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Trying to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts by hand using a manual wrench can be a real pain. Sometimes no matter how much muscle power you put into it, those nuts remain stubbornly in place. So how can you deal with those tough nuts and bolts that refuse to move?
This is where an air impact wrench comes in. An air impact wrench is a powerful power tool that can give you the power you need to loosen and tighten those nuts within minutes. All without you having to strain away to adjust them!
But how can you find the best air impact wrench for your needs? And why should you opt for an air impact wrench over an electric air impact wrench?
We’ve done all the hard work for you so that you don’t have to. We’ve researched and reviewed hundreds of products available on the market to find the 10 best air impact wrenches.
The models we’ve reviewed in more detail below will be able to make short work of those stubborn bolts. They will also be much more powerful than a cumbersome electric impact wrench!
So let’s take a look at the best air impact wrenches.
Table of Contents
10 Best Air Impact Wrench
| Image | Title | Price | Prime | Buy | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Top | AirCat 1150 "Killer Torque" ½ Inch Air Impact Wrench | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | Buy AirCat 1150 "Killer Torque" ½ Inch Air Impact Wrench Now | |
Top | Ingersoll Rand 2235TiMAX-R ½ Inch Air Impact Wrench | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | Buy Ingersoll Rand 2235TiMAX-R ½ Inch Air Impact Wrench Now | |
Top | Ingersoll Rand 231C ½ Inch Drive Air Impact Wrench | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | Buy Ingersoll Rand 231C ½ Inch Drive Air Impact Wrench Now | |
Top | Sunex SXMC12 ½ Inch Mini Air Impact Wrench with Grip | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | Buy Sunex SXMC12 ½ Inch Mini Air Impact Wrench with Grip Now | |
Top | Campbell Hausfeld XT002000 Air Impact Wrench | Prime | Buy Now | Buy Campbell Hausfeld XT002000 Air Impact Wrench Now | |
Top | ACDelco ANI405A Heavy Duty ½ Inch Air Impact Wrench | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | Buy ACDelco ANI405A Heavy Duty ½ Inch Air Impact Wrench Now | |
Top | NitroCat 1200-K ½ Inch Kevlar Composite Air Impact Wrench | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | Buy NitroCat 1200-K ½ Inch Kevlar Composite Air Impact Wrench Now | |
Top | Ingersoll Rand 2145QiMAX ¾ Inch Drive Air Impact Wrench | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | Buy Ingersoll Rand 2145QiMAX ¾ Inch Drive Air Impact Wrench Now | |
Top | WORKPAD ½ Inch Mini Air Impact Wrench | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | Buy WORKPAD ½ Inch Mini Air Impact Wrench Now | |
Top | TUZkozs ½ Inch Drive Air Impact Wrench | PrimeEligible | Buy Now | Buy TUZkozs ½ Inch Drive Air Impact Wrench Now |
AirCat 1150 “Killer Torque” ½ Inch Air Impact Wrench
The AirCat 1150 “Killer Torque” ½ inch air impact wrench is the best pick on the market. This particular air impact wrench comes with a range of great features, and at a more affordable price than some of the top end models.
This air impact wrench gives you a whopping 1,295 feet to pounds power to loosen up the toughest of bolts. It has a maximum torque of 900 feet to pounds to ensure that you can get the job done efficiently.
This particular air impact wrench is capable of 1,400 blows per minute. This easily makes the AirCat 1150 one of the strongest, most hard hitting twin hammer ½ inch impact wrenches on the market.
The AirCat 1150 features a 15% larger rotor that is able to deliver unmatched power. Perfect if you’re looking for a powerful model that will be able to tackle stubborn nuts and bolts with ease.
One of the best features of this particular air impact wrench is the fact that it uses patented technology to make it even quieter. It features an operation at only 86 decibels. Ideal if you’re fed up with those louder models on the market.
Pros
- Powerful – delivers a powerful performance that you can rely on
- Quieter operation – features patented technology for quieter operation
- 15% larger rotor – capable of delivering 1,400 blows per minute
Cons
- Kick back – some customers found the air impact wrench had some kick back when used
- sheer power and performance of 1,295 Feet-pounds (ft-lb) of loosening torque and Max. Torque 900 ft-lbs
- 1,400 Blows Per Minute makes this the strongest hard hitting Twin Hammer 1/2 Impact Wrench on the market
- 15-Percent larger rotor creates unmatched power
- Patented quiet technology at 86 decibels
- 2 year parts and labor warranty
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Ingersoll Rand 2235TiMAX-R ½ Inch Air Impact Wrench
The Ingersoll Rand 2235TiMAX-R ½ inch air impact wrench is one of the best models on the market. This particular air impact wrench comes with 1,350 feet to pounds of nut busting torque power. So you’ll be able to make short work of those pesky nuts that refuse to move.
