In the fall of 2022, I repaired pivot bearing on the old Troy Bult sickle bar mower. It started me to think I should own a torque wrench. After exploring several options of traditional wrenches but the thought of seeing a mechanic use an impact driver changed my search focus.
The impact drivers used by mechanics deliver over 100 lb torque. They are generally air driven but a few electric options. The air impact drivers are not expensive. I was looking for a battery operation to allow easy use.
In November 2022, I chose a 20v Black and Decker cordless impact driver because I owned other 20 v cordless tools from them. The impact driver is to supplement an old 18V drill when I need more power. The 18v drill has seen better days and at the end of usable life. I can only find the 18 v batteries from a Canada Company that has them dropped shipped from China. The date of manufacture on the new 18v battery ordered last year was 2016. I suspect when the stockpile is gone my 18v tools will be dead.
The driver has a heavy duty transmission 1375 in. lbs. or 90 lbs of max torque. It has both variable speed ranging from 0-3000 rpm and impact ranging from 0-3900 ipm. The driver is compact and does not weigh much so it is easy to use and gets into tight places. It has a quick release 1/4" hex chuck. The driver has a 2 year limited warranty that covers near nothing. The price was right and under $70.
I plan to use the impact driver for more than driving screws. My accessories now include:
Magnetic adapter for driver bits
Socket Adapter Extension Set, 1/4 3/8 1/2". The cordless impact driver has replaced my socket wrenches.
Socket set. I did not upgrade because I own several cheap sets and a Craftsman set. They are not impact quality but torque of cordless drive is less than breaking strength of socket.
Angle Driver Adapter to allow up to 105 degree angle operations. Allows cordless impact driver to be used in tight places.
Keyless 1/2" Drill Chuck Chuck by KuangBBBTools. The chuck coverts the impact driver into a 1/2" drill. The chuck will also work with my 3/8" drill. I have used it with the cordless impact driver and found it works. It is a little difficult to open/close jaws and pliers were required to remove drill bit.
Given it is not a true high torque impact driver, I was impressed with its ability to install/remove large construction screws and bolts. The driver really shines when installing wood deck screws with fewer wood split and better control than a drill. The battery life was impressive +20 minutes of driving constructions screws. It is my go to driver/drill.