Best Cordless Impact Wrench for Scaffolding

Construction is tough. You’re on your feet all day, lugging heavy supplies up and down scaffolding, building things with your hands. Even the simplest of tasks can be grueling when you’re not equipped for it. 

You need a power tool that can drill into steel with ease, but also be able to work on concrete and drywall when necessary.

That’s why we put together this list of top cordless impact wrenches for scaffolding that will make the job easier! The best part?

All these tools are available now – no waiting around to see what comes out next year! 

Here are Best Cordless Impact Wrench for Scaffolding:

• Makita XWT08Z Brushless Cordless Impact Wrench (Best Overall)
• AVID POWER JSS1 Cordless Impact Wrench (Best Value for Money)
• Ingersoll Rand 36QMAX Impact Wrench (Best Compact Design)
• ENEACRO 20V Cordless Impact Wrench (Most Affordable)
• NEIKO 10878A Cordless Impact Wrench (Best Battery)

Disclosure: Some of the links below may be affiliate links.

Best Cordless Impact Wrench for Scaffolding

Impact wrenches are one of the most important power tools used across various industries. With the ability to deliver impact torque at levels unattainable by humans, it is used especially in the automobile and construction industry. 

Having a good impact wrench while scaffolding can ensure you are a lot more efficient and productive on the job. With its minimal impact, operators can work at greater elevations without the fear of losing their balance. 

In this article, we give you the top cordless impact wrenches for scaffolding that we have tested and reviewed for around 5-7 months. Each product has been reviewed in-depth, with the pros and cons giving you a better understanding of what makes these products an ideal choice for scaffolding jobs.

Each product in this list is the best for a certain aspect that can come in handy while scaffolding. At the end of this article, you will be able to make the best choice when it comes to your requirements. 

1. Makita XWT08Z Brushless Cordless Impact Wrench (Best Overall)

First up on the list is the Makita XWT08Z. Being manufactured by Makita, users can be assured of a product that meets the highest standards in the industry when it comes to quality and user experience.

With 740 ft. lbs of maximum torque and 1180 ft. lbs of breakaway torque on offer, this impact wrench is more than capable of getting heavy-duty work done. The three-speed option also ensures you can dial in the perfect setting for the job at hand. 

This makes a great tool to have, especially for those looking to remove tough lugs and nuts in the automobile industry

The ergonomic rubber grip ensures users can comfortably operate this tool with a single hand. At just 9 inches, this compact design along with low vibrations and noise thanks to its brushless motor ensures that it gets the job even in the tightest of spaces.

For those looking for a great portable option that works anywhere, anytime, this model is compatible with the 18V LXT and Compact battery range from Makita. 

It also comes with proprietary Star Protection Controls, ensuring that the product is protected from damage due to overheating and other battery-related issues.

PROs and CONs

2. AVID POWER JSS1 Cordless Impact Wrench (Best Value for Money)

The AVID POWER JSS1 Impact Wrench is a great portable impact wrench for those looking for a battery-powered cordless model in the market. This model has impressed multiple users thanks to the toolkit and facilities provided along with the tool.

Despite lacking the power that other cordless models offer in the market, this impact wrench is ideal for those needing such a tool for occasional tire changes and household applications. 

The lightweight design, with the tool weighing just 3.3 lbs, as well the comfortable rubber grip, makes it a great choice for first-time users. 

With a pressure-sensitive trigger, one can choose the accurate setting required to loosen or fasten lugs and nuts. The toolkit adds versatility with four different drive sockets and a tool bag to ensure maximum user convenience.

The 20V Li-ion battery comes with a rapid charger that ensures you can use this product up and running in no time. 

However, having more power would have made it a great product for users looking to use this impact wrench for regular professional applications.

PROs and CONs

3. Ingersoll Rand 36QMAX Impact Wrench (Best Compact Design)

Staying true to the Ingersoll Rand reputation for manufacturing small but powerful products is the Ingersoll Rand 36QMAX Impact Wrench. This air-powered product is perfect for those looking to remove bolts and lug nuts that are hard to access, such as in the engine assembly.

