Best 3/8 Impact Wrench Review – Cordless + Air Wrenches

Best 3/8 Impact Wrench Review – Cordless + Air Wrenches

Today we are equipped with so many power tools that we no longer have to waste hours doing hard work. Nowadays, removing the nuts and bolts is hard to remove without a handy impact wrench. A quality impact wrench is an essential tool for anyone who works with machinery or does a lot of do-it-yourself projects around the house

Its ability to produce higher torque than ordinary drills make them unique. So, you can expect fast and quick results with the best impact wrenches. With so many different options on the market, it can be hard to know which one is the best fit for you. In this Best 3/8 Impact Wrench Review, we’ll take a look at some of the top products on the market and help you make a decision.

Top 3/8 Impact Wrenches At a Glance:

  1. Milwaukee M12 Fuel Stubby
  2. Dewalt DCF883B Impact
  3. Ingersoll Rand Air Wrench
  4. Makita XWT06Z Wrench
  5. BOSCH Brushless Impact
  6. Ryobi 18V ONE+
  7. Craftsman 20V Max
  8. Ridgid 18V Octane Cordless
  9. Dewalt Atomic 20V

Best 3/8 Impact Wrench to Buy in 2022


Milwaukee M12 (Image credit: Amazon)

Milwaukee M12 Fuel Stubby

Best Cordless 3/8 Impact wrench

REASONS TO BUY

Compact and powerful enough to work in 85-90% of mechanic jobs.

Plenty of torque delivers maximum performance.

Automatic shut-off system to prevent over-fastening.

Best for tight spots.

REASONS TO AVOID

Less powerful

Milwaukee Electric Tools Corp is a well-known tool manufacturing brand. M12 Fuel Stubby is one of their best products. If you are in hurry to purchase the best cordless 3/8 impact wrench among our recommendations, take advantage of this powerful beast and remove all the rusty nuts you can imagine.

Milwaukee Stubby 3/8″ is the best Cordless ⅜ impact wrench for mechanics. Its smaller size and lightweight make it convenient for the user to work in dark and tight spots. Additionally, the 4.8″ size makes users more productive. It’s the most compact design in the marketplace.

This impact delivers industry-leading 250 ft.-Lbs increased torque. Breakaway torque even helps to remove the most stubborn bolts and fasteners. 4-Mode drive control provides unmatched control while working on different fastening works.

Precision control is allowed by 1-3 RPM. The tool also offers excellent control in the 4th setting to avoid over-fastening of bolts. The model number of the product is 2554-20. The item weighs only 2 pounds. The 2700 RPM speed demonstrates how efficient and quick it is to perform in various fastening and removing applications. The power source is cordless.

Most customers are satisfied with the performance of the product. Over 2700 customers gave it 4.9/5 stars.

Manufacturers offer a 5-year warranty on material and quality. Remember one thing; products are specifically designed for the US. Outlets and voltage may differ internationally. An adapter or converter might be required for this. Better check before purchasing.


DCF883B (Image credit: Amazon)

Dewalt DCF883B Impact

Best Dewalt 3/8 Impact wrench

REASONS TO BUY

Perfect size and power for smaller-scale tasks.

Smaller in size yet helpful in different kinds of applications.

It is lightweight and easy to handle

REASONS TO AVOID

The ring to hold sockets is a complete disappointment.

Dewalt Max Impact wrench is a medium-range cordless wrench with tremendous torque power of 1560 Inch Pounds.

The machine can withstand a maximum fastening torque of 330 ft-lbs. The wrench Control feature makes it unique and enables the user to get the desired results. There is no need to worry about overtightening in the forward direction and control in reverse to prevent runoff.

A battery-powered source facilitates the user for portability purposes. Use remains safe too. You can efficiently function in tight spots in different applications. High torque power, lightweight, and an easy-to-use design make life easier for the user. Feel free to use it in wheel lugs, grooved couplings, pipe flanges, etc.

