Milwaukee 1/2” Stubby Impact Wrench w/ Pin Detent Kit

As someone who spends a lot of time working on various mechanical projects, I always appreciate tools that offer a balance of power, portability, and ease of use. The Milwaukee 1/2” Stubby Impact Wrench w/ Pin Detent Kit (model 2555P-22) has proven to be an exceptional addition to my toolkit. This compact impact wrench is designed to tackle jobs in tight spaces without sacrificing torque, making it an invaluable tool for both professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts alike.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that struck me about this impact wrench is its compact size. Measuring just 4.9 inches in length, it easily fits into tight spaces that larger wrenches can't reach. This is particularly useful when working on automotive repairs or other projects where space is limited. Despite its small size, the tool feels robust and well-built. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip, reducing hand fatigue during prolonged use. At just 2 pounds, it's lightweight enough to be used for extended periods without causing strain.

The build quality is what I've come to expect from Milwaukee—solid and reliable. The POWERSTATE Brushless Motor is a standout feature, offering increased efficiency and longer motor life compared to traditional brushed motors. The tool also features a detent pin anvil, which securely holds sockets in place, ensuring they don't slip off during use.

Performance

Performance-wise, the Milwaukee Stubby Impact Wrench is impressive. It delivers up to 250 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque, which is more than sufficient for most tasks. Whether you're working on lug nuts, suspension components, or other fasteners, this tool has the power to get the job done. The 4-Mode Drive Control is a fantastic feature that allows you to adjust the torque settings to suit different applications. Modes 1 through 3 offer varying levels of RPM and impact per minute (IPM), while Mode 4 features an Auto-Shut-Off function to prevent over-tightening.

In practice, I found that the Auto-Shut-Off mode was particularly useful when assembling components that require precise torque specifications. This mode stops the tool as soon as it detects resistance, allowing you to finish tightening by hand with a torque wrench. This feature alone can save a lot of time and prevent potential damage to fasteners or components.

Battery Life and Charging

One of the advantages of the Milwaukee M12 battery system is its versatility. The Stubby Impact Wrench comes with two batteries: a compact 2.0Ah battery and a larger 4.0Ah battery. I found that the 2.0Ah battery is perfect for jobs that require maneuverability in tight spaces, while the 4.0Ah battery offers extended runtime for longer tasks. Both batteries charge quickly using the included M12 charger, which is another plus.

In terms of battery life, I was able to complete several tasks on a single charge without any issues. The tool also features a battery fuel gauge, so you always know how much charge is left. This is particularly useful when you're in the middle of a job and need to gauge whether you have enough power to finish.

Practical Applications

The Stubby Impact Wrench excels in a variety of applications. I primarily used it for automotive work, such as changing tires and working on suspension components. The compact size made it easy to navigate around tight areas under the hood and chassis. It also proved to be a reliable tool for general construction tasks, like driving lag bolts into treated wood. The high torque output made quick work of even the most stubborn fasteners.

One of the standout features for me was the built-in LED light. This may seem like a minor addition, but it makes a significant difference when working in poorly lit areas. The light is bright enough to illuminate your workspace without being blinding, which is a thoughtful touch.

Limitations

While the Milwaukee Stubby Impact Wrench is a powerful and versatile tool, it's not without its limitations. There are certain heavy-duty applications where it falls short. For instance, it struggled with crank pulley bolts and some high-torque fasteners that exceed its 250 ft-lbs torque rating. For these tasks, a more powerful impact wrench, like Milwaukee's M18 models, would be necessary.

Additionally, while the compact size is a major advantage, it does mean that the tool's width can sometimes be a hindrance in very tight spots. In such cases, using an extension bar can help, but it's something to keep in mind.

Conclusion

Overall, the Milwaukee 1/2” Stubby Impact Wrench w/ Pin Detent Kit is an excellent tool that offers a great balance of power, portability, and ease of use. Its compact size makes it ideal for working in tight spaces, and the 250 ft-lbs of torque is more than sufficient for most tasks. The 4-Mode Drive Control and Auto-Shut-Off feature add to its versatility, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.

The battery life is impressive, and the inclusion of two different battery sizes adds to the tool's flexibility. The build quality and ergonomic design ensure that it will be a reliable addition to any toolkit for years to come.

I highly recommend this impact wrench for anyone in need of a compact, powerful, and versatile tool. Whether you're a professional mechanic or a DIY enthusiast, the Milwaukee Stubby Impact Wrench is a valuable investment that will make your work easier and more efficient.