Full Review ⭐ DeWalt DCF922N: XR BL 1/2in Impact Wrench 18V Bare Unit

DeWalt is a well-known American power tool manufacturer that has been producing high-quality tools for professionals and DIYers since 1924. The company is known for its innovation and durability across its wide range of products including drills, saws, nailers and impact wrenches.

The DeWalt DCF922N is a brushless cordless 1/2 inch impact wrench that delivers impressive power and runtime. This bare tool unit does not include a battery or charger, allowing buyers to use their existing DeWalt batteries or purchase just what they need.

In this in-depth review, we will take a close look at the key features and performance of the DCF922N to see how it stacks up for automotive and heavy-duty fastening tasks. We will examine the power, speed, design, battery life and other important factors to consider with this model. Read on for a comprehensive review of the DeWalt DCF922N impact wrench.

Specifications

The DeWalt DCF922N is an 18V cordless impact wrench powered by DeWalt's XR lithium-ion battery technology. It features a compact and lightweight design, weighing only 2.8 lbs with the battery installed.

This impact wrench has a 1/2 inch anvil, allowing it to deliver high torque for driving and removing large fasteners. It delivers up to 700 ft-lbs of max torque and 1200 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque. The DCF922N also has 3 speed settings, providing 0-400/ 1200/1900 RPM for optimized control.

With the efficient brushless motor, this impact wrench can drive up to 150 lugs before needing to recharge the battery. It's designed for heavy duty automotive and construction applications where power, performance and runtime are critical factors.

Another popular impact wrench from DeWalt is the DeWalt DCF891N XR Brushless Impact Wrench. This model delivers up to 700 ft-lbs of max torque and 1200 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque, similar to the DCF922N. However, it has a more compact and ergonomic design at only 5.7 inches front to back. The DCF891N utilizes DeWalt's efficient brushless motor that provides longer runtime and more durability than brushed motors.

The DCF891N features a detent pin anvil with hog ring for socket retention. It has 3 speed settings just like the DCF922N, but with slightly different RPM ranges of 0-400 / 0-1,200 / 0-1,900 RPM. This provides versatility for a wide range of fastening applications. An integrated LED light illuminates dark work areas.

Since the DCF891N runs on DeWalt's 20V MAX XR lithium-ion battery, it delivers more power and longer runtime compared to 18V models. It can drive up to 400 lugs per charge. The battery fuel gauge shows charge level to prevent running out of power unexpectedly.

With the DCF891N, users get the advantage of DeWalt's brushless motor technology in a more compact and lightweight design. It's ideal for automotive mechanics, industrial maintenance, construction jobs, and any application requiring high torque and portability. This impact wrench provides the perfect balance of power, performance and ergonomics.

Performance

The DeWalt DCF922N impact wrench delivers impressive performance that makes it a top choice for automotive mechanics and DIYers. With a powerful 18V motor, it generates up to 700 ft-lbs of max torque and 3,200 blows per minute for quick removal of even the most stubborn lug nuts and bolts.

Despite the high power output, the DCF922N maintains excellent control thanks to its precision wrench control that prevents overtightening. It can easily zip off lug nuts and suspension components without issue. The variable speed trigger provides versatility for a range of fastening applications.

With a fully charged 5Ah battery, the DCF922N can run continuously for up to 150 lug nuts before needing a recharge. Runtime is sufficient for most automotive jobs without having to stop to swap batteries.

Noise is moderate and comparable to other impact wrenches in this class at around 85 decibels. The motor hum is noticeable but won't require ear protection for most users. Vibration is also well controlled thanks to the ergonomic grip design.

Overall, the DCF922N delivers professional-grade power and runtime for automotive repair, maintenance, and construction applications where time savings and convenience are important factors. Another popular impact wrench from DeWalt is the DCF900NT-XJ 18V cordless model. It provides 300 ft-lbs of max torque with a compact and lightweight 5.0 inch design. Weighing only 3.4 lbs with battery, it reduces fatigue during prolonged use.

The DCF900NT-XJ comes equipped with a hog ring for easy socket changes. It has 3 speed settings enabling optimal control for a wide range of fastening and loosening applications. At top speed, it delivers 2,400 RPM and 2,700 IPM for blistering performance.

An integrated LED light with 20 second delay illuminates dark work areas. The 18V XR Li-ion battery provides long runtime for increased productivity. Like the DCF922N, it has variable speed trigger and electric brake for enhanced control.

Between the DCF900NT-XJ and DCF922N, DeWalt offers pros and DIYers a versatile range of cordless impact wrench solutions. Both models combine power, ergonomics and runtime for dominating automotive and construction jobs where pneumatic tools once ruled. Their compact designs allow access in tight spots while side handle and grip maximize control and reduce fatigue.

Design

The DeWalt DCF922N features several design elements that make it easy and comfortable to use for extended periods. The tool has a rubber overmold grip that provides a secure and comfortable hold, even when wearing gloves or working in wet conditions.

It also has an integrated LED light to illuminate dark work areas. The light automatically turns on when the trigger is pulled, so you always have visibility on the workpiece. This makes it much easier to see when driving fasteners in tight or dimly lit spaces.

Under the hood, the DCF922N utilizes a durable brushless motor. Brushless motors have increased runtime, more torque, and generally have a longer lifespan than brushed motors. This allows the impact to deliver consistent power even after prolonged use.

Additionally, the anvil has a retention pin to keep the socket secured. This prevents the socket from flying off if significant torque is applied. The pin engages the detent on the socket to keep it safely in place during heavy duty fastening applications.

Overall, the design focuses on ergonomics, visibility, durability, and safety. This makes the DCF922N comfortable to use for long stretches while also giving it the ruggedness to withstand jobsite conditions.

