Full Review ⭐ Milwaukee 2663-20: M18 1/2" High Torque Impact Wrench with Friction Ring (Bare Tool)

The Milwaukee M18 2663-20 is a 1/2" cordless impact wrench that delivers unmatched torque and power for automotive and heavy-duty fastening applications. Part of Milwaukee Tool's M18 line that runs on an 18-volt lithium-ion battery, this impact wrench is designed to make short work of stubborn bolts and fasteners.

With a max fastening torque of 700 ft-lbs and a max nut-busting torque of 1,100 ft-lbs, the 2663-20 generates more than enough power to remove even the most stubborn lug nuts or suspension bolts. Its 1/2" anvil is compatible with all standard impact sockets, allowing you to tackle a wide range of jobs. The 4-mode drive control lets you adjust the speed and torque for precision control.

The 2663-20 combines extreme power and performance with Milwaukee's signature durability and ergonomics. Its compact size and friction ring design provide excellent grip and reduce user fatigue. With best-in-class power and run time, this impact wrench is ideal for automotive mechanics, fleet maintenance, industrial settings or anyone looking for a high-powered cordless solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The Milwaukee 2663-20 M18 impact wrench has an ergonomic and lightweight design that makes it comfortable to handle and easy to maneuver. At only 7.6 inches long and weighing 5.1 pounds with the battery, it's compact and portable.

The tool features an over-molded grip on the handle that provides a secure, non-slip hold when using it. It has a balanced design so the weight doesn't feel too front or back heavy. The handle is also sized to fit most hand sizes comfortably without feeling bulky.

With its streamlined profile and smooth outer housing, the 2663-20 can fit into tight spaces. This allows you to use it without banging the housing on obstacles around your work area. The slim head design also provides good visibility so you can see your workpiece clearly.

Overall, the Milwaukee 2663-20 impact wrench is thoughtfully designed for user comfort and convenience. Its compact size and ergonomic grip make it easy to handle and maneuver. The Milwaukee MILM18BIW120 is another great cordless impact wrench from Milwaukee with an ergonomic and lightweight design. It delivers up to 120 ft-lbs of maximum fastening torque and 0-2,400 RPM and 0-3,600 IPM for fastening and productivity. The POWERSTATE brushless motor provides increased efficiency, lasts longer, and delivers maximum power.

With the REDLINK PLUS intelligence hardware and software, the MILM18BIW120 impact wrench has the most advanced digital overload protection for tool and battery. It also has total system communication between tool, battery, and charger for optimum performance and runtime. Like the 2663-20, the MILM18BIW120 has an over-molded grip for comfort and control and a streamlined profile to fit into tight spaces.

Both of these Milwaukee impact wrenches feature thoughtful ergonomic designs to reduce fatigue during prolonged use. Their compact size and balanced weight distribution make them easy to maneuver and control. The over-molded grips provide a secure, comfortable hold for the user. When choosing between the two models, consider factors like power output, size, weight and additional features to select the right cordless impact wrench for your needs.

Motor & Impact Mechanism

The Milwaukee M18 2663-20 impact wrench features a powerful four-pole frameless motor that delivers up to 700 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 1,000 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque. This high-performance motor provides more than enough power for automotive repair jobs as well as heavy-duty fastening applications.

The tool utilizes a twin hammer impact mechanism that produces a high torque output while minimizing noise and vibration. The hammer design allows for improved control and precision when driving fasteners. It delivers concussive blows to the anvil, multiplying the torque exerted on the fastener for efficient and effective performance.

With its robust motor and advanced impact mechanism, the M18 2663-20 can generate tremendous amounts of torque to power through the toughest jobs. This makes it well-suited for heavy-duty tasks where a lot of force is required for removing stuck bolts or tightening large fasteners. Yet it maintains precision for automotive applications that demand more finesse.

In addition to high-powered inline impact wrenches like the M18 2663-20, Milwaukee also offers right angle impact wrenches such as the Milwaukee M18 BRAIW-0. This tool provides access in tight spaces where a traditional straight impact wrench won't fit. The compact 90 degree head allows you to drive fasteners in confined areas under sinks, behind pipes, or in other hard to reach spots.

