Milwaukee 1/2" Impact Wrench Kit with Pin Detent

Milwaukee has long been a trusted name in power tools, and their 1/2" Impact Wrench Kit (model 2659-22) certainly lives up to that legacy, though not without some caveats. After spending a considerable amount of time working with this impact wrench, I’ve gathered a thorough understanding of its strengths and limitations which I’ll share in this review.

Design and Build Quality

The 1/2" Impact Wrench Kit with Pin Detent is immediately striking with its compact and robust design. At a length of 5.75 inches and a weight of 4.1 pounds, it strikes a good balance between being sturdy and portable. The tool feels solid in hand, and Milwaukee’s signature high-quality craftsmanship is evident. The housing is durable and has withstood several drops and bumps without any significant damage.

One of the standout features is the LED light, which is a game-changer for working in low-light conditions. The light is bright and well-placed, ensuring that your work area is illuminated without casting awkward shadows. The inclusion of a reversible belt clip is also a thoughtful touch, making it easier to carry the tool around when climbing ladders or moving between workspaces.

Performance and Power

Power is where this tool has a bit of a mixed reputation. On paper, with a fastening torque and nut-busting torque both rated at 183 ft-lbs, it promises to handle a variety of tasks with ease. In practice, it performs admirably on most standard jobs. Removing lug nuts, tightening bolts, and handling general automotive and home maintenance tasks were all within its wheelhouse. It easily pops lug nuts off cars like a Toyota Yaris and handles 5/8" bolts without breaking a sweat.

However, it's important to note that when it comes to more heavy-duty applications, the wrench can sometimes fall short. For instance, on larger vehicles such as a Honda Odyssey, it struggled with more stubborn lug nuts. This may be a deal-breaker for users who require a wrench capable of handling more demanding tasks regularly.

Battery Life and Efficiency

One area where the 2659-22 shines is battery life. The tool uses Milwaukee’s M18 battery system, which is known for its longevity and reliability. Whether using a 3.0 or 4.0 amp-hour battery, I found that the impact wrench can go for long periods without needing a recharge. This is particularly beneficial for extended projects where constant recharging can be a significant interruption. The onboard fuel gauge is another handy feature, providing a quick and easy way to check remaining battery life.

Usability and Ergonomics

The ergonomics of the 1/2" Impact Wrench are well thought out. Despite its power, it is relatively lightweight and easy to handle, reducing user fatigue during prolonged use. The controls are intuitive; the switch placement feels natural, and the tool is responsive. The balance of the wrench is also noteworthy – it doesn’t feel top-heavy or unwieldy, which is crucial when working in tight spaces or at awkward angles.

One aspect that could be improved is the noise level. Like many impact wrenches, it’s quite loud, which might be an issue if you’re working in noise-sensitive environments. Using ear protection is advisable.

Versatility and Application

The compact design of this impact wrench makes it highly versatile. It’s small enough to get into tight spaces where larger wrenches would be impractical, yet powerful enough to handle most tasks you throw at it. The pin detent anvil ensures secure socket retention, which is particularly useful when working on jobs that require frequent socket changes.

For automotive work, home maintenance, and even some light industrial applications, this tool is a reliable performer. It’s not necessarily the best choice for the most demanding tasks, but for general use, it’s more than capable.

Durability and Maintenance

Milwaukee tools are known for their durability, and the 2659-22 is no exception. The 4-pole frameless motor and optimized impact mechanism are designed to enhance durability and efficiency. Overload protection is provided by Milwaukee’s REDLINK™ Intelligence, which optimizes performance and offers some peace of mind against overloading the tool.

However, it’s worth mentioning that there have been occasional reports of the bell housing cracking under heavy use. While this wasn’t an issue I encountered personally, it’s something to be aware of, especially if you plan on pushing the tool to its limits regularly.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 1/2" Impact Wrench Kit with Pin Detent is a solid, versatile tool that excels in many areas but has a few limitations. Its compact design, long battery life, and ease of use make it a fantastic choice for general automotive and home maintenance tasks. However, if your work frequently involves heavy-duty applications, you might find its power somewhat lacking.

Would I recommend this tool? Yes, with some reservations. For most users, especially those who already own Milwaukee M18 tools and need a reliable, portable impact wrench for a variety of tasks, it’s a great addition to your toolkit. It offers excellent value for its price and delivers consistent performance in most scenarios. Just be mindful of its limitations and ensure it aligns with your specific needs before making a purchase.