With a maximum output torque of upto 640 lbs, this tool offers plenty of power and performance for users when required. Thanks to the twin hammer design and ruggedness of the tool, one can expect it to work for longer compared to competitor brands.

However, its biggest plus point is the compact design that allows users to work for longer without feeling any discomfort. At just 2.4 lbs, it handles vibrations well and operates quietly, making it a great choice for automobile workshops.

On the flip side, this product requires to be connected to an air compressor due to its pneumatic mechanism. This means it is not the most suitable option for professionals wishing for an impact wrench on the road.

PROs and CONs

4. ENEACRO 20V Cordless Impact Wrench (Most Affordable)

If the budget is something that stops you from buying a new impact wrench, then your problems are solved thanks to the ENEACRO 20V Impact Wrench. 

With its advanced technology and features, users can be assured that performance has not been sacrificed for cost.

The LED light incorporated in the design allows users to work in low light conditions. It is powered by a 20V, 4.0Ah battery, making it a convenient option for professionals wanting to add a portable impact wrench. This is further complemented by the innovative and compact design that includes a belt buckle.

When it comes to performance, users can avail of 3 different speeds on this impact wrench. It also has an electronic braking system that helps slow down the machine quickly. This combined with the lightweight frame helps protect the user from kickback and ensures a better user experience. 

With a maximum output torque of around 300 ft. lbs, one might find it lacking in output power. As a result, this impact wrench is best suited for basic household applications

PROs and CONs

5. NEIKO 10878A Cordless Impact Wrench (Best Battery)

For those looking for long run times from their impact wrench, the NEIKO 10878A Impact Wrench has a great battery. 

With a 20V output voltage, this impact wrench has a battery charge indicator light as well as a rapid charger to ensure you are exactly aware of how much runtime is left.

This impact wrench has a high speed of upto 3000 RPM, ensuring that the work gets done quicker. A dual fastening system as well as an easy-to-access switching mechanism between forward and reverse ensures a seamless transition between tightening and loosening operations.

Users can also enjoy the variety of accessories included when purchasing this model, with a durable hard case ensuring the product stays protected during transport. Other items include 4 impact sockets, which can be added during purchase.

However, this model works best for household applications or weekend use due to its relatively low power of 300 ft. lbs. It may not be the best option for professionals looking to get some heavy-duty work done on a regular basis.

PROs and CONs

Important things to keep in mind before buying Impact Wrench for Scaffolding

First of all, we would like to thank you for reading this article. This is the first in a series of articles and podcasts that we want to publish in order to help scaffolders with good advice and knowledge. 

We receive a lot of requests every day on our social media, mostly about how to buy an impact wrench or which one is the best for scaffolding.

When buying an impact wrench there are some important things that you should take into account before making any purchase, so check these points before anything else:

#1: Weight: The first thing that may significantly affect your decision when buying an impact wrench is its weight. Many people think they can carry around some heavy tools without consequence but this is wrong!

If you plan on working on high scaffolding you should always consider the weight of your impact wrench. Don’t go with any impact wrench for just power and battery backup. 

These impact wrenches can be heavy and can cause problems if you are doing your job for a long period of time. You can get extra batteries for your work, but don’t go with a too heavy impact wrench. 

#2: Battery Power and Performance: It is extremely important to buy an impact wrench with a good battery. The higher the number of volts, the more powerful it will be and also the more expensive. 

It’s not necessary for you to spend money on a model that has too much power for your needs since it will lack in other areas such as duration. 

If you plan on using your impact wrench every day then we would recommend buying one that has at least 18 volts or even better still, purchasing two batteries so that when one dies while working up high the other one can be used instantly without having to stop work and recharge another one. 

We have found through experience that the best results come from buying a mid-range price range with high voltage.

#3: Variable speed and power: The most important thing to keep in mind when buying an impact wrench for scaffolding is that you must have a variable speed selection on it. 

