The corded electric wrench helps you out in routine events of heavy-duty wrench jobs, no matter what industry or application you need to put in. Loosening & tightening lug nuts of automobiles, construction, machinery, and in-wall applications are easier with it. An electric impact wrench operates on electric power; being a heavy-duty machine, it is advantageous than a manual wrench, operating without utilizing any force by the user. Easing you up, with thorough acknowledgment of insights, features, and specifications—this guide helps you buy corded electric impact depending on your needs.
Editor's Pick | Features | |
 | NitroCat 1200-K Impact Wrench |
Based on the power, capability, motor efficiency, RPM (speed), grip and the ability to carve in the efficient performance, we have selected NitroCat 1200-K as the recommended model.
Factors to Consider while Buying a Corded Electric Impact Wrench
With so many models available, selecting the right one is a complex task. There are several things to consider while buying an impact wrench. The most important one is the purpose for which you need the tool. Other features include torque, size, weight, RPM, and IPM. Some other characteristics are also worth consideration.
Motor Capacity
The power of a motor is directly related to its Amps. A motor with a higher number of amps provides more power. You can complete your work efficiently with an impact wrench having a motor of;
- Regular Use: 7.5 to 8.5 Amps
- Commercial Grade: 8.5 to 10 Amps
Corded electric impact wrench draws power from the direct electric source—thus, for work without any interruption, commercial grades are integrated with high Amps.
Torque
Torque is a twisting force that is generated by rotation, a significant element of impact wrenches to consider—without diving in too much technicalities; it is the indication of sheer power and performance. The Torque ranges are;
- Entry Level: up to 600 ft lbs.
- Commercial Grade: up to 1800 ft lbs.
The torque is genuinely for the power—likewise, the speed is not usually dependent on the torque of the impact wrench. Racers use impact wrench with mostly average torque ratio but highest RPM for fast changeovers.
Speed
The speed of motors is measured in RPM (rounds—revolutions per minute). The no-load speed of an electric impact wrench is likewise measured by Rpm.
The standards RPM of the electric impact wrench is;
- Average Duty: 3000 to 5000 RPM
- Heavy Duty: 5000 to 1100 RPM
To remember: The power of the impact wrench does not depend on the RPM, but we assess the power of a motor by its RPM. A powerful motor will have higher rpm and will produce more power when combined with suitable torque and IPM.
Impacts per Minute
Impact per minute shows the count of times the hammer strikes the anvil in a minute to move the socket in a forward or backward direction. An electric impact wrench with a higher number of RPMs usually has more IPMs. The range that you might consider is;
- Entry Level: 2800 IPM
- Commercial Grade: up to 3400 IPM
More the number of impacts will efficiently apply the force on the nut and save time by completing the work quickly.
Size of the Anvil
The anvil size must be according to your niche of work, different bolts/nuts need a specific size of tool to operate conveniently—for that, inspect your requirements (nut sizes) and select the electric impact wrench with proper size. The general range of sizes are;
- 3/8 inch
- 3/4 inch
- 1/2 inch
½ inch is common in use for most of the operations. On the other hand, 3/4 inch is used for heavy-duty work. If you choose an inappropriate size, you will face trouble and might end up with failure.
Types of the Anvil
Two types of anvils are fitted in electric impact wrenches—detent pin anvil, hog ring anvil.
Detent Pin Anvil
A detent pin anvil uses a spring-loaded bearing to keep the socket in place. To change the socket with a detent pin anvil, you must compress the spring to release the socket. A detent pin anvil holds the socket more firmly as compared to a hog ring anvil.
Hog Ring Anvil
The hog ring anvil retains the socket with a steel ring in a groove on the square drive. Mostly present on the air impact wrenches. They are ornerier to fit the sockets, but likewise gets retains them better.
Weight
While holding the electric impact wrench, to avoid fatigue and strains on your body—go for the light weighted models. The weight range to consider is;
- 4 to 9 pounds
The long hour working tenure needs weight that you can handle and as for the corded models, they are flurry because of no battery is present in them
Grip
Better the grip, more will be the accuracy, and less will be the strain of hands. Most of the models are integrated with;
- Plastic Grip: light weighted—economical and usually comes in stock models of electric impact wrench.
- Rubber Grip: good in hot weathers (stays firm while sweats), slightly weighted than the ordinary plastic ones.
Torque Adjustment
As it is said “with great power comes great responsibility”—the electric impact wrench while loosening or tightening nuts, can eventually break them. The adjustability of torque (power) will achieve you greater accuracy. The adjustability comes as;
- Presets: Different adjustable points are given for a dedicated torque.
- Knob: The power is increased as per user pushes the button deeper.
