When it comes to heavy-duty professional tools, Hilti is considered one of the best.  Not only are their tools considered the best, but their service, fleet programs, and all the other items they offer are consistently superior to their competition.  While we aren’t going to cover all of that today, we are going to cover one of their newer additions, the Hilti SID 6-22 Impact Driver which is part of their Nuron 22v cordless battery platform.

Hilti SID 6-22 Impact Driver Overview

If you are not familiar with Hilti Nuron, take a look here because it’s worth understanding this technology and why it’s head and shoulders above the rest.  For a quick rundown, one part of the Nuron platform is the battery and how they draw more energy from the battery and transfer it to the tool.  So in the end, less energy is lost which means more work.

As far as an Impact Driver goes, it’s one of the most widely used tools. So having a heavy-duty impact driver that can work longer sounds great, but let’s take a look firsthand to see how the Hilti SID 6-22 Impact Driver stacks up.

Hilti SID 6-22 Impact Driver Features

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The SID 6-22 is designed around a brushless motor that delivers 1327 in-lbs of torque on Speed 1, 2655 in-lbs of torque on Speed 2, and 2655 in-lbs on Speed 3.  The impact also delivers 4,250 impacts per minute while only weighing 2.2 lbs.

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As noted above, this impact is powered by the new Nuron 22v battery platform which offers more power and longer run times.

The slim handle has a rubber overmold grip making it more comfortable to work with.

The trigger is variable speed and is easy to feather the speed.  So when working with metal fasteners, you can easily start off slow and then ramp up and sink the fastener.

The tool is designed with a quick release and one-handed operation 1/4″ hexagonal chuck.

On the base of the tool, you can adjust the speed settings on three different levels.

• Speed 1 – 0-1,800 rpm
• Speed 2 – 0-2,700 rpm
• Speed 3 – 0-3,600 rpm

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While this impact has a lot to offer, I am a huge fan of the ring LED light as it doesn’t cast any shadows that can interfere with work.

Hilti SID 6-22 Impact Driver Performance

We reviewed this impact driver about a year ago.  We ended up giving it to an electrician and he swears by it.  He likes the power, performance, run time, and especially the light because he is usually using it in poorly lit spaces.

While you can use it on a wide range of applications, we decided to take it through some wood with a spade bit and sink some 3″ screws.

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Normally a drill is best suited for this application but when you need to do some quick holes, an impact will do.  This Hilti will easily drill through a 2×4 and the spade bit we used was not only old but on the dull side.

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Yes, an impact is really designed for fastening so we had to throw some fasteners in some wood.  We sunk a bunch of 3″ screws and as you would expect from Hilti, the tool screamed through this job, sinking them quickly and effortlessly.

Another thing I noticed was the noise level of this impact compared to others we have used is extremely low.

Hilti SID 6-22 Impact Driver Value

You can pick this up through the Hilti store for about $199. For me, this is a great value.  You get a well-balanced impact driver that is built to last.  Plus with the new Nuron 22v batteries, you get power like no other.  And this is all in addition to everything else Hilti offers.

Hilti SID 6-22 Impact Driver Wrap Up

Bottom line, this Hilti Impact Driver is my favorite on the market.  I like the weight, the balance, and the feel but most importantly I like the power and run time, not to mention the LED ring light.  With everything Hilti has to offer, this is a must-have tool if you want the best on the market.

The post Hilti SID 6-22 Impact Driver appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

An Impact Driver is an extremely handy tool to have around for fasteners.  They are powerful and can pretty much handle any fastening job.  One of the reasons they are so powerful is because of their design and how they work.  An Impact Driver has a spring-driven mechanism that delivers rotational striking blows once the torque becomes too great for the motor alone.  So that is why so many people will use an Impact Driver over a drill for fastening.  This brings me to the 1/4 in. DeWALT 3 Speed Impact Driver.

DeWALT 3 Speed Impact Driver Overview

When it comes to power, speed, and comfort, a lot of people go with the DeWALT Impact.  Time and time again we hear how much people like the drill/drive and Impact tools from DeWALT as they are powerful and reliable.  While this isn’t a combo kit with the drill, this is a combo kit for the impact driver that includes two 5.0 Ah batteries, a charger, and a tool bag.

DeWALT 3 Speed Impact Driver Features

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The DeWALT (DCF845P2) is designed around a brushless motor that delivers 1825 in-lbs of max torque with a no-load speed of 3400 rpm and an impact rate of 4200 ipm.

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The impact driver is powered by a single DeWALT battery that also has an onboard battery status indicator.

On the base of the impact, a user can use the slider switch to change between three different speeds.

The handle has a rubber overmold grip for comfort.

This impact driver offers variable speed control, and a push switch to change between forward and reverse.

The tool is designed with a metal 1/4 in. quick-connect hex chuck.

For those dark areas, DeWALT built in three bright LED lights that turn on once the trigger is engaged.

DeWALT 3 Speed Impact Driver Performance

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This impact driver is powerful. We used it to get into some tight spots on Dan’s truck like under the dash and installing mud flaps on his truck.

We have been using this DeWALT Impact for a while and every time it performs.  It doesn’t matter if you are sinking large lag screws or small fasteners, this tool has always been great for us.  Long run times, comfortable and dependable.

DeWALT 3 Speed Impact Driver Value

You can pick up this combo kit on Amazon for $336.  For me, I think this is a great buy.  First, you are getting into a reliable line that offers a wide range of other 20V tools.  Most importantly this driver is fast, powerful, long-running, and extremely comfortable.  So if you are using this all day long, it doesn’t wear on you as other impacts can.

DeWALT 3 Speed Impact Driver Wrap Up

The bottom line, this is a great setup for the price.  You get two 5.0 Ah batteries which means you can buy other DeWALT 20V tools as bare tools and save some money.  This Impact Driver is fast, powerful, and will hold up even under extreme conditions.  If you are invested in DeWALT 20V or just looking for a great impact driver, this is one to consider.

The post DeWALT 3 Speed Impact Driver appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

The Kobalt tool brand launched around 1998 and is sold exclusively at Lowe’s. I would call them a professional brand for the homeowner.  Their product lineup is broad and ranges from carpentry to storage to mechanic’s tools to OPE (outdoor power equipment), and a lot more. In fact, when I search “Kobalt” on the Lowe’s site I get over 2,000 products. That’s a lot.  For their cordless tools, Kobalt has three battery platforms, 24V, 40V, and 80V. Today we’re taking a look at three new power tools in the Kobalt 24-Volt Max Brushless lineup.