There might be times when you need your impact wrench to rotate fast in order to loosen bolts, but then there will also be times when you need it slow in order to remove nuts or bolts that are extremely tight. 

When doing the latter it’s highly likely that your arms will get tired very quickly, especially if they are long ladders, so make sure your impact wrench is able to do both! If not, don’t buy this type of model since there are many other types of impact wrenches that can do this job.

#4: Price range: The last thing to take into account when buying an impact wrench is the price range. You will find many different types of impact wrenches at all kinds of prices, both cheap and very expensive ones depending on your needs. 

Make sure you choose a mid-range one in order to get good results for your money. There are many models out there in the market so it’s quite easy to find at least one with these specifications even if you don’t spend too much money. 

We can assure you that if you buy something high quality once rather than buying low quality twice then it will definitely be worth every penny! And remember, just because an item says ‘scaffolding’ on it does not mean that it’s good for scaffolding.

Why use Cordless Impact Wrench for Scaffolding?

With the traditional scaffold spanner, you can only expect a short working time before having to manually recharge or replace it with a charged spare. 

After spending around $100 on a cordless Impact Wrench and compatible battery pack, it would only take one job to pay for itself before it starts earning money, as you no longer have to rely on electrical support from your workmate’s generators or the site-supplied power supply.

Whenever erecting or dismantling is required, they will switch their cordless impact wrench with the necessary extension and socket fitted and start breaking up and removing parts of scaffolding without getting too tired in the process. 

They do not need to stop every now and then just because they are feeling exhausted, especially if there is still more work to do. 

The cordless impact wrench will ultimately save them time, effort, and energy in the end when dismantling scaffolding which ultimately saves costs for their companies who are hiring them to complete the job.

If you want to take down your scaffold tower legs, then using an impact wrench is very suitable because it can easily remove nuts and bolts in no time at all (a little bit like bolt cutters). 

The best type of impact wrench has a ½” square drive with forward and reverse direction switch in order for easy removal of stubborn bolted joints. 

Anybody in the construction or maintenance industries would know that this is definitely one tool you don’t want to leave out on site especially when you’re working away from the electrical power supply!

Though having any type of impact wrench is a good investment for many industries, the cordless type will be more convenient and suitable for outdoor use since it can be used in all weather conditions including windy, dusty, or cold areas. 

In conclusion, cordless impact wrenches will enhance your productivity and ultimately increase the money you make while decreasing the time it takes to complete any projects at hand; which we would all agree that we could definitely do with saving some time and money sometimes!

What do officials say about using Impact Wrenches while Scaffolding?

The unique Impact Wrench (battery dependent) is being utilized by many scaffolders across the country instead of the traditional scaffold spanner for scaffolding construction and dismantling.

Is this the future of our industry? Will we all be wearing one of these around our waists? But seriously, should we be using Impact Wrenches?

The National Access and Scaffolding Confederation (NASC) has been working in the background, performing rigorous tests on couplers with two popular types of impact wrenches and a wide range of drop forged couplers. 

The couplers were from several vendors in a variety of situations: brand-new, used, lubricated, and unlubricated. Over 60 tests were completed.

There are no problems or negative effects from the tests carried out using both impact wrenches and the conventional scaffold spanner, according to experts at the NASC. 

The usage of impact wrenches for scaffolding purposes has been deemed acceptable by the NASC. However, in a statement issued on April 20, 2019, the confederation highlighted several key recommendations that employers should consider before allowing employees to use impact wrenches:

•  The required force to tighten a fitting is 50 N/mtr, according to EN 74. The majority of wrenches have torque settings (N/mtr) that are greater than this suggested value.

However, during testing, it was discovered that the manufacturer’s recommended settings are frequently inconsistent with what is achieved. 

As a result, it is advised that any business considering allowing its employees to use impact wrenches carry out testing to verify whether the impact wrench they intend to authorize for usage meets the necessary torque requirements on a regular and consistent basis.

