The last thing anyone needs in a fast-paced work environment is a broken or otherwise out-of-service tool. That’s why shopping for a new impact wrench is so important. With every supplier offering cutting-edge technology, it’s no longer so much about tool features as it is tool longevity.

Check out the lightweight, yet durable, metal titanium impact wrench bodies with one-handed forward/reverse buttons. Also look into such important time-saving advantages as a featherable trigger that gives the operator greater control over the power offered by the tool.

Running on clean, dry air a properly maintained and lubricated pneumatic wrench can last for nearly a lifetime. Owners of a well cared-for impact wrench can typically expect it to last four to five years before requiring any major repair work.

Today, there is a wide array of impact wrenches on the market across an even wider price range. A small 1/4-inch impact wrench will cost a fraction of a much larger 1 1/2-inch wrench, but the most common variety would likely be a 1/2-inch wrench for most passenger vehicles, up to a 3/4-inch or 1-inch version for heavy-duty commercial trucks.

Air consumption is important to consider when evaluating a new pneumatic impact wrench. Typically, more air consumption results in more power. This is where a good power regulator can dial down the amount of air pressure. When not as much power is needed, the wrench manufacturer may achieve impressive power numbers, but do so only by running excessive amounts of air through a tool.

Not only is this expensive, but it can also lead to decreased tool life due to added wear and tear. Of course, a large impact wrench will require more air than a smaller model, so it’s important to make sure that your shop has sufficient air flow capable of operating a tool at the manufacturer’s recommended levels.

In general, quality improves as the price goes up. This does have a limit, however, since there is no such thing as a perfect product at any price. Smart shoppers should always be on the lookout for true value in any product they purchase.

As cordless technology continues to develop, take a look into buying a cordless impact wrench that begins to rival its air-powered counterparts with the added benefit of complete portability.