Hitachi Cordless Impact Wrench

Hitachi Cordless Impact Wrench 18V 1/2” Drive WR18DL

Not all cordless impact wrenches are created equal and in this review of the WR18DL Hitachi cordless impact wrench we are reviewing a brute!  That is not to say that it is heavy or unwieldy, far from it.  Although the tool is an 18v powerhouse it was designed to operate and feel like a 12v tool in the hand.  For the most part Hitachi have successfully achieved their goals.

This Hitachi power tool claims a class leading whopping 1950in.lbs of torque and this really is great performance from an 18v power tool.  Yet for all its power this tool is not large or unwieldy.  The design aim was to make a lightweight tool that would not be tiring to operate and there is no doubt that Hitachi has been successful in this aim.  The Hitachi WR18DL is a mere 6-5/8” long and weighs in at 3.5lbs.  This cordless power tool is smaller and lighter than many similar tools in the 12v range offered by other manufacturers.

For those of us that are more technically minded, the Hitachi WR18DL impact wrench sports a no load speed rating of 0-2,600RPM and an impact rate of 3,200IPM.  Power is delivered in two modes, the first is called appropriately enough “Power Mode” (0-2600RPM).  Under this setting the tool produces maximum torque and rotation speed.  Some jobs may require more control and a slower speed or less torque.  For those kinds of jobs Hitachi also included a setting called “Save Mode” (0-2,000RPM).  While operating under this setting the tool reduces its power output and rotation speed to make this monster behave like a kitten.

Hitatchi are justly proud of their achievements surrounding this tool.  The motor is protected from overheating during heavy cycle use by their “Cool Flow” system.  This is designed to provide a constant flow of air over the motor to enable it to work harder, longer and reduce the risk of burnout.  The brushes and armature of the motor are externally accessible, which is a great aid when maintenance is due.   The unit also has an LED lamp to light the work place area – which has become almost an industry standard addition.

The Hitachi Cordless Impact Wrench WR18DL carries a ten year warranty on the tool, a two year warranty on the batteries and a one year warranty on the charger supplied with the kit.  Overall this is a pretty comprehensive level of free coverage and justly reflects the confidence that the manufacturer has in their product.