• To verify that a portable impact wrench is suitable for use on construction site equipment, the employer should complete an acceptable risk assessment. 

After completing an appropriate risk analysis, the company may conclude that their workers are qualified to erect and remove scaffolding as well as make modifications.

Prior to using an impact wrench on-site, it is advised that the user should go through a thorough training, familiarization, and monitoring period to ensure that the impact wrench is being utilized correctly at all times.

• Impact wrenches, according to the NASC, may provide certain advantages. Members and users of such equipment, on the other hand, should be conscious that there is a chance for concern regarding usage and operation. 

Employers should assess the risk for their own specific scenarios and establish procedures to protect against unsafe use. It’s recommended that any evaluation also consider noise and hand/arm vibration as well as impact wrench safety concerns.

• It is also critical that employers provide continuing training and familiarisation sessions for their employees, as well as regular toolbox talks to keep operators up to date on the company policy and regulations for safe impact wrench usage.

• If a nut on the ‘T’ bolt is stripped, it is recommended that the fitting be brought back to the employer’s yard, where a new replacement ensemble (‘T’ bolt, nut, and washer) can be installed by the company’s maintenance staff.

• Impact wrenches are more commonly supplied with rechargeable lithium batteries, which provide a more steady power source. However, the confederation recommends that all users follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and that battery life should be monitored.

• This is solely referring to drop forged scaffold fittings. The NASC does not encourage the usage of impact wrenches on ‘pressed’ type scaffold fittings.

Important tools that are required by Scaffolding Workers to have?

Scaffolding can be a dangerous activity if the right tools are not used. Make sure you have the necessary tools to do the job before getting started because it will make things much easier for you when you’re up on the scaffolding. 

For example, there are other tools other than impact wrenches that are needed to perform this task- what are those tools, and how have they been used in scaffolding?

The right tools are essential for many jobs, particularly high-risk ones. Scaffolding is one of these types of tasks where not having the proper equipment can lead to serious injury or death. 

These tools include carabiners, scaffold clips, safety harnesses, hard hats, knee pads, work boots, and gloves. If any of these items are missing from the work site it’s time to contact a professional company for help replacing them before working on your project.

1. Carabiners 
2. Scaffold clips 
3. Safety harnesses 
4. Hard hats
5. Magnetic Levels
6. Adjustable Wrench 
7. Knee pads 
8. Work boots and Boots
9. Pipe Cutters
10. Measuring tape
11. Scaffold Hammer
12. Scaffolding Belt to store all of the tools

If any of these items are missing from the work site it’s time to contact a professional company for help replacing them before working on your project.

Tips on how to make your job easier when using scaffolding

Scaffolding is a temporary structure built to support people and materials in the construction or repair of buildings, bridges, and other tall structures.

Some common uses for scaffolding are painting, building maintenance, bricklaying, roofing repairs, window replacement, general carpentry work.

• Scaffolding can reach great heights off the ground. Even if you are not working at extreme heights it is important to always have an extra person with you when you are on the scaffold.

This way if something were to happen they would be able to help or call for help. It is also important that everyone stays connected with each other by using safety harnesses that hold up to six hundred pounds.

• Another tip is never to climb alone; always have at least one person with you. In construction, even if you’re working alone, it’s best to have someone on the ground to assist if there is a problem.

For example, if you are up on the scaffold and realize that one of your tools fell from your belt or pocket, another worker can get it for you without endangering their own life.

If you do fall while working on a scaffold, this will help reduce injuries and save lives. When using scaffolding always use proper protection such as helmets and safety goggles.

• If the scaffolding has become damaged or the bolts need tightening, do not use it! The whole purpose of using scaffolding is because it’s meant to support weight; so when something breaks or comes loose that could put your life in a dangerous situation.

If you have any concerns about the scaffolding do not hesitate to call a professional engineer to take a look at it for you. When working with scaffolds, use caution and be sure that the worksite is organized and well-lit.

Stay safe! Never climb alone and always have your phone with you just in case!