Balance Power and Size With The Metabo HPT 36V 1/2-Inch MultiVolt Mid-Torque Impact Wrench
With the advancement of brushless motor and battery technology, cordless impact wrenches are pushing performance levels further than ever before. We got our hands on the Metabo HPT 36V MultiVolt mid-torque impact wrench to see how its latest model fares against the competition.
Pros
- IP56 rating
- Brushless motor
- 4 standard speeds and 4 forward assist modes
- Well-balanced
Cons
- Handle squeezes your hand a little
- Assist mode has no effect in reverse
Metabo HPT 36V 1/2-Inch MultiVolt Mid-Torque Impact Wrench Performance
Let’s Talk Power and Control
On paper, this 1/2-inch mid-torque impact wrench has an impressive amount of power. Its 774 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque and 568 ft-lbs of fastening torque are up there with the best in the game.
Using our Inertia Torque L-1000 impact torque tester, it produced a consistent 484 ft-lbs working torque. Compare that to Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel 2962 which measured 334 ft-lbs in the same test.
Note the working torque measured by the L-1000 is lower than the maximum torque measured by testing methods for manufacturer specifications. This is normal and a better representation of how much force you’re applying to each fastener.
My favorite feature of the Metabo HPT WR36DE is the 4-stage speed selection. Combined with a variable speed trigger, it gives you lots of control over your work and huge variability in speed and power.
| Mode | Measured Torque |
| 1 | 174 ft-lbs |
| 2 | 243 ft-lbs |
| 3 | 346 ft-lbs |
| 4 | 484 ft-lbs |
It also features an auto-stop mode that stops rotation to prevent over-tightening your fastener. One thing to keep in mind is the assist mode has no effect in reverse. Here’s how it changes in each mode:
| Mode | Impact Time | Measured Torque |
| Assist 1 | 0.5 sec | 74 ft-lbs |
| Assist 2 | 1 sec | 209 ft-lbs |
| Assist 3 | 1.5 sec | 315 ft-lbs |
| Assist 4 | 2 sec | 376 ft-lbs |
Metabo HPT 36V 1/2-Inch MultiVolt Mid-Torque Impact Wrench Design Notes
Ergonomics
The overall looks and feel of this impact wrench are pretty favorable, but not quite as good as Metabo HPT’s other drills and drivers. The handle is beefier without as much contour. That’s not a big deal, but the handle is a little shorter and squeezes your hand between the head and foot a little. On the plus side, rubber overmold on the grip is comfortable and contributes to a secure grip.
This impact wrench clocks in at 5.81 pounds with a 2.5Ah battery, which is average for a mid-torque model. The weight distribution is excellent and it doesn’t feel overly top or bottom-heavy and this balance helps reduce fatigue over long days.
Vibration Management
The Metabo HPT design incorporates a vibration damper between the base of the handle and the battery interface. This is really important because excessive vibration can drastically decrease your battery’s useful life. It doesn’t affect how much vibration you feel in the handle, but we’re not losing any sleep over that.
Cordless or Corded
Like all Metabo HPT 36V MultiVolt tools, you can use a battery or AC adapter to power the tool. We certainly prefer to use it cordless, but it’s nice to have the corded option in a pinch.
Additional Features
- IP56 rated
- LED light
- Reversible belt hook
- Rubber protective boot
Metabo HPT 36V 1/2-Inch MultiVolt Mid-Torque Impact Wrench Price
This 1/2-inch impact wrench will set you back $199 as a bare tool and $399 with two 2.5Ah batteries, a rapid charger, and a hardshell case. This tool is backed by Metabo HPT’s limited lifetime warranty.
The Bottom Line
If you’re thinking about grabbing a new mid-torque impact wrench, make sure you consider Metabo HPT. It delivers excellent power while still maintaining a manageable size and weight. Try it in your hand before you buy, though. As long as it’s comfortable for you, it has all the power and control you need for most impact wrench applications.
Metabo HPT 36V 1/2-Inch MultiVolt Mid-Torque Impact Wrench Specifications
- Model: Metabo HPT WR36DE
- Power source: Metabo HPT Multi-Volt battery
- 36V MultiVolt AC adapter compatible
- Weight: 4.25 lbs. (bare), 5.81 lbs. (with 2.5Ah MultiVolt battery)
- Max tightening torque: 568 ft-lbs.
- Max breakaway torque: 754 ft-lbs.
- No-Load speed: 0-1,500/1,800/2,100/2,400 RPMs
- Impact rate: 3,400 BPM
- Warranty: Limited Lifetime
- Price: $199 (bare), $399 (kit)
