The Bauer Cordless Impact Wrench: Power And Performance Reviewed

The Bauer 20V Brushless 3 Speed Impact Wrench is a powerful tool that delivers 475 ft. lbs. of bolt breakaway torque. It comes in two models: 3/8 and 1/2, both of which feature a friction ring for easy socket swaps. The 1/2 model is designed for versatility and access in tight spaces, with a high-performance motor that makes removing lug nuts and head bolts a breeze. The impact wrench works with the BAUER lithium battery system for fast charging and longer runtime. The 3/8 model provides up to 300 ft-lbs of fastening torque, while the 1/2 model offers 450 ft-lbs. This tool is an upgrade from previous models, with more power and a more compact design. It features a variable speed trigger, 3-speed drive control, and an LED light to illuminate the work area. The all-metal gear construction and textured overmold make it durable and comfortable to use. Overall, the Bauer 20V Brushless 3 Speed Impact Wrench is a solid choice for those seeking a powerful and versatile tool for their projects.

Performance and durability

The Bauer 20V Brushless 3 Speed Impact Wrench is a powerful and durable tool, delivering up to 475 ft-lbs of bolt breakaway torque, which is more than previous models. This high torque means it can be used for removing lug nuts and head bolts with ease. The high-performance brushless motor and all-metal gear construction mean the tool is built to last and can handle demanding applications. The 1/2" model is more compact than the older 1/2" brushed motor model, and the 3/8" model is more compact than the older brushed motor 3/8" model. The textured overmould and compact, lightweight design make the tool comfortable to hold and minimise user fatigue. The Bauer impact wrench works with the Bauer lithium battery system, which offers fast charging and a longer runtime.

The Bauer 1/2" impact wrench has been described by a user as "super impressed by the torque offered when combined with a 3A battery". They go on to say that they have used it for "hammering away at northern midwest rusty cars" and that it "just goes and goes and goes". Another user has said that they have used it for "brake jobs" and "decent-sized lag bolts" and that it "doesn't struggle for a second".

The 3-speed drive control and variable speed trigger give the user precision control, allowing them to select the appropriate speed and torque for the application. The LED indicator lets the user know which speed setting they are on, and the bright LED light improves visibility in the work area. The 1/2" anvil with a friction ring allows for secure socket retention.

Battery and charging

The Bauer 20V Brushless 3-Speed Impact Wrench is a cordless model that works with the BAUER lithium-ion battery system. The battery and charger are sold separately. The 3A battery is recommended for optimal performance, as the smaller battery is less impressive and poorly balanced. The battery system offers fast charging and a longer runtime.

The 3/8" model provides up to 300 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 450 ft-lbs of breakaway torque. The 1/2" model provides 475 ft-lbs of breakaway torque, with both models offering three-speed settings. The 1/2" model is more powerful than the 3/8" model, which is reflected in their respective prices.

The 3-speed settings can be toggled between using a button at the base of the tool, with an indicator LED light showing the selected speed. Speed 1 is for low speed and low torque, while Speed 3 gives you full speed and torque.

Design and weight

The Bauer 20V Brushless 3 Speed Impact Wrench is available in 3/8" and 1/2" anvil models. Both models feature an all-metal gear construction, rubberized overmoulding, and belt clips. The 1/2" model is designed for versatility and access in tight spaces. It has a compact, lightweight design that minimises user fatigue. The textured overmould provides a secure grip and comfort.

The 3/8" model is more compact than the older brushed motor 1/2" model, but modern compact impact wrenches are smaller. The 1/2" model is considerably more compact than the older brushed motor 1/2" model. The 3/8" model weighs 3.4 lbs, while the 1/2" model weighs 3.6 lbs.

The Bauer 8.5 Amp corded impact wrench is heavy and awkward to use, especially one-handed.

Torque and power

The Bauer 20V Brushless 3 Speed Impact Wrench comes in two models: 3/8" and 1/2". Both models are equipped with a high-performance brushless motor that delivers impressive torque for tackling demanding applications.

The 1/2" model, designed for versatility and access in tight spaces, boasts 475 ft-lbs of bolt breakaway torque, making light work of removing lug nuts and head bolts. This model also features a 3-speed drive control, allowing users to adjust the speed and torque to suit the task at hand. With its compact and lightweight design, this wrench minimises user fatigue, making it comfortable to use for extended periods.

The 3/8" model is no slouch either, offering up to 300 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 450 ft-lbs of bolt breakaway torque. This model also includes a 3-speed drive control, enabling users to adapt to different applications. Both models feature an all-metal gear construction, enhancing durability and prolonging the tool's lifespan.

The Bauer impact wrenches provide a secure grip and comfort with their textured overmould design. They also incorporate a bright LED light, strategically positioned to illuminate the work area for improved visibility. The variable speed trigger gives users precision control, allowing them to adjust the power output as needed.

One user review highlights the impressive torque offered by the 1/2" model when combined with a 3A battery, although they note that the smaller battery is less impressive and can affect the balance. Another review mentions the convenience of having the wrench in their car for emergency roadside wheel removals, showcasing its reliability and versatility.

Comparison with other brands

Bauer power tools are a solid mid-tier power tool offering from Harbor Freight, which also owns tool brands like Hercules, Predator, and Daytona. They are known for their wireless power tools, including electric saws and power drills, and their distinctive red and black colour scheme.

Bauer tools are comparable in quality to other mid-range tool brands like Ryobi and Hart. While the quality depends on the type of tool, their lines of cordless and corded power tools have overall high ratings. Their 20V Cordless 1/2 in. Drill/Driver, for example, ranks a bit lower in terms of torque at 450 lbs-in compared to the Ryobi ONE+ at 515 lbs-in and the Hart 20V cordless at 550 lbs-in.

However, Bauer's major advantage is its affordability. The same cordless drill with battery costs $59.99 at Harbor Freight, while the Ryobi 18V ONE+ with battery costs $77.32 on Amazon, and the Hart 20V cordless with battery costs $99 at Walmart. Similarly, the Bauer 20V Pole Saw sells for $79.99, while the Hart 20V Pole Saw costs $120.40 at Walmart, and the Ryobi Cordless Electric Pole Saw costs $157 on Amazon.

Bauer tools may not have the same quality as top-of-the-line brands like Milwaukee and DeWalt, but they are a serviceable mid-range option with solid parts, modern designs, and more-than-adequate batteries. They are a good choice for home improvement projects if you're on a budget, but considerations should be made if they are meant for construction sites or industrial purposes.

In terms of cordless impact wrenches, Bauer offers a good deal with its 1/2" impact wrench, which has impressive torque when combined with a 3A battery. For $89, it's a good option for emergency roadside wheel removals. A similar product, the Ridgid Gen5X 18V Brushless Kit, is available for $159 from Home Depot, and it also offers lifetime battery replacements.

Bauer's 8.5 Amp corded impact wrench is also a powerful option, though it is heavy and awkward to use, especially one-handed. It is a good choice for DIY projects and can handle most bolts, including brake jobs and decent-sized lag bolts. A comparable option is the Mikita, which is slightly stronger but also twice the price.

Overall, Bauer tools offer a good balance of performance and affordability, making them a popular choice for homeowners and DIYers looking for a bargain on reliable tools.

Frequently asked questions