Torque and Chrome

Cordless Impact Wrench?

My father was putting together my weight bench using what i assume to be regular torque wrenches, and i heard him say this would be easier if he had an automated one..like a drill. I don't really know much about this stuff but i wanted to get him one for X-Mas. I didn't know what to get, are these things called Impact Wrenches? If so what is the difference between 3/8" and a 1/2 "? Does it matter? i was looking at the CT4410 by Snap On. Is that what i am looking for? just a pointer in the right direction would really be appreciated. Thanks.

Public Comments

1. You obviously don't know anything about tools. He wasn't using torque wrenches, just regular hand tools. What he meant was a cordless drill. If you just have to surprise him, go to Lowe's or Sears or a place like that and get a 18 or 24 volt cordless drill. Usually they have a "package" deal that has a drill and maybe something else in it with an extra battery. Check the prices, decide what he's worth and get it. If you are willing to forgo some of the surprise factor, ask him to go with you to the store and then tell him to pick one and buy it for him. Or give him a gift card and tell him that's what it's for and let him get the one he wants.
2. I think he just wants a cordless drill. This has a battery to power it instead of a cord. These can do so many things around the house. You can buy these at any hardware store or even Wal Mart. An impact wrench that is 3/8" means it will fit socket wrenches with a 3/8" drive. I don't think he wants an impact wrench. These are for loosening an tightening things like the car's wheel lug nuts. He wants something to just speed up the job. Go to Sears or Lowes and ask the tool person about cordless drills and which is recommended. Happy Holidays!
3. A cordless impact wrench is like a cordless drill but it has a socket drive on the end and works just like a air impact. They are very practical tools but a good brand can run 2-400 dollars. All major cordless tool brands have a cordless impact. Just do a search. Go with 3/8, it will have all the power you need. Some have torque settings so you don't overpower the job.