The M18 BRAIW-0 runs on Milwaukee's 18V lithium ion battery system for cordless convenience. It generates up to 300 ft-lbs of max fastening torque and 600 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque. The four-pole frameless motor provides lasting durability under heavy loads. And the 1/2" anvil with pin detent allows for quick and easy socket changes.

With variable speed triggers and different power settings, the M18 BRAIW-0 allows you to match the power and speed to the job. Slow speeds combined with the right socket provide more control for precision tasks. While higher speeds make quick work of removing stubborn bolts or lag screws. The compact head swivels 270 degrees for even more versatility.

So whether you need maximum torque for demolition work and heavy equipment repair, or finesse for auto applications, Milwaukee has the right impact wrench for the job. Models like the M18 2663-20 and M18 BRAIW-0 deliver power, performance and durability to meet the needs of professional tradesmen and DIYers alike.

Anvil and Socket Retention

The Milwaukee 2683-20 has a 1/2" square friction ring anvil which allows for maximum socket retention while preventing socket drops. This is a common anvil size for high torque impact wrenches, enabling use with standard 1/2" drive impact sockets up to 1-1/4" in size.

The friction ring consists of three rubber o-rings inside the anvil that grip onto the sockets. This creates solid socket retention to prevent accidental disengagement of sockets during heavy duty use. However, the friction ring still allows for easy hand socket changes when needed.

Overall, the anvil design enables versatile use with a wide range of 1/2" drive impact sockets while ensuring sockets are securely held in place during intense application of torque. This prevents socket drops and accidents while providing frustration-free operation.

Power & Battery

The Milwaukee M18 2663-20 impact wrench is powered by an 18V lithium-ion battery pack, delivering outstanding torque and runtime for the tool's size and weight. It's compatible with all Milwaukee M18 batteries, giving you flexibility to choose higher capacity packs for extended runtime or more compact packs for lighter weight.

With an XC 5.0 battery, the 2663-20 can deliver up to 200 ft-lbs of fastening torque and run for around 30-40 minutes of continuous use before needing a recharge. The 18V voltage provides more than enough power for driving large lag bolts into wood, loosening rusted lug nuts, and general automotive repair work. Higher output HO batteries can extend the runtime further to around an hour of continuous impacting.

One of the advantages of the M18 line is the wide range of battery options available. From compact 2Ah packs for light duty tasks to large 8Ah+ batteries for commercial use, you can equip the 2663-20 impact wrench with the right battery for your needs. The friction ring helps retain sockets, allowing you to use the tool at various angles without losing socket retention. Overall, the high voltage 18V power platform provides the 2663-20 wrench with excellent power and runtime for an impact wrench of its class.

Speed & Control

The M18 Fuel High Torque impact wrench offers excellent speed and control for a variety of fastening applications. It has four speed and torque settings that allow users to match the power to the job.

The first setting is for precision work. It provides low speed and torque for tasks that require more finesse and control, like auto repair or woodworking. This prevents overtightening and damage in delicate operations.

The second and third settings offer medium torque at two different speeds. These are ideal for general automotive uses, driving lag bolts into wood, and other everyday fastening tasks. The multiple settings let users choose between faster speed or higher torque when needed.

The final setting unleashes the tool's maximum torque at 1000 ft-lbs to blast through the toughest jobs. At this highest setting, the impact mechanism delivers a whopping 1800 impacts per minute to power through rusty, over-tightened, or high-torque fasteners. This makes short work of jobs like loosening corroded wheel lugs, working with large machinery, or automotive suspension components.

The multiple speed/torque settings combined with the electric variable speed trigger give users exceptional control over the tool's output. This allows matching the perfect amount of power and precision to each application for fast, professional-grade results. The electric brake also stops the anvil quickly after pulling the trigger to prevent over-tightening in delicate tasks.

Durability

The Milwaukee M18 High Torque impact wrench is built to last on the toughest job sites. The housing is constructed from a lightweight yet durable composite material that can withstand drops and impacts without damage.