The wrench gun weighs 2.2 pounds and works at 20 volts. 2300 RPM speed makes tasks fast and easy, which comforts most users. It comes in yellow color with a 12-inch thickness. If we look into details, the head style is fixed square, which is considered the best Dewalt 3/8 impact wrench.

Customers are pretty satisfied with the product. More than 2000 customers gave 4.8 stars out of 5.

Ingersoll Rand 3/8″ (Image credit: Amazon)

Ingersoll Rand Air Wrench

Best 3/8 Air Impact wrench

REASONS TO BUY

Best choice for tight areas where ½ impact wrench won’t be working.

Noise is about next to nothing.

Power isn’t crazy but good enough to be uncontrollable.

Multiple settings to perform different medium-to-high applications.

REASONS TO AVOID

Expensive

Ingersoll Rand air impact wrench has 300-foot pounds of torque in reverse making it easier to function in most medium-to-high jobs, such as heavy-duty disassembly and assembly, industrial equipment, masonry, suspension work, and more tasks that can be performed with exceptional performance and control.

This air impact gun weighs 2.5 pounds and measures less than 6 inches. Compactness facilitates users’ ability to function in tight areas with comfort. The best power to weight ratio minimizes fatigue. Forward position performance is enhanced by a feather touch trigger and various power regulator setting features that offer maximum control in reverse. Change forward/reverse mechanisms with just a simple push button.

The product withstands repeatedly dropped incidents as well as harsh environments due to its titanium hammer case and steel wear plate. Rigorous testing of each component has been done to ensure long-lasting performance.

Four-position power regulars take control to another level. The 5,000RPM speed ensures a quick and straightforward job.

Manufacturers also offer a two-year limited warranty. To get a guarantee, register the tool with customer service. And with proven results, this is the best 3/8 air impact wrench on our list

Makita XWT06Z (Image credit: Amazon)

Makita XWT06Z Wrench

Best Makita ⅜ Impact wrench

REASONS TO BUY

Heavy-duty job in cordless impact.

Plenty of power for most small-to-medium applications.

Firm holing

Long-lasting battery life.

REASONS TO AVOID

Less potent than what the specifications say.

Makita XWT06Z 18V is a hex-style alloy steel beast. The 4-pole motor delivers 155 ft. lbs fastening torque. You can easily use it in different fastening applications at variable speeds (0-2,100 RPM & 0-3,200 IPM). Its compact and ergonomic design measures only 6-1/8″.

The product weighs 1.85 pounds. 18V Lithium-Ion slide-style battery powers up the tool. Batteries take a small fraction of time to charge, thus allowing the user to spend more time working. The battery and charger aren’t included in the purchase. You’ll have to purchase it separately. Preferably, buy Makita’s genuine batteries and chargers. The grip is soft and rubberized, making the job comfortable irrespective of the job time.

An afterglow built-in LED light lights up the working area. Ergonomic shapes easily fit into gloves, even under pressure and control. The item’s model number is XWT06Z. It also got the certification of frustration-free. All tools are included in the components, except the battery and charger.

Customers are happy that the product is doing service for them. The customers have given 4.7 stars out of 5.

3-Year Limited Warranty is included with the purchase. Unarguably, this is the best Makita ⅜ impact wrench.

BOSCH PS82-02 (Image credit: Amazon)

BOSCH Brushless Impact

Best Bosch 3/8 Impact wrench

REASONS TO BUY

It is powerful enough to remove lug nuts.

Small and lightweight to work all day in comfort.

Long-lasting batteries.

REASONS TO AVOID

Less potent as compared to many competitors.

BOSCH PS82-02 is a compact and lightweight impact wrench. It weighs only 1.6 lbs. and has just a 5.5-inch head length. The material used in the construction is plastic composite.

The Wrench provides a powerful max torque of 85 ft.-Lbs. Different applications offer more control and precision with the two RPM 0-1, 200 and 0-2, 601 values. One set is for low speed and low torque, while the other is for high speed and high torque. Impact ratings are 0-2, 700 and 0-3, 101. 3-LEDs facilitate users while working in tight and dark areas.

