I still find it amazing that in today’s world we have the ability to lose the air hose and only use batteries. Sure cordless isn’t for every application and we still need pneumatic tools, but battery technology has come a long way. While we aren’t at the flying cars we were promised in the 80’s, we are at the point that our tools can do more work than ever before. So let’s jump into the Milwaukee One Key Impact Wrench Review.
Milwaukee One Key Impact Wrench Review Overview
Milwaukee is known for their 12v and their 18V line of tools. In fact, they have one of the largest lines of power tools on the market. So when they announced another Impact Wrench, it’s wasn’t a huge surprise. However, this isn’t like any other Impact Wrench on the market. Milwaukee added a couple of features to this tool that is lacking in other tools.
Because this tool has a ton of power and also features One-Key, this tool is designed for a wide range of applications and users. This makes the tool great for Mechanical Contractors, Power Utility, Iron Workers, General Contractors, Auto Technicians and more.
So let’s check out what else this tool has to offer.
Milwaukee One Key Impact Wrench Review Features
The Impact Wrench (Model 2863-22) features a brushless motor that puts out 1,000 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 1,400 ft-lbs of nut busting torque. Now with a tool of this much power, you would think it would be rather large. While it is a little heavy at 5.9 lbs, it is only 8.39″ long so you can get into more tight areas.
This wrench is part of the Milwaukee Fuel line which means it’s designed with a brushless motor. A Brushless motor is more efficient so that is one way Milwaukee is getting so much power from a smaller size.
The wrench is powered by their M18 line of batteries.
This wrench is a 1/2″ with a friction ring. They also offer a detent version.
If you like the traditional Milwaukee grip, then you will be happy they stuck with the same rubber grip and also the same design as their other cordless handles.
The wrench offers a variable speed trigger which is very easy to control. I found the trigger to be very smooth. Here are the stats.
- Fastening Torque 0-1,000 ft-lbs
- Nut Busting Torque 1400 ft-lbs
- No Load RPM 0-1,750
- No Load IPM 0-2,100
One of the biggest features of this tool, well besides power, is the ability to communicate with this tool using One-Key. Without getting too deep into One-Key, it’s an easy way for you to customize your tool. You download an app on your phone and then you can easily connect to your phone. Once you connect to your tool, you can set certain parameters to the tool. Say you’re in the automotive industry and are doing repetitive work and you need a specific torque requirement. If you are working with large diameters of bolts for concrete, you will need different settings. You can set this tool up for that and this is just one place this tool shines.
One cool feature is on the base of the tool, you can have preset settings. So if you are performing repetitive tasks, this tool will help make your life easier.
Also on the base is an LED light. The light does a decent job but nothing to write home about.
On the sides of the wrench, there are rubber pads that help protect the tool and the surface you lay the tool on.
Milwaukee One Key Impact Wrench Review Performance
We used this to take some truck tires on and off, plus a little with a skid steer. As you would expect, this Impact Wrench does an awesome job. Very smooth and easy to control the variable speed trigger.
One of the biggest features that we like is the One-Key. In the past One-Key has always been a cool feature but I think on this tool, it’s a huge plus. This can really help prevent a ton of damage, cost and downtime. Since you can set up the tool, you can control and prevent breaking bolts, stripping nuts and more.
Milwaukee One Key Impact Wrench Review Value
The Milwaukee Impact Wrench is priced at $500 at The Home Depot. You get two batteries, a charger and case. While it’s a little pricey, I think it’s a good value considering the quality of the tool and the feature of the One-Key.
Milwaukee One Key Impact Wrench Review Final Thoughts
If you are in the business where you need a tough tool that will not only last through harsh conditions but makes your life a little easier, then the Milwaukee 2863 is a great tool for your arsenal. While a little heavy, the tool has plenty of power and the One-Key can provide a serious advantage that other tools can not offer.
