In the realm of power tools, the impact wrench holds a special place. I mean, it’s a tool that can help you conquer those stubborn bolts that refuse to budge.
Among the myriad of brands available, two names often rise to the top – Ingersoll Rand and Milwaukee.
These brands have carved out a niche for themselves, offering tools that are known for their reliability, power, and performance.
But when it comes to choosing between the two, the decision can be a pretty difficult one.
This is where I step in!
My mission in this article is to dissect, analyze, and compare these two powerhouses of the tool world. I’ll delve into the specifics of their impact wrench offerings, examining their features, their strengths, and even their weaknesses.
I’ll also bring you firsthand reviews of specific products from both brands, giving you a closer look at what it’s like to wield these tools.
So, let’s get started!
All About Impact Wrenches
Impact wrenches, also known as impact guns or torque guns, are powerful tools designed to deliver high torque output with minimal exertion by the user.
They are a must-have in any toolbox, especially when dealing with stubborn bolts and nuts that just won’t budge.
They work by storing energy in a rotating mass, then delivering it suddenly to the output shaft, creating a high-torque impact, allowing the user to apply significant torque without the kickback one might experience with a standard manual wrench.
When comparing impact wrenches, there are several key factors to consider:
- Torque: This is the twisting force that the impact wrench can apply to the bolt or nut. More torque means more power to loosen or tighten fasteners. It’s usually measured in foot-pounds (ft-lbs) or Newton-meters (Nm).
- Size and Weight: The size and weight of the impact wrench can affect user comfort and the tool’s suitability for different tasks. A compact, lightweight model may be ideal for tight spaces and prolonged use, while a larger, heavier model may offer more power.
- Speed and Control: Look for an impact wrench with variable speed settings, which allow you to control the tool’s speed and torque for different tasks. Some models also feature a reverse setting for removing bolts and nuts.
- Durability: The best impact wrenches are built to last, with robust construction and high-quality components. They should be able to withstand the rigors of heavy use in demanding environments.
In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at two leading brands in the impact wrench market: Ingersoll Rand and Milwaukee, and we’ll use these key factors to get a closer look of these two brands.
We’ll explore their offerings, delve into specific product reviews, and compare their performance in terms of the factors listed above.
Ingersoll Rand Impact Wrenches
Ingersoll Rand has a reputation for crafting high-quality, durable, and powerful impact wrenches as their tools are designed with the user in mind, focusing on providing maximum power, control, and durability.
Ingersoll Rand’s impact wrenches often feature powerful brushless motors and finely tuned impact mechanisms, which together provide an excellent power-to-weight ratio. This means you get a tool that’s not only powerful but also comfortable to use.
Control is another area where Ingersoll Rand shines.
Their impact wrenches typically include a power control system with multiple modes which allows you to adjust the power output depending on the task at hand, whether you’re dealing with axle nuts, oil pans, or flange bolts.
When it comes to durability, Ingersoll Rand doesn’t cut corners.
Their impact wrenches often feature steel-reinforced frames and impact-and-chemical-resistant housings. This robust construction ensures that the tools can withstand everyday abuse. Plus, the use of brushless motors provides more power and efficiency, leading to a longer tool life.
Next, we’ll dive into a specific product review to give you a firsthand look at an Ingersoll Rand impact wrench in action.
Ingersoll Rand W7152 Impact Wrench
The first thing that hit me was the sheer power of this impact wrench as it unleashes a whopping 1500 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque thanks to its powerful motor.
And with its 4-mode power control, I’m not just wielding raw power, I’m controlling it.
Also, its robust construction can take a beating and keep on ticking, which is key if you want an impact wrench that lasts.
And let’s not forget about the on-tool LED work light. It might seem like a small detail, but when you’re working in a dimly lit area, it’s a god-sent feature.
Milwaukee Impact Wrenches
When I think of Milwaukee impact wrenches, the first thing that comes to mind is their impressive blend of power and compact design.
I mean, these tools are designed to deliver high torque output while being small enough to fit into tight spaces – a combination that’s hard to find in the power tool market.
One of the standout features of Milwaukee impact wrenches is their POWERSTATE™ brushless motors which are designed to provide maximum power and efficiency, which translates to faster removal speeds and more work done on a single charge.
But power isn’t everything, and Milwaukee knows this.
That’s why their impact wrenches also come with a 4-mode DRIVE CONTROL which allows me to adjust the speed and power output of the tool, giving me the flexibility to handle a wide range of applications.
Regarding durability, with their robust construction and REDLINK PLUS™ intelligence, these tools are built to withstand overloads, overheating, and over-discharge. This means I can work longer and harder without worrying about damaging my tool.
