Impact Drivers

What Is an Impact Driver?

- It delivers short bursts of torque to drive screws without stripping

- Swap bits with one hand

- Work anywhere with a cordless impact driver

- It has a 1/4 in hex quick-change chuck (collet) and accepts impact-rated 1/4 in hex bits.

What’s an Impact Driver Used For?

- Framing screws and structural screws

- Decking and long timber screws

- Lag bolts with a pilot hole

- Metal roofing and self-tapping screws

- Tight spaces where a drill stalls

How to Choose Your Impact Driver

Start With the Platform You Already Own

If you already have batteries and a charger, stay on that brand. You save money, and everything stays compatible.

Match Voltage to the Job

Pick 12V for compact work and service calls. Step up to 18V or 20V for framing, decking, and long structural screws.

Pick Power for the Task

For deck screws, target about 1,000–1,500 in-lb. For large lags, look for 1,800 in-lb or more.

Choose Control

Look for two to four speeds and an assist or precision mode. These features protect small fasteners and thin metal.

Consider Noise

Hydraulic drivers like SURGE or Oil-Impulse cut noise and vibration. They work well in finished rooms and occupied spaces.

Check Size

Short head length helps in cabinets and between studs. If clearance is tight, a right-angle driver solves access.

Decide on Kit or Bare Tool

Buy a kit when you need batteries and a charger. Choose a bare tool if you already own the platform to keep costs down.

Battery and Charger Choices

Pick the battery size for the job. 2.0Ah keeps weight down for overhead work. 5.0Ah and up adds runtime for decking. Rapid chargers cut downtime if you cycle packs all day.

Ergonomics and Weight

Check tool weight and head length. Lighter tools reduce fatigue on ladders. Shorter heads fit between studs and inside cabinets.

Lighting and Controls

Look for an LED ring, one-hand bit insert, belt hook, and precision or self-tapping modes. These small features speed up real work.

Hydraulic Trade-offs

Hydraulic drivers run quieter and feel smoother, but can be slower on big fasteners. If you drive large lags all day, keep a standard impact in the kit.

Accessories That Matter

Stock impact-rated bits, nutsetters, and a socket adapter. Add long 6–8 in bits for cabinets and a magnetic tray to keep hardware close.

Cold Weather and Storage

In Canadian winters, warm cold packs before use and store batteries at room temperature. Avoid charging below freezing.

Our Top Impact Driver Picks

Compact 12V

- Milwaukee 3450-20 M12 Subcompact Brushless. Short and light for overhead and service work. This Milwaukee impact driver is easy to carry all day.

- DEWALT DCF801F2 12V Kit. Includes batteries and charger. A solid DEWALT impact driver starter kit.

Quiet Hydraulic

Bare Tools

- Milwaukee 2551-20 M12 SURGE. Smoother feel and lower noise indoors.

- Milwaukee 2761-20 M18 SURGE. Quieter driving with 18V power for bigger screws. This Milwaukee impact driver keeps noise in check.

- Makita DTS141Z Oil-Impulse. Quieter option for Makita LXT. A reliable Makita impact driver for finished spaces.

Kits

- Milwaukee 2551-22 M12 SURGE Kit. Small and quiet for tight spaces.

- Milwaukee 2761-22 M18 SURGE Kit. Batteries and charger included.

Core 18V and 20V

- Milwaukee 2656-20 M18. Reliable daily driver for framing and decking. This Milwaukee impact driver covers most jobs.

- DEWALT DCF860B 20V MAX XR. Three speeds for larger fasteners and lags. This DEWALT impact driver adds control and punch.

Budget

- EINHELL 4510060 18V bare. Lower entry price for light tasks.

- Milwaukee 2462-20 M12 bare. Affordable 12V for everyday jobs.

Right-Angle Access

- Milwaukee 2467-20 M12 Right Angle. Reaches between studs and inside cabinets.

- Makita DTL061Z 18V Right Angle. A Makita impact driver built for tight bays.

Platform Note

Batteries must stay within each platform. They do not cross between brands.

FAQs About Impact Drivers

What’s the difference between an impact driver and a drill?

An impact driver delivers short bursts of torque that keep the bit engaged and drive screws with less slipping. A drill spins smoothly for making holes and light fastening.

Do more volts always mean more torque?

Not by themselves. 20V MAX and 18V use the same five-cell packs; the label differs. Real performance comes from the motor, electronics, and the battery’s amp hours. Compare torque, rpm, and modes instead of the sticker.

Does higher amp-hour make the tool stronger?

Higher amp-hour adds runtime, not peak torque. A 5.0Ah pack often holds voltage better under load than a 2.0Ah pack, so the tool may feel steadier, but the motor’s design still sets the ceiling.

Can an impact driver remove lug nuts?

Sometimes, but don’t rely on it. Lug nuts need controlled, higher torque. Use a 1/2 in impact wrench with impact sockets to avoid damage and get a safe, consistent result.

Do I need a pilot hole for lag bolts?

Often yes. A small pilot reduces splitting, speeds the drive, and keeps the head clean. Softwoods and short lags may go without a pilot, but dense lumber and long lags drive better with one.

Are hydraulic drivers weaker?

They are quieter and feel smoother, but they can be slower on big fasteners. If you drive large lags all day, keep a standard impact handy and use the hydraulic model for indoor or shared spaces.

Is brushless always worth it?

For frequent use, yes. Brushless motors run cooler, deliver better runtime, and last longer. For light, occasional jobs, a brushed model can be fine and cheaper.

Can I drill holes with an impact driver?

Yes, with 1/4 in hex drill bits, but a drill makes cleaner, rounder holes and gives better control. For masonry, use a hammer drill. For large wood bits, use a drill with a clutch.
Shop electric, pneumatic, and outdoor power tools at Jean-Claude Cayer Enterprises. Get real advice from a team serving Eastern Ontario since 1988. Visit our showroom or shop online with pickup or fast shipping.