Kobalt Cordless Tools Overview

The focus will be on three tools:

• Kobalt Impact Driver (KID 2024A-03)
• Kobalt Circular Saw (KCS 124B-03)
• Kobalt Reciprocating Saw (KRS 224B-03)

Kobalt Cordless Tools Features

Kobalt touts this “newest generation of Kobalt Brushless tools” to utilize “the most innovative electronics and brushless motor technology”. I reviewed the listed specifications for each of these and also gave them a test run. The specs are impressive for a general consumer brand and I was also impressed with their performance.

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The Impact Driver came with a 2Ah battery so that’s what we used for its test. We used a 4Ah battery we had at the shop for the circular and reciprocating saws. Kobalt’s 24V Li-Ion battery line gives you the choice of 2Ah, 4Ah, 6Ah, and 8Ah batteries. And their newest 150W fast charger claims to recharge a 2Ah battery in 30 minutes.

Kobalt Cordless Tools – Impact Driver

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The 1/4-In Kobalt Impact Driver (KID 2024A-03) can deliver as much as 2000 in-lb (inch-pound) of torque per impact, with up to 3800 IPM (impacts/minute).  There are three basic speed settings.  In addition, the Kobalt Impact Driver features extra “FINISH” and “Self-tap” modes for installing self-tapping or self-drilling screws.  “FINISH” is appropriate for driving screws through thinner sheet metal.  “Self-tap” is for thicker or more resistant sheet metal.

Kobalt also included a useful LED work light below the base of the handle. And as with most Kobalt tools, it is backed by a 5-year limited tool warranty and a 3-year battery warranty.

Kobalt Cordless Tools – Circular Saw

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Next, we have the 6-1/2-In compact Kobalt Circular Saw (KCS 124B-03). The 24V brushless motor, along with helical gears, produces up to 5500 RPM’s. The electric brake has a quick and proper response as soon as you let off the trigger, and blade depth adjustment is pretty quick as well.

Other specifications:

• 0-50 degree bevel (angle) capacity
• At 90 degrees (the simplest perpendicular cut), the Kobalt Circular Saw features a maximum depth of 2-3/16-In.  At 45 degrees, the saw can cut as much as 1-5/8 inches.
• 1-1/4-In dust port on the right side pushes dust out of the user’s sight/cut line and can connect to most vacuums.

Kobalt Cordless Tools – Reciprocating Saw

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Now we come to the 1-1/4-In Reciprocating Saw (KRS 224B-03). My overall impression is that Kobalt went at this design with the user in mind. Running a reciprocating saw can be physically demanding, user fatigue can set in pretty quickly on longer, tougher jobs. The rear D-handle and front grip have a soft grip overmold. The lock-off/speed setting shuttle is easily accessed just above the trigger. The shoe pivots and is adjustable. There is a rafter hook and an LED work light.

Kobalt Cordless Tools – Performance

Kobalt Impact Driver – Performance

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To test the Kobalt Impact Driver, we repeatedly ran 3-1/2-In wood screws through a 4×4.  To Kobalt’s credit, the screws all went through easily; the tool clearly has a capacity greater than what we put it through.

Kobalt Circular Saw – Performance

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Trying out the Kobalt Circular Saw confirmed that the tool is powerful and precise when performing straight and bevel cuts at various depths. The line of sight is well-designed.

Kobalt Reciprocating Saw – Performance

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The 24V MAX Brushless motor is spec’d to deliver 3200 SPM (strokes/minute). To test the Kobalt Reciprocating Saw I made several cuts through a 4×4 post. The saw easily made the cuts, with a good balance and “feel” to it. I felt it was comfortable to operate with fairly low vibration compared to other reciprocating saws I’ve used.  The blade change is tool-free, which is always good.  There are two primary speed settings with a variable-speed trigger for fine-tuning a cut.

Kobalt Cordless Tools Value

Prices are very competitive (an advantage of house-brand tools) and are as follows:

• Kobalt Impact Driver (Model #: KID 2024A-03) – $99.00
• Kobalt Circulating Saw (Model #: KCS 124B-03) – $129.00
• Kobalt Reciprocating Saw (Model #: KRS 224B-03) – $129.00

Kobalt Cordless Tools Wrap Up

As I mentioned in the beginning, Kobalt is a “professional” brand for the homeowner and DIY’er. They offer a great selection of over 2,000 Kobalt products at Lowe’s that are well made, reasonably priced, and almost all come with a 5-year tool warranty. The three Kobalt 24V MAX Brushless tools we featured here had some nice user-friendly design features, and all performed well. So if you’re looking for a brand of tools for your home and garage, Kobalt is a line worth considering.

The post Kobalt Cordless Tools appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

On the scale of DIY-to-professional, Bosch lands squarely on the professional side of tool manufacturing.  What this means for you: Bosch tools such as the Bosch Freak Impact Driver are generally more rugged, more durable, and more powerful than similar competitors’ tools.

Bosch Freak Impact Overview

With that in mind, we zoom in on the Bosch Freak Impact Driver. Specifically, we look at the GDX18V-1800B12, 18V Brushless 0.25-inch and 0.5-inch 2-in-1 bit/socket impact driver.  Right away, I have to admit that this is a cool concept where you can use sockets or bits to drill, drive, loosen or tighten even the most stubborn nuts and bolts. You might miss some of the usual torque provided by professional impact drivers, but you’ll love the efficiency provided by this hybrid tool that is both an impact and drill driver.

Bosch Freak Impact Features

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The Bosch Freak Impact Driver is 5.8 (head length) x 3 x 8.2 inches and 4.00 lbs. It is powered by an 18V EC brushless motor which is in turn powered by an 18V Li-ion “Slim Pack” 2 Ah battery.  The motor acts on a “hammer and anvil” design that generates maximum torque upon application, and up to 0-4,200 impacts per minute. As mentioned earlier, this is a departure from the typical powering mechanism for drills that can’t match the torque that the Bosch Freak Impact delivers.

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The purchase gets you a Bosch 18V Li-Ion 2 Ah battery and compatible charger.

This tool combines an ergonomic handle with a variable-speed trigger. According to Bosch, “The variable-speed trigger provides accurate driving speed. The two-in-one bit/socket drive increases both convenience and power. Bits can stay conveniently inserted when using deep sockets, and more torque is transferred directly thru the 1/2 In. square drive anvil. There is no more torque loss through socket adapters or broken socket adapters. The driver has an LED light to illuminate the work area.”

High torque and adjustable speed focused on a small head will do wonders for working in tight spots.

