One tool every proper household needs to have, either buried at the bottom of a junk drawer or squirreled away in an old toolbox, is a screwdriver. Screws quite literally hold our world together, but while a regular, handheld screwdriver may suffice for newer screws, if the screws are old or warped, you’re going to need a little extra muscle, and that’s when an impact driver can come in handy.
Makita’s 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Quick-Shift Mode 3-Speed Impact Driver is intended primarily for driving heavier screws into planks of wood, but it also works just fine as a household fastening buddy. Just stick a drill bit into the 1-touch ¼-inch hex chuck, set your speed, and pull the variable speed trigger to get up to 3,600 RPM at 1,550 in. lbs. of fastening torque. The electronic Quick-Shift mode automatically downshifts the motor when a screw is almost fully driven or loosened to lessen the potential of stripping or damaging it, which helps to preserve its longevity.
Home Depot users have given this driver a 4.8 out of 5 rating. Additionally, Eric Jopp of Tools in Action rated it at 4.4 out of 5, calling it the ideal tool for fastening and loosening screws on cabinets, drywall, HVAC devices, and more. It’s also lightweight and ergonomic, which makes it easier on users during longer jobs.
The Makita 3-Speed Impact Driver is available at Home Depot for $149.00.
