What is the best air impact wrench? The ability of the air impact wrench to handle tightening and loosening of the screws, bolts and nuts with the ripped or rusted thread is its main advantage. With the advanced technologies available these tools will loosen the oldest fasteners which you have already given up to overcome with a hand wrench. The air impact wrenches are mostly demanded in the auto service shops. Almost all professional mechanics have switched to this type of an impact wrench because it significantly saves time and efforts. Besides, it is the safest option as it has no motor, thus electricity hazards are excluded. And this is another benefit if the work performed when the high content of fuel vapors in the air is present. However, there is no risk of spark formation in case if you deal with the pneumatic tool. The CHICAGO PNEUMATIC TOOL CP7782-6 features all the above-mentioned advantages of the air impact wrenches and even more!
What do I like the most in this model? Chicago Pneumatic has been known as the reliable manufacturer of the air tools since 1901. The CP7782-6 is a comparatively new product which features the best innovations and advanced technologies developed by the company for the last years. It is a 1-inch impact wrench which can handle the most heavy-duty projects in the automotive industry and construction sector. This model boasts the extra high reverse impact torque which may reach 2,140 ft-lbs. in its class. The 6-inch shank will perfectly suit the jobs on loosening and removing larger fasteners like wheel lugs from the heavy vehicles. The 3-power settings will contribute to the efficiency and accuracy of any job.
Besides, the unmatched functionality, this model combines the ergonomic features like an angled-down exhaust, and an adjustable handle to switch from the right to left grip arrangement depending on the individual needs and working conditions.
CONTENT
- 1 Why are the air impact wrenches so popular among the professionals?
- 2 Top-7 air impact wrenches
- 3 10 Best Air Impact Wrench Comparison Table
- 4 Features to be considered when looking for an air impact wrench | Buyers' Guide
- 5 FAQ
Why are the air impact wrenches so popular among the professionals?
Impact wrenches are the high-torque power tools used for removing or tightening of extremely tight screws, bolts and nuts. These tools differ from each other by the type of a driving mechanism which can be in a pneumatic, electric or battery-powered form. However, the impact air wrench is regarded as one of the most efficient tools which allow tightening / undoing or re-doing screws by means of the compressed air at a super quick pace. It facilitates the life of many auto mechanics, professionals at the construction sites, and DIY enthusiasts which spend plenty of time at the garage servicing personal vehicles. The air wrench provides far better torque, guaranteeing more safety and reliability than those achieved by hand or with a weaker form of power tools like a drill, electric or battery-powered wrench.
However, you may face a particular concern related to a wide variety of devices offered on the market. Our guide will help you to choose the right option satisfying your needs. Besides, you will get to know which features should be obligatory considered when being on the fence about your perfect tool.
Top-7 air impact wrenches
The most advanced and top-rated models have been picked up here, to show you the big diversity of functions of this single pneumatic tool, like the adjustable torque from Chicago Pneumatic Tool, high-performance twin hammer mechanism from the highly-recognizable Ingersoll Rand, the Goplus with its several drive square sizes, etc.
1. CHICAGO PNEUMATIC TOOL CP7782-6
This air impact wrench comes in an ergonomic, reliable and durable design. This 1 ”model is suitable for the toughest applications on any heavy-duty vehicles. Its 6-inch extended anvil proves its power to tackle the heaviest jobs. This unit features 3 power settings in forward / reverse direction with the idle speed up to 5200 RPM. Its reinforced rocking dog hammer mechanism contributes to the higher efficiency when tightening or undoing large screws.
The CP7782-6 also comes with an ergonomic side handle and a dual socket retainer ring with a hole for the convenience and trouble-free operation.
Features
- Max. torque in reverse (ft-lbs): 2,140
- Speed: 5200 RPM
- Drive size (inch): 1
- Weight (lbs): 25.6
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 23 x 9 x 6
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This is a great air impact wrench for equipment repair, heavy-duty automotive jobs, and other extreme applications, which delivers extra high torque, power and reliability.
Chicago Pneumatic: Check the current price
2. INGERSOLL RAND IRT2235TIMAX
This model is offered by one of the leading company producing the air compressors and power tools for more than 100 years. They are known for the high-class quality of their products suitable for the most heavy-duty applications at the industrial facilities and construction sites.
The 1/2-Inch 2235TiMAX is not an exception from the general Ingersoll Rand's rule and capable of dealing with multiple tasks. This model is designed to run on an air compressor which makes it capable of delivering up to 1,350 ft-lbs. and thus minimizing fatigue of a user. The precise control is ensured by the 4-position power regulator and one-handed forward / reverse button.
