Full Review ⭐ Kielder KWT-180-06: 18v TYPE18 Brushless Cordless 1/2" 850Nm Mid Torque Impact Wrench Bare Unit

The Kielder KWT-180-06 18V Brushless Cordless 1/2" 850Nm Mid Torque Impact Wrench is designed for automotive and industrial use. This compact and lightweight impact wrench delivers impressive torque and power in a cordless package.

The tool features a brushless motor for increased efficiency and runtime. With no carbon brushes to wear out, the brushless motor should provide greater durability as well. An integrated LED light illuminates the work area.

This review will examine the key features and performance of the Kielder impact wrench. The pros and cons of the tool will be weighed to determine if it's a worthwhile investment for professional or home mechanics. Power, runtime, ergonomics, and value will all be considered.

Design

The Kielder KWT-180-06 features an ergonomic and compact design. The body is made of durable metal and has a rubber overmold grip for comfort during extended use. Despite its power, the impact wrench has a surprisingly lightweight feel at only 1.89 kg.

The tool is very well balanced, with most of the weight centered in the grip area. This gives excellent control and maneuverability when working in tight spaces. The compact head design allows access into confined areas that larger impact wrenches cannot reach.

The rubberized grip has textured zones to provide a secure hold, even with greasy or dirty hands. An LED light is integrated to illuminate dark work areas. Overall, the thoughtful design elements make the KWT-180-06 comfortable and convenient to use.

In addition to the KWT-180-06, Kielder also offers the KWT-155-06 impact driver. This ultra compact 18v cordless tool weighs only 1.12 kg, making it one of the lightest in its class. Despite the small size, it delivers up to 155 Nm of max torque and 1900 rpm no-load speed.

The KWT-155-06 is ideal for precision applications in tight spaces that demand high power in a small package. It accepts 1/4" hex shank bits to handle a wide range of jobs. The brushless motor provides efficient power while eliminating routine maintenance. Overall, the KWT-155-06 combines extreme compactness with reliable high performance.

Both the KWT-180-06 impact wrench and KWT-155-06 impact driver demonstrate Kielder's commitment to thoughtful design. The ergonomic shape, lightweight build, and compact heads enable comfortable use in confined work areas. Integrated LED lights assist visibility. By balancing power, size, and handling, these tools exemplify Kielder's focus on user-centric design.

Power and Performance

The Kielder KWT-180-06 impact wrench is powered by a brushed 18V motor that delivers impressive performance. It has a maximum torque rating of 850 Nm, making it suitable for most automotive and DIY applications.

The tool features two speed settings - 0-2400rpm and 0-3200rpm. The lower speed is great for high torque fastening applications while the higher speed allows for quick removal of bolts and nuts. Switching between speeds is easy with a simple thumb switch.

The brushless motor provides efficient power delivery and longer runtime compared to brushed motors. It has robust metal gearing inside to handle high torque tasks. Overall, the power and performance of this impact wrench is very impressive given its compact size.

For even more power, consider the Kielder 3 Battery Bundle Box: 18v Brushless TYPE18 1/2 700Nm Impact Wrench & 3/8" 60Nm Ratchet. This bundle comes with the Kielder 700Nm impact wrench that delivers an astounding 700Nm of max torque. That's enough power for even the most demanding automotive jobs. It uses a high efficiency brushless motor and all metal drivetrain.

Also included is the Kielder 60Nm ratchet wrench. At only 130mm long, it allows access into tight spaces that a full size impact wrench cannot reach. The 3/8" anvil is suitable for most automotive fasteners. With its brushless motor, you'll get the power of air without the hassle of hoses and compressors.

To power these tools, the bundle includes a 4.0Ah lithium ion battery that provides longer runtime for completing big jobs. The battery is compatible with all Kielder 18V tools. For the professional mechanic or avid DIYer, this bundle provides an unbeatable combination of power, performance and value.

With 100Nm more max torque than the 850Nm impact wrench, the 700Nm model in this bundle will make short work of even the most stubborn bolts. And the compact 60Nm ratchet wrench lets you reach fasteners in tight spaces that are impossible to access with standard impact wrenches. For the ultimate in cordless power and versatility, this Kielder bundle has you covered.

Battery and Charger

The Kielder KWT-180-06 impact wrench comes with an 18V 2.0Ah lithium-ion battery. Lithium-ion batteries are known for their long runtime, high energy density, and ability to hold a charge when not in use.

This battery has a voltage of 18 volts and a capacity of 2.0 amp hours (Ah). The higher voltage allows the motor to deliver more torque and power. The 2.0Ah capacity provides decent runtime, though higher capacity batteries are available for extended use.

Charging is handled by the included rapid charger. It can fully recharge the 2.0Ah battery in about 30-60 minutes. This quick charge time helps minimize downtime between uses. The charger plugs into a standard wall outlet and has an LED indicator to show charging status.

