What are the best DeWalt impact drivers?
If you’re looking for the best DeWalt impact driver, the answer depends on what you’ll be using it for. Here are a few features to consider when choosing the best impact driver for your needs:
- Torque: You’ll want to choose an impact driver with enough force to get the job done, whether it be driving a screw into another piece of metal or driving coach bolts into hardwood. If you’re wondering how much torque a DeWalt impact driver has, the DeWalt DCF815D2 12v model can deliver up to 107 Nm of torque, whereas the DeWalt DCF887 delivers up to 205 Nm.
- Chuck size: It’s important to remember that most DeWalt impact drivers take a ¼ inch hex chuck, making one of these tools a suitable option if you’d rather not buy extra specialised bits or adapters.
- Voltage: Impact drivers are available with in 18v and 12v models. 18v impact drivers provide the most power for heavy duty jobs, but 12v may be a better option if you value a lighter, more ergonomic power tool over a heavy, more powerful one.
What kind of tasks can you use a DeWalt impact driver for?
Impact drivers are best suited to high power applications rather than delicate tasks or for fastening short screws. These power tools are ideal for:
- Heavy duty fastening tasks like driving screws into tough, rigid materials — especially where a standard drill would struggle.
- Handling large screws like lag bolts and securing them into materials.
- Time sensitive tasks where you need rapid screw driving.
From building decks and fastening metal brackets to installing floorboards, you can use an impact driver for a range of tasks.
No matter the project at hand, an impact driver from a trusted brand like DeWalt is well worth the investment. At Toolstore UK, we stock a variety of DeWalt’s brushless impact drivers, available as complete sets or body only impact driver options if you have a battery already.
Browse our range and enjoy free delivery as well as a 1 year manufacturer’s warranty as standard. Got a few questions for us? Get in touch and we’ll be happy to help.
DeWalt impact drivers FAQs
How do DeWalt impact drivers work?
A DeWalt impact driver uses sudden rotational force combined with torque to drive in fasteners efficiently and quickly. This causes enough thrust for the fastener to secure into your chosen material. A ‘two steps forward, one step’ back mechanism — which can occur up to 50 timers per second — increases the tool’s force for a truly secure fit.
How do I attach or change the drill bit of a DeWalt impact driver?
You will need to check the manufacturer’s instructions for your chosen DeWalt impact driver to attach and change the drill bit. However, most drill bit changes follow the same basic steps:
- Ensure the impact driver is turned off
- Remove the existing driver bit by pulling the collar forward. The old bit will then be released.
- If you have the standard hex shank with a notch at the end, you can attach this directly to the DeWalt impact driver by pulling the collar forward and pushing the bit in to lock it.
- If you have other drill bits, you will need to use a chuck adapter. You can insert this into your DeWalt impact driver following step 2.
- You will then be able to insert your drill bit directly into the adapter.
Which DeWalt impact driver is the best?
The DeWalt DCF850 is widely regarded as the best all round DeWalt impact driver. It’s compact, powerful, and features a brushless motor with a 3 speed setting, making it ideal for high torque applications in tight spaces.
How much is a DeWalt impact driver?
DeWalt impact drivers range in price from around £60 for a bare unit to over £350 for kits with batteries and chargers. Pricing depends on the model, power output, and included accessories.
What is the difference between a DeWalt drill and an impact driver?
The main difference between a drill and an impact driver lies in their purpose and mechanism. A DeWalt drill is versatile and best suited for creating holes and handling lighter fastening tasks. An impact driver, on the other hand, is designed for heavy duty screwdriving, using rotational force and concussive impacts to drive screws or bolts into tough materials.
What is the difference between an impact driver and a brushless impact driver?
A brushless impact driver uses advanced motor technology for better efficiency, reduced heat, and longer battery life — especially when compared to traditional brushed motors. While both options offer excellent torque, a brushless model is typically preferred for frequent use as it requires less maintenance and ensures consistent performance.
Why use an impact driver instead of a drill?
An impact driver is the go to tool when you need to drive screws quickly and securely, especially when working with dense materials. Its high torque output prevents stripping, making it ideal for assembling timber frames or installing decking. Its compact design also fits into tighter spaces easier than a standard drill.
Can I use an impact drill on concrete?
While a DeWalt cordless impact driver is powerful, it’s not designed for drilling into concrete. For masonry tasks, you’ll need a hammer drill or rotary hammer to provide the force to penetrate concrete.
Can you use an impact driver as a screwdriver?
Yes, you can use an impact driver for screwdriving tasks. In fact, it's often more efficient than a standard screwdriver for long screws or dense materials. However, for delicate work like assembling furniture, you may want to use a screwdriver or a drill with adjustable torque settings to avoid over tightening.