Impact Drivers

About Impact Drivers

Impact drivers have become an essential tool for both professional tradespeople and serious DIY enthusiasts across the UK. Unlike traditional drill drivers or combi drills, these specialist power tools are purpose-built for driving screws and fasteners with exceptional speed and efficiency. Their defining feature is a rotational impact mechanism that delivers sudden, powerful bursts of torque, allowing them to drive even the longest and largest screws with minimal effort from the user. This makes them invaluable for decking, framing, cabinetry, and any application involving heavy-duty fastening work.

The key advantage of an impact driver lies in its superior torque-to-weight ratio. Without the adjustable clutch found on drill drivers, these tools channel all their power directly into fastening applications, reaching torque levels that would be impossible with conventional cordless drills. They feature a ¼" hex chuck that accepts quick-change screwdriver bits and impact-rated accessories, making bit changes fast and effortless on site. The hammering action also reduces cam-out and stripped screw heads, whilst the user experiences significantly less wrist strain compared to using a standard drill driver for the same tasks.

Our range includes machines from trusted manufacturers including Makita, DeWalt, Milwaukee, Bosch Professional, Festool, and Sealey, spanning voltage platforms from compact 10.8V/12V models perfect for tight spaces through to powerful 18V and 20V machines capable of tackling the most demanding professional applications. Whether you're a joiner working on timber frames, a general builder assembling stud walls, or a homeowner undertaking renovation projects, there's an impact driver suited to your requirements and budget.

Jargon Buster

• Impact Mechanism: The rotational hammering action that delivers sudden bursts of high torque. This mechanism produces the distinctive rattling sound during operation and is what differentiates impact drivers from standard drill drivers.
• Nm (Newton Metres): The unit of measurement for torque. Impact drivers typically deliver between 100-220Nm, significantly higher than the 40-80Nm found on most cordless drill drivers. Higher Nm ratings indicate greater fastening power.
• Brushless Motor: Modern motor technology that eliminates carbon brushes, resulting in longer runtime, increased power efficiency, reduced maintenance requirements, and extended tool life. Most premium models now feature brushless technology.
• Ah (Ampere Hours): Battery capacity measurement indicating how long a battery will run before requiring recharge. Common capacities range from 1.5Ah to 6.0Ah, with higher ratings providing longer runtime but adding extra weight.
• IPM (Impacts Per Minute): Measures how many times per minute the impact mechanism strikes. Typically ranging from 2,000 to 4,000 IPM, higher rates generally mean faster driving speeds.
• ¼" Hex Chuck: The industry-standard quick-change chuck system that accepts hex shank bits. Some models feature magnetic bit holders to prevent bits falling out during overhead work.

Who Uses Impact Drivers?

Impact drivers are relied upon daily by a wide range of trades and users:

• Joiners and Carpenters: Essential for timber framing, decking installation, cabinet assembly, and stud wall construction
• General Builders: Multi-purpose fastening tool for everything from plasterboard fixing to structural timber work
• Roofers: Driving roofing screws into battens and fixing cladding materials efficiently
• Fencers and Landscapers: Assembling fence panels, building pergolas, and constructing garden structures
• Shopfitters: Installing retail fixtures, shelving systems, and display units at speed
• Dry Liners: Fixing plasterboard sheets to metal and timber studs throughout the day
• Window and Door Installers: Securing frames and hanging heavy timber doors with long fixings
• Maintenance Engineers: General repairs and installations across facilities management
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home renovations, garden projects, furniture assembly, and general maintenance tasks requiring faster, easier fastening than conventional drills provide

How to Choose the Right Impact Driver

Voltage Platform: Your choice between 10.8V/12V and 18V/20V depends on your typical applications. Compact 12V models offer excellent manoeuvrability in confined spaces, reduced weight for overhead work, and sufficient power for general fastening tasks. They're ideal for first-fix carpentry, cabinet installation, and lighter construction work. The 18V class delivers substantially higher torque for heavy-duty applications like structural framing, large decking projects, and driving long lag bolts. Consider which voltage platform matches your existing battery ecosystem if you already own cordless tools.

Torque Output: Measured in Newton metres (Nm), torque determines the size and length of fasteners you can drive effectively. Entry-level models providing 100-140Nm suit general DIY and light trade use, whilst professional-grade machines delivering 160-220Nm handle demanding site work with larger fixings. Match the torque rating to your most challenging typical applications rather than occasional peak demands.

Motor Technology: Brushless motors represent the current industry standard for professional tools, offering approximately 30% longer runtime, greater power efficiency, and extended service life compared to brushed equivalents. Whilst brushless models command a premium, they deliver better value over the tool's lifetime through reduced maintenance and superior performance.

Speed and Control: Multiple speed settings or variable speed triggers provide greater versatility. Look for models offering adjustable power modes that let you dial back the torque for smaller screws or delicate materials, preventing over-driving and damage. Some premium machines include electronic torque control for precision fastening applications.

Ergonomics and Weight: Since impact drivers are often used throughout entire working days, comfort matters significantly. Compact models weigh as little as 1kg (bare tool), reducing fatigue during prolonged use or overhead work. Check the grip diameter suits your hand size, and consider tools with LED work lights for visibility in poorly lit areas. Rubber overmoulding improves grip comfort, particularly important during cold weather site work.