Usability

The DeWalt DCF922N impact wrench is designed for comfortable and easy use. It has excellent balance and grip ergonomics thanks to its compact size and rubber overmold grip. At just 5.4 lbs, it avoids user fatigue during extended use.

The wrench uses a detent pin retention system that makes changing sockets fast and simple. Just pull back the collar and the socket will release. Replacing it is equally effortless - simply push the new socket on until it clicks securely into place.

The variable speed trigger provides precise control of speed and torque. It has a soft start for accuracy on delicate tasks, and can ramp up to maximum impact power when needed. The user can finely tune the speed and force by varying the trigger pressure. This sensitivity gives users great flexibility when working on different materials and fasteners.

Overall, the wrench is thoughtfully designed for fast, frustration-free use in a wide range of applications. The comfortable grip, quick socket changes, and responsive trigger add up to excellent usability.

Battery Life

The DeWalt DCF922N impact wrench comes with DeWalt's XR Li-ion 18V battery. This battery provides excellent runtime for an impact wrench of this power.

With a fully charged 5.0Ah battery, you can expect the DCF922N to run continuously for up to one hour of heavy fastening. For lighter tasks, the battery can last even longer. This makes the DCF922N suitable for completing most automotive and construction jobs without needing to stop to recharge.

When it does come time to recharge, the battery recharges from empty to full in around 60 minutes when using DeWalt's rapid charger. This quick recharge time ensures you can get back to work promptly.

To optimize the battery life, the DCF922N has a few handy features. It automatically goes into sleep mode after a period of inactivity to conserve charge. There is also a fuel gauge built into the battery that displays the remaining charge, so you can monitor battery level and swap out batteries before fully depleted if needed.

Accessories

The DeWalt DCF922N comes as a bare tool without a battery or charger included. However, it is compatible with DeWalt's 20V Max XR lithium-ion battery packs and chargers, which are sold separately.

Some recommended accessories to consider:

• DeWalt DCB115 20V Max XR Lithium Ion Battery Pack - A 5Ah battery that provides long runtime for extended use.

• DeWalt DCB118 20V Max XR Fast Charger - Can fully recharge a 5Ah battery in under 60 minutes.

• DeWalt DT8000 Impact Ready Socket Set - A 45-piece set of impact sockets in standard and deep wall configurations, suitable for use with the DCF922N.

• DeWalt DWAX200 Extension - A 12-inch extension for reaching tight spaces.

• DeWalt DWAX201 Right Angle Attachment - Allows side access in confined areas.

• DeWalt DWARA40 Right Angle Adaptor - Provides a 40-degree angle for clearance in tight spots.

The DCF922N is compatible with 1/2-inch drive impact sockets. Purchasing an impact socket set and extensions can maximize its capabilities for automotive and construction jobs. The charger and extra batteries ensure you can work efficiently with minimal downtime.

Pricing

The DeWalt DCF922N impact wrench is only available as the bare tool without battery or charger. This allows buyers who already own DeWalt 18V batteries to simply purchase the tool alone.

The bare tool has an MSRP of £219, though prices may vary by retailer. Those new to the DeWalt system will need to factor in the additional cost of batteries and a charger.

DeWalt offers several combo kit options bundling the DCF922N with batteries and a charger:

• DCF922N + 2x XR 5Ah batteries + Fast Charger = £349
• DCF922N + 2x XR 6Ah batteries + Fast Charger = £399
• DCF922N + 2x XR 8Ah batteries + Fast Charger = £449

So you're looking at total startup costs between £349-£449 if you need batteries and charger included. Buying everything separately would likely cost more.

The advantage of the combo deals is that you get DeWalt's latest XR high capacity battery packs and rapid charger to optimize performance and productivity.

Pros & Cons

The DeWalt DCF922N 18V 1/2" impact wrench offers many benefits for automotive and construction professionals, along with a few potential drawbacks to consider.

Pros:

• Powerful torque output up to 700 ft-lbs for tackling stuck bolts and lug nuts
• Compact and lightweight design at only 5.5 lbs for reduced user fatigue
• Variable speed trigger allows precise control of power and speed
• Anvil detent pin retains sockets during high torque application
• Brushless motor provides increased runtime, durability and power
• LED light illuminates dark work areas
• 3-year limited warranty for peace of mind

Cons:

• Battery and charger sold separately, adding to initial cost
• Lacks protective bumper found on some competing models
• Not the cheapest cordless impact wrench available
• May be overpowered for light-duty automotive work

Overall, the DeWalt DCF922N offers pro-level power and performance in a compact and ergonomic package. For automotive techs or construction crews needing serious torque for daily bolting jobs, this rugged and reliable impact wrench is easy to recommend. Just be prepared to buy a battery and consider adding a protective bumper case.

Conclusion

The DeWalt DCF922N XR BL 1/2in Impact Wrench is an excellent choice for professionals and DIYers looking for a powerful and versatile impact wrench. With a maximum torque of 700 ft-lb, it can handle even the toughest bolts and lug nuts. The brushless motor provides excellent power while maximizing runtime. Weighing only 3.5lbs, the DCF922N is compact and ergonomic, making it comfortable to use even in tight spaces.

The 3-speed selector switch allows you to match power and speed to the application. At the highest setting, it delivers an impressive 0-2,400 RPM and 0-3,600 IPM of impact power. The 1/2in anvil is durable and accepts all common sockets. An integrated LED light illuminates dark work areas.

Overall, the DCF922N combines pro-level power and performance with excellent ergonomics and runtime. DeWalt's reputation for reliability gives confidence this tool will deliver years of service. For automotive work, construction, manufacturing and heavy-duty fastening tasks, the DCF922N is easily recommended. Its power, compact size, ergonomic design and versatility make it an impact wrench suitable for both professionals and home mechanics.