The Metabo HPT 18V 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench Cuts Down on Weight, But Still Packs a Punch
With the advancement of brushless motor and battery technology, cordless impact wrenches are pushing performance levels further than ever before. However, squeezing every ounce of power out of a tool isn’t always the main priority–size is often a major factor as well. I’ve got my hands on the Metabo HPT 18V 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench to see how it stacks up to the competition and where it’s best suited on the jobsite.
Pros
- Compact profile
- For speeds with specialty modes
- IP56 rating
- Brushless motor
- Kit comes with two batteries
Cons
- No significant drawbacks
Metabo HPT 18V Impact Wrench Performance
- No-Load Speed: 2800 RPM
- Impact Rate: 4000 IPM
- Max Fastening Torque: 255 ft-lbs
- Max Breakaway Torque: 433 ft-lbs
- Anvil: 1/2 in. friction ring with through hole
Power and Speed
On paper, this 1/2-inch mid-torque impact wrench has an impressive amount of power for its size. It produces up to 433 ft-lbs of breakaway torque and 255 ft-lbs of fastening torque. This is on the lower end when talking about the mid-torque class, but believe me, this thing is more than capable.
This impact wrench features four speed modes ranging from 1,200 RPMs up to 2,800 RPMs, plus two special modes that make it incredibly versatile.
| Mode | No-Load Speed |
|---|---|
| Mode 1 | 1,200 RPM |
| Mode 2 | 1,800 RPM |
| Mode 3 | 2,400 RPM |
| Mode 4 | 2,800 RPM |
The special modes include an Auto-Stop mode for fastening applications and an Auto-Slow mode for safer bolt removal
The auto-stop mode stops forward 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 | No-Load Speed | Auto-Stop Delay | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mode 1 | 1,200 RPM | 0.5 sec. | Small diameter bolts |
| Mode 2 | 1,800 RPM | 0.5 sec. | Lug nuts, light industrial work |
| Mode 3 | 2,400 RPM | 0.5 sec. | Heavy machinery, steel framing |
| Mode 4 | 2,800 RPM | 1.0 sec. | Heavy machinery, steel framing |
Auto-slow mode pauses rotation for a brief moment after the bolt is loosened and resumes rotation after 0.05 seconds, and then continues at 350 RPM. If you only pull the trigger halfway, the rotation speed will drop to a pre-determined speed to reduce the risk of losing the bolt and injury once it’s loosened.
| Mode | Full Trigger Pull | Half Trigger Pull |
|---|---|---|
| Mode 1 | 0.5 sec. pause -> 350 RPM | 0-220 RPM |
| Mode 2 | 0.5 sec. pause -> 350 RPM | 0-380 RPM |
| Mode 3 | 0.5 sec. pause -> 350 RPM | 0-660 RPM |
| Mode 4 | 0.5 sec. pause -> 350 RPM | 0-830 RPM |
Metabo HPT 18V Impact Wrench Design Notes
- Model: Metabo HPT WR18DHQ4
- Power Source: Metabo HPT 18V or 18V/36V battery
- Weight: 2.9 lbs (bare), 4.2 lbs (with 4.0Ah battery)
- Head Length: 4.75 in.
Size and Weight
This impact wrench weighs in at 2.9 pounds as a bare tool and 4.2 pounds with the kitted 4.0Ah battery. Overall, the weight distribution is excellent, which makes it easy to maneuver and reduces fatigue during over long days. It stands 9-1/4 inches tall with the kitted battery, and the head measures 4.75 inches from tip to tail.
Additional Features
- Wrist lanyard
- Reversible belt hook
Metabo HPT 18V Impact Wrench Price
This impact wrench retails for $179 as a bare tool and $299 as a kit. The kit includes two 4.0Ah 18V batteries, a charger, and a storage bag. One nice thing about the Metabo HPT’s 18V platform is that they’re fully compatible with the 18V/36V MultiVolt batteries. This makes the WR18DHQ4 an excellent value if you’re already on that battery platform. Metabo HPT backs this tool with a limited lifetime warranty.
The Bottom Line
The Metabo HPT 18V 1/2-Inch Impact Wrench has you covered when it comes to tackling a full range of automotive and light industrial fastening tasks. Its adjustable speed and special modes add to the overall value and performance of this tool. After reviewing the performance specs, overall feature set, and getting a little hands-on time, I believe this is an excellent option for serious DIYers and the prosumer market.
Related Content
