Impact Drivers (68 items found)

When the job calls for something a little more powerful than a classic drill, stay ready with an impact driver to get the job done. Use our helpful impact driver buying guide to learn more about the types of impact drivers, their benefits and which options are best for you.

What is an Impact Driver?

An impact driver, also called an impact drill, is a type of power tool designed primarily for driving fasteners like screws and bolts into tough materials. Unlike standard drills, impact drivers deliver high torque through rapid, intense bursts of rotational force combined with a forward thrust. This makes them ideal for loosening tight fasteners or driving screws into dense surfaces such as hardwood, metal or concrete.

Impact drivers typically feature a compact, gun-like body and are available in both corded and cordless models. They’re favored by professionals and DIY enthusiasts for their efficiency, power and ability to handle challenging tasks with ease.

Types of Impact Drills

Choosing the right impact driver involves understanding key differences in motor types and power sources. Here’s a comparison to help you decide which driver is best for you.

Brushed vs. Brushless Impact Drivers

One of the key features to look for when selecting a battery impact driver is the motor type. A brushless impact driver often delivers a longer service life. Since brushless impact drivers also produce less heat, they reduce the risk of burnout. Brushless motors typically offer multiple speed settings and run longer on a single charge but tend to be more expensive. Brushed impact drivers are suitable alternatives at a more affordable price.

Corded vs. Cordless Impact Drivers

Corded impact drivers offer consistent power and are ideal for heavy-duty tasks as they don't rely on battery life. Cordless impact drivers, on the other hand, provide greater mobility and convenience, making them perfect for on-the-go projects. However, cordless models may require frequent recharging and can be less powerful than their corded counterparts, especially during extended use.

What’s the Difference Between an Impact Drill and an Impact Wrench?

An impact driver is designed for driving screws and bolts, using high torque and rotational force that’s suitable for woodworking and general construction. An impact wrench is intended for loosening and tightening nuts and bolts and delivering significantly higher torque, making it ideal for automotive and heavy machinery tasks.

Benefits of Impact Drills

Power drills and hand impact drivers might look the same, but they both excel in different ways. Impact drivers are favored by professionals and DIYers for their high-powered performance that makes quick work of difficult tasks that classic drills can’t handle.

Here are just a few benefits you stand to gain with an impact drill:

• Increased torque: Because impact drivers have more torque than power drills, they’re ideal for driving screws, bolts and other fasteners into very dense surfaces such as concrete, brick, metal or hardwoods.
• Greater speed and RPMs: Thanks to the increased torque of an impact driver, they operate at higher speeds and offer more rotations per minute (RPM). The increased RPMs help prevent the motor from overheating or burning out during big jobs that require repeatedly driving screws and lugs into thicker surfaces.
• Controlled tightening: Impact drills lessen the likelihood of stripping screws with their ability to stay in contact with the screw, tightening in quick bursts.
• Less physical strain: When operating a drill, greater physical strength is required to hold the drill in place and press the drill into the surface. Impact drivers help minimize physical strain as the downward force from the driver is passed directly to the screw or bolt versus your forearm and wrist.

Shop Impact Drills Near You at Ace

Ace carries a wide array of battery impact driver tools and kits from brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita and Craftsman. Shop our selection online or find impact drivers in-store at your nearest Ace Hardware. Then discover ways to easily transport and organize your tools with tool bags. Any questions? We’ve got answers. Our helpful staff are ready and waiting to give you the right advice to make your next project a piece of cake.