Despite its power, the tool weighs only 7.6 pounds, reducing fatigue during extended use. The battery pack fits snugly into the handle and is protected by a rubber overmold.

Milwaukee's proprietary DRIVE CONTROL allows users to shift into two different speed and torque settings for additional control. This helps prevent overtightening and stripping of fasteners.

The impact mechanism utilizes premium quality components with all-metal transmission gears and a heavy-duty anvil. This enables the tool to deliver up to 1800 in-lbs of fastening torque repeatedly with no loss of performance.

The battery fuel gauge lets you monitor remaining runtime to avoid unexpectedly running out of power during critical jobs. The REDLINK Plus Intelligence system protects the tool and battery from overheating or overloading.

Overall, the high-grade materials and protective features allow this impact wrench to endure the demanding workloads of professional power tool users day after day. It's a reliable solution for those who need maximum torque in a compact and rugged package.

Accessories & Extras

The Milwaukee M18 2663-20 comes with a few handy accessories right in the box. It includes a belt clip for convenient portability when moving around a job site. The clip is sturdy and keeps the tool securely in place.

Also included is a 4Ah XC Lithium-Ion battery. This provides decent runtime for daily use, though higher capacity 5Ah or even 12Ah batteries are available to purchase separately for extended use. Charging time is around 60 minutes with the rapid charger.

No charger is bundled with the bare tool, so you'll need to supply your own M18 charger. These are widely available, but factor this extra cost in if you don't already have one.

When it comes to sockets, the tool itself accepts 1/2" drive sockets. Higher torque impacts may require special impact-rated sockets, but standard chrome sockets are fine for this model. A friction ring helps retain sockets during use. For best retention and minimizing wear, impact-rated sockets are recommended.

For maximum versatility, also consider picking up an adapter to use 3/8" drive sockets or investing in additional sets of 1/2" drive sockets. This opens up many more options for driving fasteners.

No carrying case comes standard, so you'll need to supply your own case or bag. Look for one designed for an impact wrench and sockets to keep everything protected.

With the tool being the 'bare' version, any other accessories like a belt hook, soft grip, or protective boot will need to be purchased separately. But the included battery and belt clip make this a decent ready-to-use kit right out of the box.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Powerful 1⁄2” anvil delivers 1,400 in-lbs of fastening torque, making it ideal for automotive repair and heavy-duty construction jobs that require high torque.

• Compact and lightweight at only 7.1 lbs with battery, reducing user fatigue during prolonged use.

• 4-Mode DRIVE CONTROL allows the user to shift between four different speed and torque settings for maximum control.

• Milwaukee SHOCKWAVE Impact DutyTM sockets with extended walls provide maximum socket retention, preventing socket slippage under high torque.

• RedLink Plus intelligence optimizes performance and overload protection.

• Brushless motor provides increased efficiency, runtime and durability.

• Comes with friction ring for quick and easy socket changes.

• 3-year warranty provides peace of mind.

Cons

• Bare tool only, battery and charger sold separately.

• No fuel gauge on tool to indicate remaining battery level.

• Lacks precision control at lower torque settings.

• The high torque output makes it unsuitable for more delicate tasks.

• At £199 for just the bare tool, it is more expensive than some competing models.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Milwaukee 2663-20 M18 High Torque Impact Wrench is an excellent choice for automotive and heavy-duty fastening applications. Its compact and lightweight design provides outstanding comfort and control, even when working in tight spaces.

The powerful brushless motor delivers up to 700 ft-lbs of fastening torque, making quick work of even the most stubborn lug nuts and bolts. The friction ring anvil provides excellent grip on sockets, eliminating drops and slippage. Variable speed triggers give users precise control over the output.

With best-in-class durability and proven Milwaukee battery technology, this tool will withstand consistent professional use for years to come. It's backed by a 5-year warranty for peace of mind.

For professional automotive technicians or avid DIY mechanics looking for a high-quality cordless impact wrench, the Milwaukee M18 High Torque is easy to recommend. It combines next-level power and ruggedness in a comfortable, ergonomic design. This impact wrench truly raises the bar for fastening performance.