Impact wrenches are one of the most common tools used in both a professional setting or someone who is just working around the house. You can either use them with electricity or an air compressor. The way an impact wrench works is a hammer at very high speed spins which engages a socket that delivers a large amount of torque.

The most popular of all impact wrenches is the air wrench. You can get them also in electric which comes cordless or with the cord or you can buy hydraulic models too. Most people especially those working on cars or in the automotive field use air impact wrenches. There are some things you need to consider before going out and purchasing an impact wrench. What type of power source do you want and what size socket your are looking for. You have to decide if you want to go with an air tool which you have to consider only if you have an air compressor. For lighter jobs you might want to go with the electric impact wrench. Which then you will have to decide if you want to go cordless or not.

To me if you are going to go the route of electric then I would definitely go the cordless route. But in my opinion air impact wrenches are the way to go.

You will also have to choose the socket size and this will depend on what you will be using this wrench for. What type of jobs you will be doing. The electric impact wrenches are usually a little cheaper than air. They do not need a compressor. It is usually cheaper in the way to if you do not already have an air compressor this will be an added expense. If you are not needing the impact wrench for work and only need to use it on occasion. Or maybe you are doing minor automotive work such as changing the tires then a electric impact wrench is probably what you are looking for.

Cordless impact wrenches are pretty inexpensive and are very easy to maneuver for those light jobs around the house. One of the bigger choices your will have is the size of sockets you will need. Impact wrenches are available in sizes ranging from 1/4″ to 1″ and go from there. The most popular size when working at home is 1/2″ socket. If you are working on Vehicles such as an SUV or larger car you might go to a 3/4 socket. When working on a Semi Trick you would probably go with 1″. But most people unless you work in a industrial environment would not need any larger than that. Next you will need to choose from the different models of impact wrenches. For low torque you can choose from the smaller wrench that is shaped almost like a screw driver. Most impact wrenches are shaped like a. Most common being the 1/2″. For the larger torque levels these impact wrenches will have a T or D grip. The more power the more you need to grip something.

Choosing the right wrench for you will definitely depend on the type of job you will be doing. This is definitely something to consider before you make your purchase and it is always good to ask questions. So decide what type of power is going to fit your needs, the socket size and the model you want. Next decide which brand you want to go with. There are so many great tool makers out there. When going electric or air you can go with Dewalt, Hitachi, Makita, Ingersoll Rand, Snap On, Matco to name a few. So next all you need to do is go shopping!!