Impact Drivers

About Impact Drivers

Impact drivers have become indispensable tools for professional tradespeople and DIY enthusiasts throughout the UK. Unlike standard drill drivers, these specialist power tools use a rotational impact mechanism that delivers sudden bursts of high torque, making them exceptionally effective for driving screws and fasteners with minimal user effort. The characteristic hammering action allows them to drive even the longest screws into dense materials without cam-out or stripped heads, whilst significantly reducing wrist strain during prolonged use.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks impact drivers from leading manufacturers including Makita, DeWalt, Milwaukee, Bosch Professional, and Festool. Our range spans compact 12V models ideal for confined spaces through to powerful 18V machines capable of handling demanding professional applications. Whether you're working with timber framing, decking installation, or general construction fastening, there's an impact driver suited to your requirements across cordless and corded options including 240v mains-powered models for workshop use.

Applications

Impact drivers are relied upon daily across numerous trades and applications:

• Joiners and Carpenters: Timber framing, decking installation, cabinet assembly, and stud wall construction
• General Builders: Plasterboard fixing, structural timber work, and multi-purpose fastening tasks
• Roofers: Driving roofing screws into battens and securing cladding materials
• Fencers and Landscapers: Fence panel assembly, pergola construction, and garden structures
• Shopfitters: Installing retail fixtures, shelving systems, and display units
• Dry Liners: Fixing plasterboard sheets to metal and timber studs throughout the day
• Window and Door Installers: Securing frames and hanging doors with long fixings
• DIY Enthusiasts: Home renovations, garden projects, furniture assembly, and general maintenance

Choosing The Right Impact Drivers

Voltage Platform: Consider 12V models for excellent manoeuvrability, reduced weight, and general fastening tasks. Choose 18V impact drivers for heavy-duty applications like structural framing, large decking projects, and driving long lag bolts. Match your choice to existing battery ecosystems from brands like Makita, DeWalt, or Milwaukee for cost-effective expansion.

Torque Output: Measured in Newton metres (Nm), torque determines fastening capability. Entry-level models offering 100-140Nm suit general DIY and light trade use, whilst professional-grade machines delivering 160-220Nm handle demanding site work with larger fixings.

Motor Technology: Brushless motors provide approximately 30% longer runtime, greater power efficiency, and extended service life compared to brushed equivalents. MyToolShed.co.uk stocks numerous brushless models from Bosch Professional, DeWalt XR, and Makita that represent excellent long-term value for frequent users.

Kit Contents: Decide between bare units (tool only), single battery kits, or comprehensive packages with multiple batteries and cases. Bare units suit those already invested in a battery platform, whilst complete kits provide everything needed to start work immediately.

Safety Information

Always wear safety glasses conforming to BS EN 166 standards, as the impact mechanism can cause fasteners or material fragments to break away unexpectedly. Use only impact-rated bits and accessories – standard bits will fracture under the hammering action, creating potential injury risks. Secure workpieces properly before fastening, as high torque can cause materials to spin unexpectedly. For prolonged daily use, consider hearing protection as impact drivers may exceed 85dB. When driving fixings into walls, use cable and pipe detectors to avoid hidden wiring and plumbing in accordance with UK building regulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the difference between an impact driver and a combi drill?

Impact drivers specialise in driving screws using a rotational hammering mechanism that delivers much higher torque than combi drills. They feature a ¼" hex chuck for quick-change bits rather than the three-jaw chuck found on combi drills. Whilst combi drills offer more versatility for drilling and delicate work, impact drivers excel at heavy-duty fastening with significantly less user fatigue.

Can I use an impact driver for drilling holes?

Yes, impact drivers can drill holes using hex shank drill bits and are particularly effective for large diameter holes in timber where high torque is beneficial. However, they lack the precision control of dedicated drills, so for extensive drilling work, especially in masonry or metal, a combi drill remains the better choice.

Are brushless impact drivers worth the extra cost?

For professional users and frequent DIY enthusiasts, brushless motors deliver approximately 30% longer runtime per charge, generate more power, require zero maintenance, and significantly outlast brushed motors. MyToolShed.co.uk offers brushless models from premium brands that represent better long-term value through improved efficiency and longevity.