Milwaukee 2962-20 Impact Wrench Review A Powerful Mid-Torque Tool You’ll Love

Description

An Impressive Tool with Compact Power

I recently got my hands on the Milwaukee 2962-22 18V Li-Ion Brushless 1/2″ Impact Wrench w/Friction Ring Kit, and I have to say, it’s a tool that surprised me in many ways. As someone who frequently works on DIY projects and occasionally helps friends with their car repairs, finding a cordless impact wrench that balances power, weight, and ease of use has always felt like a challenge. This product, however, manages to tick several boxes, though there are a few things worth noting.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things I noticed when I unboxed this impact wrench was its compact size and lightweight design. Weighing only 5.1 lbs (with the battery attached), it feels comfortable in hand even during extended use. The ergonomic grip is thoughtfully designed, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces—something that’s often a struggle with bulkier tools. I found this especially useful when I was replacing lug nuts on a friend’s car, as the compact design allowed me to work without having to reposition the car unnecessarily.

The inclusion of Tri-LEDs surrounding the anvil is another design element I didn’t know I needed until I used it in a dimly lit garage. These LEDs provide brighter illumination with fewer shadows, which made a noticeable difference when accessing bolts in recessed or awkward spots.

Power That Packs a Punch

This brushless impact wrench delivers a whopping 650 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque, and let me tell you, it’s no exaggeration. I used it on some stubborn bolts that hadn’t been touched in years, and it handled them with ease. The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor not only provides the necessary power but also ensures efficiency without draining the battery too quickly.

What I truly appreciated, though, was the 4-Mode DRIVE CONTROL. This feature offers adjustable speed and power settings, making it adaptable for different applications. The Mode 4 AUTO SHUT-OFF control was a lifesaver when working on delicate tasks, as it ensures no more than 35 ft-lbs of torque, preventing overtightening. While I didn’t think I’d use the Bolt Removal Control much, it turned out to be incredibly practical. It delivers full torque output initially but slows down the RPM once the bolt is loosened, which significantly reduces the chance of dropping fasteners.

Key Benefits

• Lightweight yet powerful: The tool offers an impressive power-to-weight ratio, making it suitable for prolonged use without fatigue.
• Versatility: Between its 4-Mode DRIVE CONTROL and compact design, it’s perfect for everything from automotive repairs to home improvement tasks.
• Battery efficiency: The M18 Lithium-Ion 5.0Ah batteries included in the kit provide long-lasting performance, ensuring I didn’t have to pause frequently to recharge.
• LED illumination: The Tri-LEDs reduce shadows, which is especially handy in low-light conditions.

Areas of Concern

While this tool is impressive overall, it’s not without its flaws.

• Price point: This is undeniably a premium product, and while its features justify the cost to some extent, it may not be the most budget-friendly option for casual users.
• Weight with accessories: While the wrench itself is lightweight, the carrying case and additional accessories add bulk, making it less convenient to transport.
• Limited battery compatibility: It’s worth noting that the included batteries are only compatible with other M18 tools, which could be a drawback if you don’t already own other products in this lineup.

Competing Products

When comparing this to other mid-torque impact wrenches, a few competitors come to mind. The DeWALT DCF894 offers similar torque levels and features, but I found the Milwaukee model more compact and easier to handle in tight spaces. On the other hand, brands like Makita and Ryobi have cordless impact wrenches that are slightly more affordable, though they don’t quite match the build quality and precision of this tool.

One area where the Milwaukee 2962-22 stands out is the AUTO SHUT-OFF and Bolt Removal modes, which I haven’t seen implemented as effectively in competing products. However, some competitors offer slightly better battery life, particularly for users working on heavy-duty tasks all day long.

Value for Money

When considering value for money, this tool is a solid investment for professionals or avid DIYers who need reliable performance and adaptability. While it’s on the pricier side, the combination of high torque, compact design, and intelligent features like the 4-Mode DRIVE CONTROL make it worth the splurge. If you’re someone who will use it regularly for both light and heavy-duty tasks, it certainly delivers on its promises.

For more casual users, though, there are less expensive options available that might suffice for occasional use. But if you’re looking for a durable, professional-grade tool, you’ll likely find this one to be worth every penny.

In summary, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed using this cordless impact wrench, and its features have genuinely made certain tasks easier and more efficient to tackle. While there are a few quirks to consider, the benefits far outweigh the downsides, solidifying its place as a versatile addition to any toolkit.

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