I’ve been wrestling with stubborn bolts and screws for years, often resorting to brute force and questionable techniques. The frustration was real; time wasted, projects stalled, and even the occasional injury. A powerful, reliable impact driver would have been a lifesaver, and that’s what led me to the Milwaukee 2656-20 M18 18V 1/4 Inch Lithium Ion Hex Impact Driver.
Impact drivers are invaluable for anyone tackling projects involving frequent fastening and unfastening of screws and bolts. They save time, effort, and your knuckles! However, selecting the right one requires careful consideration. Factors like voltage (higher voltage usually means more power), chuck size (determines the size of bits you can use), and the included features (LED lights, variable speed triggers) are all crucial. The ideal customer is someone who needs a powerful yet compact tool for various tasks, from automotive repair to home improvements. Those needing to drive extremely large or stubborn fasteners might consider a heavier-duty, higher-torque impact wrench. Conversely, those needing a smaller impact for delicate work, might find a 12V model sufficient. Before making a purchase, think about the types of jobs you’ll use it for, the frequency of use, and your budget. Consider whether you need a kit with batteries and charger or just the tool itself, like the Milwaukee 2656-20 M18 1/4 Inch Hex Impact Driver I purchased.
- LED LIGHTING: Keep your work illuminated with the LED lighting array located just below the quick-connect chuck
- TEXTURED HANDLE: The compact design of this power tool is complemented with the textured rubber grip, which gives you superior handling, even in slippery conditions
- VARIABLE SPEED TRIGGER: Apply pressure to the trigger to match the amount of power you need on the job. This can drive the motor to create up to 3,450 impacts per minute
Introducing the Milwaukee 2656-20 M18 Impact Driver
The Milwaukee 2656-20 M18 18V 1/4 Inch Lithium-Ion Hex Impact Driver promises powerful performance in a compact package. It’s marketed as a tool-only model, meaning you’ll need to provide your own M18 battery and charger. It compares favorably to other impact drivers in its class, boasting impressive torque and speed. This specific model is perfect for professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts who need a robust tool that can handle heavy-duty work but appreciate a smaller, more maneuverable design. It’s not ideal for infrequent users or those only needing to tackle light-duty tasks.
Pros:
* Powerful 1,500 inch-pounds of torque
* Compact and lightweight design
* LED work light
* Variable speed trigger for precise control
* Durable construction
Cons:
* Requires separate purchase of M18 battery and charger
* Can get quite hot with extended use
* The relatively small chuck size limits some applications
- BRUSHLESS MOTOR delivers 1825 in-lbs of torque and 3400 RPM to drive large diameter screws
- Only 5.1-inch in length of DEWALT impact driver is designed to fit in tight spaces
- Our highest torque impact driver - take on tough jobs with up to 66% more torque.
Delving into the Features and Benefits of the Milwaukee 2656-20
The Powerhouse Motor:
The heart of the Milwaukee 2656-20 is its Milwaukee-built 4-Pole frameless motor. This motor delivers up to 2,750 RPM and 3,450 IPM, providing the muscle needed to tackle even the most stubborn fasteners. This is particularly helpful when dealing with rusted or seized bolts, where traditional drills often struggle. The increased speed significantly reduces the time spent on each fastener, boosting overall productivity.
The REDLINK Intelligence System:
This innovative system is a game-changer. It prevents overheating, which is a common problem with power tools under heavy load. The communication between the tool, battery, and charger ensures optimized performance and prevents damage to the tool itself. This prolongs the lifespan of the Milwaukee 2656-20 and prevents costly repairs or replacements. In my experience, the REDLINK system has kept the driver running cool even during extended periods of use.
Variable Speed Trigger:
The variable speed trigger allows for precise control over the tool’s power output. This is incredibly useful for different applications. For delicate work, a gentle squeeze of the trigger provides a low impact to prevent damage. For stubborn fasteners, you can unleash the full power of the motor with a firm press. This feature significantly improves the versatility and safety of the tool.
Ergonomic Design:
The compact design and textured rubber grip make the Milwaukee 2656-20 comfortable to hold and use, even for extended periods. The reduced size allows access to tight spaces, making it ideal for automotive work, home repairs, or intricate assembly projects. The reduced weight, compared to larger impact wrenches, minimizes fatigue.
LED Lighting:
The integrated LED light is a small but significant feature. It illuminates the work area, enabling you to see exactly where you’re working, even in dimly lit spaces. This significantly enhances visibility and accuracy, reducing errors and improving efficiency.
User Experiences with the Milwaukee 2656-20
Online reviews consistently praise the Milwaukee 2656-20 for its power, durability, and compact size. Users report its exceptional performance in various applications, including automotive repairs, construction, and home improvement projects. Many highlight its long-lasting battery life (when using Milwaukee M18 batteries) and the overall build quality. While some users mention occasional heating issues during intensive use, this is usually offset by the tool’s power and overall effectiveness.
Final Thoughts on the Milwaukee 2656-20 M18 Impact Driver
The Milwaukee 2656-20 M18 1/4 Inch Lithium-Ion Hex Impact Driver addresses the need for a powerful, compact, and efficient impact driver for a wide range of tasks. Its powerful motor, REDLINK intelligence, and variable speed trigger make it a valuable addition to any toolbox. It efficiently tackles tough jobs, saving both time and effort. While it requires a separate battery purchase and can overheat under prolonged heavy use, the advantages far outweigh these minor drawbacks. If you’re looking for a high-quality impact driver that delivers exceptional performance, click here to check out the Milwaukee 2656-20 M18 Impact Driver .
Last update on 2025-08-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API