalized its 18V lineup with advanced batteries and BiTurbo brushless motors for the ProFactor line. The new 3/4-inch high-torque impact gun is a professional-grade powerhouse. The 3-speed GDS18V-770 delivers 770 ft-lbs of fastening and 1250 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque with exceptional efficiency. Currently, our marine mechanic is testing it, finding it reduces torch use by loosening heavily corroded saltwater-exposed bolts.
Flex FX1471 High Torque Impact Wrench
Flex earned our best value pick for its mid-torque impact gun, but their high-torque model warrants consideration for greater power needs. The FX1471 provides 800 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 1150 ft-lbs of breakaway force, with a top speed of 2000 RPM. Three standard modes cover most fastening tasks, and a bolt removal mode controls bolt or nut run-out speed after loosening. Like the mid-torque model, Flex offers significant value for professionals here.
Hilti SIW 8-22 Cordless High Torque Impact Wrench
Hilti, known for quality, is ideal for commercial, industrial, and general construction. Their Nuron line is designed for enhanced performance. For steel construction or installation, the Hilti Ultimate Class 1/2-inch SIW 8-22 is a top choice. With 738 ft-lbs of fastening and a massive 1217 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque, it’s the most powerful in their current lineup. Backed by a 20-year warranty, this premium professional impact gun is built for longevity.
Kobalt 1424A-03 Cordless Impact Wrench
For a high-torque impact gun on a budget, the Kobalt XTR line, particularly the 1424A-03, is excellent. It delivers an impressive 1200 ft-lbs of nut-busting and 750 ft-lbs of fastening torque, yet the kit price is around $269. It can handle almost any task, making it a tempting option for budget-conscious professionals.
Metabo HPT WR36DFQ4 36V 3/4-in High-Torque Impact Wrench
The 3/4-inch class offers several high-quality high-torque options. The Metabo HPT WR36DFQ4 is our top pick for best cordless 3/4-inch impact gun this year. Performance is paramount, with a remarkable 1401 ft-lbs of fastening and 1770 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque. It also excels in speed, reaching 1500 RPM and 2600 BPM at the top end.
Key features include an IP56 ingress rating for superior dust and water resistance. Metabo HPT 36V impact guns are also unique among major brands in offering corded operation via an AC adapter.
Ridgid R86012PDK Brushless Impact Wrench
With the Octane line phased out, Ridgid’s latest generation of brushless impact guns covers compact, mid-torque, and high-torque classes effectively. Each is recommendable, but the mid-torque R86012 stands out. Its balance of size and 500 ft-lbs fastening/650 ft-lbs loosening torque is generally sufficient. An assist mode complements the three standard modes for enhanced control. It’s suitable for serious DIYers and budget-conscious professionals.
More Recommendations for Prosumers & Home Use
Ryobi PBLIW01 Cordless Impact Wrench
Ryobi’s high-performance 18V One+ HP Brushless lineup offers compact, mid-range, and high-torque impact gun options. The strongest is the 4-mode 1/2-inch PBLIW01, featuring a brushless motor delivering 700 ft-lbs of fastening and 1170 ft-lbs of breakaway torque. Aimed at DIY needs and appealing to professionals needing occasional high-torque capability, it completes the HP Brushless line effectively.
Greenworks IWD401 Cordless Impact Wrench
Greenworks is expanding its 24V/48V lawn care equipment line for homeowners, supplemented by power tools using the same battery system. The Greenworks 24V 1/2-inch IWD401 is a strong high-value consideration, capable of up to 300 ft-lbs of breakaway torque – ample for most home and garage tasks. A USB port in the battery adds versatility as a power supply.
Its price is a major advantage. Kits with either 2.0Ah or 4.0Ah batteries are under $130, making it an unbeatable value for a garage impact gun for projects and repairs.
