Top Impact Drivers Take the Lead

Impact drivers are tools that drive fasteners, and their performance is a key consideration when evaluating them. The top three impact drivers in a recent head-to-head review scored 90 points or more in performance tests, setting them apart from the rest.

Testing the Impact Drivers

These impact drivers were tested using a variety of methods, including driving structural screws and lag screws, as well as a bolt breaking test. The Flex FX1371A, Milwaukee 2953, and Ridgid R862312 were the top performers in these tests.

The first test involved driving large structural screws into a stacked and glued OSB subfloor. The Flex FX1371A completed this test in an average of 5.86 seconds, followed by the Milwaukee 2953 at 5.96 seconds. This test is key in evaluating the impact drivers’ performance, as it assesses their ability to handle demanding tasks. The use of a stacked and glued OSB subfloor provides a challenging material that requires significant torque and power to drive the screws.

The impact drivers were also tested on their ability to drive lag screws, which is not a typical application for these tools. However, this test provides valuable insights into their high-torque capabilities. The Flex FX1371A and Milwaukee 2953 performed exceptionally well in this test, with the Flex FX1371A achieving a remaining length of 0.63 inches and the Milwaukee 2953 achieving 1.06 inches.

Performance Results

The results of the tests showed that these three impact drivers had a significant advantage over the rest of the field.

A closer examination of the performance results reveals that the Flex FX1371A had the best overall impact driver performance, while the Milwaukee 2953 had the best balance of performance, size, and weight. The Ridgid R862312 had the best balance of performance and price. These distinct strengths make each impact driver suitable for different users and applications.

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The performance tests also involved using different batteries for each impact driver. The Flex FX1371A was tested with a 6.0Ah Stacked Lithium battery, while the Milwaukee 2953 and Ridgid R862312 were tested with 8.0Ah Forge and 8.0Ah Max Output EXP batteries, respectively.

For serious DIYers and value-conscious professionals, the Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless PBLID04 is a compelling impact driver, with a price that is hard to beat and a broad battery system. This impact driver posted impressive results in the performance tests, including a 6.80 seconds average time for driving structural screws and a 1.13 inches remaining length for driving lag screws.

Impact Driver Features

These impact drivers have a variety of features, including self-tapping screw modes that reduce the risk of shearing off screw heads, and one-hand bit insertion that allows for easy bit changes. They also have tri-beam LEDs that surround the collet and reduce shadows. The Flex FX1371A features a Quick Eject system, which allows for rapid bit changes with the press of a button.

The Milwaukee 2953 and Ridgid R862312 also have distinct features that set them apart. The Milwaukee 2953 has a Lifetime Service Agreement that provides users with peace of mind and protection for their investment. The Ridgid R862312 has a Max Output EXP battery that provides high-capacity power and extended runtime.

When choosing an impact driver, it’s essential to consider the needs of the user. For professionals who require high-performance tools, the Flex FX1371A or Milwaukee 2953 may be the best choice. For those on a budget, the Ridgid R862312 or Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless PBLID04 could be a better option. Ultimately, the selection of an impact driver depends on the specific requirements and preferences of the user.

In terms of performance, these impact drivers are significantly better than the average of the other Pro models tested, with a total performance score of 100 points for the Flex FX1371A, 97 points for the Milwaukee 2953, and 90 points for the Ridgid R862312. The Ryobi 18V One+ HP Brushless PBLID04 also achieved a 90 points total performance score, making it a strong contender in the DIY and value-conscious Pro markets.