Milwaukee 3/8" Impact Wrench with Friction Ring (Tool Only)

The Milwaukee 3/8" Impact Wrench with Friction Ring, model number 2654-20, has become a staple in my toolbox. With its compact size and cordless convenience, this tool offers a blend of power and portability that’s hard to find in the market. I’ve used it extensively for various tasks, from automotive repairs to heavy-duty construction projects, and it has consistently delivered impressive results.

Design and Build Quality

One of the first things you’ll notice about this impact wrench is its robust build and ergonomic design. Weighing in at just 2.3 pounds and measuring 6 inches in length, it’s remarkably lightweight and compact, making it easy to handle for extended periods without causing fatigue. The tool’s body feels sturdy and well-constructed, which is a testament to Milwaukee’s commitment to quality.

The friction ring design is a standout feature, allowing for quick and easy socket changes. This is particularly useful when you’re in the middle of a project and need to switch sockets frequently. The tool also boasts a durable REDLITHIUM battery pack, which offers longer run times and better performance compared to standard batteries. Although the tool-only package doesn’t include the battery or charger, it’s compatible with the M18 system, which is a plus if you already own other Milwaukee tools.

Performance and Power

Performance-wise, the 3/8" Impact Wrench doesn't disappoint. It features a brushless motor that contributes to its efficiency and longevity. Milwaukee claims that this tool delivers best-in-class torque of 200 ft-lbs and 2,400 in-lbs. While these figures might seem ambitious, in my experience, the tool comes close to these numbers in most scenarios.

I’ve used it to drive 1/2"x8" lag bolts into treated lumber effortlessly, and it handled M12 bolts and larger concrete anchors with relative ease. The three fastening modes with DRIVE CONTROL are a welcome addition, allowing you to adjust the torque output based on the task at hand. This feature is particularly useful for preventing over-tightening or snapping bolts, which can be a common issue with high-torque impact wrenches.

Battery Life and Charging

Battery life is another area where this impact wrench shines. The REDLITHIUM battery pack ensures extended run times, and even after hours of continuous use, the battery holds up well. Charging times are also reasonable, allowing you to get back to work quickly. Although the performance with an 8.0 Ah battery didn’t show a significant improvement over the 5.0 Ah battery, it’s good to know that the tool can handle different battery capacities without compromising on performance.

Usability and Versatility

One of the aspects I appreciate most about this tool is its versatility. It’s compact enough to fit into tight spaces yet powerful enough to tackle demanding tasks. The ability to set the amount of power output makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from delicate assembly work to heavy-duty fastening. The tool’s sleek design and practical features make it comparable to air impact wrenches, but with the added benefit of cordless convenience.

Drawbacks

However, no tool is without its flaws. While the 3/8" Impact Wrench is powerful, it may not always meet the claimed torque levels, especially in more demanding applications like loosening lug nuts torqued to 100 lb/ft or higher. This can be a bit disappointing if you’re expecting the full 200 ft-lbs of torque. Additionally, the updated design is slightly chunkier, which might make it challenging to fit into some of the tighter spaces that older models could easily access.

Another minor issue is the forward/reverse button, which could be made a bit taller for easier switching, especially if you have larger fingers. Despite these drawbacks, the tool’s overall performance and durability make up for these minor inconveniences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 3/8" Impact Wrench with Friction Ring is a highly versatile and efficient tool that excels in various applications. Its compact size, lightweight design, and robust performance make it a valuable addition to any toolbox. While it may not always meet the claimed torque levels, it still offers more than enough power for most tasks. The ability to quickly change sockets, coupled with the long battery life and quick charging times, adds to its overall appeal.

I would highly recommend this tool to both DIY enthusiasts and professional tradespeople. Its blend of power, portability, and versatility makes it an excellent investment, particularly if you already own other tools in the Milwaukee M18 system. Despite a few minor drawbacks, the 3/8" Impact Wrench delivers exceptional performance and reliability, making it a worthy addition to your toolkit.