No, you didn’t read that wrong. Dewalt is adding a new impact wrench to their cordless tool lineup, and it’s designed for their 18V NiCad platform! The new XRP impact wrench, DW059HK-2, features a hog ring anvil and is designed for high-torque applications.
Additional features and specs include a motor capable of delivering 300 ft/lbs of max torque, 2600 IPM, and 1650 RPM; magnesium gear case and all-metal transmission; rubber over-mold handle grip for comfort and control; and a forward/reverse rocker trigger switch for greater ease of use.
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Dewalt’s senior product manager commented that “the DW059HK-2 complements the other tools in our 18 volt system and further demonstrates our commitment to providing contractors with products that meet the demands of professional jobsites.”
It looks like Dewalt was telling the truth when they said the beginning of the 20V Max cordless line did not mean the end of their 18V or NiCad lines!
Dewalt is aiming this tool at automotive users, remodelers, mechanical contractors, plumbers, and maintenance professionals. A bare tool (DW059HB) will be available in addition to the kit, which includes the impact wrench, charger, 2 XRP batteries, and a kit box. The kit will be priced at ~$299, and the bare tool $159. Both versions are should be in stores shortly.
Purchase the Kit via Amazon
Purchase the Bare Tool via Amazon
If you look closely at the battery-tool interface, you’ll see that the base of the tool does not perfectly line up with battery. From we can tell, this is done so that the tool can be equipped with either Dewalt’s NiCad or (smaller) Lithium-Ion batteries.
Note that there’s also a current model which features a ball detent instead of the “hog ring” style anvil.
Looking back to what we reported last winter when Bosch came out with new impact wrenches of their own, it seems that Dewalt is still trailing several of their competitors in terms of maximum torque delivery. We’re wondering if i) the difference in max-torque will translate into real-world performance results, and ii) whether Dewalt’s eventual 20V Max offering will be a bit beefier.
Jeff Berdin
Stuart, if you look at the balance of the tools, both kitted and bare in the XRP platform you will notice that the interface on most of the tools has been designed to accommodate both battery chemistry platforms as well.
Stuart
I have noticed that most of Dewalt’s 18V tools have been revised over the years to better fit their Li-ion batteries. Only a few tools haven’t been changed, such as their 18V vac.
What caught me by surprise is that this tool is specifically being marketed as for the NiCad platform. A few other tools are currently marketed in the same manner, most notably the NiCad drill that pops up at nearly every major retailer ahead of major tool-gift-buying holidays.
My note was worded a bit awkwardly, but I couldn’t see any other way to convey that it should be compatible with both battery types despite Dewalt’s focus on it being a NiCad-powered tool.
Pst
Lightweight and smaller hammer mechanism compared to the Bosch or Snap-on guns=less torque.
Single speed trigger