Kit Contents: Decide whether you need a bare unit (tool only), a kit with one battery and charger, or a comprehensive package with multiple batteries and a carry case. If you're already invested in a battery platform from manufacturers like Makita, DeWalt, Milwaukee, or Bosch, buying bare units represents excellent value. For those starting fresh or requiring a standalone tool, complete kits with 2.0-4.0Ah batteries provide everything needed to start work immediately.

Popular Accessories

• Impact-Rated Screwdriver Bits: Essential accessories specifically designed to withstand the hammering action. Standard bits will quickly fracture under impact stress. Quality impact bits from brands like Makita, Bosch, and Trend feature torsion zones that flex to absorb shock, significantly extending lifespan.
• Bit Sets and Holders: Comprehensive bit sets covering Phillips, Pozi, Torx, and hex profiles ensure you're prepared for any fastener. Magnetic bit holders extend reach and provide secure bit retention during overhead work.
• Impact-Rated Drill Bits: Hex shank drill bits allow impact drivers to perform drilling operations in timber and thin metal when needed, though a dedicated drill driver remains preferable for extensive drilling work.
• Socket Adapters: Convert your impact driver into a lightweight impact wrench for loosening nuts and bolts. Particularly useful for maintenance work and mechanical applications, though dedicated impact wrenches offer greater torque for automotive use.
• Additional Batteries: Extra battery packs in various capacities maintain productivity throughout the working day. Consider 4.0-5.0Ah batteries for extended runtime or 2.0Ah compact batteries to reduce weight for overhead applications.
• Fast Chargers: Rapid charging technology can fully charge a depleted battery in 30-60 minutes, minimising downtime on site. Some models offer USB charging ports for mobile devices.
• Tool Bags and Cases: Protect your investment during transport and storage with purpose-designed carry cases or integrate into modular storage systems like DeWalt TSTAK, Milwaukee PACKOUT, or Makita MakPac.

Safety Information

Whilst impact drivers are relatively safe power tools, following proper safety protocols protects against injury:

Eye Protection: Always wear safety glasses conforming to BS EN 166 standards. The impact mechanism can cause fasteners, bits, or material fragments to break away unexpectedly, particularly when working with brittle materials or damaged fixings.

Impact-Rated Accessories: Never use standard screwdriver bits or drill bits in impact drivers. The hammering action generates stresses that standard accessories cannot withstand, leading to bit fracture and potential eye injuries or lacerations. Only use accessories explicitly marked as impact-rated or impact-duty.

Secure Workpieces: Ensure materials are properly secured before fastening. The high torque can cause workpieces to spin unexpectedly, potentially causing crush injuries or damage to the work.

Hearing Protection: Impact drivers produce noise levels that may exceed 85dB during operation. For prolonged daily use, consider wearing hearing protection compliant with HSE guidelines, particularly in enclosed spaces where noise reflects off surrounding surfaces.

Battery Safety: Use only manufacturer-approved batteries and chargers. Counterfeit batteries pose fire risks and may damage the tool. Store batteries away from metal objects that could short-circuit the terminals, and avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures or moisture.

Electrical Safety: When drilling or driving fixings into walls, use a cable and pipe detector to avoid hidden wiring and plumbing, particularly important given UK building regulations regarding concealed services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between an impact driver and a combi drill?

Impact drivers specialise in driving screws and fasteners, using a rotational hammering mechanism that delivers much higher torque than combi drills. They lack the adjustable clutch and three-jaw chuck found on combi drills, instead featuring a ¼" hex chuck for quick-change bits. Combi drills are more versatile for drilling applications and offer better control for delicate work, but impact drivers excel at heavy-duty fastening tasks with significantly less user fatigue.

Can I use an impact driver for drilling holes?

Yes, impact drivers can drill holes using hex shank drill bits, and they're particularly effective for drilling large diameter holes in timber where high torque is beneficial. However, they're not ideal as a primary drilling tool because they lack the precision control and multi-jaw chuck of dedicated drills. For extensive drilling work, especially in masonry or metal, a drill driver or combi drill remains the better choice.

Do I need 18V power or will 12V be sufficient?

For general carpentry, cabinet installation, first-fix work, and typical DIY projects, 12V impact drivers provide ample power whilst offering superior manoeuvrability and reduced weight. Choose 18V models if you regularly drive long lag bolts, work with dense hardwoods, build structural timber frames, or need maximum performance for demanding professional applications. Many tradespeople own both: a 12V for everyday tasks and confined spaces, and an 18V for heavy-duty work.

Why do impact drivers make that loud rattling noise?

The distinctive sound comes from the impact mechanism engaging. When the motor encounters resistance beyond a certain threshold, spring-loaded hammers strike an anvil multiple times per second, creating the characteristic noise whilst delivering powerful rotational impacts. This is normal operation, not a fault. The noise indicates the impact mechanism is working correctly to drive the fastener home.

Are brushless impact drivers worth the extra cost?

For professional users and frequent DIY enthusiasts, yes. Brushless motors deliver approximately 30% longer runtime per battery charge, generate more power from the same battery, require zero maintenance (no brushes to replace), and significantly outlast brushed motors. Whilst the initial investment is higher, the improved efficiency, longevity, and performance represent better long-term value. For occasional DIY use, brushed models remain perfectly adequate and cost-effective.