Milwaukee Cordless 2-Speed 3/8" Right Angle Impact Wrench

Investing in a tool that promises to address those hard-to-reach fastening applications can be a game-changer for any tool enthusiast or professional mechanic. That’s why I was particularly interested in testing out Milwaukee's Cordless 2-Speed 3/8" Right Angle Impact Wrench (model 2668-20). As a long-time fan of Milwaukee tools, I’ve come to expect a high standard of performance and durability. Here's my detailed experience with this intriguing addition to the Milwaukee lineup.

Design and Build Quality

First off, let's talk about the design. The compact head profile is clearly one of the highlights of this tool. Milwaukee has cleverly designed a 1.4-inch head, which is a lifesaver when working in cramped spaces. Whether you're under the hood of a car or trying to tighten fasteners in tight corners, this tool can get where most other impact wrenches can't. The build quality is robust, as expected from Milwaukee. It feels solid in hand and exudes a sense of durability that gives confidence in its longevity.

The extended paddle switch is an interesting feature, offering various grip options. This makes it easier to control the tool from different angles, which is particularly beneficial when you need to contort into awkward positions. The LED light is a thoughtful addition, providing much-needed illumination in poorly lit spaces, making it easier to see what you're doing.

Performance and Power

Now, onto the crux of the matter: performance. This tool comes with a 2-Speed Drive Control, which allows for some versatility depending on the task at hand. Mode 1 delivers up to 30 ft-lbs of torque, while Mode 2 offers up to 60 ft-lbs. While this may sound decent on paper, in practice, the torque left something to be desired.

I tested the tool on various fasteners, including some moderately tightened bolts on a car and a lawnmower. More often than not, the impact wrench struggled to break loose fasteners that were torqued beyond 25-30 ft-lbs. In some instances, I had to resort to a manual ratchet to get the job done. This was a bit disappointing, especially given that the tool is advertised to deliver up to 60 ft-lbs of torque.

However, for less demanding tasks, such as assembling bicycle parts or working on lighter fasteners, the tool performed admirably. The impact function worked smoothly without the jarring 'kickback' you sometimes get with air ratchets, which can be a blessing for your knuckles.

Battery Life

One of the advantages of this tool is its cordless nature, powered by Milwaukee’s M18™ REDLITHIUM™ battery. The battery life is commendable. Using a 3.0AH battery, I found that the tool could last a full week of intermittent use before needing a recharge. This is particularly advantageous for fieldwork where access to power outlets might be limited.

Ease of Use

The tool’s ergonomics are another strong point. The large paddle switch is easy to operate and provides a good amount of control. The compact and lightweight design (weighing just 2.6 lbs) makes it easy to maneuver, especially in tight spaces. It’s also worth noting that the friction ring anvil makes for quick and easy socket changes, which can save a lot of time on the job.

Specific Applications

Given its limitations in torque, the tool is best suited for specific applications. It excels in situations where you need to fit into tight spaces and where high torque is not a critical requirement. I found it extremely useful for tasks like assembling ductwork, working on smaller automotive parts like valve cover bolts, and any other application where clearance is an issue.

However, if you’re looking to tackle more heavy-duty applications, such as removing lug nuts or working on larger bolts, this tool might not cut it. In those scenarios, you would likely need a more powerful impact wrench or a traditional manual ratchet to break the initial torque.

Value for Money

At its price point, the Milwaukee Cordless 2-Speed 3/8" Right Angle Impact Wrench offers a mixed bag of performance. While it brings some unique features to the table, such as the compact head and extended paddle switch, its performance in torque-intensive applications falls short. The tool is also somewhat bulkier than I expected, which can be a drawback when space is already limited.

Final Thoughts

Would I recommend the Milwaukee Cordless 2-Speed 3/8" Right Angle Impact Wrench? It depends on your specific needs. If you’re a professional mechanic or a DIY enthusiast who frequently works in tight spaces and doesn’t require high torque, this tool could be a valuable addition to your toolkit. Its design, build quality, and ease of use make it suitable for light to moderate tasks.

However, if you require a tool with substantial torque for breaking loose stubborn fasteners, you might want to look elsewhere. The advertised 60 ft-lbs of torque seems overly optimistic based on my experience, and its performance in more demanding applications is underwhelming.

In summary, this tool is a specialized piece of equipment that excels in specific scenarios but has its limitations. It's a worthwhile investment for lightweight tasks in cramped conditions, but you’ll need a more powerful impact wrench for anything more demanding.