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This tool gives versatility.  The Bosch Freak Impact accepts bits and sockets, as previously mentioned, providing two major tool functions.

Lastly, the Bosch Freak Impact purchase comes with a convenient bag for the tool and related accessories.

Bosch Freak Impact Value

At the time of this writing, this tool kit is priced at around $99 on Amazon. A little higher than a standard impact or drill driver by themselves, but this is a 2-in-1 tool, so that’s a pretty fair price. Also note that this purchase lands you a kit, not just a bare tool, which includes the battery, charger, bits, bit holder, and canvas bag. So again, for a Bosch quality tool, this is a good value. You may also purchase a pretty standard 3 or 4-year “protection plan” that covers parts and labor.

Bosch Freak Impact Thoughts

I have almost always found Bosch products to be strong and dependable.  In this instance, there is the added benefit of having one tool instead of two – handling bits and sockets with the same piece of high-torque equipment is something I certainly appreciate.

Bosch Freak Impact Wrap Up

This tool certainly performs well as far as I can determine. I’d like to leave this review with my favorite features of the Bosch Freak Impact Driver:

• A responsive trigger that allows adjustable-speed functionality
• Up to 1,800 in-lbs applied torque and 0-4,200 impacts per minute
• LED-lit small head that allows you to access tight spots and inconvenient connections
• And let’s not forget, it’s a 2-in-1 tool

The post Bosch Freak Impact – Get Your Freak On appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

If you have been following us for a while, you know Hilti is one of my favorite tool brands. They have always been an industry leader in power and reliability.  Sure there are many reasons why they are one of my favorite brands but now with the new Nuron line, there’s just so much more to love.  Today we are taking a look at the new Hilti Nuron Impact Driver – SID 6-22.

Hilti Nuron Overview

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If you are not familiar with Hilti Nuron, I would suggest reading our Hilti Nuron Article. It gives you a nice introductory breakdown of the platform.

However, if you are not up for reading, here is a quick overview.  Hilti Nuron is based on four pillars:

• One Platform – meaning all tools run on one battery platform
• Performance
• Data Services
• Safety

For me, the Nuron platform makes Hilti one of the best professional power tool manufacturers in the marketplace.

Hilti Nuron Impact Driver Features

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The Hilti SID 6-22 is a 22V impact driver that features a brushless motor and offers 3,600 rpm with 4,250 BPM and 2,655 in-lbs of torque. The tool only weighs 2.2 lbs and is compact in size.

This impact driver features a rubber over-mold grip for comfort and more control.

One of my favorite features of this impact driver are the LED light ring. The ring of light helps minimize work-area shadows.

On the base of the tool is where a user can change speeds to the following:

• Speed 1 – 0-1,800 RPM
• Speed 2 – 0-2,700 RPM
• Speed 3 – 0-3,600 RPM

The tool utilizes a 1/4″ hexagonal click chuck.

One interesting feature that I have never seen on a tool before is the “always-on” fuel gauge status. On other batteries, you have to depress a button to check your battery status, then the gauge lights go off until you check status again.  However, with Hilti Nuron, the gauge stays on while in use, which I like much better.  Now it’s easy to see the battery status while using it and helps you easily plan for the next task.

Hilti Nuron Impact Driver Performance

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In regards to performance, this impact is no joke.  The balance is awesome, the grip is comfortable and the power is beyond belief.  We drove in some small screws, all the way up to 3-1/2″ screws.  It was very easy to control and easy to work with, plus the noise doesn’t seem to be loud compared to other impact drivers we have used over the years. The trigger is extremely smooth and easy to feather.

We also ran some lags of various sizes and again, it ran them through without any issues.  During this task is when we really noticed that the sounds weren’t as bad when compared to other impact drivers in its class.

After the lags, we ran some spade bits of various sizes through some wood.  Again, like all the other applications we tried, the impact is smooth, easy to use, powerful, and now my favorite impact on the market.

Hilti Nuron Impact Driver Wrap Up

Bottom line, I am sold on the Hilti Nuron system.  I love the power, the build quality, and all the other features associated with Nuron.  The SID 6-22 is a perfect impact driver that has a balance of size and power.  Yes, I love the ring LED light also.  With everything considered, this is one of the best impact drivers on the market.  With a price tag of $376 for the tool, two batteries, and a charger, it’s worth every penny.  If you have the batteries, you can pick this up for $169.

The post Hilti Nuron Impact Driver – SID 6-22 appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

Last week you read about the Ryobi drill.  Today we are going to cover the Ryobi Impact Driver.  The drill is great for drilling holes but if you are looking to work with fasteners, nothing beats an Impact Driver.  So let’s see what this Impact Driver is all about and if it’s a good complementary tool to the drill/driver.

Ryobi Impact Driver Information

• Name – Ryobi 18V 1/4″ Impact Driver Kit
• Model – P235AK
• Price – $99
• Where to Buy – The Home Depot
• Reviews – Ryobi Power Tool Reviews

Ryobi Impact Driver Features

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The Ryobi Impact Driver offers 1,800 in/lbs of torque with speeds of 0-3200 RPMs.

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Just like the drill, the Impact Driver comes with 2-1.5Ah batteries and a charger.

On the front of the impact driver, the driver uses a 1/4″ hex chuck for quick bit changes.

The tool offers a rubber over-mold grip for added comfort.

The drill features a variable speed trigger so the user can match the speed to the task.

Just like the drill/driver, the Impact Driver has an LED light on the base along with a magnetic plate to hold fasteners or washers in a safe place for easy access.

Ryobi Impact Driver Impressions

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While an impact shines with fasteners we wanted to try some spade bits.  As you would expect, we were easily able to sink fasteners into a 4×4.  We used 3-1/2″ screws and not only were we able to sink the screws but we could bury them deep into the wood.  So yes, this tool offers a lot of power for a homeowner tool.

In regards to the spade bit, as you can see, we created a 1-1/2″ hole without any issues, which is impressive.

Ryobi Impact Driver Wrap Up

It’s hard to say anything negative about the Impact Driver as it’s powerful, has great run time, and is comfortable.  If I had to have a con it would be the 1.5Ah batteries.  But again, I am only paying $99 which not only includes the driver but two batteries, a charger, and a bag.  So yes, it’s hard to say anything negative.

I like the power, the comfort but what I love about Ryobi tools is the price and the huge line of 18V tools they offer.