Overall, the 18V lithium-ion battery and rapid charger are solid specs for a mid-torque impact wrench in this class. The battery technology is proven for power tools, and the fast charging supports productivity. Higher capacity batteries can also be purchased separately for all-day runtime when needed.

Features

The Kielder KWT-180-06 impact wrench comes equipped with several handy features for convenience and versatility.

One notable feature is the built-in LED light. Located right above the torque selector, this LED light illuminates dark work areas so you can see what you're doing even in low light conditions. The light automatically turns on when the tool is running.

Another useful feature is the variable speed trigger, which allows you to control the speed and power of the impacts. Pull the trigger gently for slower speeds and soft impacts, or squeeze it all the way for maximum speed and power. This gives you more control over your fastening applications.

At the heart of this impact wrench is a powerful brushless motor. Brushless motors are more efficient, generate less friction and heat, and require less maintenance than standard brushed motors. This means you'll get better runtime, more torque, and longer life from the KWT-180-06. The brushless motor can deliver up to 850 Nm of max torque and 3100 impacts per minute.

Weight and Dimensions

The Kielder KWT-180-06 impact wrench is compact and lightweight, making it easy to handle and maneuver in tight spaces. It weighs only 1.8kg, which helps reduce user fatigue during prolonged use.

In terms of dimensions, the tool measures 180mm in length and is 70mm in height. It has an ergonomic and slimline design with an oval-shaped head that allows users to grip it comfortably. The compact size also gives greater access and visibility when working in confined areas.

The lightweight but durable magnesium gear housing contributes to the tool's well-balanced and easy handling. The compact dimensions paired with the low weight make this an ideal impact wrench for automotive repair work where extended periods of overhead and downward force is required. It can work well in cramped engine bays thanks to its small footprint.

Noise Level

The Kielder KWT-180-06 impact wrench operates at a noise level of 84 dBa, which is typical for an 18V cordless impact wrench. The brushless motor helps keep the noise down compared to brushed motors. However, users should still wear appropriate hearing protection when using this tool for extended periods to prevent hearing damage from the high noise levels.

The noise is loudest when driving lag bolts or breaking loose rusted bolts. When just spinning nuts at a moderate torque, the noise is less intense. But in all cases, ear plugs or muffs are recommended for safety.

Some users may find the noise level annoying if using this tool indoors or in a quiet environment. Outdoors it's less of an issue. But the noise level is about average and expected for a cordless impact wrench of this class. Those sensitive to noise should consider a quieter 12V impact driver instead.

Accessories

The Kielder KWT-180-06 comes with a few handy accessories to get you started. Inside the box, you'll find the impact wrench itself along with a 18V 2.0Ah lithium-ion battery and charger.

The included battery provides decent runtime for an impact wrench of this size. On a full charge, you can expect around 45-60 minutes of continuous runtime depending on your usage. The charger is optimized to fully recharge the battery in around 30-40 minutes.

For storage and transport, Kielder includes a sturdy blow molded case. The case has custom cutouts for the impact wrench, battery, and charger, keeping everything secure. There are no additional tools or accessories included besides what's mentioned.

Overall, the included charger, battery, and case provide the essential accessories you'll need to start using the impact wrench right out of the box. More batteries or higher capacity batteries can be purchased separately for extended runtime.

Pros

The Kielder KWT-180-06 impact wrench has several notable pros that make it a strong contender in the mid-torque cordless impact wrench category:

• Powerful motor and ample torque: The brushless motor delivers an impressive 850 Nm of max torque, allowing the wrench to loosen even stubborn bolts and nuts. This is more than enough for most automotive and DIY applications.

• Compact and lightweight design: Weighing just 1.95 kg with battery, the KWT-180-06 is lightweight and maneuverable. Its compact 6.7 inch length allows access into tight engine bays. The slim grip profile enhances control.

• Variable speed trigger: The variable speed trigger provides precise control over the RPM, preventing overtightening and damage to fasteners. Slow speeds can be used for accuracy in delicate jobs.

• LED worklight: The built-in LED worklight illuminates dark work areas, making it easier to see bolts and sockets. This handy feature improves productivity and reduces frustration.

Cons

• The battery and charger are sold separately, so you'll need to factor in the additional cost if you don't already have compatible batteries.

• At 2.8kg it's on the heavier side for an impact wrench which could lead to fatigue during prolonged use. Those with smaller hands may find it difficult to grip and control comfortably.

• With a noise level of 89dB, it's quite loud in operation. Hearing protection is recommended for extended use.

• While suitable for most automotive and DIY applications, it lacks the power for heavy duty industrial use. The relatively short battery life means less runtime between charges compared to models with higher amp hour batteries.