Maintenance
The usage of corded impact wrench makes the motor and the gear to worn out—heat has an impact on the moving parts. Maintaining them helps in exceeding their life expectancy and efficiency.
How to Maintain your Electric Impact Wrench?
The ways to maintain your electric impact wrench are;
- Never use incorrect sockets or bits.
- Never keep it in moist or damp place.
- Clean dirt, if you have left it openly.
- To prevent jamming, lubricate the parts when needed.
- Clean after every use.
- Never apply excessive torque.
- Inspects the cord before using.
- Check all the parts regularly.
- Use a manufacturer-recommended lubricant.
Maintenance; Brushless Vs. Brushed Motor
The brushless motor needs less maintenance as compared to the traditional motor—they are much recommended; the low maintenance ensures long-term use.
Top 6 Best Corded Electric Impact Wrenches
| Image | Name | Price |
|---|---|---|
 | NitroCat 1200-K Impact Wrench Dimensions: 9.25 x 8.5 x 3 inches Anvil Size: 1/2 inch | Check Price |
 | Ingersoll Rand 285B-6 Heavy Duty Pneumatic Impact Wrench 6 Inch Extended Anvil Dimensions: 20.4 x 7.9 x 7.2 inches | Check Price |
 | AIRCAT 1150 “Killer Torque” Dimensions: 7.5 x 2.8 x 7 inches Material: Composite and Metal | Check Price |
 | Wagan EL2257 12V DC Mighty Impact Wrench Dimensions: 10 x 3.5 x 11 inches Material: Plastic, Rubber | Check Price |
 | DEWALT Impact Wrench Dimensions: 14.5 x 13.6 x 5.3 inches Weight: 9 Pounds | Check Price |
 | Ingersoll-Rand 232TGSL 1/2-Inch Dimensions: 3.4 x 8.2 x 8.8 inches Weight: 2.72 Kilograms | Check Price |
1. NitroCat 1200-K Impact Wrench
Hot Features
- Dimensions: 9.25 x 8.5 x 3 inches
- Anvil Size: 1/2 inch
- Material: Composite and Metal
- Finish Type: Powder Coated
- Torque: 1295-foot pounds
- Finish Powder Coated
- Material: Composite and Metal
- Power Source: Air Powered
- Sound Level: 86 dB
The NitroCat 1200-K comes with twin clutch system that offers robust and adjustable operativity. The potential torque of 1295 feet pounds gives the unmatched power for the model. The user-friendly soft grip and lightweight of only 5 pounds save the operator from fatigue of extensive working.
The composite material and metal coating gives a professional touch to the design. The model has patented quiet technology delivering a sound level of 83 decibels. Ultra-slim structure and easy to use buttons allows you to work efficiently. The ergonomics are thoroughly developed for an even and balanced operativity.
2. Ingersoll Rand 285B-6 Heavy Duty Pneumatic Impact Wrench
Hot Features
- 6 Inch Extended Anvil
- Dimensions: 20.4 x 7.9 x 7.2 inches
- Material: Metal
- Torque 1475 ft lbs.
- Weight: 12.7 Kilograms
- Operation Mode: Pneumatic
- Steel Hammer Case
- Metal housing
- Multiple Retention Methods
- Access Hard-to-Reach Spaces
The Ingersoll Rand gives 285B-6 gives a you an existential power for 1475 feet pounds. The extra-large size of the anvil—6 inches allow you to access hard to reach spaces with potential working. The durability and convenient adjustability help you operate without any hustle.
The design is none other than swept back handle rather than a gun for more grip and working versatility. The model is integrated for commercial grade tasks—stubborn large nuts, truck tires etc. A feather touch system offers the fine control over the torque output of the machine.
3. AIRCAT 1150 “Killer Torque”
Hot Features
- Dimensions: 7.5 x 2.8 x 7 inches
- Material: Composite and Metal
- Finish Type: Powder Coated
- Torque: 1295 Foot Pounds
- 1,400 Blows Per Minute
- Anvil Size ½ inches
- 15-Percent Larger Rotor
- Quiet Technology: 86 decibels
- 2-year Parts and Labor Warranty
The AirCat 1150 Impact Wrench features a 15 percent larger rotor for better distribution of workload. The quiet operativity allows the user to work without any headaches of constant vibrational sounds. The maximum torque of 1295 feet pound features a heavy-duty potential for stubborn or deep grated nuts.
The model has finishing of composite and metal that makes it easier for the user to grip the machine without getting strains and fatigue. The small dimension of 7 X 7 inches helps in transporting it easily even in the dashboard of the vehicle. Delivering an unmatched power potential, the AirCat 1150 gives a 1400 blows per minute.
