Jump to content


DeWalt 18v four tool set for $199


Recommended Posts



So, let's say I'm building a deck.

 

I could totally see using an impact driver/wrench on the lag screws that secure the ledger board to the house. I remember those taking forever to ratchet on.

 

But what about the regular screws you use on the decking? Any advantage to using an impact driver instead of a good drill driver?

I'd definitely use the impact for deck screws. (Both the lags that you probably used in the ledger board and the ~3" screws that you used on the decking.) The impact drives screws faster than even a good drill driver. Additionally, the impact driver bit is closer to where you grip the gun so there is a lot more stability when starting the fastener.

 

Basically, if you are going to just own one or the other you have to go with the drill driver because you can use it to drill holes and drive fasteners. That said, if I'm just driving screws and don't need a drill I'll grab the impact every time. (Also, if you find yourself using spade bits frequently the impact really makes the chips fly without torquing your wrist when the bit inevitably sticks.)

 

Edit: Here's what Popular Mechanics says:

An impact driver looks similar to a drill/driver but for one noticeable distinction—instead of a keyless chuck, it has a collet that accepts hex-shanked driver bits. This tool is specially engineered to do one job: drive screws, which it does faster and easier than any other tool. Impact drivers can drive long, large fasteners—including fat lag screws—that would stall the very best drill/driver.

 

The impact driver uses both bit rotation and concussive blows to power-drive screws through the thickest, densest woods. The result of this combo is raw, unadulterated power. In fact, impact drivers typically deliver two to three times more turning force (torque) than the average drill/driver. How powerful? During a recent Popular Mechanics tool test, one 18-volt impact driver drove an astonishing 138 3-inch lag screws on a single charge. Despite its brute strength, an impact driver is easy and comfortable to use because the concussive action transfers much of that high-energy torque directly to the screw, not to your wrist or forearm. (An impact driver does not have a slip clutch, but the concussive action allows you to drive screws with great control and precision.)

 

 

So, if you’re planning projects that require driving a ton of screws, or a lot of very large or long screws, then consider an impact driver. For example, impact drivers are ideal for building decks, installing tile backer board, and screwing down plywood subfloors. If you’re not planning to work on such projects, you might want to stick with the versatility of the cordless drill/driver. However, the gap between these two useful tools might be closing: Some manufacturers now offer drill chucks and other hole-drilling accessories for use in an impact driver.

http://www.popularme...u-need-14583956

That alone might be worth it right there. Thanks for all the info. Now I need a project.

 

Is it weird to post a Craigslist Ad that reads something like, 'Have new impact driver - willing to help you screw your deck."?

 

Back in my day, "impact driver" and "screw your deck" meant construction related activities.

 

Nowadays though, I'm not so sure my offer would be accurately interpreted.

Link to comment
  • 3 weeks later...

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

  • Recently Browsing   0 members

    • No registered users viewing this page.

Visit the Sports Illustrated Husker site



×
×
  • Create New...