DeWalt 20V MAX XR 1/2 in High Torque Impact Wrench with Hog Ring Anvil

Why I reached for this impact

There are jobs where a mid-torque won’t cut it—axle nuts that have seen too many winters, suspension bolts fused with rust, crank bolts that laugh at breaker bars. That’s where a true high-torque impact earns its keep. I’ve been using DeWalt’s 1/2‑inch high‑torque impact (DCF900) as my go-to for heavy automotive and equipment work, and it’s proven both brutally strong and surprisingly controllable.

Power that feels usable, not just advertised

DeWalt rates the DCF900 at up to 1,030 ft‑lbs of max fastening torque and 1,400 ft‑lbs of max breakaway. Numbers like that are easy to dismiss as brochure talk, but in the real world this thing moves fasteners that a long cheater bar can’t budge. On stubborn axle nuts, frame bolts, and corroded hitch hardware, it consistently breaks them free in a few hits. On fresh hardware and larger fasteners, there’s enough torque on tap to stretch or snap bolts if you get careless—so the power is there, and you need to respect it.

The impact mechanism hits at up to 2,200 IPM with a top no‑load speed of around 2,300 RPM. It’s not the fastest-spinning high‑torque out there, but the hammering cadence feels efficient and controlled. The brushless motor ramps smoothly, and the anvil doesn’t feel sloppy under load. If your work is primarily heavy removal, this is the kind of torque profile that gets things done without a lot of drama.

Four modes that actually matter

You get a four‑mode selector paired with a variable‑speed trigger:

• Low and medium modes are excellent for starting nuts and bolts without cross‑threading and for assembly work where you want to avoid instant impact.
• High mode unleashes the tool’s full output for the big stuff.
• Precision Wrench is the clever one. In forward, it engages more gently and then slows once the tool senses impact to reduce overtightening. In reverse, it breaks a fastener loose and automatically backs off to help prevent spin‑off. For wheels and suspension, that reverse behavior saves you from chasing lugs across the floor.

Trigger modulation is above average for a high‑torque. I can feather fasteners on in low mode, then bump to high for removal without feeling like I’m playing roulette with the torque. The mode button is low‑profile but easy enough to hit with gloved hands.

Hog ring convenience, with the usual trade‑off

This version uses a 1/2‑inch hog‑ring anvil. The upside is quick socket changes—push on, pull off. The trade‑off is retention that’s slightly looser than a detent pin, especially with well‑worn impact sockets. Mine has held up well and still retains cleanly after months of use, but if you regularly hang sockets downward in awkward positions, a detent pin variant may suit you better.

Anvil wobble is typical for a tool in this class; there’s nothing excessive, and it stays true under load.

Ergonomics and build

At roughly 6.4 lb bare and around 7.8–8.4 lb with a 5.0Ah pack, the DCF900 is not a compact. It’s meant for power, not overhead finesse. That said, the grip is comfortable, the rubber overmold is generous, and the balance with a 5Ah battery feels right. If you step up to a larger pack, expect a more top‑heavy feel.

DeWalt’s BatteryGuard—a shock‑absorbing interface between the tool and the pack—sounds like marketing fluff, but it does seem to cut down on the sharp impact feedback transmitted into the battery. Over time, that should mean less stress on the pack rails and fewer micro‑disconnects during heavy hammering. I haven’t had a single cut‑out under load with this setup.

The LED work light is bright and helpful when you’re tucked into a wheel well. It won’t replace a real light for deep engine bay jobs, but it casts an even beam with a typical after‑glow delay. Because of the head size, you’ll still get some shadowing in tight spots.

Battery and runtime

High‑torque impacts are hungry. With a 5.0Ah pack, I can do a mix of suspension removal and brake work for several jobs before swapping batteries. For all‑day fleet work or repeated heavy removals, a higher‑capacity pack will keep the tool in its sweet spot longer. It will run on smaller packs in a pinch, but expect voltage sag to limit peak performance and increase the chance of thermal or current protection kicking in earlier.

Cold weather performance is about what you’d expect from modern lithium: acceptable once the pack warms up a bit, with noticeable improvement after a few minutes of use.

Real-world use cases

• Wheels and tires: Removes lug nuts instantly; use Precision Wrench reverse to avoid sending them flying. For installation, it’s easy to snug in low or medium, then finish with a torque wrench or torque stick.
• Suspension and steering: Sway bar links, control arm bolts, tie rod end nuts—no problem. The controllability reduces the chance of shocking delicate components.
• Driveline: Axle nuts and pinion flange bolts come off quickly, even when rusted. On reassembly, I rely on the torque wrench for final spec.
• Truck and equipment: Hitch hardware, U‑bolts, and stubborn frame fasteners are firmly in this tool’s wheelhouse.

Noise is part of the package. This is a loud, hard‑hitting impact—plan on hearing protection.

What could be better

• Size and weight: This isn’t the tool you want for prolonged overhead work or inside cramped engine bays. A mid‑torque is a better everyday driver; keep this for the heavy lifts.
• Hog ring vs. detent: Preference issue, but worth calling out. If you need maximum retention, look for the detent pin version.
• LED and visibility: Good, not great. Still bring a dedicated work light for deep or shadowed work.
• Mode feedback: A small indicator light shows the selected mode, but it can be hard to see in bright daylight. Not a deal‑breaker, just a minor usability nit.

Reliability and maintenance

So far, durability has been what I expect from DeWalt’s upper‑tier line. The brushless motor stays cool for a high‑torque, the housing shrugs off shop grime, and the anvil shows normal wear. Keep the hog ring clean and lightly oiled to maintain smooth socket swaps. As with any high‑torque, use impact‑rated sockets and extensions—this tool will find the weak link in your setup if you don’t.

Value and ecosystem

The kit version typically includes two 5.0Ah batteries, a charger, and a bag. It’s not the cheapest way into a high‑torque, but it’s competitive for the power class, and the value improves if you’re already on DeWalt’s 20V MAX platform. Cross‑compatibility with other tools in the line is a big plus if you’re building or maintaining a fleet.

In terms of performance, the DCF900 sits right with the top players in the category. Some competitors may edge it on speed or compactness, but this DeWalt’s combination of torque, control modes, and battery interface features makes it more than a one‑trick pony.

Bottom line

The DCF900 is a serious high‑torque impact that brings more than just brute strength. The torque is there, but it’s the control—especially Precision Wrench—and the solid ergonomics that make it easy to live with day to day. If your work involves stubborn fasteners on vehicles, trailers, or equipment, this tool will save time, knuckles, and the occasional trip for a torch.

Recommendation: I recommend this tool to pros and serious DIYers who need reliable, high‑output fastening and removal in a cordless package. It’s overkill for light assembly and too heavy for all‑day overhead use, but as a primary removal tool paired with a mid‑torque for lighter work, it’s excellent. The power is real, the modes are genuinely helpful, and the build quality feels ready for a long service life on the 20V MAX platform. Finish with a torque wrench, mind your sockets, and this impact will do the rest.