This is a lightweight model that features a titanium hammer case. It has been designed to be as reliable as possible and every component has been put through rigorous testing.
Pros
- Powerful – comes with 1,350 feet to pounds of nut busting torque power
- Reliable – each component has been thoroughly tested for reliability
- Durable – features high quality parts to be strong and durable
Cons
- Pricey – one of the more expensive models on our list
- TWO NEW COLORS: The new 2235TiMAX-G (green) and 2235TiMAX-R (red) allow you to see it on the job and in the garage, while customizing your toolbox.
- POWER: Punish the toughest bolts with 1350 ft-lbs. of Nut Busting Torque powered by Ingersoll Rand’s finely tuned twin-hammer impact mechanism. The 4-position power regulator and one-handed forward/reverse push button control give you the control to do the job right the first time.
- Finely tuned impact mechanism and motor deliver more torque, durability, and efficiency.
- A lightweight, balanced air impact wrench that weighs just 4.6 lbs.
- Titanium hammer case is designed to be strong and durable, to protect the interior components of the air impact wrench.
- Impact- and chemical-resistant housing protects against repeated drops and exposure to shop fluids.
- Optimized for the vehicle repair industry, heavy trucks, tire lane, fleet maintenance, body shops, general industrial use, MRO, rail, heavy machinery, oil and gas, shipbuilding, and constructi
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Ingersoll Rand 231C ½ Inch Drive Air Impact Wrench
Another fantastic choice from Ingersoll Rand is the 231C ½ inch drive air impact wrench. This particular model will be perfect for both hobbyists and professionals.
It offers you a powerful performance that you can rely on while also being highly durable. This particular air impact wrench comes with a maximum torque of 600 feet to pounds.
A handy feature of this model is that you can adjust the power output to suit the task at hand. You’ll get an efficient performance from the twin hammer mechanism with rotational speeds of up to 8,000 rpm.
Pros
- Versatile – perfect for use by both hobbyists and professionals
- Powerful – delivers a maximum torque of 600 feet to pounds
- Adjustable power – easily adjust the power to suit your needs
Cons
- Trigger – can get stuck if the parts aren’t cleaned every now and then
- CLASSIC CHOICE: Lightweight and easy to maintain, this impact wrench is a reliable choice for auto hobbyists and professional mechanics alike; It provides dependability and durability at exceptional value
- RELIABLE PERFORMANCE: The 231C Air Impact Wrench delivers a maximum torque of 600 foot-pounds, and offers enough power to install and remove stubborn bolts, lug nuts, and other hardy fasteners
- ADJUSTABLE POWER: Its adjustable power regulator lets you easily adjust power output needed for your task at hand; The twin hammer mechanism helps ensure efficient performance with impressive rotational speeds of up to 8,000 rpm
- COMFORT + CONTROL: At 7.3 inches in length and weighing only 5.8 pounds, it’s compact, ergonomic design minimizes stress on your wrists and hands; The contoured handle makes it easy to carry and control
- READY TO USE: For added convenience, this impact wrench arrives fully lubricated, so it’s ready to use right out of the box
- Exclusive impact mechanism
- Pressure-feed lubrication
- Adjustable power regulator
- Easy to service two-piece construction
- Contoured handle for comfort and cont
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Sunex SXMC12 ½ Inch Mini Air Impact Wrench with Grip
The Sunex SXMC12 ½ inch mini air impact wrench with grip is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a more compact model. This particular air impact wrench features a compact stubby design of only 4.29 inches. It is also super lightweight and weighs only 2.9 pounds.
Don’t be fooled by the smaller design. The Sunex SXMC12 comes with a maximum torque of 500 feet to pounds. It also comes with 3 speed control, as well as forward and reverse control.
Pros
- Compact design – features a smaller design of 4.29 inches to fit into tighter spaces
- Lightweight – weighs only 2.9 pounds and can be used for one hand operation
- Variable speeds – comes with 3 speed control
Cons
- Best for hobbies – not best suited for professional use
- Compact design: stubby design of only 4.29” long to fit into tight spaces.
- Ultralight weight: weighs only 2.9 lbs to reduce user fatigue.