How We Test Impact Wrenches
We conducted three performance tests on each impact gun to assess torque, speed, and efficiency against manufacturer claims. Manufacturer specifications alone are often insufficient for comparison, hence our custom test rigs.
Our methodology minimizes variables to ensure clean, reliable data. We discard erroneous results and dedicate time to ensuring consistent data for accurate conclusions.
Inertia Torque Test
Our first test measures torque using an L1000 inertia torque tester. We run each impact gun for three 5-second intervals, recording the highest torque reading from this calibrated machine. This evaluates “soft” torque capability when driving fasteners without hard stops, such as driving large fasteners into wood or concrete.
Lag Bolt Test
The second test evaluates each tool’s ability to drive a 1/2″ x 10-inch lag screw into stacked, glued OSB. We run each tool for 30 seconds and measure the remaining bolt protrusion.
This test also measures “soft” torque in a practical manner, assessing real-world fastener driving in challenging materials. We pre-drill only two inches to ensure straight fastener insertion into the OSB.
OSB was chosen for its inherent variability. Using 2X lumber or plywood could lead to inconsistent resistance due to knots or harder sections affecting different tools unevenly.
Bolt Breaking Test
Our final performance test is a standard bolt-breaking application. We use a digital torque wrench to set Grade 8 nuts on our rig to 500 ft-lbs of torque. We then use each impact gun to break all 8 nuts sequentially, averaging removal times from the 5 most consistent results. Video recording ensures accuracy to within 1/60th of a second.
What is an Impact Wrench Used For?
An impact wrench, often referred to as an impact gun, is similar to an impact driver but with a larger drive system. Its impact mechanism uses a rotating hammer striking an anvil to amplify rotational force applied to a fastener. Impact guns typically operate at slower speeds but deliver significantly greater force.
This force is essential for tightening or loosening nuts and bolts, or driving very large lag screws. Commonly associated with automotive shops for lug nuts, impact guns are frequently used across numerous trades.
Generally, fastener size dictates the required impact gun power. However, caution is needed as excessive power can damage threads or shear bolts, leading to costly errors. Always use appropriate power levels and avoid overdoing it.
What We Look For When Testing Cordless Impact Wrenches
Power and Speed
Power is paramount for cordless impact guns, whether fastening or loosening. Higher power increases the likelihood of quickly moving fasteners without motor strain.
Speed is secondary but still significant, especially in construction or landscaping where driving long timber screws requires speed and control.
Size and Weight
After determining necessary power, the ideal is to find it in the smallest, lightest, high-quality package possible. Impact guns are generally heavier than impact drivers, and tool vibration and noise can cause rapid fatigue. Power-to-weight ratio is a key consideration.
Impact guns are broadly categorized into compact (including stubby), mid-torque, and high-torque classes, with increasing power corresponding to size. Modern brushless models offer significantly improved performance, often allowing smaller class tools to match older, larger models.
Electronic Assistance and Smart Controls
Assist modes and smart controls are valuable impact gun features. Fasteners often have torque ratings, and over-torqueing is easily done without care. Automatic stop features enable rapid nut or bolt running while preventing over-tightening, allowing for final torqueing with a torque wrench.
In reverse, auto modes can back off fasteners and stop or significantly slow down, preventing complete run-off. This is highly beneficial when working at height or avoiding dropped fasteners.
Smart control systems like Milwaukee One-Key, DeWalt Tool Connect, and Bosch Connected offer added advantages. Inventory management and tracking are primary benefits, alongside other app-integrated features worth considering.
Ergonomics
Impact guns are inherently violent, loud, and heavy tools. Ergonomics are sometimes overlooked in design. However, reduced weight, balanced design, and comfortable handles improve usability and reduce fatigue during extended use.
Price and Value
Value is always a key factor in tool evaluation. It’s not about the cheapest option, but about effective job completion with the best return on investment.
Want more insights? Watch our video review of mid-torque impact wrenches to discover our best overall pick (the results might surprise you):