This model comes in the solid design and titanium twin-hammer case which allows withstanding the most severe usage and reducing vibration during operation. The weight of this tool is comparatively light equal to 5 lbs. which contributes even more to the accuracy and convenience of its use.
Features
- Max. torque (ft-lbs): 1,350
- Speed (RPM): 8,500
- Drive size (inch): 1/2
- Weight (lbs): 5
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 9 x 10 x 3
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This model can tackle the most demanding assembly and dismantling jobs both for professional and personal use. Thus, you will never regret about this worthy investment.
Ingersoll Rand: Check the current price
3. GOPLUS 1 "AIR IMPACT WRENCH
Due to 1-inch drive square this model will be suitable for servicing and repairing heavy-duty equipment and vehicles. Its professional-grade performance is proved by the maximum torque of 1,900 ft-lbs. and the 6-position speed control in both directions forward and reverse.
This tool is built from aluminum alloy and coated with an anti-corrosion finish. Its auxiliary handle creates more convenience during operation. Thus, the above-mentioned features increase the service life and reliability of this air impact wrench.
More than that, this unit comes with a set of useful attachments in a rugged molded case. The package includes 1-1 / 2 inches and 1-5 / 8 inches sockets which contribute to versatility of this model.
Features
- Max. torque (ft-lbs): 1,900
- Speed (RPM): 4,200
- Drive size (inch): 1
- Weight of the set (lbs): 40.9
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 26 x 13 x 8
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First of all, I would recommend this tool because of its versatility. It can become a great addition to any tool set for accomplishing multiple tasks with no hassle.
Goplus: Check the current price
4. NITROCAT1200-K
Nitrocat tools belong to the Aircat line of the advanced pneumatic tools. The company was established in 1998 and has been continuously improving the existing products and introducing innovations and technologies which enhances the performance, reliability and user-friendliness of their tools.
The NITROCAT 1200-K, 1/2 inches is declared as one of the most powerful options capable to outperform its counterparts in this class. It features up to 1,295 ft-lbs. max. torque in reverse and an extra powerful twin impact mechanism for the toughest applications. In spite of the high power and torque ratings, this unit runs with the considerably reduced noise level of 86 dB only.
This model also comes in an ergonomic design from Kevlar composite materials with its patented handle and a forward / reverse flip lever for an easy operation.
Features
- Max. torque in reverse (ft-lbs): 1,295
- Speed (RPM): 8,000
- Drive size (inch): 1/2
- Weight (lbs): 4.6
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 8 x 2.7 x 7.5
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If you are looking for a worthy air impact wrench, the 1200-K might become a good option which will fulfill the tough jobs on undoing old or jammed screws even better than the more expensive air wrenches could do.
NITROCAT: Check the current price
5. AIRCAT1150
This 1/2 inches model features enough power and torque to deal with the tough applications in the professional and DIY fields. This air wrench comes with a twin-hammer mechanism which improves the efficiency and quickness of any job. It is equipped with the Vibrotherm drive which reduces noise and vibration during operation. It runs quietly generating 86dB only. Its patented muffler system prevents back pressure generation, thus accumulating more power and contributing to quieter operation, as well.
The AIRCAT1150 housing is made of the composite materials which make it durable and lightweight. Besides, it has a patented ergonomic handle which a secure and comfortable grip.
Features
- Max. torque in reverse (ft-lbs): 1,295
- Speed (RPM): 9,000
- Drive size (inch): 1/2
- Weight (lbs): 4.5
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 7.6 x 2.7 x 7.4
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It is an awesome power efficient model which provides the high torque combined with the smooth and noiseless running at a great price.
AIRCAT: Check the current price
6. HUSKY H4480
This 1/2-inch air impact wrench has enough capacity to suit the professional-grade applications in a compact and low-weight design. This model delivers up to 800 ft./lbs. With the help of the twin hammer mechanism of the latest design, this unit features enough force to deal with the toughest jobs. Also, the HUSKY H4480 is equipped with a silencer which reduces noise level considerably. Besides, this model has a ring-type retainer for reliable socket fixation in place.
The unit is made of the composite materials contributing to the durability of the tool and minimum fatigue of a user. The built-in 1 handed forward-reverse button is very convenient for a user.
Features
- Max. torque (ft-lbs): 800
- Speed (RPM): 7,000
- Drive size (inch): 1/2
- Weight (lbs): 4.3
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 7.2 x 2.5 x 8.2
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It is an awesome air impact wrench which will please any DIY enthusiast or a mechanic amateur with its power and lightweight design at a very affordable price.
