10 Best Air Impact Wrenches
- Max Power : 1350 ft.lbs
- Weight : 4.6 lbs
- Air Consumption : 6 CFM
- Max Power : 550 ft.lbs
- Weight : 5.2 lbs
- Air Consumption : 5.1 CFM
When you are working in your garage or a mechanic shop, it is very irritating to get stuck on a tight, rusted bolt. No matter how much effort you give with your wrist, the bolt would just not move!
What is the result? Either you hurt your wrist with the amount of power you give or you just give up! A motorized impact wrench is what you need in such scenarios.
I am here to help you choose the best air impact wrench.
Impact wrenches with their enormous power can loosen almost any bolt in seconds. Air impact wrenches, driven by compressed air, are the most powerful and durable tools in the impact wrench market. They can be used for the removal of tight log nuts or any other bigger nut you find overpowering.
This in-depth buying guide will help you choose the best air impact wrench that suit your needs.
Table Of Contents
- Top 10 Air Impact Wrenches
- 1. Ingersoll Rand 2235TiMAX Air Impact Wrench
- 2. Ingersoll Rand 231C Air Impact Wrench
- 3. Campbell Hausfeld TL140200AV
- 4. Nitrocat 1250-K Air Impact Wrench
- 5. Astro 1822 Air Impact Wrench
- 6. Ingersoll Rand 2115TiMAX/2115 QTiMAX Air Impact Wrench
- 7. NitroCat 1200-K Air Impact Wrench
- 8. ACDelco ANI405 Air Impact Wrench
- 9. Earthquake 3/8" Professional Air Impact Wrench
- Buyer’s Guide to Air Impact Wrenches
Top 10 Air Impact Wrenches
1. Ingersoll Rand 2235TiMAX Air Impact Wrench
2235 TiMAX is a very powerful tool from Ingersoll Rand. Having the reputation of a performer and with its twin hammer impact mechanism, this impact tool surely lives up the its expectations. A light weight, highly powerful impact wrench, Ingersoll Rand 2235 TiMAX can bust any tight bolt you have in mind.
Can you imagine 1350 ft.lbs of bolt-bustng torque and 935 ft.lbs of maximum reverse torque? There is almost no task that can challenge this tool enough!
Extremely durable at only 4.6 lbs, this tool can work in harsh environments with its steel wear plate, titanium housing and composite housing.
2235 TiMAX is also available in a sound reduction (Ingersoll Rand 2235 QTiMAX) and 2″ extended anvil versions. So you can choose as per your requirements.
Powerful features of Ingersoll Rand 2235 TiMAX
1/2″ anvil: also available in a 2″ extended anvil version
Product dimensions of 10 x 4 x 9 inches
1350 ft.lbs of forward torque and 935 ft. lbs of maximum reverse torque
Torque adjustable four position power regulator
Twin-hammer impact mechanism giving a very powerful performance
Only 4.6 lbs (2.1 Kg) in weight making it extremely easy to use for long durations
Impacting sound level of 98 DB(A): also available in a sound reduction form with a impacting sound level of 88.7 DB(A)
2 years of warranty from Ingersoll Rand
Pros
- Most powerful air impact gun in the market
- Twin-hammer impact mechanism with adjustable torque
- Lightweight: only 2.1 Kgs
- Available in a sound reduction version
2. Ingersoll Rand 231C Air Impact Wrench
A classic tool, with the base design being 25 years old, Ingersoll Rand 231C is a boss for powerful nuts. Being refined over a period of 25 years, this tool performs on all aspects, be it power or durability.
The main attraction of this air impact wrench is its two piece construction which allows easy maintenance, even at home. It has a maximum torque of 600 ft. lbs with an adjustable power regulation.
The pressure feed lub system ensures easy lubrication helping the impact wrench run lag free for extended periods of time.
