Cordless 1/4 in Impact Drivers

[Phantom552]

OK, opinion time! I'm looking to pick up a cordless 1/4in impact driver to use at work. Mostly for removing/reinstalling belly pans, opening air boxes, interior work, fairing removing/reinstallation, and pretty much anything else that involves zipping a few dozen screws on and off in short order lol.

What's out there? what are you using and why do you like it? Would you buy something else if you had to start over?

Thanks guys!

 

[jd_1138]

Milwaukee Fuel is probably the favorite around here. It has multiple settings for different applications -- light use to full torque. If price is a concern, HD has a non-Fuel Milwaukee 1/4 impact with a 2nd regular drill, 2 batteries, and a charger for $169. Makita and DeWalt's kits are also $169. I have a DeWalt myself (brushed, so not the latest/greatest).

 

[Phantom552]

Milwaukee Fuel is probably the favorite around here. It has multiple settings for different applications -- light use to full torque. If price is a concern, HD has a non-Fuel Milwaukee 1/4 impact with a 2nd regular drill, 2 batteries, and a charger for $169. Makita and DeWalt's kits are also $169. I have a DeWalt myself (brushed, so not the latest/greatest).

What is the difference between the fuel/non-fuel 18v units? Just the variable settings?

 

[7thDimension]

What is the difference between the fuel/non-fuel 18v units?

Used to be that fuel was brushless and the other was not. But now, they have a non-fuel brushless line as well...

And now, they have m18 fuel tools with smartphone connectivity and an app to control various functions of the tool. I think it's called onekey. Kinda pointless in my opinion though...

 

[jt777]

You can get alot of power from a 12 volt in a smaller package. Some are actually longer than 18 volts but they fit into tighter spaces as the are shorter from the battery to the top of the tool

 

[kctyphoon]

What is the difference between the fuel/non-fuel 18v units?

Fuel is a brushless model with Milwaukee's top of the line "power state" motors. They are Milwaukee's premium line and spec out with the highest torque ratings. They also have a "brushless" line, which does not use the power state motors, and specs out the same as their traditional brushed models. Standard m18 are tradition brushed DC motors and electronics. They are the "simplest" design, and considered the lowest tier of Milwaukee's 3 tier system of drills and impact drivers.

Brushless tools are a complete redesign of power tools. They actually use A/C motors and everything is controlled digitally by means of advanced electronics and programming. The motors are brushless, so there is no physical connection between the outer and inner parts of the motor. This reduces heat and friction, allowing for longer run times, and longer tool life in its simplest explanation. It is a giant leap forward as the entire electric motor that has remained largely unchanged for a century - has been totally re-thought and engineered.

All that said - the regular m18 line is still a great choice. My brushed m18 impact driver out performs my brushless dewalt model. DeWALT offers many different models with varying torque specs, so that won't hold true for every model they offer - but it does for the one I own.

 

[Ole Slewfoot]

I wish they made a 10 volt that was just a little smaller. I had a Skil one that lasted 4 or 5 years and was strong enough to break drywall screws while being truly pocket size
I had to leave it on its cradle to charge every week or two.

I also have a Skil cordless ratchet that does a good job of that stuff, but sometimes it takes 2 presses on the trigger. It's slow, but nice in the timing belt cover, etc. That was $20 new at a yard sale.

M12 is probably the next form factor i will be getting into though.

Fuel is a brushless model with Milwaukee's top of the line "power state" motors. They are Milwaukee's premium line and spec out with the highest torque ratings. They also have a "brushless" line, which does not use the power state motors, and specs out the same as their traditional brushed models. Standard m18 are tradition brushed DC motors and electronics. They are the "simplest" design, and considered the lowest tier of Milwaukee's 3 tier system of drills and impact drivers

Unless you count Rigid and Ryobi
I think it remains to be seen if the fancy electronics and switches are potted well enough to be ore reliable than the brushes. My fuel impact is a badboy, but the mode select button feels cheap as hell.

 

[bubinga]

Milwaukee Fuel, is popular. i like my Bocsh,
it has the clutch, and works quite well.
12 volt I think it is.