This ⅜ Cordless impact wrench with battery and charger has a 3/8-inch square drive anvil. The two batteries included in the kit are 12-Volt Max 2.0 Ah each, and the charger is 12-Volt Max. The width of the tool is 2.2 inches. An ergonomic grip and a compact size make handling handy in overhead applications.

You can accomplish 85% of the driving tasks on a pro job. The smaller size also helps to work comfortably all day long. EC Brushless motor and all-metal gearbox features provide long life and unmatched efficiency. The longer and more efficient job renders it the best Bosch brushless 3/8 impact wrench for screw-driving jobs.

The power source is a battery. The model number of the item is PS82-02. Most customers are happy with the performance. The overall customer rating is 4.6/5 stars. If buying outside of the US, check outlet and voltage compatibility. Purchase an adapter or converter if it’s different.

Ryobi 18-Volt ONE (Image credit: Amazon)

Ryobi 18V ONE+

Best 3/8 Impact wrench for Automotive

REASONS TO BUY

Value for money for automotive applications.

No sweat beats and lug nuts are off even in this small size.

Perfect purchase for smaller bolts.

REASONS TO AVOID

A separate battery and charger have to be purchased.

The Ryobi cordless impact wrench includes a square anvil and a hog ring. Ring makes it easier to change sockets quickly. It has a powerful 150-foot pounds of torque and 3,400 IPM (impact per minute) to work in various applications.

3-Speed Selector Switch feature makes speed control handy in a variety of applications. The product is battery-powered. However, the charger and battery aren’t included in the purchase. So, you’ll have to pay extra for the items. An 18-Volt ONE+ tool can easily be paired with any 18-Volt ONE+ battery.

The 3/8 size is commonly used, making it useful for most tasks. Tri-beam LED lights illuminate dark and tight spots. This is the best 3/8 cordless impact wrench for automotive-related applications. Plastic and metal are both used in construction. The item weighs 3.01 pounds. The part number of the product is P263.

Customers are satisfied with the outcomes. Customers rated it 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Box includes bare-tool. Remember, outlets and voltage are primarily designed for US customers. If you’re an international buyer, check compatibility before buying an adapter or converter.

Craftsman CMCF910B (Image credit: Amazon)

Craftsman 20V Max

Best Budget ⅜ Impact wrench

REASONS TO BUY

Best suitable even for car’s lug nuts.

Multiple speed triggers for better control.

Powerful torque to function fast and efficiently.

Decent power and decent work at a reasonable price.

REASONS TO AVOID

The battery and charger aren’t included in the box

Craftsman is a hex head style lightweight impact wrench. It delivers 165 ft-lbs of max torque. Increased torque helps quick removal of large fasteners. The 3/8-inch impact also eases socket changes due to the hog ring anvil. The battery power source makes portability easier, and you can take it wherever you want.

Variable speed triggers make the control handy. The built-in LED enhances visibility in dark and tight areas. As the charger and battery aren’t included with the product, you’ll have to spend extra bucks to purchase them. It weighs only 1.96 pounds.

Customers can request a warranty from customer service. Bear in mind, double-check the compatibility of the product if you’re buying it outside of the US. Purchase an adapter or converter. This machine is our best budget ⅜ impact wrench.

Ridgid R86239SB (Image credit: Amazon)

Ridgid 18V Octane Cordless

Bes Cordless ⅜ Impact wrench for the money

REASONS TO BUY

Small and light.

Great impact gun with powerful features and good battery life.

The 6-speed settings offer acute control.

Durable plastic and metal material used.

REASONS TO AVOID

Customers complained about battery issues.

Plastic and metal construction modes function quickly and efficiently. The material of Ridgid 18V Impact is robust and durable in a professional build. Brushless Motor Technology increases the runtime by up to 50%. It also increases the power and lifeline of the product.