Main features of this tool
1/2″ inch anvil: available in extended anvil format
7.3 mm in length
Weight of only 5.8 lbs (2.63 Kg) making it extremely durable for usage over extended periods of time
600 ft. lbs of nut bursting torque
Adjustable mechanism for easy torque control
Twin hammer mechanism from Ingersoll Rand
Ergonomic design with just 2 parts, ensuring ease of use and maintenance
Pressure feed lubrication mechanism
This old and proven air impact wrench can help you with most tight nuts and bolts. But being on the heavier side and with its limited power, this tool is not suggested for extended usage. This tool is ideally suited for home tasks which are short and require lesser power.
Pros
- Tough and durable tool, can withstand a fall with ease
- Twin-hammer impact mechanism with powerful performance
- 500+ positive reviews on Amazon
3. Campbell Hausfeld TL140200AV
This air impact wrench can be your perfect companion for DIY tasks and projects. Although this tool is not recommended for commercial or assembly line usage, this air impact wrench does boast of a maximum torque of 450 ft.lbs.
Being lighter in weight and having a soft grip, this tool can be use for long periods of time without much fatigue.
The main attractiveness of Campbell Hausfeld TL140200AV is its affordability being available at an excellent price point.
Campbell Hausfelf TL140200AV feaures
Dimension of 9.8 x 3 x 9.1 inches
Ergonomic and durable with a weight of only 5.2 lbs
Maximum torque of 550 ft.lbs when coupled with a Campbell Hausfeld air compressor
Better for home and DIY usage
Not recommended for commercial or assembly line usage
3 speed power control mechanism helps in controlling of power
Reduced vibration with a soft grip design
1 year limited warranty
Pros
- Available at an excellent price point, only $45 approx
- Light weight, durable and has very minimum vibration
4. Nitrocat 1250-K Air Impact Wrench
Nitocat 1250-K air impact wrench from AIRCAT Pneumatic Tools outperforms the other tools in its class by quite a margin. Boasting a raw, hard hitting power of 1300 ft.lbs, this tool can any powerful bolt all day.
Featuring a hard hitting twin clutch mechanism, this air impact wrench runs smooth and vibration less producing minimum sound. It has a patented forward/reverse switch providing ease of operation.
This powerful air impact wrench, weighing only 4.6 lbs, can be used in any assembly line operation all day giving excellent performance.
Outperforming features of Nitrocat 1250K
1/2′ inch anvil
Dimensions of 8.2 x 7.4 x 2.7 inches
Extremely durable and light weight at only 4.6 lbs!
1300 ft.lbs of nut bursting torque making it suitable for any log nut or wheel bolts
8500 RPM
Patented twin clutch mechanism assisting in heavy duty operations
Patented forward/reverse switch giving ease of use
It produces only 86 DB(A) of sound in full load with its patented quite exhaust system
Kevlar handle and housing
Pros
- Only 4.6 lbs making it extremely durable and easy to use
- Extremely powerful impact wrench with 1300 ft.lbs of hard hitting power
- Smooth and noiseless performer
5. Astro 1822 Air Impact Wrench
The main catch about this air impact wrench is its extremely short profile. In spite of being small in size and light in weight, this wrench has 450 ft.lbs of maximum torque.
The working torque is 350 ft.lbs and is sufficient for most home tasks and DIY projects.
This cost effective wrench does its task without much sound and therefore can be a good addition to your home usage tool kit.
Features at a glance
1/2″ anvil
Dimensions of 3.9 x 2.4 x 7.5 inches
Extremely light weight of 3.0 lbs (1.35 Kg)
Maxium torque of 450 ft.lbs, with a working torque of 350 ft.lbs: Enough for home and DIY tasks
Free Speed of 10.000 R.P.M, 3 forward and 3 rear speed setting ensuring efficient usage
Twin hammer clutch type giving optimum performance
Average air consumption of 4.8 CFM with the suggested air pressure of 90 psi, to suit most average end air compressors
Low noise level of 86 dB(A)
Removable soft rubber over the handle gives great grip
Pros
- Only 3 lbs, and very small in size: can reach most places
- 3 forward and 3 reverse speed settings:
- Noiseless performance
6. Ingersoll Rand 2115TiMAX/2115 QTiMAX Air Impact Wrench
Another great tool from the Ingersoll Rand brand, 2115TiMAX is a tool which delivers a max 300 ft.lbs of power being less than six inches long. This tool is very suitable for tight spaces where the reach can be an issue.
