Milwaukee 1/4" Hex Impact Driver CP Kit

Milwaukee's 1/4" Hex Impact Driver CP Kit, also known as the 2656-22CT, has quickly become one of my favorite tools for tackling a wide array of fastening tasks. This cordless impact driver comes with a suite of features that make it versatile, efficient, and easy to use, all while maintaining a compact form factor that’s perfect for tight spaces. Here's a detailed look at my experience with this nifty power tool.

Design and Build Quality

Straight out of the box, the Milwaukee impact driver impresses with its robust build. The 4-pole frameless motor is a standout feature, promising enhanced durability and power. The tool feels solid in hand, yet it’s surprisingly lightweight at just 2.3 pounds. This balance makes it comfortable to use for extended periods without causing fatigue.

The design is compact, measuring 9.1 inches in both length and height and 4 inches in width. This makes it incredibly easy to maneuver in cramped spaces, a feature I found particularly useful during my home renovation projects. The all-metal, reversible belt clip is a nice touch, adding convenience for those moments when you need to free up your hands but keep the tool within reach.

Performance

When it comes to performance, the Milwaukee impact driver doesn’t disappoint. The optimized impact mechanism delivers impressive efficiency, driving screws and bolts with ease. It boasts a maximum torque of 1,500 in-lbs, an impact per minute (IPM) range of 0 - 3,450, and a maximum RPM of 2,750. These specs translate into a tool that’s capable of handling a variety of tasks, from simple home repairs to more demanding construction jobs.

One of the first tests I put this tool through was assembling a metal shed, which involved driving a multitude of screws. The Milwaukee impact driver handled the task effortlessly, maintaining consistent power and speed. The quick-release chuck makes changing bits a breeze, significantly speeding up the workflow. This feature alone makes it a go-to for fastening tasks, saving both time and effort.

Battery Life and Charging

The Milwaukee impact driver operates on an 18V battery system, and the kit comes with two compact batteries. While these are the smaller capacity batteries, I found them more than sufficient for most tasks. During one of my projects, I drove approximately 30 2-1/2" screws and 130 1-1/4" drywall screws on a single battery, with some charge still left. The efficiency of these batteries is impressive, and the LED fuel gauge is a handy feature that lets you monitor the remaining charge at a glance.

Charging the batteries is also quick and efficient. Typically, it takes about 20-25 minutes to fully charge a battery, ensuring minimal downtime. However, one area where Milwaukee could improve is by including a fast charger in the kit. While the compact batteries charge quickly, a fast charger would be beneficial for those who use multiple Milwaukee tools with larger batteries.

Usability and Features

The Milwaukee impact driver is designed with user convenience in mind. The built-in LED light is a thoughtful addition, providing ample illumination for working in low-light conditions. While the light is positioned at the 6 o'clock position, it does a good job of lighting up the work area. That said, an additional LED at the 12 o'clock position could help reduce shadows and improve visibility even further.

Another feature that enhances usability is the directional control switch, which allows you to easily change the rotation direction or lock the trigger. This switch is well-placed and easy to operate, adding to the overall user-friendly design of the tool.

Durability

Milwaukee tools are known for their durability, and this impact driver is no exception. Throughout my use, it has withstood drops and rough handling without any noticeable damage or performance issues. The tool’s rugged design and high-quality materials inspire confidence that it will last for years, even with heavy use.

Packaging and Case

The kit comes with a heavy-duty carry case that fits everything neatly. The case is bright red, making it easy to spot among other tools, and it’s designed to be pad-lockable for added security. The thoughtful design of the case ensures that the tool, batteries, and charger are all stored securely and conveniently.

Areas for Improvement

While the Milwaukee impact driver excels in many areas, there are a few minor drawbacks worth mentioning. The compact batteries included in the kit are great for making the tool lightweight, but they may not be sufficient for heavy-duty tasks that require longer run times. Upgrading to larger capacity batteries can address this issue, but it would be nice if the option was included in the kit.

Additionally, some users have reported initial issues with charging the batteries, often due to not placing them forcefully enough on the charger. This is something that could be better addressed in the user manual to prevent confusion and ensure a smooth user experience.

Final Thoughts and Recommendation

Overall, the Milwaukee 1/4" Hex Impact Driver CP Kit is an excellent addition to any toolkit. Its combination of power, efficiency, and compact design makes it a versatile tool capable of handling a wide range of tasks. The robust build quality, quick-release chuck, and thoughtful features like the LED light and reversible belt clip further enhance its usability.

If you’re in the market for a reliable and efficient impact driver, I highly recommend the Milwaukee 2656-22CT. Its performance and durability make it a worthwhile investment for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Despite a few minor areas for improvement, this tool delivers exceptional value and is sure to become a trusted companion for your fastening needs.