Milwaukee M18 2668-20 Right Angle Impact Wrench Review Reveals Power and Durability

Description

Positives of the Milwaukee 2668-20 M18 2-Speed 3/8″ Right Angle Impact Wrench

Testing the Milwaukee 2668-20 M18 2-Speed 3/8″ Right Angle Impact Wrench Bare has been quite an experience, especially for someone who digs into tight spaces frequently. This cordless tool shines with its compact design and lightweight build, weighing only about 2.6 pounds, making it easy to maneuver without causing fatigue. The right angle head is a real game-changer, allowing access where traditional impact wrenches just can’t reach.

• Impressive torque output of 60 ft-lb lets me handle medium-duty tasks with confidence.
• The two-speed gearbox offers versatility; 0-900 RPM for precision and up to 2250 RPM when speed is needed.
• Using it without a battery included means I could pair it with my existing 18V M18 lithium-ion batteries, which I already trust for longevity and consistent power.
• The durable construction with painted and polished finish feels solid, promising long-lasting use even on rough job sites.

Overall, it’s clear that Milwaukee designed this wrench for ease of use and reliability, especially in tight automotive or mechanical environments.

Drawbacks Worth Considering

Despite the many benefits, some parts of this impact wrench could use improvement. The lack of a brushless motor was noticeable during heavier tasks, where the tool tended to heat up more quickly than brushless competitors. The mechanical anvil impact action delivers solid power, but it’s a bit louder and rougher compared to some quieter, smoother electric models I’ve tried.

• No battery included means an extra purchase for newcomers, which can be inconvenient.
• The maximum torque, while decent, might fall short for heavy industrial use; it’s better suited for lighter to medium jobs.
• The handle grip, although ergonomic, could be cushier; extended use sometimes left my hand a bit sore.

These limitations don’t make the tool bad, but they do highlight where you might want to consider alternatives if your work demands higher torque or quieter operation.

Design and Build Quality

The right angle form factor is my favorite feature because it allows for work in cramped spaces like engine compartments or under sinks, where a standard impact wrench would struggle. At just over 12 inches long, it fits comfortably in the palm and feels balanced.

The mix of plastic and metal materials strikes a decent balance between durability and weight. I appreciate the painted, polished finish which gives it a professional look and helps resist scratches and wear. The fixed square head is solid, ensuring sockets stay secure during use.

Despite its rugged build, the tool remains lightweight, which I found particularly useful during prolonged tasks—less strain on wrists and forearms.

Performance and Power Delivery

Power-wise, the wrench delivers a respectable 60 ft-lb of torque. It’s not the beast of the lineup but sufficient for tasks like removing lug nuts on cars or assembling frames. The two-speed feature gives me control over speed and torque, which is perfect when I need precision without risking over-tightening.

I noticed the maximum blows per minute hitting up to 3400, which helps break loose stubborn bolts fairly efficiently. The impact action, while mechanical, feels strong but does produce more vibration than some brushless models. Still, it’s manageable with brief breaks.

The absence of a brushless motor means it’s not as energy-efficient or cool-running, but the lithium-ion battery compatibility helps maintain decent runtime.

User Experience and Handling

In practice, operating this tool felt straightforward. The right angle handle provides a natural grip, and the trigger response is smooth, allowing for controlled starts and stops. I handed it over to a couple of friends and coworkers; their feedback was mostly positive, praising the tool’s balance and ease of handling.

Switching between low and high speeds was simple, though I wished the switch was a bit more tactile. The wrench’s compact size made it a favorite for my son, who’s just getting into DIY car repairs, since it’s not intimidating or bulky.

On the downside, the noise level is noticeable, and the vibration can get tiring during extended use, especially without cushioned gloves.

Competitive Options in the Market

Comparing this right angle impact wrench to other models like the DeWalt DCF899P1 or the Makita XWT08Z, it stands out for being slightly lighter and easier to handle in tight spaces. The DeWalt offers a brushless motor and a bit more torque, which translates to longer runtime and quieter operation, but it’s also pricier.

Makita’s version has similar torque but feels bulkier, which might not be ideal if you’re working in confined areas. Milwaukee’s strength is clearly in the combination of portability and power, though it falls a bit short on battery inclusion and motor technology.

If your priority is accessibility and ease of use in cramped environments, this Milwaukee model is a solid choice. For those seeking higher torque and battery efficiency, exploring brushless competitors might be worthwhile.

Value Proposition

Considering the features and build of this cordless impact wrench, the price feels reasonable for what it offers. It’s not the cheapest on the market, but you’re paying for Milwaukee’s reputation and the tool’s ergonomic design. The bare tool format is perfect if you already own compatible 18V batteries, making it a smart addition without redundancy.

If you’re on a budget yet want a reliable right angle impact wrench, this product delivers good bang for the buck. For casual users or pros who don’t require extreme torque, it represents cost-effective quality. However, newcomers might have to factor in the cost of battery and charger if starting from scratch.

Features and Settings Explored

Diving deeper into the tool’s mechanics, the two-speed gearbox allows me to tailor the wrench’s output for different tasks. Low speed (0-900 RPM) is great for delicate fastening or loosening without damaging threads, while high speed (up to 2250 RPM) kicks in for quicker removal or tightening.

The fixed square 3/8-inch drive fits most common sockets and accessories, making this a versatile addition to my toolkit. Without a brushless motor, the tool relies on a traditional mechanical anvil impact mechanism, which feels robust but can be a bit rough on sensitive components.

The absence of batteries means I appreciated the flexibility of pairing it with various M18 packs, which offer different capacities for runtime. The compact 12.2-inch length and weight around 2.6 pounds make handling a breeze even in awkward positions.

This impact wrench stands out in ease of use, portability, and solid torque for its size. Its limitations, like noise and absence of brushless tech, don’t overshadow its practicality for everyday users needing a reliable right angle wrench. Whether you’re a mechanic, DIYer, or tradesperson, it’s worth considering how these features align with your specific needs.

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