*This is part of the THDPRoSpective program

The post Ryobi Impact Driver appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

For a couple of weeks, we have been releasing and talking about some of the new Hart tools.  Today we are going to talk about the cornerstone for every homeowner, the Hart 20V Drill and Impact Kit.  If you are not familiar with Hart or why they partnered up with Walmart, please read the Hart power Tool article to get familiar with who Hart is and why Walmart partnered up with them.

Hart 20V Drill and Impact Kit Information

• Name – Hart 20V Brushless Drill and Impact Combo Kit
• Model – HPCK252B
• Price – $178
• Where to Buy – Walmart
• Review – Hart Power Tool Reviews

Hart 20V Drill and Impact Kit Features

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The kit comes with a drill/driver, an impact driver, 2 – 2Ah batteries, a charger, and a bag.

As you can see, everything does fit in the bag.  While it’s not organized, it will fit in the bag for storage.

Hart Drill/Driver

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The drill is built around a brushless motor which means more power, longer runtimes, and longer life.  The drill weighs in at 2.5 lbs.

The tool has a metal chuck but is protected by a plastic outside which can help protect your work.  The drill does not feature a locking chuck so it’s just as tight as your hand can get it.

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On top of the drill, there is a two-speed selector.  Speed 1 is 0-500 while speed two is 0-1,800.  If you are performing high torque applications, use speed one.

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The drill features a 24 position clutch with a drill only mode.

One feature I love about this tool is the grip.  The handle and grip are both extremely comfortable.

The trigger is designed for single finger use and isn’t bad for feathering and keeping the drill at a consistent speed.

On the back of the drill, you can store an extra bit.

Hart Impact Driver

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The Hart Impact Driver weighs in at 2.5 lbs and also uses a brushless motor for efficiency and longevity.  The impact driver can deliver up to 2,200 in-lbs of torque.

The driver features a 1/4″ hex chuck which does not require a tool to change bits.

As with the drill, the impact driver features the same comfortable grip.

The trigger is identical to the drill and easy to keep at a consistent speed.

On the base of the impact driver, there is an LED light that does a decent job lighting up a darker area.

Hart 20V Drill and Impact Kit Impressions

As a homeowner, you won’t be doing high demand tasks but yes, you want that ability in case something comes up around the house and you need that extra power.  So we tested the drill and impact with a 5/8″ drill bit, 1″ spade and 3″ screws.

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We ran the drill bit through a 4×4 and it easily went through without any issues.  We do recommend you using the 1st speed for higher demand applications.  So if you are doing smaller projects around the house, this drill will be able to tackle it.

Next was the spade bit which does require more power.  As you can see, no problems or issues.  So if you need more power, the drill will be able to keep up with you.

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We ran a bunch of 3″ screws which is not normally associated with household projects.  We had more than enough power to drive these screws deep and didn’t have the tool cutting out on us.

Hart 20V Drill and Impact Kit Wrap Up

For the homeowner, the drill and driver are a great way to start building your power tool collection.  Both offer good power for the homeowner.  While I wish the drill was a little smaller and had better ergonomics, it’s a great drill for those who need one around the house for monthly projects.  Considering the Hart line already has a large line of power tools and will only grow, this is a great line to jump into.

The post Hart 20V Drill and Impact Kit appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

When it comes to impact drivers, what brand do you think of?  If you are like me, it might not be the Metabo HPT.  When I think of the new Metabo HPT (formerly Hitachi), I think nailers.  Metabo HPT makes some of the best nailers on the market. They are high quality and built to last.  Now if you are or were like me and didn’t think of Metabo HPT as a choice for impact drivers, let’s take a look at the Metabo HPT Triple Hammer and I am sure this will now be at the top of your list.

Metabo HPT Triple Hammer Overview

Impact drivers are awesome tools.  You can use this for a wide range of applications.  They have power and speed.  When it comes to fastening, they are one of the top-performing power tools.

The Metabo HPT is one of those impact drivers that over-delivers with power, speed, quality, balance, and features.

A couple of things to note before we jump into the features is the anvil and the power.

The triple hammer is exactly that, a triple hammer.  The impact driver uses a third impacting anvil that increases speed, bpm, torque and decreases vibration.  All huge pluses for a driver.

In regards to power platform, the Metabo HPT uses a 36V battery or you can even buy an adapter that allows you to have unlimited run time by plugging it into an outlet.

Metabo HPT Triple Hammer Features

The WH36DB is built around a brushless motor that delivers 1,859 in-lbs of torque and up to 2,900 rpm with a 0-4,100 bpm which is all very impressive for a tool that only weighs 4.1 lbs with a battery.

The impact driver is designed for the job site so they made it compliant with an IP56 rating.

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The impact is powered by their multi-volt battery. Each battery has a four LED light fuel gauge to monitor the power.

The impact driver uses a 1/4″ keyless chuck for quick bit changes.

The impact uses a variable speed trigger and is designed to use with a single finger.

The grip has a rubber over-mold for comfort and it does a great job with the control and matching your hand.

On the side of the tool, you have 4 stage speed selection for a wide range of applications.

The tool has a built-in LED light that a user can turn on or off with a push of a button.

Metabo HPT Triple Hammer Performance

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Impact drivers have come a long way over the years.  Metabo HPT takes it to the next level with power and quality.  While we ran a bunch of screws, we also did a lot at my house with some lags and more.  For me, I love this tool.  I love the power and balance.  Now I am not a big fan of the tool with this big battery, but I was using it with the smaller 3Ah batteries at the house and it is lightweight and extremely powerful.

Overall this is one of the best impact drivers we have tested in regards to size and power.

Metabo HPT Triple Hammer Value

You can pick up the kit which includes the impact driver and two batteries, plus a charger for about $390 on Amazon.  I know this may sound like a lot but considering you have enough power to run all day and the quality of the tool, plus the power.  The price isn’t a bad deal.  If you already own batteries, save yourself some money and go with the bare tool.

Metabo HPT Triple Hammer Final Thoughts

An impact driver is one of the most used power tools so when it comes to buying a tool, don’t go cheap on this tool. The Metabo HPT is a decent value for a strong tool that is built to last.  If you are on the job site and need a tool for daily use, the Metabo HPT won’t let you down. The great thing about this tool is the platform.  If you want cordless or corded, you don’t have to own two tools.  Metabo has the solution that is right for you with their ability to use either a battery or battery adapter that acts like a power cord.

The post Metabo HPT Triple Hammer appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

A drill/driver and impact driver are probably the most used power tools among contractors and a homeowner.  So today, we are talking about a power tool combo kit that has both a drill/driver and an impact driver.  So let’s take a look at the Makita Combo Kit Review.

