Full Review ⭐ DeWalt DCF923B Atomic: 20V MAX Brushless Lithium-Ion 3/8 in. Cordless Impact Wrench with Hog Ring Anvil (Tool Only)

Impact wrenches are power tools designed to deliver high torque output in order to loosen or tighten fasteners. They utilize a rotating mass and hammering action to generate the torque needed for driving and removing bolts and nuts quickly and efficiently.

DeWalt is a well-known American brand that manufactures professional-grade power tools and accessories used in construction and industrial settings. Founded in 1924, DeWalt has established itself as a leader in the power tools industry and is known for the durability and reliability of its products.

The DeWalt DCF923B Atomic 20V MAX Brushless impact wrench reviewed here is one of the latest additions to DeWalt's lineup of 20V MAX cordless tools. Featuring a compact and lightweight design, brushless motor, and improved ergonomics, it aims to provide professionals with an efficient, high-performance impact wrench solution.

Specifications

The DeWalt DCF923B Atomic impact wrench features a powerful 20V MAX brushless motor that delivers up to 260 ft-lbs of maximum fastening torque and 2,400 impacts per minute. This high-performance motor is efficient, durable, and provides long run times per charge.

Some key specifications of the DCF923B include:

• 20V MAX brushless motor
• Up to 260 ft-lbs max torque
• 0-2,400 IPM
• 1/2 in. hog ring anvil
• LED worklight with 20-second delay
• Weighs only 2.8 lbs

The brushless motor is maintenance-free and maximizes runtime when driving and removing fasteners. This makes the DCF923B well-suited for automotive repair, construction projects, and industrial use. Its compact size allows access into tight areas while the hog ring anvil provides versatility.

For even more power, DeWalt offers the DCF899P2-GB High Torque Impact Wrench. This 18V cordless impact wrench delivers up to 700 ft-lbs of max torque, ideal for the most demanding fastening applications. It utilizes a brushless motor for maximum runtime and durability.

The DCF899P2 comes with two 5Ah batteries, providing long run time between charges. It features a detent pin anvil for quick socket changes and LED work light. Weighing only 7.2 lbs, this high torque impact wrench is designed for comfortable all day use.

Whether you need to drive large fasteners or break loose rusted bolts, DeWalt has a high performance impact wrench to get the job done. The DCF923B offers an optimal blend of power, size and runtime while the DCF899P2 packs maximum torque for the most stubborn jobs.

Design

The DeWalt DCF923B Atomic impact wrench features a compact and lightweight design that makes it easy to maneuver in tight spaces. Despite its small size, it still packs a punch with its high torque motor.

Weighing only 2.8 lbs with the battery, the DCF923B is one of the lightest 20V MAX impact wrenches from DeWalt. Its dimensions are only 5.7 inches front to back and 2.9 inches wide. This allows users to fit their hand more comfortably around the tool and work in confined areas.

The streamlined design also enhances the tool's balance and reduces user fatigue during extended use. The short front-to-back length combined with the rubber overmold grip gives excellent control and lessens hand strain.

Overall, the compact and lightweight design of the DCF923B makes it ideal for automotive and trade professionals who need maximum power in a small package. The easy handling allows for comfortable use, even when working overhead or in awkward positions.

For even more power in a compact size, DeWalt offers the DCF892N impact wrench. This model delivers up to 700 ft-lbs of max torque while weighing only 7.2 lbs with a 5.0 Ah battery. It utilizes a brushless motor and 3-speed settings to provide control and runtime. An integrated LED light with 20-second delay illuminates dark work areas.

The DCF892N features a 1/2-inch hog ring anvil for quick and easy socket changes. It measures only 5.7 inches front to back for fitting in tight spots. The overmold grip gives comfort and control even when heavily torquing fasteners. Like the DCF923B, its compact size makes overhead and confined space work much easier.

Both the DCF923B Atomic and DCF892N XR brushless impact wrenches demonstrate DeWalt's commitment to packing pro-level power into small, ergonomic designs. Their lightweight builds and short lengths reduce fatigue and allow access where bulkier tools cannot go. Professionals who value maneuverability in their power tools will appreciate these compact but capable impact wrenches.

Performance

The DeWalt DCF923B Atomic impact wrench delivers excellent performance with its brushless motor that provides increased runtime, power and speed. It has a maximum torque of 300 ft-lbs which allows you to easily loosen stubborn bolts and lug nuts.

The impact mechanism generates up to 3,000 impacts per minute, enabling quick fastening and removal of bolts. It has 3 speed settings that let you match the power and speed to the application. At the highest setting, it delivers a no-load speed of 2400 rpm which makes short work of most automotive and construction jobs.

The DCF923B utilizes DeWalt's Atomic Series 20V MAX battery platform that delivers optimized power in a more compact size. This allows the tool to be lightweight at only 2.8 lbs while still packing serious power. The brushless motor is electronically controlled to provide maximum runtime by using energy efficiently.

Overall, the performance of the DeWalt Atomic DCF923B is very impressive. It has the torque, speed and compact size needed to power through a wide range of demanding fastening applications. The 3-speed versatility lets you fine tune the power delivery for optimal control.