6-mode speed settings help adjust to various applications with more power and speed to experience quick and precise work. Octane Tools provide advanced electronics and best-in-class power. Tri-beam LED lights eliminate shadows and offer excellent visibility.

It also includes a 2.0 Ah Lithium-Ion battery, an operator’s manual, a belt clip with a screw, and an 18V charger. The model number is R86239SB. The Wrench weighs 5.48 pounds.

Customers love the features. Most customer testimonials speak about how efficient and amazingly designed it is. They gave it 4.5 stars out of 5. If you’re buying outside the US, check compatibility or purchase an adapter or converter. Ridgid products are the best cordless ⅜ impact wrenches for the money if you think of the bucks.

Dewalt DCF923B
Dewalt DCF923B (Image credit: Amazon )

Dewalt Atomic 20V

Best Cordless Impact wrench with a Hog Ring Anvil

REASONS TO BUY

Small items offer more enormous power volumes.

4-mode speed settings for max control.

High torque power

Extremely lightweight and value for money.

REASONS TO AVOID

No battery and charger in the box.

DEWALT is a well-known brand. This cordless impact wrench is made of glass-filled nylon. The head style is hex. The 4-mode speed settings render the product with maximum control in various applications. Precision wrench control prevents overnighting and fastener runoff.

Onboard LED lights brighten the darker places. The Hog ring anvil enables the item to change sockets quickly. Timber Screw Mode provides acute control of speed while working on wood.

The 300 ft-lbs. of max fastening torque along with 450 ft-lbs. Of max breakaway torque ease maneuverability without sacrificing much power. The material offers resistance against oils and solvents. The charger and battery are not included in the box. You’ll have to spend extra bucks on their purchase.

Check the compatibility while buying out of the US or buy an adapter or converter. Request for warranty from customer service. In our opinion, this is the best cordless impact wrench with a Hog Ring Anvil.


Shopping Tips – Best 3/8″ Impact Wrench Reviews

Brushless Motor

We suggest a 3/8-inch impact wrench with a brushless motor. A brushless motor makes functioning easier by removing critical, stubborn rusty nuts and bolts. It adds more efficiency, fastness, and life to the tool.
Go for a motor with an output of 100 ft/lbs. This is the standard that’s required for fastening and removing nuts.

High Torque

Torque is the main feature of any impact wrench type, defining efficiency. Torque decides the overall production of rotations. It’s measured in foot-pounds. As the torque increases, the overall impact of the Wrench also increases. Increased impact means better removal and fastening of nuts and bolts and less effort.

You can decide the torque level considering the kinds of projects you’re going to work on more often. You’ll need tools with high torque if jobs are bigger. Generally, choosing at least 200 foot-pounds of torque is excellent because it will work in most medium-sized projects.

High RPM

Speed is also significantly important, just like power and torque. Rotation is the critical performance factor for fastening and removing nuts. As the rotation count increases, less effort will be required to exercise. The higher the RPM value, the higher the speed dial. If the RPM value is small, your projects will be delayed to a significant level.

We recommend an impact wrench with at least 1500 RPMs. If you’re working on small projects more often, then a low RPM tool will also be good to avoid overkill. Check the RPM level according to the kinds of applications you’re likely to work with.

Weight

Weight loss is another essential factor to consider. Less weight means more performance in tight areas with less effort. Weight is necessary because impact wrenches are handheld tools.

Most cordless impact wrenches are lightweight and designed, considering the portability factor. Less weight may also force you to compromise on some features, such as power. Most twists with low power contain less battery power. Overall, the lightweight makes life easier while working on long-term projects.

Safety Features

Impact wrenches can also be dangerous while fastening and removing nuts and bolts. As a result, checking safety features is critical.

Anti-overloading, cooling, and other measures are included in the safety features. Beyond your experience, don’t ignore these safety features for your own health. Buy a tool with multiple powers and speed settings.

Battery

Impact wrenches come in two corded and cordless types. If you want a tool for the portability factor, then you’d better buy a cordless impact wrench. However, if you are a workshop guy and don’t need portability then a corded impact wrench is the go-to option.