Makita Combo Kit Review Overview

As you know, there are plenty of power tool manufacturers to buy into.  So what makes this kit and Makita a viable choice.

First, Makita offers one of the largest 18V platforms of power tool on the market.  So if you need to buy other tools, you can pretty much stay with their battery and not have to worry about investing in other batteries in the future.

Second, you can get into the Makita line with a powerful drill/driver and impact driver for half the cost it would take to go with other two-piece combo kits.

Makita Combo Kit Review Features

The Makita kit (XT281S) comes with a Drill/Driver, Impact Driver, 2-3Ah batteries, a charger, and a bag.

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The 3 Ah batteries are part of the Makita 20V line.  If you have other batteries such as the 5 Ah battery, these tools will also work with that battery.

The Drill/Driver (XT281S) delivers 440 in/lbs of torque and utilizes a brushless motor to achieve this power.

The drill uses a metal chuck that has a plastic cover.

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The Makita has a 1-21 with a drill only clutch mode.

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As with other drill/drivers, this has two speeds.  Speed 1 gives you 0-500 and speed 2 gives you0-1,900 rpm’s.

I have always been a huge fan of the Makita handles.  I love the feel the size and the rubber over-mold grip.

The drill utilizes a variable speed trigger which is pretty easy to feather and keep at a constant speed.

The Impact driver is also built around a brushless motor that puts out 1,500 in/lbs of torque and produces 0-3,400 rpms with 0-3,600 ipm.

The tool has a 1/4″ hex collet.

As with the drill, the impact driver also has a comfortable handle.

Right below the collet, there is an LED light that doesn’t do a bad job lighting up your work.

Makita Combo Kit Review Performance

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I am currently working on a home addition and have been using these tools for some of the projects.  As you can see, I was using this impact for new stairs we were putting in the basement.  I also used it for hanging sheathing up on the outside of the house.  Makita is known for its impact drivers and this impact holds true to their reputation.

The drill was just as impressive.  I used it for drilling 1″ holes for piping and also used it for 1-3/16″ drill bits.  Time and time again, the drill was a workhorse and never gave up.  I have to say that the power and the ergonomics is what stood out to me with the drill.

Makita Combo Kit Review Value

The kit runs about $229 at The Home Depot.  Considering you get a Drill/Driver, Impact Driver, two batteries and a charger for under $250, I think this is a steal.  You have to remember you are getting a professional drill and impact, plus access to a large line of other 18V tools.  So yes, I think it’s a great deal.

Makita Combo Kit Review Final Thoughts

While Makita offers other drill/drivers and impact drivers that have more features, this is a great budget combo kit to get into.  These tools are powerful and a great value to get yourself into the Makita line.  As noted above, Makita has one of the largest power tool lines in the industry.  So when you need to expand, you know you can stay with Makita and not have to worry about investing in another line of tools.

*This is part of the THDPRoSpective program

The post Makita Combo Kit Review – Drill Driver and Impact Driver appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

A drill and impact driver are probably the most used power tools on the job site or even the household.  About a year ago, we reviewed the Gen 3 drill/driver and impact.  At that time we loved the power and the size.  During this time is when I was doing the first phase of my house project where I was remodeling the existing house.  Since then I have been able to get a ton of use on these tools and now I am using them for Phase 2 of my project, the home addition.  So I figured we always review tools but never get a chance to go back and revisit them after using them for a while.  So here we are with the Milwaukee Drill Driver Revisit.

Milwaukee Drill Driver Information

• Name – Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hammer Drill and Impact Driver Combo Kit
• Model – 2997-22
• Price – $399
• Where to Buy – The Home Depot
• Original Review – Milwaukee 2997 Combo Kit Review
• Milwaukee Reviews – Milwaukee Power Tool Reviews

Milwaukee Drill Driver Revisit

I have been using these two tools for over a year.  During that time we have had other power tool manufacturers drills and impact, but these have been the two I keep going back to using.  While I love the tools, the main reason is the Milwaukee M18 battery platform.

The M18 has so many tools in this platform and I am using a ton of them on the job site such as the miter saw, lights, reciprocating saw, circular saw, impact wrench and more.  So there is a huge convenience of having an interchangeable battery.  I am using the 6 pack charger but I know there is a tool around and can grab that battery if another battery dies and need to finish a task.  I have other manufacturers’ tools on site, but I am always running to a charger and just don’t have all the tools to support a line that Milwaukee has.

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The Drill/Driver 2804 is an incredible drill.  I love the power, the runtime and the size which makes this tool great for everyday use.  We have used it from anything from cutting 6″ holes for plumbing in wood, holes through drywall for lighting to small pilot holes for some finish work.  We even used the hammer drill feature for setting some Tapcon’s.  We mixed mud for drywall and Thinset for tile.  The drill hasn’t let me down.

I don’t want to sound like a broken record but if you are looking for a drill/driver, this is a great tool to own. You will love the size and power.

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When it comes to size and power, the impact driver will impress.  The head is extremely small which means you can get into tight spaces.  I have been primarily using this for fasteners such as the subfloor and underlayment on the roof.  While the head does get a little hot after longer run times, the driver never quit on us.  My only complaint with this tool is I wish it came with a compact battery.  Sure the 5Ah has a longer run time, but when I use a compact battery on this impact, it just feels awesome and the run time can easily last a long time.

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Milwaukee Drill Driver Wrap Up

Bottom line, I love this kit.  The drill is powerful, lightweight and small enough for a larger variety of jobs.  The impact is also a great tool.  Lightweight, powerful and extremely small in size.  My only knock against this kit is the battery size.  I like having the 5Ah batteries but I would like to see a 5Ah battery along with their compact battery.  Since the impact driver is so small and lightweight, the 5Ah doesn’t affect the ergonomics but I just love the feel of the compact battery with the impact driver. However, if they had that setup, I am sure people would want the larger batteries.

Over the year I have used and abused the drill and impact.  I have used it for everything from a simple job to tighten and loosen fasteners to mixing mud to drilling large diameter holes with hole saws.  Both tools have help up and worked awesome for the job at hand.

*This is part of the THDPRoSpective program

The post Milwaukee Drill Driver Revisit Plus Impact Driver appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

Call me a fanboy, a brand whore or whatever you want but when it comes to the cordless drill and impact, I think Milwaukee is top.  Sure there is so much more to a power tool line up than those two tools such as batteries, other tools in the lineup and quality, but I have to admit, Milwaukee did it right with their drill and impacts.  Which brings me to today’s review, the Milwaukee 12V Surge Review.