Now, I’ll share my firsthand experience with a Milwaukee impact wrench:
Milwaukee 2767-20 M18 Impact Wrench
Features
- Torque: 1,000 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 1,400 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque
- Weight: 6 pounds
- Type: Cordless
This impact wrench delivers a staggering 1,000 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 1,400 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque which is more than enough to tackle any stubborn bolt.
It also features a 4-mode drive control, which gives me a lot of control over the power output to avoid annoying issues like over-torquing.
Regarding durability, it’s got a robust construction that can withstand the rigors of heavy use, meaning I can work longer without worrying about the tool giving out or breaking apart after only a few months of light use.
One feature I particularly appreciate is the on-tool LED work light.
It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference when I’m working in a dimly lit area.
I mean, it’s just another example of how Milwaukee has considered the user’s needs when designing this tool.
Ingersoll Rand vs Milwaukee Impact Wrenches
Let’s dive into the comparison between the two powerhouses of the impact wrench world.
We’ll look at five key factors: Torque output, Price, Battery and Durability.
To compare the two brands I’ll delve into a comparison between the two most popular models of impact wrenches these brands have to offer: the Ingersoll Rand W7152 and the Milwaukee 2767-20 M18.
Torque Output
When it comes to torque, both Ingersoll Rand and Milwaukee are like the heavyweight champions of the impact wrench world.
The Ingersoll Rand W7152, with its nut-busting torque of 1500 ft-lbs, laughs in the face of a rusted bolt and says, “Is that all you’ve got?”
On the other hand, the Milwaukee 2767-20 M18, delivering a slightly lower but still impressive 1400 ft-lbs, might not have the raw power of the Ingersoll Rand, but it’s got the finesse and reliability to get the job done right, every time.
But, in the end, if you’re looking for the absolute maximum torque, Ingersoll Rand takes the cake.
Price
Price is a crucial factor for many buyers, and there’s a noticeable difference between the two brands.
The Ingersoll Rand W7152 is premium tool with a price tag to match, we’re talking north of $600.
On the other hand, the Milwaukee 2767-20 M18 is more like a reliable family sedan.
It’s not as flashy as the Ingersoll Rand, but it’s affordable (at around $500), reliable, and it gets the job done.
So, if budget is a concern, Milwaukee might be the more attractive option.
Battery
Both impact wrenches are part of their respective brands’ cordless tool systems, which means their batteries are interchangeable with other tools from the same brand.
This is a huge plus if you already own other cordless tools from either Ingersoll Rand or Milwaukee.
In terms of battery life, both brands offer high-capacity batteries that provide long run times. So, it’s a tie between Ingersoll Rand and Milwaukee.
Durability
Ingersoll Rand and Milwaukee both have a reputation for building durable tools, and their impact wrenches are no exception.
You can throw anything at them, and they’ll just keep going.
However, the Ingersoll Rand W7152 has a slight edge with its all-metal drivetrain and hammer mechanism, which are designed for extreme durability. On the other hand, the Milwaukee 2767-20 M18 is also incredibly durable, but it doesn’t quite have the same level of bulletproof construction as the Ingersoll Rand.
Comparison Table
Ingersoll Rand W7152 Impact Wrench | Milwaukee 2767-20 M18 Impact Wrench | |
Torque Output | 1,500 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque | 1000 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 1400 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque |
Battery Life | High-capacity 20V MAX battery provides long run times | High-capacity M18 battery provides long run times |
Durability | Robust construction withstands heavy use | Reliable construction withstands overloads, overheating, and over-discharge |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are Ingersoll Rand impact wrenches made?
Ingersoll Rand is a global company with manufacturing facilities all over the world. However, many of their impact wrenches are made in the USA, in facilities located in North Carolina and Tennessee.
So, when you’re using an Ingersoll Rand impact wrench, you’re not just getting a high-quality tool – you’re also supporting American manufacturing.
Is Milwaukee impact made in USA?
Milwaukee is another brand that has a strong presence in the USA. While their global headquarters is in Brookfield, Wisconsin, not all of their tools are made in the USA.
Many of their products are manufactured overseas, in countries like China and Germany.
However, Milwaukee is committed to maintaining high standards of quality and performance, regardless of where their tools are made.
Is Ingersoll tools a good brand?
Ingersoll Rand is widely recognized as a leading brand in the power tool industry. They’ve been around for over a century, and they’ve built a reputation for quality, durability, and performance. Their tools are used by professionals in a wide range of industries, from automotive to construction to manufacturing.
So, if you’re asking if Ingersoll Rand is a good brand, the answer is a resounding yes. It’s like asking if a Ferrari is a good car – the answer is obvious.