Impact Wrenches

Impact wrenches are heavy-duty power tools designed to tighten or loosen stubborn and high-torque fasteners such as nuts and bolts with minimal user effort. Often called impact guns, they use rapid rotational impacts to deliver far greater torque than manual wrenches.

While both impact wrenches and impact drivers provide boosted fastening power, they serve different purposes: impact wrenches handle sockets and heavy fasteners like lug nuts, whereas impact drivers drive long screws and bits. This distinction makes impact wrenches essential for automotive, industrial, and construction tasks where reliable torque output is critical.

Types of Impact Gun

Choosing the right power tool depends on its power source and handle configuration. Each type of impact wrench is built to deliver specific performance advantages in different working environments.

By Power Source

• Pneumatic Impact Wrenches: Powered by compressed air, these impact wrenches offer consistent performance and are widely used in workshops and automotive settings. They are durable, powerful, and ideal for continuous operation.
• Cordless Impact Wrenches (Brushless Impact Wrench): Battery-powered and highly portable, cordless models use efficient brushless motors for longer runtime and reduced maintenance. They are suitable for field service, on-site construction, and technicians who require mobility.
• Corded Electric Impact Wrenches: Corded models provide reliable, uninterrupted power without batteries or air compressors. They are useful for workshop environments that prioritise consistent torque output.
• Hydraulic Impact Wrenches: Typically found in heavy-duty applications, hydraulic models deliver extremely high torque for industrial assembly, heavy machinery maintenance, and applications that require maximum fastening force.

By Handle Configuration

• Pistol Grip: A familiar trigger-style handle offering excellent control and balance, ideal for general mechanical, automotive, and construction work.
• Inline: A straight design suited for tight or awkward spaces, enabling precise manoeuvring where pistol grips may not fit.

Key Features and Benefits of Impact Wrenches

Impact wrenches are powerful tools that can take on heavier tasks compared to typical wrenches. Here are how they are typically built, and some of the benefits of using one:

• High Torque Output: Impact wrenches deliver from moderate torque levels suitable for automotive tasks (150-300 ft-lbs) up to industrial-strength torque exceeding 750 ft-lbs for heavy construction equipment.
• Multi-Speed and Torque Settings: Many power impact wrench models offer variable speed and adjustable torque control, enabling users to tailor power output for delicate or demanding fastening tasks.
• Ergonomic Design: Most impact wrenches feature ergonomic design with vibration reduction to improve comfort during extended use and improve handling of the power tool.
• Built-in LED Lights: Most cordless impact wrenches include integrated illumination for working in dim or confined areas with precision and safety.
• Brushless Motor Technology: Heavy duty impact wrenches and higher end models are equipped with brushless motors to enhance power efficiency, reduce heat generation, and lower maintenance needs compared to brushed motor equivalents.
• Advanced Battery Technology: Lithium-ion batteries provide high power density, long runtimes, fast charging, and lightweight design, making the impact wrench power tool more portable and be able to use it for longer.

Applications of Power Impact Wrenches

Impact wrenches are used across industries where fast, controlled, and powerful fastening is essential.

• Automotive Industry: Ideal for tyre changes, suspension work, and engine repairs, providing fast removal of lug nuts and bolted components.
• Construction and Heavy Machinery: Used to assemble scaffolding, tighten structural bolts, and service equipment where high torque is needed.
• Manufacturing Plants: Supports assembly lines by speeding up repetitive fastening tasks while maintaining consistent torque.
• Aerospace Industry: Ensures precise fastening on aircraft components, where torque accuracy and reliability are critical.
• DIY and Home Use: A cordless impact wrench helps home workshop owners tackle tasks like furniture assembly, garden equipment maintenance, or vehicle repairs.

Factors to Consider When Buying an Impact Wrench

Here is what you should consider when choosing an impact wrench to match your job needs:

• Torque Requirements: Match the torque of your impact wrench to the tasks you will be doing: lower torque (under 300 ft-lbs) for DIY or light automotive, higher torque (over 500 ft-lbs) for heavy machinery.
• Power Source Preference: Decide how you want your impact wrench or impact gun to be powered. Pneumatic is suitable for general workshop use, while cordless is great for portability, while corded electric is ideal for fixed, repetitive tasks.
• Tool Weight and Size: Consider the ergonomics of your impact wrench and workspace limitations and pick a size that will be easy to handle within your workspace.
• Battery Capacity and Voltage: Higher voltage and amp-hour ratings extend run time and power but may add to tool weight.
• Speed and Impact Rate: Higher RPM and impacts per minute (IPM) yield faster fastening but may require more control.
• Special Features: Look for additional features like LED lights, brushless motors, variable speed controls, and durable housings that can make your impact wrench easier to use.

Trusted Impact Wrench Supplier in Singapore

RS Singapore is a trusted manufacturer, supplier, and distributor of impact wrenches, carrying pneumatic, corded, and brushless cordless models from leading brands including SAM, Bosch, DeWALT, and more. From entry-level price points to heavy-duty industrial tools, our range supports both workshop and on-site applications.

Complete your purchase easily through RS’s secure checkout after adding your chosen impact wrench to the cart. We offer fast, dependable delivery across Singapore, along with complementary tools and accessories. Visit our Delivery Information page for shipping details.