Milwaukee 12V Surge Review Overview

When it comes to 12V power tool, no one comes close to Milwaukee.  In fact, even the second power tool manufacturer in the 12V line of tools is so far back, Milwaukee has lapped them 3 times in the race for first.

They are the only company that offers specific tools for tradesmen.  Sure others have a couple of tools for the tradesmen ion their 12V lineup but for realy work and variety of tools in the 12V lineup, Milwaukee delivers.

As you know, the impact driver can be extremely loud especially if you are in a small space or a place that echos such as a basement.  The sounds of the hammering mechanism are enough to drive you crazy and kill your hearing long term.

That is where the Surge comes into play.  While you can still hear the impact, it dampens the noise level so you can have a normal conversation while using the tool, you can ear the radio.  The only bad thing about the Surge is now you can even hear your own thoughts.  So let’s take a look at the features to the Milwaukee Surge Impact.

Milwaukee 12V Surge Review Features

The Milwaukee Surge is designed around a brushless motor that delivers 0-3,000 rpm with a 3,400 BPM with a 450 in-LBS of torque.

The biggest feature is the fact it’s 2X quieter than standard impact.  The reason being is the hydraulic powertrain which is fluid driven.

The impact is ultra-compact with it only being 7.8″ high and 5.2″ long.

The model number of the Impact is 2551-22 which comes with the soft case, charger, two 2Ah batteries, and the Surge Impact Driver.

The impact is powered by the Milwaukee 12V battery.  The kit includes a 2Ah CP battery.

On top of the tool, you can adjust the speeds between 1-3 with a single push of a button.  There is also a Self Tapping mode to assist the user when fastening screws and prevents walking.

On the front of the tool, there is a 1/4″ metal hex chuck.

Over the head of the tool, there is a soft plastic case.

The tool is comfortable.  I know Dan isn’t a huge fan of the grip but I know most people are including myself.  I just love how it contours to your hand.

As with most other impacts, this also has an LED light.  I think a 3 LED light would have been nice but I am sure that would have made the head much bigger and less compact.

On the side of the tool, you can see the battery level since it’s not on the batteries.

Milwaukee 12V Surge Review Performance

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When it comes to performance, the Surge doesn’t disappoint.  If you have been following us for a while, you know I am doing a large addition in the back of my house.  I have been using this for the sheath on the outside.  I have been lifting the sheathing up to the soffits so I can trace the cutouts.  This impact has been awesome.  Lightweight and easy to maneuver, plus powerful.  Sorry, I don’t have pictures but it’s hard to hold a sheet of plywood on a ladder, fasten some screws and take pictures at the same time.

While the impact has so many uses, the bottom line for performance is this is powerful, very comfortable and extremely quiet to operate.

Milwaukee 12V Surge Review Value

The 2551-22 kit is priced at $200 on The Home Depot website.  While it’s a little pricer than other impacts, I think the price is fair considering it’s powerful, comfortable and quiet.  So yes there is a premium on this tool, but worth it and I would easily be a buyer at this price.

Milwaukee 12V Surge Review Final Thoughts

As I noted earlier, call me what you want but I think Milwaukee has it right with their drills and impact.  The Surge is just another example of why  Milwaukee leads in this category of power tools.  I love the power, I love the fell and I love being able to not have my eardrums broken when I use an impact driver.

The post Milwaukee 12V Surge Review appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

So when it comes to impact, what power tool manufacturer comes to mind?  While I know there are a variety of companies, most people think of Makita.  Makita is known for their large 18V tool line up and other tools, but they have been one of the leaders in the cordless Impact Driver category.  So speaking of leading, let’s check out the Makita XDT16Z Review and see if this puts them out front.

Makita XDT16Z Review Overview

Impact drivers are relatively new when compared to a drill.  An impact driver has some major advantages over drills because of the way the internal mechanism works. While a drill just spins, an impact spins and hits at the same time.  So for fastening needs, an impact driver excels at sinking self-tapping metal screws, large screws and even large lag screws.

For someone in the trades, they might encounter these and other types of fasteners on a daily basis. So if you are looking for an impact that is powerful, lightweight, works in small areas and can be used on a wide variety of fasteners, the Makita XDT16Z is a perfect impact as it has all these traits.

Makita XDT16Z Review Features

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The Makita XDT16Z is built around a brushless motor that delivers 3,600 rpms and 1,600 in-lbs of torque while only weighing 3.4 lbs and measuring 4-9/16″ long. As with some of the other Makita impacts, this one uses a Quick-Shift that automatically matches the speed and power of the motor to your application.

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The impact is powered by the Makita 18V line of batteries.  While you can use the 5Ah battery for longer run times, this tool really shines with a 2Ah battery and will still provide plenty of run time for the day.

The tool utilizes a 1/4 chuck and is designed for one-handed insertion operation.  Just insert the hex shank bit into the tool and it will automatically lock into place.  To remove, just pull out the collar and the bit will come out.

On the base of the tool is where all the magic happens.  Makita preprogrammed this tool for the most common types of applications.  On the left-hand side, there is a push button to select from four different speeds:

• 0-1,100 RPM, 0-1,100 IPM
• 0-2,100 RPM, 0-2,600 IPM
• 0-3,200 RPM, 0-3,600 IPM
• 0-3,600 RPM, 0-3,800 IPM

On the left side, you can also control the LED light.

On the right-hand side is the auto assist side.  Again just push a button and you can switch between different modes.  The first mode is for large fasteners.  The tool will start out slow and then ramp up to help prevent cam-out. The next selection is for taking off nuts.  As soon as the tool senses the fastener is released, the tool will stop spinning.  This way you can take the nut off by hand and not worry about the nut dropping and now you’re trying to find it in an engine block. The last two items are #1 and #2.  This is a self-tapping mode for light metal and heavy metal.  When the tool senses an increase in torque, the tool will shut down and prevent the self-tapping screws from stripping or breaking a head.

This is a really cool and unique feature for the tool.   This is a quick selector.  So instead of changing speeds at the base, you can just use your index finger and change between 1-4 speeds.  Perfect if you only have one hand available or are in a tight spot.  You can also use this to program your favorite setting such as speed 3.

The impact driver uses a variable speed trigger so no matter what selection you are in, you can still control the speed of the tool.

While some manufacturers put an LED light on the base or just above the trigger, Makita places an LED light on the left and right side of the tool.

The handle is the typical Makita handle with the rubber over-mold grip.  For me, I like these handles as they are very comfortable.