Owing to its smaller size and being built with titanium, the weight is also less (around 2.5 lbs). The 7 vane motor provides maximum performance due to its optimized air flow. Featuring a feather touch control and one switch forward/reverse operation this air impact wrench is the ultimate long lasting home tool from a very popular brand.
Ingersoll Rand 2115TiMAX features
3/8 inch anvil
Product dimensions of 5.9 x 2.1 x 3.1 inches
Only 2.5 lbs in weight, this tool is very durable and causes less fatigue on the user
300 ft.lbs of maximum power with a working torque range of 25-280 ft.lbs.
Maximum free speed of 15000 RPM
Average air consumption of 4 CFM
Impacting sound level of 96 DB(A) with sound reduction model available as well
Four position power regulator for better control on tasks
Feather touch control with one switch for forward/reverse operation : easy for usage
2 years limited warranty with tool registration
Pros
- Extremely small in size (less than 6 inches), can reach very tight spaces
- Small tool but does pack a punch considering the power it delivers
- Sufficient power on the 3/8 inch anvil can help remove difficult nuts and bolts
7. NitroCat 1200-K Air Impact Wrench
If you want a no-nonsense tool with hard hitting power, NitroCat 1200K is one of the best heavy duty tools in the market.
With 1295 ft.lbs of hard hitting loosening torque and twin clutch mechanism you can use this tool for doing framework as well as automotive log nuts. This impact wrench comes in the class of most powerful 1/2 air impact gun.
The flip lever forward and reverse operation present in this tool gives a much easier usage.
NitroCat 1200K powerful features include
1/2 inch anvil
Product dimensions of 9.2 x 8.5 x 3 inches
Product weight of 4.5 lbs
Working torque of 200-900 ft.lbs gives good power for log nut removals
950 hits per minute and much better suited for loosening stuck bolts
Twin clutch mechanism giving smooth efficient power
Average air consumption of 4 CFM at 90-120 psi air pressure
Patented quit technology from AirCat gives on 86 DB(A) noise
Durable composite housing made of Kevlar
Ergonomic handle gives less fatigue on the user
5w-30 motor oil is used for lubrication
Forward and reverse operation flip-over switch gives easier operation
Pros
- Maximum torque of 900 ft.lbs, good for removing automotive log nuts
- Ergonomic handle and Kevlar housing makes this tool extremely durable
- Very easy forward and reverse operation
- Cost is on your side, great features in this price range
8. ACDelco ANI405 Air Impact Wrench
ACDelco ANI405 is a simple moderately powerful tool with a durable aluminum alloy housing.
The exhaust design produces less noise and can work for extended periods of time without failures.
Features at a glance
1/2 inch anvil
Product dimensions of 2.5 x 7 x 8 inches
Product weight of 5.72 lbs (2.59 kg)
Maximum torque of 500 ft.lbs with twin hammer mechanism
Free speed of 7000 RPM
3 forward speeds for effective power control, reverse at full power
Average air consumption of 3.9 CFM with an air pressure of 90 psi
Produces a sound level of around 98 DB(A) as per the product brochure
Ergonomic handle for extended usage
Pros
- Ergonomic handle for extended usage
- 3 forward speeds for effective power control, reverse at full power
- 1/2 inch anvil
9. Earthquake 3/8" Professional Air Impact Wrench
This air impact wrench from Central Pneumatic is lightweight and durable with an aluminum body. It delivers efficient torque with much lesser vibration as compared to its counterparts.