 

[jd_1138]

What is the difference between the fuel/non-fuel 18v units? Just the variable settings?

Yep, the Fuel has the variable settings but the other models don't. If you feel that would be useful to you since you are going to be using it for a lot of different fasteners, I would definitely look into the Fuel line.

DeWalt and Makita also make 3 settings brushless 1/4" impacts.

 

[oldldh]

Milwaukee Fuel!!!

I got mine in a kit with the Hammer Drill, and three batteries...

You will love the tools...

 

[hautpot]

I currently use a snap-on, it is pretty average. Milwaukee, Bosch,or Makita are way better in price, parts, warranty support, better motors.

 

[Ghost11]

Panasonic, milwaukee, bosch

 

[gdocktor3]

I have 18v makita, 18 volt ridgid, 20v Dewalt and use 18 volt Milwaukee at work. They all work just the same imo. The only complaint I have is the ridgid got real hot one day, but it was mid summer driving deck screws all day. These days I don't think you can go wrong no matter what brand you buy. Buy what you can afford and what you can share batteries with now or in the future. Ridgid has lifetime warranty that does work in most cases.

 

[Ign]

For the OP's stated use I'd go Fuel 1/4" square drive. You're doing yourself a disservice with hex and adapters. 2452-20 is the tool a-la-carte; make that a -22 for the kit
https://www.milwaukeetool.com/power-tools/cordless/2452-20

 

[Buckgnarly]

Amazon has the M12 Fuel 1/4 hex impact kit for 136.....finally made me pull the trigger along with the SK locking extensions.

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00E9YWW18/?tag=atomicindus08-20

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BC4TB08/?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[stonesfan68]

If you're going to be primarily using the tool with sockets then you might want to consider getting an impact wrench.

https://www.milwaukeetool.com/power-tools/cordless/2452-22

You can then get a bit adapter for it.

IRWIN 1869511

 

[BK13]

Specifically answering the OP's question, either an M12 Fuel 2453 or a Makita XDT09. But I also think I would rather have one of the M12 Fuel square drive tools... Either 1/4" or 3/8". I have the 3/8" 2454 and like it a ton.

Outside suggestion... If Bosch has introduced a brushless 12v impact driver, I might look at that... Dunno if it's out yet in NA.

 

[bmwpowere36m3]

Interior screws, belly pans, etc... any 1/4" impact is going to be OVERKILL (and not in a good way). I would just get a small driver like the Milwaukee M12 1/4" Hex 2-Speed Screwdriver Kit (2402-22). Especially when you mostly dealing with small screws (not machine/threaded).

Do you already have a cordless "system", where you want to keep the same brand/batteries?

That's are go to for belly pans (European cars with plastic hex nuts) and interior work... small, light and enough power for the application. I'd only use an impact on threaded fasteners (not including machine screws).

At home my power tools are mostly Makita and I've very happy with them.

 

[FigureItOut]

I'm not familiar with some of your applications, but I'm very familiar with dissembling and reassembling interiors and it sounds like others think an impact is overkill for you. For interior work I use a Bosch 12 volt pocket driver. It'll break fairly tight fasteners, and even without taking advantage of the clutch ring you can feather in a nylon fastener easily. I've used the M12 version also but prefer the Bosch, it's smaller, lighter and feels more precise to me.

I have an M18 Fuel as well, it'll generally come out only if I'm removing seats or seat belts. The Bosch 12 volt impact might be a good choice if you really feel you need impact. It's not available in brushless in North America yet but I can't imagine a day's work where you'd use more than a full 2AH battery. They also now have 2.5 AH battery in the same form factor, and a 4AH that adds some bulk to the bottom of the tool.

The pocket driver though, is available in brushless, it's the PS 22. I'd like one, but my PS 21 just keeps going and going. It's taken some significant falls and been used hard for years. It's a like a trusty old friend to me.