Makita XDT16Z Review Performance

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So I could sit here and tell you that we did 3,000 screws, buried some fasteners into steel and this thing rocks. While we ran a ton of different fasteners and this tool shines, there is more to this tool.  Sure it has plenty of power, run time is great and will complete a ton of tasks but for this impact, it’s different and not just the power.  Power is expected, run time is expected and in today’s battery world, you can run these tools all day.  Here is where this tool shines, convenience.

First, it is the convenience of having so many features at your fingertips. The four speeds and the different assist modes. Second, I love how I can change the speed with my index finger and not have to deal with the base.  Sure the base is fine but there are those times it’s much better with your finger.

So for me, it is the weight and balance, to power ratio.  Once you get this impact driver in your hands, you will fall in love with it right away. I know we have been criticized because we talk about the ergonomics but for some in the field that is huge. A perfect example is my electrician.  He was in his 50’s and I got talking to him asking about his impact. While he loves it, he leaves the day with his shoulders on fire.  He has done so much abuse to them over the years, weight and ergonomics is an issue.  As he told me, he uses his hammer so much and goes back and forth from impact driver, to hammer to working with pipe.  Mostly over his head.  So for him, even a couple of ounces a day means much less stress on his shoulders throughout the day.  So yes, ergonomics are very important to a lot of people and this driver has it.

The size makes it perfect for cabinets, drywall and so much more. People who need power, people who need to get into tight spots, people working overhead and so much more.

Makita XDT16Z Review Value

You can pick up a bare tool for about $190 on Amazon.  While it might seem like a lot without a battery or charger, it’s well worth the cost.  Once you get this driver in your hands, you will see why so many people love this driver.  It’s powerful, smooth and will tackle any task.

Makita XDT16Z Review Final Thoughts

As of this article, my top tool for 2019 is the Makita XDT16.  I love the design and power.  First, it’s very lightweight, powerful and is packed in a small body. Second, I love the innovation of the impact driver.  I love how I can use it as a driver but then there is assist mode for the common items you use an impact for.  Best of all, I love the small switch to change speeds without having to mess around with the base. All in all, this is a great impact driver and this keeps Makita at the top of the impact driver class.

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What do you think of when you think of Bosch?  Probably concrete, cordless tools, and saws.  Do you think of drivers?  Maybe some of you do but I am sure some don’t.  Well, Bosch has a cool tool that combines an impact driver with an impact wrench.  Yes, they have had others out in the past.  However, this is the newest addition, the Bosch GDX18V-1800.  So let’s jump into the Bosch Cordless Impact Driver Wrench Review. The Freak.

Features

The Freak weighs 2.6 lbs and is fairly small in size considering the power.  The Freak is 8.2″ tall and only 5.8″ long.  So in regards to power, it produces 1,800 in. lbs of torque which is impressive of a tool this size.  The brushless motor delivers 4,200 impacts per minute.

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While the Freak will work with any Bosch 18V batteries, it really shines with the Bosch Core batteries.

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The Bosch Freak is a half driver and half wrench.  As you can see it will accept a 1/4 in the center of the anvil or 1/2″ socket on the friction anvil.

The handle has a rubber over mold grip and this is also where you can insert the BlueTooth connectivity.

On the base of the tool, there is an LED light.

There is also a place to turn on and off the LED light along with changing the mode.

Performance

When it comes down to performance, this tool will not let you down.  Powerful, what else can you say?

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Using the tool for an impact driver sank screws fast and was effortless.

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Sinking a wide variety of lag screws was the same, it sank them easy and the tool was sinking them fast.

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Even using a spade bit, the tool didn’t hiccup and drove the bit through.  Faster than we thought.

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We ended up liking this driver so much, we had the guys use it when they were installing the lift in the shop.

Value

You can pick up the bare tool on Amazon for about $160 (GDX18V-1800CN).  If you want a battery, you can pick that up for about $200 (GDX18V-1800CB15) and if you want two batteries, it will cost about another $100 for a total of $300.

So here is my thought.  I think it’s a great deal for the bare of kit with one battery.  I would not buy the kit with two batteries as that is priced wrong.  A single 4Ah Bosch Core battery retails for about $72 on Amazon.  So for me, I would buy the kit with a single battery because it’s worth the jump from a bare tool to a tool with a battery.  If you need two batteries, just buy the kit with a single battery and buy an extra battery which would save you $30.

Thoughts

As you know I am a fan of Bosch.  They have always been dependable and lasted over the year.  However, when I think of impact drivers and wrenches, Bosch was never really my go-to tool.  Nothing against Bosch, it’s just the way it was for me. I have to also admit that I am never a fan of a jack of all trades tool.

With those two items being said, this does break the mold for me.  It makes me have a new vision for Bosch when it comes to impact driver and wrenches.  I love the way it feels, handles and performs.  So for Being a jack of all trades tool, this performs great at the impact driver and the impact wrench aspects. So I am sold on this tool and love being able to do a wide variety of tasks with a single tool, and do it well.

The post Bosch Cordless Impact Driver Wrench Review appeared first on Tools In Action - Power Tool Reviews.

When it comes to impact drivers, Makita is known as one of the leading power tool manufacturers for this category.  Not sure if it all started with the 12V impact driver that everyone owned back in the day or the quality of their impact driver.  I am sure it’s a little bit of both.  So today we are covering a more modern version of the 12V impact driver, the Makita XDT14 Impact Review.

Makita XDT14 Impact Review Overview

Impact drivers are an amazing tool for driving large fasteners such as 3″ screws or lag screws.  While they were first introduced in Japan, the US quickly caught on and realized the potential of these tools. Now you will find an impact driver in any tool arsenal as they are great for cabinetry work, drywall and a ton of other tasks. So let’s dive into the Makita XDT14.

Makita XDT14 Impact Review Features

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The Makita XDT14 uses a brushless motor that delivers up to 1,550 in-lbs of torque. The tool is designed for power but also to be used in tight spaces.  The tool only weighs 3.3 lbs with a battery and is 4-5/8″ in length. The tool features a quick shift mode that balances speed and power to match the application at hand.

The kit comes with two 5Ah batteries.  These batteries are part of the Makita 18V line of power tools.

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The tool has a 1/4″ chuck that is a one-handed operation.  So just insert the bit and it will lock into place.

The impact is built with a variable speed trigger.

On the base of the tool is where you can control the speed.  There are three speeds with a T-Mode.