Earthquake 3/8 inch air impact wrench boasts of a longer lifespan owing to its precision grade components.
This tool has variable speed in it reverse power operation as well.
Features overview
3/8 inch anvil
Product dimensions of 7.7 x 7 x 2.6 inches
Product weight of 3.8 lbs
300 ft.lbs of maximum torque
Free speed of 11000 RPM
Average air consumption of 5 CFM at air pressure of 90 psi
Variable speed in both forward and reverse power operations
Exhaust is vented away from the user
Precision grade components promise longer lifespan
Lesser vibration that its counterparts
Excellent price point for its features
2 year limited warranty
Other air impact wrenches with the same specifications often cost around 2x the price of this tool
Variable speed in reverse power operation
Pros
- Precision grade components promise longer lifespan
- Excellent price point for its features
- 2 year limited warranty
Buyer’s Guide to Air Impact Wrenches
Power
Choose a wrench which has sufficient power based on your needs.If you need an air impact wrench for your home or DIY tasks, you can consider powers of around 300-500 ft.lbs. But if you want a wrench more for a workshop setup removing bigger log nuts and bolts, it is best you take an air impact wrench having power more than 700-800 ft.lbs.
Compatible Air Compressor
Carefully consider the capacity of the air compressor you have before choosing the compatible air impact wrench. It is suggested that you have a air compressor with at least twice the average air flow required by the air impact wrench. So if you choose an air impact wrench having an average air consumption of 4 CFM, it will run best with a compressor having greater than 7-8 CFM. Most wrenches mentioned in the list work best at an air pressure of around 90 psi, so keep that in mind as well.
Variable Speed
If you have a very high power air impact wrench you may end up wringing a small bolt if you use all the power on it. So using a speed based on your power requirements can help you. Variable speed air impact wrenches come to your rescue in such a senario
Maintenance
Most basic air impact wrenches can be easily serviced by you. However if you choose a complex tool you may have to get it oiled by an expert which can cost you some bucks.
Weight
Choose a light weight model which will cause less stress on your wrist on extended usage.
Noise
Sound levels is something you would to consider if you are a professional. Air impact wrenches can create a lot of sound. You can always choose a sound reduction version for the tool if you are worried about the sound levels in your workspace.
Warranty Terms
Keep in mind the warranty conditions while you buy one from amazon.com
Frequently asked questions about Air Impact Wrenches
How does an air impact wrench work?
Multiple short and sharp torque application is the key to the working of an air impact wrench. An air vane motor is employed to use the force in compressed air to drive an air motor.
This air motor in turn using a rotating mass, produces periodic hammering actions that help in loosing even the tightest nuts.
Why use an air impact wrench?
It feels real bad when you get stuck at a tight nut. No matter how much effort you give, the nut just wont budge. There may also be scenarios where you want to fast replace the tires on your car. Removing the automotive log nuts using a classical wrench can be very tedious. Air impact wrenches solves this problem with ease.
A few “twat-twat-twat” sounds and you have the nut loosened ready for you to proceed.
What’s the best air impact wrench?
Check the final verdict at the end of this guide.
Very often I get this question from my readers – “What air impact wrench to buy?”. The answer to this question basically depends on your needs.
How to use air impact wrench?
I think a video best suits the purpose of helping you understand how to use an air impact wrench. You can see this video for reference.
How to repair air impact wrench?
Dis-assembling a simple air impact wrench and then putting it back is very easy. You can oil your wrench yourself most of the time. I will soon publish a guide showing the simple steps of cleaning the internal parts and oiling of your air impact wrench.
If you end up with a faulty air impact wrench, it is always better to get it repaired by an expert.
Which air compressor for air impact wrench?
Please read the section on Compatible Air Compressor in the Air Impact Wrench Buying Guide given above
