An impact driver is a handy tool every toolbox should have. It’s a winner when it comes to driving fasteners through hard surfaces. Yet, while an impact screwdriver is helpful, it might not be the best tool in certain situations, such as drilling holes. When Not to Use an Impact Driver, This article will highlight some of these instances so you don’t end up misusing the tool.
What Is an Impact Driver?
Cordless impact driver in a workshop.
An impact driver is a tool that drives bolts and screws into various materials. In other words, the handheld tool works like a traditional cordless drill. Only it’s designed to move large fasteners that would.
Benefits of an Impact Driver
An impact driver fastens two different materials.
Higher torque: The rotational force of an impact screwdriver is five times more powerful than a regular drill’s.
Easy to use: The tool is not only smaller and lighter but also has a shorter head for a terrific grip.
Uses vital bits: An impact screwdriver is made to work with hex-shank bits, which are pretty strong and won’t get snapped quickly.
Motor-powered: Most impact screwdrivers run on batteries, and you need little effort to operate them.
When Not to Use an Impact Driver
An impact driver in use outdoors.
You don’t want to use an impact driver in certain situations, including the following.
- Situation 1. Drilling Holes
While an impact driver can drill a hole, it’s not fit for the job. The high torque the tool produces could end up over-drilling the spot. The spot might not be as precise, too, as impact screwdrivers have limited control.
- Situation 2: Working with Non-Hex Shank Bits
These power drivers work with specially designed hex-shank bits, which can withstand the additional torque associated with impact drivers. So, save your regular driver bits (non-hex shank bits) for when you’re using a hand drill.
- Situation 3: Working with Short Screws
An impact screwdriver is made to drive large fasteners, including lag bolts. Driving short screws with the tool could get the screw heads snapped. You’re likely to overtighten these, too, which can crack the fastened materials.
- Situation 4: Fastening Soft Materials
Due to its high rotational torque, a power drill is unsuitable for driving fasteners through delicate materials, including softwood. Otherwise, it could quickly get these materials damaged.
- Situation 5: Precision Work
Precision jobs that a hand drill can handle well. The tool isn’t ideal for precision work. It’s just that an impact screwdriver is a tad difficult to control due to its back-and-forth banging action.
How to Choose the Best Impact Drivers
Here are some factors to consider when choosing impact drivers.
Impact drivers help drive a screw.
Voltage: The more voltage an impact driver has, the higher the torque it will produce.
Motor type: Drivers with brushless motors last longer, are more efficient, and generate less heat than their counterparts with brushed motors.
Speed settings: Go for a driver with variable torque settings, so you have an extensive RPM range to explore.
Advanced controls: You might want to grab a driver with a setting that locks the trigger for safety purposes.
Conclusion
I hope this article was helpful, and you’re not going to misuse your impact screwdriver(s) next time. We provide you with the most comprehensive information – you only need to contact us.