Check two things in the battery. One is voltage, and the other is amp-hours. First, count the amount of power the battery could offer and the amp-hours the battery can hold. Also, purchase that impact wrench that allows you to swap batteries. That’s how you can buy more batteries and switch to others whenever required.

Investing in a lithium-ion battery is best if you don’t want to spend extra cash. They have a long time and a steady rate.

Durability

Design enhancements let you know about durability. Purchase all metal molds or strong plastic over molds. Better material used in construction prevents damage due to impacts or accidental dropping of the tool. Impact wrenches with brushless motors are also good because they contain fewer parts, rendering fewer chances of breakage. Components are also easy to maintain.

Compactness

No one likes to use a bulky machine. It doesn’t even apply to heavier ones either. We advise a compact design with a 3/8- inch impact wrench. It shouldn’t be more than 5 pounds.

Check our best-reviewed 3/8 impact wrenches list, as most are under 3 pounds. Also, check the length. It should be around 7 inches. You’ll be mired in heavy and difficult maneuvering if you don’t consider these things. The project will take a longer time to complete.

Quality Construction

Quality is another tip to consider while purchasing a 3/8 impact wrench. Many brands save costs by deriving manufacturing procedures from foreign countries, leaving standards behind.

However, some brands still offer the right quality products.

The best way is to check the manufacturing country’s website. Purchase that product that is produced in the US with top-quality materials.

Conclusion

There is much more to add to our list but we’ve got some outstanding results for the best 3/8 impact wrench review. According to your applications, this best 3/8 Impact Wrench review will help you look no further for the most suitable purchase.

We hope you enjoyed reading our detailed ⅜ cordless impact wrench review.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a 3/8 impact wrench good for lug nuts?

The 3/8 impact wrench type is smaller and lighter. The design enables users to reach tight areas easily. A 3/8 wrench is a good choice for lugs nuts.
This tool is good if the nuts aren’t fully tight. You may not prefer 3/8 for rusty and stubborn nuts and bolts. Torque and speed aren’t that good for working in stubborn and rusty areas for removing and fastening applications.

How much torque can a 3/8 drive take?

Due to the form factor, a 3/8 inch impact wrench is a better option for achieving precision while removing or fastening nuts and bolts. Although their motors are weaker, they focus all the torque at one point.
Their smaller size and lightweight make handling easier. The user can apply about 100 ft-lbs of torque with a 3/8 inch impact wrench

What difference is between an air impact wrench and a 3/8 inch regular impact wrench?

The difference between the two wrenches lies in their power sources. An air impact wrench uses an air tank as a power source, while a 3/8 inch regular impact wrench uses batteries for power.
An air tank powers the air impact wrench; it’s free from complicated internal components. An air impact wrench is also more dependable due to its lack of an internal system. It operates on air tanks and air compressors. A user will have to pay double for both the tool and the external air tank.
The 3/8-impact Wrench comes with a battery, and many are cordless too. They’re also costly due to the complicated internal systems that can become an issue because the battery can turn worst at any time.

What are the applications that a 3/8 impact can be used for?

An impact wrench is a powerful tool for quick and easy fastening and removing nuts and bolts. Energy is stored in a rotating mass and then released to our shaft to produce high torque. 3/8 wrenches come in both compressed air and battery-powered sources. With the tool, tightening and removing nuts and bolts is a snap.
3/8 impact wrenches have ergonomic built-ins that let users work all day with a balanced and comfortable grip while working on tight areas. The overall power of 3/8 is low to use in small to medium-sized applications.

Bahram Shahab
Bahram here! A certified Electrical Engineer who knows his way around using power tools like a professional. My journey of using these robust tools started back when I graduated. Since then, I have finished almost a dozen DIY woodworking jobs. Apart from that, I have developed this habit of jotting down my personal experience about using a specific tool. So, I write on them to help the community in the best possible way.