Husky: Check the current price
7. NITROCAT1076-XL
Similarly to all products from the Aircat range, this extra compact model features the significant performance and reliability. The tool is capable of generating up to 550 ft.lbs. torque. With its reliable jumbo hammer mechanism the force of the tool is much higher to screw or undo the fasteners more effectively. The patented silencing technology of this unit contributes to noise reduction down to 85 dB. This model also features a combine reverse / power control switch to enhance precision of the operation with one hand.
This air wrench comes in a low weight composite design which will be suitable for the most tightest spaces and serve you long and flawlessly.
Features
- Max. torque (ft-lbs): 550
- Speed (RPM): 9,000
- Drive size (inch): 3/8
- Weight (lbs): 2.6
- Dimensions (L x W x H) (in): 4.3 x 2.4 x 6.6
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This model deserves a closer look if you are going to use it in the hard-to-reach places and assemblies, as it gets those places easily and does the required job quickly.
AIRCAT: Check the current price
10 Best Air Impact Wrench Comparison Table
Chicago Pneumatic Tool CP7782-6 Heavy Duty 1-Inch Impact Wrench with 6-Inch Extended Anvil 1/2 in. Titanium Impact Wrench 
Goplus 1 "Air Impact Wrench Gun Heavy Duty Pneumatic Tool Long Shank Commercial Truck Mechanics w / Case 1/2 in. Kevlar Twin Clutch Impact Wrench 1/2 in. Impact Wrench 800 ft./lbs. 1/2 in. Impact Wrench NITROCAT 3/8 in. Composite Compact Impact Wrench 
ACDelco ANI405 Heavy Duty Twin Hammer 1/2 "Air Impact Wrench Pneumatic Tools 
TZTool 1200 All new Diesel 1/2 "AIR Impact wrench set w 21 PC Deep impact sockets and Extension 
Ingersoll Rand 2145QiMax 3/4-Inch Composite, Quiet ImpactTool, Blue / Silver, Standard Anvil Features to be considered when looking for an air impact wrench | Buyers' Guide
- Wrench type. The power wrenches can be operated with an integrated impact mechanism and without it. Let's find out the main difference between such tools.
Due to the high torque and impulses of the hammer mechanism of a wrench, such tool features better efficiency and performance characteristics in comparison with the conventional power wrenches. Impact devices are quite powerful to handle rusted or jammed fasteners. Some extra powerful models are capable of undoing even large-sized bolts and nuts. Also, impact wrenches are widely used for the large-scale construction or repair projects. However, you should remember that the improved performance of such tools results into the higher cost.
The power wrenches are used simply to screw and unscrew bolts and nuts. That is, the fasteners are driven only by means of shaft rotation. These tools are less powerful with the lower torque. Wrenches without an impact mechanism hardly handle large screws or fail to undo a rusted nut. Thus, they are more suitable for small-sized screws or for getting more precision of a particular job. Lower prices for the impactless wrench will become an additional benefit for a customer who plans to use it for the light-duty or occasional jobs.
- Design peculiarities. Also all impact wrenches can be classified according to the design and configuration. In particular they are offered in in-line or “butterfly”, angle and pistol grip options. Angle and in-line wrenches are less common but still available. Angle models are designed with the motor in a handle. Usually, such wrenches are compact and lightweight tools which are especially useful at the tight spaces like an engine compartment of a car. Such devices are common helpers in auto service centers, assembling shops, and line productions.
The inline impact wrenches are equipped with a butterfly throttle which allows immediate changing of the direction from forward to reverse. Besides, due to the high torque, they can be successfully used for breaking out even the very old fasteners.
The pistol-grip design is the most common on the modern market. Such tools are capable of undoing jammed or rusted screws of various sizes. The weight is commonly heavy, thus the pistol wrenches are usually equipped with an additional handle. As a rule, this type of impact wrenches is highly demanded at various production facilities, auto service centers and tire shops.
- Max torque. This parameter means the highest torque a tool can reach, for instance, when loosening a rusted nut, etc. It is very important to differ the maximum torque of an impact wrench from the operating one. You can’t operate your tool to the maximum on the constant basis; otherwise it will result into an early wear of the components and the wrench itself. Thus, you should select a device depending on the sphere of its application. If the maximum torque matches your main daily-basis activities, it's better to choose more powerful option. In particular, the highest torque of the professional-grade wrenches may reach up to 2000 ft-lbs. and higher. But the optimal value would be in the range of 1200-1500 ft-lbs.