A few folks said you might consider square drive and they have a point. I'd say though, that if you're using bits even 20% of the time, just get a good selection of hex drive nut setters. I have VIM and Wiha in short, medium, long, hollow and magnetic and rarely use a socket, but I almost never need anything other than 7, 8, 10, and 12mm.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337Z using Tapatalk

 

[bcradio]

pretty much anything else that involves zipping a few dozen screws on and off in short order lol.

Please don't zip stuff on with an impact on my vehicle.

Agree with those who recommend the Fuel lineup.

 

[Spoiled Bradt]

Third time in under 2 years my Milwaukee M12(non fuel) is off to the shop again this morning. I'm ordering the fuel version to try instead. The non-fuel uses an integrated card-LED-trigger-brush assembly. It's pure garbage. Warranty is irrelevant when the tool is always broken.
I just ordered an 18XRP Dewalt version off ebay. I KNOW it won't break but it's far larger.
The battery will get in the way. No doubt.(I I have other XRP stuff so I got the bare tool--$60)

That's why I bought the Milwaukee to begin with. Size.

 

[Sal Bandini]

I'm not familiar with some of your applications, but I'm very familiar with dissembling and reassembling interiors and it sounds like others think an impact is overkill for you. For interior work I use a Bosch 12 volt pocket driver. It'll break fairly tight fasteners, and even without taking advantage of the clutch ring you can feather in a nylon fastener easily. I've used the M12 version also but prefer the Bosch, it's smaller, lighter and feels more precise to me.

I have an M18 Fuel as well, it'll generally come out only if I'm removing seats or seat belts. The Bosch 12 volt impact might be a good choice if you really feel you need impact. It's not available in brushless in North America yet but I can't imagine a day's work where you'd use more than a full 2AH battery. They also now have 2.5 AH battery in the same form factor, and a 4AH that adds some bulk to the bottom of the tool.

The pocket driver though, is available in brushless, it's the PS 22. I'd like one, but my PS 21 just keeps going and going. It's taken some significant falls and been used hard for years. It's a like a trusty old friend to me.

A few folks said you might consider square drive and they have a point. I'd say though, that if you're using bits even 20% of the time, just get a good selection of hex drive nut setters. I have VIM and Wiha in short, medium, long, hollow and magnetic and rarely use a socket, but I almost never need anything other than 7, 8, 10, and 12mm.

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SGH-I337Z using Tapatalk

I second the Bosch brushless. It's the smallest driver I've ever used and will drive 3" deck screws w/o a problem. You don't need an impact for your applications.

 

[dbabicky]

I really like my Snap-on 9.6 volt. We call it a Zoot-Zoot,(sound it makes), down at the shop. We use it for hose clamps, screws, small bolts, ect. It's one of the handiest tools in the shop. The battery lasts a long time and has a lot of power for a 1/4 inch driver. Has quick change bit holder and just really handy. It comes with 2 batteries, the driver and charger for under $200.00. Mine also came with a drill chuck when I bought it. Well worth it.

 

[engineer2]

Love my Makita 3-speed impact driver. It's my most frequently used power tool.
I've played with several brands at the HD demo table and they are all pretty nice.
Look for:
Multiple speed settings: Sometimes you need to finesse small screws, other times lugnuts.
Brushless motor for long term durability
What fits comfortably in your hand
Other tools you might need that use the same battery and charger.

 

[TXBDan]

I'm happy with my Dewalt XR 20V. The variable speed trigger is the best I've ever used.

 

[shockwave]

I would reccomend the Milwaukee m12 fuel 3/8 impact over the impact driver
Stronger and with an adapter is still shorter than impact driver

I believe it's rated around 150 ft ibs

 

[bmwpowere36m3]

I would reccomend the Milwaukee m12 fuel 3/8 impact over the impact driver
Stronger and with an adapter is still shorter than impact driver

I believe it's rated around 150 ft ibs

Cause you need that working on an interior...

I guess nobody actually read what the OP said he wanted to use the driver for

 

[K-Dog]

I have this little Makita here...

