What Is an Impact Driver? A Complete Guide for DIYers and Professionals
If you’ve ever tried to drive a long screw into a dense piece of timber and found your drill struggling, you’ve already discovered why impact drivers exist. These compact, high-torque tools have become a staple for tradespeople and DIYers alike but what exactly are they, and how are they different from your standard drill?
🔧 Understanding What an Impact Driver Does
An impact driver is a cordless power tool designed specifically for driving screws, bolts, and fasteners with greater force and efficiency than a regular drill driver.
Unlike a drill, which delivers constant rotational force, an impact driver combines rotation with rapid impact bursts. These impacts apply extra torque in short, powerful bursts, helping drive screws deeper and faster even into tough materials like hardwood or metal.
Think of it as a drill with a built-in hammer effect, but working rotationally instead of percussively.
⚙️ How It Works
Inside an impact driver, there’s a small internal hammer and anvil mechanism. When resistance is detected such as a screw hitting dense wood the hammer strikes the anvil, delivering a burst of torque.
This makes it easier to drive long screws or loosen stubborn bolts without straining your wrist or stripping the screw head.
🔩 Key Benefits of Using an Impact Driver
1. More Torque
Impact drivers produce far greater torque than a standard drill, meaning they handle tougher jobs effortlessly.
2. Compact and Lightweight
Their shorter body design makes them ideal for tight spaces and overhead work.
3. Less Cam-Out
Because of the consistent impacts, the bit stays firmly seated in the screw head, reducing the risk of slippage or damage.
4. Perfect for Long or Thick Screws
Ideal for decking, fencing, framing, and other construction work where high torque is essential.
🛠️ Impact Driver vs Drill Driver
| Feature | Drill Driver | Impact Driver |
|---|---|---|
| Torque | Moderate | High |
| Control | Smooth, precise | Powerful, rapid bursts |
| Use | Drilling holes, light screw driving | Driving long screws, bolts |
| Chuck Type | 3-jaw adjustable | ¼” hex quick-release |
| Best For | Everyday tasks | Heavy-duty fastening |
💡 Many tradespeople keep both a drill for drilling holes, and an impact driver for fastening.
⚡ Choosing the Right Impact Driver
When choosing an impact driver, consider:
- Voltage: 12V for light work, 18V/20V for professional use.
- Torque rating: Higher means more driving power.
- Brushless motor: More efficient, longer-lasting, and delivers more power.
- Battery compatibility: Stay within your brand’s ecosystem (e.g. Makita LXT, DeWalt XR, Milwaukee M18).
Recommended Models:
- Makita DTD172Z 18V LXT Brushless Impact Driver
- DeWalt DCF887N 18V XR Brushless Impact Driver
- Milwaukee M18FID3-0 FUEL Impact Driver
✅ Final Thoughts
An impact driver isn’t just a more powerful drill it’s a precision tool designed for heavy-duty fastening. Whether you’re fitting decking boards, assembling timber frames, or working on site, it delivers strength and speed that make everyday tasks smoother and faster.