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Impact drivers have over time proven to be essential tools to people handling DIY or professional woodworking projects. With the increased popularity, there also is an increase in the supply of impact drivers in the market as well. This in many ways than one makes the choosing process of the best impact driver a challenge. And with the success of the project hinging on having the best impact driver in your hands all through the project, one cannot afford to make a mistake.
Now, many persons spend endless hours searching for the best Impact driver. Many are looking for a specific answer, a specific impact driver that will solve all their problems. You should note that while referring to the ‘best impact driver,’ this is subjective to every individual’s unique needs. As such, what would work wonders for your friend may do nothing to help you achieve your project needs.
That said, it is important to know some of the factors that you should consider while making a purchase and that make a given Impact driver the best for your needs.
Voltage
Different impact drivers come with different voltage ratings. The higher the voltage rating, the faster the driver will rotate and the more power it comes packing. Most impact drivers have a voltage rating ranging from 12V to 18V. If you are a DIYer and handle lightweight projects most times, getting a high volt impact driver will be a huge waste of your money since you will never utilize it to its maximum potential.
Features
Every year, the technology used on impact drivers upgrades. These units feature better and more functional features with every release. For instance, brushless motors are becoming the new industry standard technology. These motors are powerful and more efficient than the brushed motors that still struggle with friction on the moving parts.
There are also additional features some of the best impact drivers feature including LED work lights, fuel gauge, ergonomic design and compact size. The LED work lights are designed to illuminate the surface you are driving or drilling.
Weight
Prolonged handling of a heavy impact driver can and will cause your arm to fatigue fast. This means that on a long project, you will take numerous breaks to recover slightly from the fatigue. The best impact driver is one that is light enough to be handled with one hand. In addition to this, the unit should be comfortable and easy to hold as well as use.
With regards to the weight, you should note that the weight of a unit may feel great to hold for a few seconds. You should, however, try to imagine how heavy it will feel after holding it for 30 minutes or longer.
Contents of the packaging
The best impact drivers come with carrying cases, chargers, and batteries. You should be aware that there are some brands that may not provide you with all these accessories depending on the price. While most argue that these accessories are easy to get on the market, it is best when you get them in one kit. This way you are sure that they have all been designed to work together perfectly.
For some units, the professional types, they feature a drill as well. These as you might have guessed cost more than getting an impact driver only.
Battery
The best impact drivers feature batteries with long life and shorter recharge times. They have high capacities and still can remain lightweight.
Price
Most units average anywhere around $150. There are, however, some that will cost more or less depending on the voltage, the size, as well as the tech features they sport. Despite the variation in prices, you can be sure to land the best impact driver on the market.
Conclusion
The question we are trying to answer therefore is “what factors make the best impact drivers? With the above collective factors considered, you should be good to go.