Full Review ⭐ DeWalt DCF900N-XJ: 18V XR Brushless 1/2" Hog Ring High Torque Impact Wrench - Bare Unit

The DeWalt DCF900N-XJ is a powerful 18V XR brushless 1/2" impact wrench designed for heavy-duty fastening applications. Part of DeWalt's XR line, it delivers up to 700 ft-lbs of max torque and 1200 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque. Weighing only 5.8 lbs with the battery, it provides an optimal power-to-weight ratio.

The DCF900N-XJ features a durable magnesium gear case and all-metal transmission to handle tough professional use. It has a 1/2" hog ring anvil for versatility in sockets. With a variable speed trigger, LED light, and battery fuel gauge, this impact wrench is packed with pro-oriented features.

Overall, the DeWalt DCF900N-XJ is an excellent choice for automotive, construction, maintenance, and industrial fastening tasks that require high torque and power. Its brushless motor provides efficiency, runtime, and durability. This bare tool unit requires a DeWalt 18V XR battery and charger, sold separately.

Power and Torque

The DeWalt DCF900N-XJ impact wrench packs a powerful punch thanks to its 18V XR Brushless motor. This motor delivers up to 700 ft-lbs of maximum fastening torque and 1200 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque. That's more than enough oomph to loosen even the most stubborn bolts and lug nuts.

The brushless design also makes the motor more efficient and compact. Without old-school brushes that create friction and wear out over time, the DCF900N-XJ can output more torque while running cooler. This adds to the tool's durability and runtime per battery charge.

With this kind of high torque power, the DCF900N-XJ makes quick work of automotive repair jobs. It can blast off rusted bolts and easily zip and un-zip wheel lugs when changing a tire. The power allows you to tackle tough tasks without needing to constantly recharge.

For even more power, DeWalt offers the DeWalt DCF921N XR BL 1/2in Impact Wrench 18V Bare Unit, Yellow. This heavy duty impact wrench delivers up to 700 ft-lbs of max torque and 1500 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque. The DCF921N uses the same efficient brushless motor as the DCF900N-XJ but adds more power. It has a 1/2 inch hog ring anvil for use with larger sockets.

The DCF921N generates more torque while still being compact at only 5.7 inches front to back. It has 3 speed settings so you can match the power to the job. Low speed works for delicate tasks, while medium and high provide more grunt for stubborn fasteners. An LED light illuminates dark work areas.

Both the DCF900N-XJ and DCF921N use DeWalt's latest generation lithium ion batteries. These batteries pack lots of charge in a small package and have fuel gauges to show remaining runtime. For automotive jobs where power and runtime are key, these high torque impact wrenches can't be beat.

Size and Weight

The DeWalt DCF900N-XJ impact wrench stands out for its compact and lightweight design. Weighing only 2.8 lbs with battery, it's one of the lightest impact wrenches in its class. The tool has a length of only 5.7 inches, making it easy to maneuver in tight spaces.

Despite the small size, the DCF900N-XJ packs a serious punch in terms of power and torque. This is thanks to its efficient brushless motor which delivers ample torque while keeping the housing compact. The lightweight magnesium gear case and small battery pack also contribute to the tool's nimble handling.

Many users praise the DeWalt impact for its ability to reach fasteners in confined areas. The short length allows it to fit where bulkier impacts cannot. The low weight also reduces fatigue, allowing you to use the wrench overhead or in other strenuous positions.

If you frequently work in cramped engine compartments or other limited access areas, the size and weight of the DCF900N-XJ will be a major advantage. The compact profile makes this one of the most maneuverable high torque cordless impact wrenches available.

Another popular DeWalt impact wrench with a compact and lightweight design is the DeWalt DCF891N. This impact also delivers high power while remaining nimble and easy to handle. Weighing only 3.4 lbs, the DCF891N features a brushless motor that provides up to 700 ft-lbs of max torque. At only 5.3 inches front to back, it can fit into tight areas where bulkier tools won't.

Users of the DCF891N say it has plenty of power for automotive and truck repair, while being small enough for overhead work and other tricky angles. The lightweight magnesium housing reduces fatigue. An LED worklight provides visibility in dim corners of the engine bay or chassis. Overall, the DCF891N combines serious torque and compact ergonomics for one of DeWalt's most versatile impact wrench models.

When choosing a cordless impact wrench, size and weight should be key considerations alongside power and performance. Compact impacts like the DeWalt DCF900N-XJ and DCF891N provide the torque needed for demanding jobs, while remaining easy to maneuver in tight quarters where space is limited. Their lightweight designs are ideal for reducing fatigue during extended use.

Anvil and Fastening

The DeWalt DCF900N-XJ impact wrench comes equipped with a 1/2 inch hog ring anvil, allowing you to easily swap sockets for versatility. The hog ring holds sockets securely in place while providing the quick release needed to change them out on the fly. This makes the DCF900N-XJ adaptable for a wide range of fastening and loosening applications.

The 1/2 inch drive is a standard size that will accept most socket sizes, with shallow to deep options. This gives you the ability to fasten or remove lug nuts, bolts, lag screws, and other hardware across a broad range of dimensions. Whether you need to assemble industrial equipment or take apart an engine, the hog ring anvil provides the flexibility to tackle various jobs.

Overall, the 1/2 inch hog ring anvil enables fast, simple socket changes so users can keep moving through tasks efficiently. This versatile anvil system ensures you'll have the right socket ready when tackling your next automotive, construction, or maintenance project.

Variable Speed Trigger

The DeWalt DCF900N-XJ impact wrench features a variable speed trigger that allows for precise control over power and speed. This is an important feature for an impact wrench, as you often need to start screws or bolts slowly before ramping up the speed once they are threaded in.