Battery Life

The DeWalt DCF923B Atomic impact wrench comes with a 20V MAX lithium-ion battery that provides impressive runtime. Many users report getting several days to over a week of moderate use between charges.

Of course, battery life will vary depending on your usage. Driving lots of large lag bolts or lug nuts will drain the battery faster than occasional tasks. But overall, the runtime is excellent for an impact wrench of this size.

When it does come time to recharge, the battery charges quickly in about an hour with the included charger. This makes it easy to top off the charge between uses. The fast recharge time means you won't be waiting around long to get back to work after the battery runs down.

The battery also features DeWalt's Fuel Gauge which displays the battery charge level. This helps avoid unexpectedly running out of juice mid-project. Overall, between the long runtime, fast charging, and fuel gauge, the DCF923B Atomic's battery performance is impressive.

Ergonomics

The DeWalt DCF923B Atomic impact wrench is designed with ergonomics in mind for comfortable, low fatigue use.

Grip

The tool features an ergonomic grip with rubber overmold that provides a secure, non-slip hold. The grip has indentations for your fingers to nestle into, allowing you to grip it firmly and reducing hand strain during prolonged use.

Balance

At only 3.5 lbs, the DCF923B Atomic is lightweight with excellent balance. The compact size and ergonomic grip help bring the tool's center of gravity closer to your hand. This improves control and reduces arm fatigue when working overhead or in tight spaces.

Vibration

DeWalt has engineered the DCF923B Atomic with an efficient brushless motor that produces significantly less vibration than brushed motors. Less vibration reduces fatigue and lets you work comfortably for longer periods. The rubber overmold grip also dampens vibrations for smoother operation.

Accessories

The DeWalt DCF923B Atomic impact wrench comes with a few handy accessories right in the box. Most notably, it includes a hog ring anvil, which allows you to easily change sockets without needing any tools. The hog ring holds the socket securely in place while providing the quick release convenience of an impact wrench. This makes swapping between different sized sockets a breeze. No more fumbling with nuts and bolts to attach your sockets! Just click them into place on the hog ring anvil and get to work. Having this handy anvil included is a big perk that adds great functionality right out of the box.

The DCF923B also comes standard with a belt clip, allowing you to holster the impact wrench when not in use. This gives you easy access when you need to grab it quickly. No more putting it down and losing track of where you left it last. The belt clip keeps it handy at your side. Lastly, the impact wrench includes a 3.0Ah 20V MAX battery to power it as well as a charger. So you have everything you need to start using this tool right away. The included accessories add convenience and make this impact wrench ready for immediate use.

Price

The DeWalt DCF923B Atomic impact wrench currently retails for around £179. This puts it at the higher end of the market, but the price is justified by the performance and quality you get.

Overall, the DCF923B represents excellent value for money. It's a professional grade tool that will stand up to heavy use, yet doesn't cost as much as other high-end impact wrenches. The brushless motor and compact size add extra value too.

While the bare tool may seem expensive, keep in mind you're getting DeWalt's latest technology in a durable, lightweight package. When you consider the power and performance, the Atomic impact driver is very competitively priced. It's ideal for professional tradesmen or serious DIYers looking for an impact wrench that delivers outstanding torque and runtime without breaking the bank.

Pros & Cons

The DeWalt DCF923B Atomic 20V MAX Brushless impact wrench has many benefits along with a few potential downsides to consider:

Pros

• Compact and lightweight design at only 2.8 lbs makes it easy to handle and reduces fatigue
• Brushless motor provides excellent power, runtime and durability
• Variable speed trigger gives precise control for a range of applications
• Anvil with detent pin allows for easy socket changes
• Excellent grip and ergonomics
• Quiet operation at only 86 dB
• Part of the Atomic System so battery is interchangeable with other tools
• 3-year limited warranty provides peace of mind

Cons

• Lower torque output than heavier duty impact wrenches, maxing out at 260 ft-lbs
• Less suited for continuous heavy duty use compared to models with active cooling
• Bare tool only, battery and charger sold separately
• No built-in LED light
• Price is on the higher side for a mid-range DIY impact wrench

Overall, the DCF923B Atomic combines impressive power with extreme portability. For those looking for a compact impact wrench for automotive repairs or home projects, it's an excellent choice. Just be aware it's not intended for sustained heavy duty industrial use. Considering its strengths, most users should find it provides great value.

Conclusion

The DeWalt DCF923B Atomic 20V MAX Brushless impact wrench is an excellent cordless tool suitable for automotive and construction jobs. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to handle, while the powerful motor provides up to 210 ft-lbs of max torque and 2600 RPM for efficient fastening and loosening of lug nuts, bolts, and other threaded fasteners.

The 3-speed settings allow you to match power and speed to the application. Low speed works great for more delicate jobs, while high speed tackles tough bolts with ease. The hog ring anvil provides versatility to use sockets of different retention options.

With the brushless motor, you get added durability, runtime, and performance compared to brushed motors. The 20V MAX battery platform offers long runtime to get jobs done.

Overall, the Atomic DCF923B is a high-performing and durable impact wrench perfect for automotive repair, construction jobs, DIY projects, and any application requiring efficient tightening or loosening of bolts and nuts. It's compact and lightweight design makes it comfortable for extended use. We highly recommend it for professionals and DIYers looking for a versatile cordless impact wrench.