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B005CQ1RGI/?tag=atomicindus08-20

and I absolutely LOVE it. I do auto body and I use that for 90% of my fasteners. It is strong enough to get the job done, but not too strong that is snaps heads here and there. Small, compact, light, body fits comfortably in my hand. There are occasions where I need to snap a fender bolt by hand, but that is uncommon.
I will buy this tool again in a heart beat.

 

[F150tech]

I have this little Makita here...

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B005CQ1RGI/?tag=atomicindus08-20

and I absolutely LOVE it. I do auto body and I use that for 90% of my fasteners. It is strong enough to get the job done, but not too strong that is snaps heads here and there. Small, compact, light, body fits comfortably in my hand. There are occasions where I need to snap a fender bolt by hand, but that is uncommon.
I will buy this tool again in a heart beat.

Second this I have the same combo, used everyday for exactly what op is describing, 2 years and still going strong battery lasts a couple days, I got mine as a special buy at HD for $99

 

[shockwave]

Cause you need that working on an interior...

I guess nobody actually read what the OP said he wanted to use the driver for

Same difference putting a ph2 bit socket or ph2 bit with 1/4 shank (which is longer by the way) and interior work can be tight

And both will work the same just the 3/8 impact is stronger and a cordless ratchet can be better aswell 1/4

 

[Rewind97]

Interested in this too. I'd like one with a lithium battery and not be over $50 (if they exist).

 

[jlh92]

I picked up this Porter Cable kit on clearance from Lowe's last year: http://www.amazon.com/PORTER-CABLE-PCL212IDC-2-12-Volt-Compact-Lithium-Ion/dp/B0045JK3GI

For the $35 I paid I love the thing, so much better for what I do than the 18v Dewalt kit I used to have.

When I bought it I actually listed both the PC and Dewalt kits on CL for $60 and planned to sell one and keep the other. I'm really glad someone wanted the used Dewalt first.

 

[bmwpowere36m3]

Interested in this too. I'd like one with a lithium battery and not be over $50 (if they exist).

Closer to $100+ with battery and charger....

 

[bmwpowere36m3]

Same difference putting a ph2 bit socket or ph2 bit with 1/4 shank (which is longer by the way) and interior work can be tight

And both will work the same just the 3/8 impact is stronger and a cordless ratchet can be better aswell 1/4

Both work the same.... okay. I guess a sledge will pound in a finish nail just the same

 

[Hammer1963]

for the op's stated use i'd go fuel 1/4" square drive. You're doing yourself a disservice with hex and adapters. 2452-20 is the tool a-la-carte; make that a -22 for the kit
https://www.milwaukeetool.com/power-tools/cordless/2452-20

agreed!

 

[TheGrooveking]

Do you have any cordless tools presently? Just wondering if you have an investment in batteries & charger. For instance DeWalt has an adapter for using their 20volt slide on LiIon batteries on the older 18 volt platform.

Also do you have a tool truck servicing your shop? The reason I ask is the Matco 12V 1/4" hex impact driver and / or their 1/4" drive impact wrench are excellent, or the Snap On CT761 3/8" drive or CT725 1/4" 14.4V Lithium are good units, of course Milwaukee M12 is less expensive but I don't think you go wrong with either system.

TheGrooveking

 

[sam.coll]

If I was looking for a impact/driver for the work you mentioned I would be looking closely at the Festool CXS, thinking about picking one up soon.

 

[Skin]

Don't know if its been mentioned yet but Milwaukee rubber isn't made for exposure to automotive fluids. It swells.

 

[GirlnAgarage]

I'm using the crazy out of a Dewalt 20v DCF885C2 to drive deck screws into a number of projects. Received it try out from another member here a couple years ago. With as much as I've used it, I wouldn't hesitate buying another.

That said, I don't think I would use it to remove interior hardware or ****** pan bolts. It seems too violent for those applications, even if removing. I don't see a need to be that rough. Perhaps a driver, but not an impact.

 

[90zcar]

I just got this setup from Home Depot on a "spring Black Friday" special for 149.99
Seems nice....I think I'm going to return it tho for another set as the chuck on the drill is somewhat off/wobbles. Guess some call that "runout"
The impact driver seems really nice tho


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