- Drive size. The air impact wrenches are offered with various drive sizes. Depending on your job conditions and the size of screws, you can choose from 1, 1 1/2, 1/2, ¾ and 3/8 range. But remember that the selected size should also match the rated torque of your wrench. Thus, the higher the torque is, the bigger screws the tool will handle. On the contrary, the smaller the drive size, the lower the torque will be.
- Speed (RPM). This parameter can be mistakenly considered as the torque range which determines the power of an impact wrench. Of course, the rotation speed of a tool can also enhance its performance; however the RPM will mostly influence the operating speed. The heavy-duty professional-grade models can reach up to 9,000 RPMs. Thus, having picked up a powerful high-speed tool, you should always bear in mind that the thread of the small-sized fasteners can be stripped at the high speed ranges. And special precautions must be taken, accordingly.
- Design. Impact wrenches are made from steel, aluminum, or combination of the composite materials. The air impact wrenches with the steel or aluminum body are more resistant to a negligent use, dirt or collapse. Obviously, such models are heavier in comparison with the counterparts from the composite materials. For this purpose, many advanced models come with an additional handle for better stability and convenience for a user. Besides, the majority of these tools have the rubberized coating.
A composite built wrench is a combination of metal and plastic. Such body takes the advantages of both materials. Due to the latter the weight of a wrench is considerably lighter. Such tools feature an ergonomic non-slip handle, and a body which contributes to lower vibration in comparison with the metal alternatives. However, such models are more exposed to dirt and debris from the outside and are more sensitive.
- Shank length. The length of the wrench shank can be different depending on the purposes and conditions of its application. The elongated spindle allows handling deepened screws at the tight spaces. Commonly, the powerful air impact wrenches for the heavy-duty applications like servicing of trucks, etc., are equipped with a long spindle.
- Power setting. The powerful air impact wrenches are capable of generating more torque to deal with the large rusty or fused fasteners and bigger volumes. The possibility of speed setting allows control of the torque of a wrench. Thus, this function will be useful for tightening or loosening screws more safely. The number of speed settings depends on a particular model and its performance characteristics.
- Air compressor selection. Now, you are a happy owner of an air impact wrench which corresponds to all your requirements. Nevertheless, this is not the end of the picking-up story! It is the time to proceed with the selection of an air compressor. The latter should ensure the required operating pressure and an adequate consumption of the compressed air. The standard range of the operating pressure is in the range from 90 PSI to 95 PSI. Thus, the compressor which you are planning to use should be rated for 145 PSI max. In other words, it should be at least 1.5 times above the operating rates.
Air consumption is a very important parameter for a pneumatic impact wrench. Taking into consideration this value you may choose an appropriate tool for the compressor already available, or purchase a compressor for your air unit. An average air impact wrench would consume around 5 CFM. The latter is a rough estimation which will be influenced by the operating intensity and loads. If air consumption will not match the appropriate rating of your compressor, then you might have problems with lack of the air to properly operate your tool with the desired torque.
FAQ
What air compressor do I need for an impact wrench?
In order to ensure efficient and trouble-free operation of your air impact wrench, the source of the compressed air should be compatible with it. In particular, air consumption and operating pressure must be rated accordingly.
Ideally, the operating pressure of a compressor should be twice as high as the rating pressure of a tool. And the capacity of the compressor should be 20-30% higher than that of the tool. If these conditions are observed, your air wrench will be running flawlessly.
The air supply system is a must for the purpose of starting and running of an air impact wrench. Also, you will need a hose to connect the tool with the air compressor before its starting. Besides, a water filter for the compressor and an oil cup to lubricate the internal moving parts of the wrench to prevent friction and an early wear will be crucial elements as well.
Assembling and presetting.
- First, you should connect the air wrench and the compressor with a hose and tighten it.
- Power the compressor and wait till it reaches the desired pressure level.
- Before running the air wrench, you should carry out a trial start in order to check its correct functioning. Push a trigger and check the rotation. Then release a trigger and select a desired speed. Also, try to change the rotation direction of the tool.
- Install a shank of an appropriate size and check its retainer, if available.
If all conditions are satisfied, you can proceed with the operation of your air impact wrench.
The adjustment of the torque is a crucial function for the modern impact wrenches. It would be absolutely wrong to use an impact wrench with the same torque for all standard sizes of the screws. It is necessary to observe the common procedures related to compliance of fastener size with the rated tightening force. For instance, smaller screws, bolts and nuts should be handled with lower torque; otherwise there is a high risk of their damage. Larger bolts could be tightened with the same wrench which has the higher power settings due to the fact that higher force is required.