The trigger provides excellent control, allowing you to slowly increase the impacts per minute as you squeeze it. This gives you the right amount of torque and speed for the job at hand. Whether you need a slow start for smaller fasteners or full power for lug nuts, the variable speed trigger has you covered.

Unlike impact drivers that only have on/off speed control, the DCF900N-XJ lets you modulate the impacts. This prevents overtightening and stripping of fasteners. It also reduces the amount of reaction torque, making the impact wrench easier to control.

Overall, the variable speed trigger adds versatility and enables more precision during use. It's a useful feature that most DIYers and professionals will appreciate having in an impact wrench.

LED Light

The DCF900N-XJ impact wrench features a bright LED light to illuminate your work area. This is an extremely handy feature when working in low light conditions or tight spaces where visibility may be limited.

The LED light is located right above the anvil, positioning it close to where you need the light most. It has multiple brightness settings so you can adjust it to your optimal lighting needs. Whether you need a dim light for close up work or a blazing bright light for maximum illumination, this impact wrench has you covered.

In my experience, the LED light is more than bright enough to see even small nuts and bolts in engine bays or other shadowy areas. It's a big improvement over trying to work by flashlight or shop light alone. The focused beam right where you need it makes a big difference in convenience and reduces neck strain from trying to peer into dark spaces.

Overall, the bright LED work light integrated into this DeWalt impact wrench is an excellent feature that improves usability and productivity. It's not just a gimmick but a truly useful addition that saves time and frustration when working in low visibility conditions. Any technician who has struggled to peer into a dark car engine will greatly appreciate the well-designed LED lighting on this tool.

Battery and Charger

The DeWalt DCF900N-XJ impact wrench comes as a bare tool only, with no battery or charger included. This allows buyers who already own DeWalt 18V XR tools and batteries to add the impact wrench to their lineup without unnecessary duplicates.

For those new to the DeWalt 18V XR system, batteries and chargers will need to be purchased separately. DeWalt offers a wide range of 18V XR battery options, from compact 1.5Ah packs for light duty up to large 8.0Ah batteries for extended runtime. The flexvolt advantage system is also compatible, allowing use of high capacity 15Ah-20Ah flexvolt batteries. This bare tool design gives owners flexibility to choose the battery configurations that suit their needs and budget.

The DCF900N-XJ is optimized for use with DeWalt's latest 18V XR brushless batteries. These lithium-ion packs deliver more runtime, power, and longevity than previous battery technologies. Chargers range from single bay basic units to multi-port super fast chargers. For maximum productivity, having multiple batteries and a rapid charger is recommended. But the impact can be powered by any 18V XR battery and charger in the system.

Overall the bare tool approach allows custom battery and charger pairing while keeping the upfront cost lower on the impact wrench itself. Users can build out their optimal 18V XR system over time.

Accessories

The DCF900N-XJ impact wrench comes as a bare tool without a battery or charger. However, DeWalt offers a wide range of compatible batteries and chargers to power the tool.

The most popular battery options are:

• DCB184 18V XR Li-Ion Battery Pack (4.0Ah) - provides extended runtime for completing big jobs.

• DCB115 18V XR Li-Ion Battery Pack (1.5Ah) - lighter and more compact for increased portability.

• DCB201 18V XR Li-Ion Battery Pack (2.0Ah) - balances power and weight.

For maximum convenience, the DCB118 18V & 12V External Charger allows simultaneously charging two DeWalt 18V batteries outside the tool. There's also a 12V port for charging smaller batteries.

To make the impact wrench more ergonomic and easier to handle, DeWalt provides an Anti-Vibration Side Handle that absorbs vibrations and gives added comfort during prolonged use.

For accessing tight spaces, a Right Angle Attachment allows the socket to turn 90 degrees while keeping the tool body straight.

So while the DCF900N-XJ comes as a barebones unit, DeWalt offers all the add-ons to customize it for your needs and expand its capabilities.

Durability

DeWalt has built a reputation for the durability and reliability of their power tools. This impact wrench lives up to that reputation with a rugged high strength composite housing that can withstand job site abuse. The all-metal transmission and internal components are engineered for demanding applications.

DeWalt covers the DCF900N with a 3 year limited warranty, 1 year free service contract, and 90 day money back guarantee. This demonstrates their confidence in the durability of this tool. Many pros prefer DeWalt because their tools stand up to heavy daily use without breaking down.

The DCF900N uses a durable hog ring anvil retention system. Hog ring anvils grip sockets tightly for solid fastening while minimizing wear on the anvil over time. This extends the working life of the tool compared to pin detent anvil retention designs.

With proven DeWalt toughness and a brushless motor that delivers efficient power without overheating or wearing down, the DCF900N is built to provide years of trouble-free service. Its durability makes it an investment that pays back over time with lower repair and replacement costs.

Price

The DeWalt DCF900N-XJ impact wrench has a mid-range price point given its high-performance features and durable construction. It retails for around £250, placing it on the more affordable end for professional-grade power tools. This price makes it a good value for automotive technicians or serious DIYers looking for an industrial-strength impact wrench.

While more expensive than basic consumer models, the DCF900N-XJ costs significantly less than premium brands like Snap-On or Mac Tools. Its brushless motor and sturdy anvil provide professional power at a price accessible to most. For those who use an impact wrench daily, the DeWalt is economical compared to cheap models that won't last under heavy use.

Overall, the DeWalt DCF900N-XJ hits a sweet spot between price and performance. With its pro-level torque and reliability, it's a bargain for anyone who needs an impact wrench for frequent, heavy-duty use. Casual users may not need such a robust tool. But for mechanics or committed DIYers, the DeWalt impact provides excellent value.