When it comes to finding the best impact driver for your needs, there are a few factors you’ll want to keep in mind.
First and foremost, an impact driver is a tool that delivers significant torque to fasten or loosen screws quickly and easily.
But with all the different models on the market, how do you know which one is right for you? Here are a few things to consider before making your purchase:
The size and weight
If you’ll be using it for extended periods of time, you’ll want something that’s lightweight and easy to handle. On the other hand, if you need more power for tougher jobs, a larger model may be more suitable.
The type of Chuck:
There are two primary types of chucks found on impact drivers: keyless and keyed. Keyless chucks are easier to use since they don’t require a key to tighten or loosen the bit. However, they’re not as durable as keyed chucks and can come to loose more easily. If you plan on using your impact driver for heavy-duty work, a keyed chuck is a better option.
The battery type:
Most impact drivers run on lithium-ion batteries, which are lightweight and offer a long run time. However, they can be more expensive than other types of batteries. If you’re on a budget, you may want to consider a model that uses NiCad or NiMH batteries.
Torque:
One of the most important things to consider when choosing an impact driver is the amount of torque it produces. The amount of torque an impact driver produces will determine how much power it has to drive or remove screws. Generally speaking, the higher the torque, the better. But keep in mind that more torque also means a heavier tool, so you’ll have to decide what’s more important to you: power or portability.
Speed:
Another thing to consider is the speed at which the impact driver can operate. Impact drivers typically have two speed settings: high and low. High speeds are ideal for quickly driving screws into soft materials like wood, while low speeds are better for harder materials like concrete or metal. If you’ll be using your impact driver for a variety of applications, look for a model that offers variable speed control.
Impacts Per Minute (IPM)
This is a measure of how many times the impact driver’s hammering mechanism can hit per minute and is a good indicator of the tool’s power.
The higher the IPM, the more powerful the tool. Anvil type: There are two types of anvils found on impact drivers: detent pin and friction ring. Detent pin anvils are more common and offer better bit retention.
Friction ring anvils, on the other hand, are easier to remove bits from but aren’t as durable. Now that you know what to look for, you’re ready to start shopping for an impact driver that meets your needs. Be sure to keep these factors in mind to ensure you make the best purchase possible.
The materials you’ll be working with:
Some materials require more power than others to drive or remove screws. If you’ll be working with tougher materials like concrete or metal, you’ll need an impact driver with more torque.
Your budget:
Impact drivers can range in price from around $100 to $200. If you’re on a tight budget, you may want to look for a less expensive model. However, keep in mind that cheaper models may not have all the features you’re looking for.
Conclusion:
An impact driver is a powerful tool to have in your arsenal, but it’s important to choose the right one for your needs. Make sure you take into account all the above factors discussed. By considering these factors, you can be sure that you’re picking out the best impact driver for your unique set of requirements.
Noise:
If you’re going to be using your impact driver in close quarters or around sensitive equipment, noise level is an important consideration. Fortunately, most impact drivers are relatively quiet, so this shouldn’t be a major concern. However, if noise is a deciding factor for you, be sure to read the manufacturer’s specifications before making your purchase.
Keep these factors in mind when shopping for an impact driver, and you’ll be sure to find the best one for your needs.