• Speed 1 – 0 – 1,100 rpm, 0 – 1,100 ipm
• Speed 2 – 0 -2,100 rpm, 0 – 2,600 ipm
• Speed 3 – 0 – 3,600 rpm, 0 – 3,800 ipm

The T-Mode is a tightening mode for self-drilling screws. The drill “Downshifts” and reduces rotation and impact to protect the screw and the work.

The handle is designed with a rubber over mold.

Just above the trigger, there are two LED lights that are activated when you press the trigger but can also be controlled with an independent button on the base of the driver.

Makita XDT14 Impact Review Performance

So here is the deal.  We can do so much with this to test the impact driver such as see how many screws it will drive before the battery dies, we can find out the largest lag it will sink, but that’s not what I am looking at for this tool.

With today’s impacts, they all last a long time before the battery needs to be changed and you can easily get past the 30 to 60 minute charge time with a battery, so time isn’t a concern.  For the lags, if you are sinking large lags all day, you won’t be using this type of impact, so why test it?

This is the type of tool you will use for drywall, cabinets, HVAC and other daily tasks. So for me, the most important thing is can it sink a 3″ screw because of most of the time, we won’t be going over this size.  Also, how are the ergonomics since I will be using this all day long? Will it feel like a brick at the end of the day? Will the grip cause my arthritis to act up at the end of the day?  So ergonomics is important.

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It’s no surprise this can sink 3.5″ screws and below with ease.  So when it comes to performing tasks, it’s really a no brainer. Even the T-mode works great and does exactly what they advertise.

So for ergonomics, yes this is one of the best feeling and all-around impact drivers.  When you consider the power to weight ratio, it rocks. While I love the 5Ah battery for run time, the 2Ah battery just makes this tool stand out above the rest.

Makita XDT14 Impact Review Value

You can pick this up at your local Home Depot for about $308 for the kit.  You can buy a bare tool cheaper, but I love the 5Ah batteries and the case.  Overall, it’s a decent price.  Sure I would like to see it cheaper, but I understand what this tool can do and who it’s designed for, so the price isn’t a bad deal.

Makita XDT14 Impact Review Final Thoughts

Overall, I love this impact. While it’s powerful and has some very cool features, I love the ergonomics of this tool.  It’s lightweight, with a light head which means you can use it all day and even get in tight spots.  Sure, I would like to see it priced around the $260 mark, but it is a quality tool that is made for the professional and made to last the daily abuse so I can’t balk at the price.

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It’s no secret that tools are expensive. When making such large investments, it’s important to combine and save where you can. Tool manufacturers have combined tools in the past, some with great success, others not as much. Impact Drivers have a huge place in a tool arsenal, as do Impact Wrenches. Often times you’ll find both in a garage. What if you could combine them, without losing stability and power? Well, Bosch did just that in their newest model, the GDX18V-1600N. Let’s take a look at this in the Bosch Socket Ready Impact Driver Review and see if it stacks up to their individual counterparts.

Bosch Socket Ready Impact Driver Review Overview

There are tons of adapters on the market made to do just what Bosch aims to do with this tool. But, my experience has been pretty sour. A, generally they don’t work all that well, giving some shake to the socket. B, you certainly can’t get the full use of torque from the driver. I know some people who love to use their drivers this way, I just have never had much luck with it myself.

Now, Bosch decided to make their latest Impact Driver socket ready, meaning no adaptors to hassle with and no loss of power to use them. Bosch has blown my mind these last few months, they’ve launched a slew of new and innovative tools, like their Cordless Palm Router, or Cordless Planer. They’ve also continued to improve upon their staples too, like their new Core Batteries and tools like grinders.

Bosch Socket Ready Impact Driver Review Features

The Bosch Socket Ready Impact Driver is cordless and weighs in at 2.4 pounds without a battery and runs on Bosch’s 18V battery line.

With 1600 In. Lbs of torque and no-load speeds of 2600 RPM and 3600 BPM this impact driver packs quite a powerful punch using a hammer and anvil system.

The driver features a unique head, allowing for both 1/4 inch hex shank bits or 1/2 in. square impact sockets.

The variable speed trigger allows for customization of speed by the user and works in both forward and reverse. The impact has three modes, reverse, lock, and forward controlled easily by the push button on the tool.

The electronic cell and motor protection protect the tool from overheating.

Bosch includes an LED light for maximum workplace visibility.

The included belt clip can be mounted on the left or right of the tool. The included dual-ended bit is always a nice touch for quick and simple jobs.

Bosch Socket Ready Impact Driver Review Performance

The driver side of this tool works great, the simple chuck grabs the bit securely and performs well. I did have to lubricate the chuck slightly after the first few uses as the bits seemed to be a bit snug but it was not a problem once greased. I use drivers a lot, and this one certainly has its place in my shop. There is more than enough power in this driver for virtually anything you throw at it.

I used the socket side of this even more lately. My first test was on my truck. When I purchased the truck, quite a few lug nuts were stripped, and naturally, I discovered this when I ran over a nail about two weeks into owning it. I gotta say, it’s pretty hard to change a tire with partially stripped lugs with nothing more than the manufacturer provided lug wrench. I put off switching these lugs out because despite the frustration I felt that day, life got in the way. The perfect first test was replacing the lugs and wheel locks on the truck, and that was a breeze with this tool.

I ended up also using this tool a lot on my old John Deere as well. If you follow us on Instagram, you’ve seen me talk about that a bit. It’s still a work in progress, as it seems each time one thing gets fixed, something else goes kaput. This Socket Ready Impact Driver saved me so much time and energy. Replacing pulleys, blades and some of the base assembly was a breeze even on rusted bolts. Ultimately, you can find a stronger impact wrench separately. But, for the vast majority of users, this driver is more than sufficient.

Bosch Socket Ready Impact Driver Review Value

The Bosch Socket Ready Impact Driver is available on Amazon for $120 dollars for a bare tool. To me, this is an incredibly fair price point, and I think most people will agree. As of now, Bosch is the only maker of a socket ready impact driver.

This is a great value for a new homeowner looking to purchase both tools, and professionals will love it for the space savings and solid power. If you are into Bosch’s 18V line, the value is even better. Adding in a battery and charger will add some cost to the mix, but Bosch makes a lot of 18v tools that are worth investing in too.

Bosch Socket Ready Impact Driver Review Final Thoughts 

All said and done, this is a great tool. In the time I’ve owned it, I’ve used it much more than I thought possible. It’s been consistent and dependable. Bosch priced this tool well, especially given they are the only manufacturer using this combination design as of now. I love the combination of the tools uses, allowing fewer trips to the toolbox. Less hassle and solid performance, I couldn’t ask for anything more.

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