- Powerful: Jumbo hammer mechanism produces 500 ft-lbs of breakaway torque.
- One hand operation: fits comfortably in one hand.
- External grease fitting: lubricate your tool more Easily.
- Forward/reverse control
- 3-Speed cont
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Campbell Hausfeld XT002000 Air Impact Wrench
The Campbell Hausfeld XT002000 air impact wrench is a great alternative to some of the more expensive models on the market. This air impact wrench comes with an impressive maximum torque of 750 feet to pounds.
It also comes with a 3 speed power regulator so that you can find the perfect speed for your needs.
What’s really great about this air impact wrench is its ergonomic design. It features an ergonomic soft grip which reduces vibration and fatigue. The air impact wrench is also lightweight for easier operation.
Pros
- Powerful – comes with 750 feet to pounds worth of nut busting torque
- Adjustable speed – comes with a 3 speed power regulator
- Ergonomic – features an ergonomic soft grip design to reduce vibration and fatigue
Cons
- Lube instructions – not clear or specific to this model
- Pair this impact wrench with the right Campbell Hausfeld air compressor to create 750 FT/LBS of nut-busting torque so you can work on small cars or lawn mowers with ease
- 3-Speed power regulator makes it easy to select the speed you need to get the perfect tension on your lug nuts every time.
- The sturdy composite design creates a long-lasting durable tool so you can complete job after job with confidence.
- This impact wrenches light weight, smooth twin-hammer mechanism, and ergonomic soft grip design work together to reduce vibration and fatigue so you can work longer with less wear on your hands.
- Combine with a Campbell Hausfeld 30 Gallon Portable Compressor (VT6271) and air hose (PA117701AV) for best results.Finish your projects faster and easier with Campbell Hausfeld. The Air Power Expe
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
ACDelco ANI405A Heavy Duty ½ Inch Air Impact Wrench
The ACDelco ANI405A heavy duty ½ inch air impact wrench is the ideal choice if you’re looking for a more budget friendly option. This particular model clocks in at a competitive price and comes with a range of great features for you to use.
It features an impressive maximum torque of 500 feet to pounds to help you make short work of stubborn nuts.
Unlike competitive products, the ACDelco air impact wrench features 4 variable speed functions. It can give you speeds of up to 8,000 rpm to tackle those tougher nuts.
Pros
- Budget friendly – comes in at a more competitive price
- Variable speeds – features 4 variable speed functions
- Ergonomic – features a more user friendly design
Cons
- Air hose adaptors – doesn’t come with these included
- HEAVY DUTY – Our lightweight, heavy duty, and powerful 500 ft-lbs. twin hammer pneumatic impact wrench is engineered with high-quality materials for fast and easy removal work. Equipped with an 1/2” alloy steel head excellent for car tire rotation / removal, change lawnmower blade, etc.
- VERSATILE – Unlike other brands that offer tools with limited features, our air impact wrench features 4 free speed up to 8,000 RPM (No Load Speed) and 1 speed reverse, that enables users to utilize different speeds based on the various applications. Handle exhaust design that reduces surrounding noise level and prevents air blowing in user’s work area.
- USER-FRIENDLY – Lightweight composite housing with ergonomic soft grip handle exhaust design provides comfort for long working hours and a secure grip for maximum control and steadiness. Slim body design molded to securely fit and balance hand torque to help reduce vibration and fatigue with less wear on your hands.
- VALUE KIT – Our Pneumatic Impact Wrench Tool Kit comes with an air impact wrench, a bottle of lubricating oil, and an air hose adapter.
- 100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED – For over 35 years we have been manufacturing and providing the best products and services to our customers at the lowest prices possible. We are confident that you will absolutely love our air impact wrench that we will stand behind our product with a replacement or your money back! Every purchase comes with a manufacturer’s limited 1-year warranty, so you can buy with confiden
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
NitroCat 1200-K ½ Inch Kevlar Composite Air Impact Wrench
The NitroCat 1200-K ½ inch kevlar composite air impact wrench is another great choice if you’re looking for power and durability combined.
This particular model comes with 1,295 feet to pounds loosening torque thanks to the hard hitting twin clutch mechanism. This makes it the perfect choice for heavy duty work.
This particular air impact wrench features several patented features to give you a reliable design. It features a patented ergonomic handle, a patented easy operation flip lever, and a patented quiet operation that measures 86 decibels.
