I was reading in another thread that a lot of guys are using battery operated impact guns. I am curious how they compare to air driven impacts. What is the max torque? or I think they call it reverse torque. What is a good one at a reasonable price for a hobbiest?

 

I have used a DeWalt AC powered unit for many years, which is more powerful than the battery model, but no comparison to a good air impact wrench . It is OK if you don't want to deal with a compressor and hoses for a small job, but at only 270 lb of torque it is not much use on large rusted up bolts. It is also physically bigger, and heavier than an air gun, which can cause problems in a tight space.

 

I have a Bosch impact driver, its not super strong (not sure on the torque but its 18V li-on) but it defiantly makes things easy. Mainly I use it to pull bolts faster, I'll break them loose with a ratchet and zip them out or in with the impact. Its also a nice tool for the junkyard.



Also just ran down to the garage, its 1500 in lbs.

Another thing I love about it is its a 1/4" hex so I can run screw bits or one if my ratchet adapter.

 

1500 in/lbs = 125 Ft/lbs

270 ft/lbs seems respectable.

As it stand right now anytime I work on the car I just fire up the compressor. Do you guys use air ratchets? I use air tools for everything except inside the car. I had a tool leak water on a seat once, since then I only use battery tool in the car but that is 1/4" stuff

FYI my air impact puts out 780 ft/lbs of torque at its highest setting.