This Cordless Screwdriver really makes an impact.
Written: Aug 07 '07 (Updated Aug 07 '07)
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Works well for most jobs. No more stripping screws.
Cons: Single speed makes starting a screw hard.
The Bottom Line: I highly recommend this Impact Driver for anyone that like carrying good tools with them. I plan on checking out more Craftsman Impact tools.
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| Steelfan's Full Review: Craftsman 4.8 volt Impact Power Driver 11458 |
For about a year or two since Sears brought out Cordless Impact Drivers, I have wanted to buy one and give it a try. About two months ago, I decided to buy the Craftsman 4.8 volt Impact Power Driver 11458 mainly due the price ($19.99). I have owned other cordless screwdrivers in the past and really did not have much good to say about them. I was hoping that this tool could change my mind and allow me to leave my cordless drills at home.
Features and Specs.
The first thing that you will notice about this cordless driver is that it can be used in two positions. One position is like a pistol grip and the other is straight much like a regular screwdriver. To change positions simply push the red button on the left side of the tool. The next thing that needs to be mentioned is the rocker switch that allows you to change from forward to reverse without moving your grip on the tool. Overall length of the driver in the straight position is about 14 ½”. The chuck is keyless and bit can be easily replaced by pulling the collar away from the driver. When the collar snaps back into position the bit is locked in place much like Craftsman’s Speed-Lok system. The chuck accepts ¼” bit sizes. There are 5 screw driving bits and 3 drill bits included but for those that have any Speed-Lok sets, they will also work. The thing that makes this driver special is the hammering action as the screw or bit is turning. This allows for the user to use less pressure on the tool and helps stop stripping of screw heads. The Craftsman 4.8 volt Impact Power Driver 11458 is rated at 175 in. lbs. of torque and has a single speed of 1800 RPMs. Also included is a plug-in charger which fully charges the driver in 3 to 6 hours. This tool is covered under a one year full warranty.
How does it perform?
I was very impressed with the power of this driver. The impact feature is truly a wonderful help when screwing or drilling into hard materials. I found it almost impossible to strip a screw head since the speed automatically slows down when the driver meets resistance. The keyless chuck is a wonderful feature and the fact that small sized Speed-Lok bits fit into the driver makes the variety of uses even better. I probably have at least 30 bits in my 120 pc. Speed-Lok set that will work in this tool. So far I have used this driver to hang a cabinet on the wall with screws, drill small holes in wood and metal. That’s right metal. I even have the ability to screw in nuts and bolts with bits used from my Speed-Lok set. The battery seems to last a pretty long time and with moderate use for the last two months, I have only charged it once.
One big complaint.
Sears make one big mistake with this tool and that is the single speed. Adding a slower speed would definitely help with the ability to start a screw. Anyone who owns a cordless drill will tell you that you use slow speed for screwing and fast for drilling. The fast speed makes it hard to keep the driver on the screw head. Phillips head screws are not too bad, but slotted screws are a nightmare. This feat is not impossible but can be tough in some situations. The driver goes directly from off to fast speed even if you try to gently push the button. Another minor complaint is that this tool does not come with a case or even a way to keep the bits with the tool. I am planning buying a case for it and possibly another small sized Speed-Lok set.
All in all: This tool does do a nice job with most tasks even with the speed problem. With some practice I have gotten pretty good a using this driver even with slotted screws. The power of this driver for its size is amazing and the fact that stripping screw heads is none existent makes this tool a winner. At the regular price of $39.99, this tool is worth it but at the current price of $19.99 it is a no-brainer. I recommend this Impact Driver for anyone that like to carry a good useful tool with them in their toolbox.
My 120 pc. Speed-Lok Review:
http://www.epinions.com/content_116670172804
Thanks for reading my reviews!!!
Steelfan
Recommended:
Yes
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Epinions.com ID:
Steelfan
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 in Home and Garden |
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Member: Kent Dobson
Location: Central PA
Reviews written: 170
Trusted by: 182 members
About Me:
Casual Woodworker and Novice Handyman. Tools and Lawn/Garden are my favorite areas. Go Steelers!!!
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