Pros
- Powerful – comes with 1,295 feet to pounds of loosening torque
- Quiet operation – measures only 86 decibels
- Quality – features patented designs for a reliable performance
Cons
- Care and attention – because the air impact wrench is so quiet you will need to be paying close attention when adjusting bolts
- AirCAT 1200-K 1/2 NITROCAT Impact wrench 1250 ft
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Ingersoll Rand 2145QiMAX ¾ Inch Drive Air Impact Wrench
The Ingersoll Rand 2145QiMAX ¾ inch drive air impact wrench is the perfect choice for professionals. While this model clocks in at a higher price point, it comes with a range of great features to give you the reliability you need from your new power tool.
It is specifically designed for use with heavy duty applications such as construction, bus service, and agricultural equipment maintenance.
This particular Ingersoll Rand air impact wrench features quieter operation, a compact and lightweight design, as well as a 6 vane motor which is 16% more efficient than competitive models.
Pros
- High quality – features high quality components for heavy duty operation
- Compact and lightweight – makes the air impact wrench much easier to use
- Powerful – capable of delivering up to 1,350 feet to pounds of maximum reverse torque
Cons
- Expensive – one of the priciest options available
- PRO PERFORMANCE: This Air Impact Wrench is ideal for the most heavy duty applications, such as truck and bus service, construction, and agricultural equipment maintenance, as well as the MRO market; Delivers up to 1,350 foot-pounds of maximum reverse torque
- COMPACT, QUIET: Patented Quiet Tool technology reduces sound levels without compromising best in class power performance; Weighs only 7.4 lbs and is compact enough to access tight working spaces
- MAX EFFICIENCY: Powerful 6-vane motor is 16% more efficient than other types of air motors, resulting in better tool performance and less money spent on compressed air
- DURABLE RELIABILITY: Steel hammer case protects the tool from harsh environments and can withstand repeated drops; Every component, mechanism, and function has undergone rigorous testing to ensure long-lasting performa
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
WORKPAD ½ Inch Mini Air Impact Wrench
The WP WORKPAD 1.2 inch mini air impact wrench is another fantastic choice if you don’t want to spend a small fortune on your next power tool.
This air impact wrench comes with a range of features that make it ideal for both hobbyists and professionals alike. It features a solid aluminum alloy housing to give you extra reliability and durability.
This particular model features an ergonomic design. It also comes with a forward and reverse switch that features 3 power positions.
Pros
- Budget friendly – available at a more affordable price
- Durable – features a solid aluminum alloy housing for reliability and durability
- Easy to use – comes with a forward and reverse switch and 3 power positions
Cons
- Heavy – one of the heavier options on our list
- 【Professional designed】Designed for professional projects and general-purpose applications
- 【Usability】Solid aluminum alloy housing for added reliability and durability
- 【Balanced power】All around clutch with a high ultimate torque and high power/weight ratio
- 【Ergonomic designed】Ergonomic grip designed and handle grip sheath for less vibration and more comfort
- 【Easy to use】Forward/reverse switch with integrated 3-position regulator for ease-of-
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
TUZkozs ½ Inch Drive Air Impact Wrench
The TUZkozs ½ inch drive air impact wrench is another great budget friendly option. This air impact wrench comes with a powerful 500 feet to pounds loosening torque. It features a twin hammer system for reliability.
A handy feature of this model is that it features 5 speed operation. So you can adjust the power to suit your needs.
Pros
- Budget friendly – more affordable than some of the expensive models on the market
- 5 speeds – choose the best power setting for your needs
- Powerful – features 500 feet to pounds of loosening torque
Cons
- Loud – one of the louder models on our list
- ⛏️ Heavy duty, and powerful 500 ft-lbs. twin hammer pneumatic impact wrench is engineered with high-quality materials for fast and easy removal work. Equipped with an 1/2” alloy steel head excellent for car tire rotation / removal, change lawnmower blade, etc.
- ⛏️ Pneumatic Impact Wrench Tool comes with an air impact wrench, a Hexagon wrench, and an air hose adapter.