4. Wagan EL2257 12V DC Mighty Impact Wrench
Hot Features
- Dimensions: 10 x 3.5 x 11 inches
- Material: Plastic, Rubber
- Weight: 5 Pounds
- Lift Type: Forward, Reverse
- Amperage: 8 amps
- No-load speed: 5, 000RPM max
- Max torque: 271 ft lbs.
- Power cord length: 11.4 ft
- Fit type: Universal
- Sound Level: 83 dB
The Wagan 12V DC Impact Wrench delivers a robust speed of 5,000 rpm for fast servicing. The motor draws a nominal of 8 ampere—featuring a lift type of forward and reverse operativity. The model delivers a maximum forward torque of 271 feet pounds, while consuming only a power source of 12 volts.
The connector is easy to attach with the car lighter socket—doesn’t require any sort of alligator clamps to the battery to use. The top is integrated with built-in bubble level, user need to hold to it straight and steady to applied on the tires. The wire length of up to 11 feet is enough for a 7-seater vehicle to change all four tires.
5. DEWALT Impact Wrench
Hot Features
- Dimensions: 14.5 x 13.6 x 5.3 inches
- Weight: 9 Pounds
- Frameless Motor—Replaceable Brushes
- Torque: 345 ft lbs.
- 1/2-inch Detent Pin Anvil
- No-Speed Speed: 2100 rpm
- Rocking Switch: Forward/Reverse
- Soft Grip
- Superior Ergonomics
- Ball Bearing Construction
- Increased Durability
The Dewalt Impact Wrench is integrated with nominal power range of 345 ft lbs. making it energy efficient but the speed of 2100 RPM gives you a whole command over the stubborn nuts. It has a universal anvil of ½ inches allowing the user to work with impact sockets as well. The machine gives an IPM of 2700 while featuring a 7.5 amp of motor.
The aesthetics include a super soft grip—relieving the user from strains, a heavy duty but soft bag for proper transportation. The light weight of 7 pounds (without bag) allows the owner for convenient use. The application recommended for this model are; garage door installation, erecting steel structure, attaching ledger boards, guarding rail assembly and disassembly.
6. Ingersoll-Rand 232TGSL 1/2-Inch
Hot Features
- Dimensions: 3.4 x 8.2 x 8.8 inches
- Weight: 2.72 Kilograms
- Operation Mode: Pneumatic
- Distinctive Appearance
- Item Weight: 5.98 pounds
- Power Source: Air-powered
- Speed: 10,000 RPM
- Adjustable Power Regulator
- Anvil Size 1/2-inch
- Torque: 625 ft lbs.
The Ingersoll-Rand conveys a power of 625-foot pounds that withdraws a speed of maximum 10,000 rpms—this is considered super eligible for professional car racing tire change service. The pneumatic operation mode with slightly comfortable weight of 2.72 kilograms helps the user to perform function efficiently.
This model is extremely popular for an elemental history of performance—revolutionizing the Nascar pit to stop tire changes at their introduction to the sport in 1959. Thus, increasing the market value, it became the first recommendation of 1st place winners.
How to Change a Tire with the Corded Electric Impact?
Conclusion
Getting out of the hustle of tightening and loosening the lug nuts, bolts and other sockets is possible with any of the best corded electric impact wrench. They don’t utilize any force by the user to convey the job—but the main gossip falls on the factors that you need to consider while buying them. This guide holds information about the features (adjustability etc.), compatibility (size of the anvil), performance (torque), grip (rubber—plastic), liability (weight—dimensions) of the certain range. Choosing the right impact wrench according to your field and niche of task is necessary, otherwise the wrench wont work at all, thus, here we help you out of any curiosities that you need to know about the impact wrench.
FAQs
Are corded impact wrenches any good?
The corded impact wrenches are good for loosening or tightening lug nuts, without utilization of any force exerted by the user. The corded feature gives them an endless operativity and power potential while avoiding the hassle of wires.
What is the most powerful air impact wrench?
The Ingersoll Rand 285B-6 Heavy Duty Pneumatic Impact Wrench is the most the power electric impact wrench with an extended anvil of 6 inches and torque production of around 1475 ft lbs.
Do electric impact wrenches work?
They work best for the situations, where you don’t want to waste time on tightening and loosening of nuts, while not utilizing any force by the user.
What is the best impact wrench for auto repair?
Ingersoll-Rand 232TGSL 1/2-Inch Electric Impact Wrench has extensively proved itself in the arena of auto repair—the model is integrated with 625 feet torque and a speed of 10,000 RPMs.
Data Source
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Impact_wrench
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Socket_wrench
- https://www.quora.com/What-is-an-impact-wrench
- https://spsintegratingtechnology.weebly.com/
- https://www.whatech.com/consumer-electronics/blog/686431-what-is-impact-wrench-and-what-is-it-for