- ⛏️ The tool requires 1: connecting a pipe with an internal diameter not less than than 3/8 inches, 2: using an air pump not less than 8 gallons to provide sufficient power output;
- ⛏️ Maintenance of the machine is very important.If you are a professional engineer, we recommend that you use 5-10 drops of professional pneumatic tool oil daily before use, and use this tool after 5 seconds of idling to provide higher speed and greater torque. If you are an amateur engineer, we recommend that you drop 5-10 drops of professional pneumatic tool oil after each use, and store it after 5 seconds of idling for better torque output next time;
- ⛏️100% SATISFACTION GUARANTEED – years we have been manufacturing and providing the best products and services to our customers at the lowest prices possible. We are confident that you will absolutely love our air impact wrench that we will stand behind our product with a replacement or your money back! Every purchase comes with a manufacturer’s limited 1-year warranty, so you can buy with confiden
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buyer’s Guide
Searching for the best air impact wrench can be a real challenge. Especially if you’ve never bought one of these power tools before and aren’t entirely sure what you’re meant to be looking for!
It may be tempting to opt for the cheapest model that you can find. However, there’s no guarantee that this air impact wrench will have all the power you need to efficiently loosen and tighten nuts.
Luckily for you, we’ve put together this useful buyer’s guide. We’ve made sure to cover all of the important points you should consider when it comes to choosing the best air impact wrench for your needs.
As long as your chosen product has the below features covered, you’ll know that you’re buying a quality power tool that will last you for many years to come.
Power
The main reason you’re likely opting for an air impact wrench over an electric impact wrench is because you’re wanting a model that is going to be powerful. Air impact wrenches are more powerful than their electric counterparts, so will be able to make short work of all your tough nuts and bolts.
Take a look at the power rating of your chosen air impact wrench. How many blows per minute can it deliver? What is its performance measurement in feet to pounds? This should give you a better idea of how powerful the air impact wrench will be to use.
Budget
One of the factors you will need to consider when it comes to buying the best air impact wrench is your budget. Some of the better models are available at a premium price. However, not everyone can afford to spend hundreds of dollars on an air impact wrench.
Think carefully about what you will need from your air impact wrench. Which features will be essential to you? How much power will you need? This could influence the type of air impact wrench you have to buy.
If you will need to use your air impact wrench for more professional purposes, it will be worth splurging that little bit extra on a slightly more expensive model.
These should be able to last you for many years to come, so you will more than get your money out of them. It will be best to opt for the best quality air impact wrench that you can afford.
Durable
You will of course want to opt for an air impact wrench that will be highly durable. The sturdier the air impact wrench, the longer it will last you. This will partly come down to a cost factor.
Some of the cheaper models on the market often use cheaper components, so they won’t be able to last as long as some of the models that cost hundreds of dollars.
Take a look at the construction of the air impact wrench. Is this highly durable? Another great way to determine how durable the air impact wrench is will be to look at other customer’s reviews.
Noise Level
Another important factor to consider is the noise level of your chosen air impact wrench. As a power tool, these are often some of the noisiest equipment in the workshop.
However, you don’t have to opt for a loud air impact wrench that is going to be noisy and annoying.
If noise is going to be a contributing factor to your decision, then you should opt for a model that features quieter operation.
You might struggle to find a model that offers near silent operation, but quieter operation will be a fantastic alternative to some of the noisier models on the market.
Take a look at how many decibels the air impact wrench is rated for. This should give you a better indication of how quiet it will be to use on a day-to-day basis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best air impact wrench?
The best air impact wrenches are:
- AirCat 1150 “Killer Torque” ½ Inch Air Impact Wrench
- Ingersoll Rand 2235TiMAX-R ½ Inch Air Impact Wrench
- Ingersoll Rand 231C ½ Inch Drive Air Impact Wrench
- Sunex SXMC12 ½ Inch Mini Air Impact Wrench with Grip
- Campbell Hausfeld XT002000 Air Impact Wrench
- ACDelco ANI405A Heavy Duty ½ Inch Air Impact Wrench
- NitroCat 1200-K ½ Inch Kevlar Composite Air Impact Wrench
- Ingersoll Rand 2145QiMAX ¾ Inch Drive Air Impact Wrench
- WORKPAD ½ Inch Mini Air Impact Wrench
- TUZkozs ½ Inch Drive Air Impact Wrench
What are air impact wrenches good for?
Air impact wrenches are typically used for loosening and tightening nuts on vehicles and other pieces of equipment. These types of wrenches use compressed air to give them the power they need to adjust these. They are often called by several different names including a rattle gun or torque gun.
Which is better: Air or electric impact wrench?
Ultimately, determining which is best between an air impact wrench and an electric impact wrench will come down to personal preference and what you need them for.
If you tend to only need it for a single location, then you will be better off opting for an air impact wrench. If you need to take your impact wrench to several different locations, then you should opt for an electric impact wrench.
On the whole, air impact wrenches will be more powerful than electric impact wrenches.
