Can a DeWalt Impact Driver Be Used as a Screwdriver?

In short, yes, a DeWalt impact driver can be used as a screwdriver. Below, we will go into more detail on why DeWalt impact drivers make good screwdrivers. To begin, let’s discuss the differences between an impact driver and a traditional screwdriver.

Impact Driver vs. Traditional Screwdriver

An impact driver is a power tool that delivers a high amount of torque and speed, designed primarily for driving screws, bolts, and other fasteners. It works by combining rotational force with a series of rapid, concussive blows (impacts) that help to drive the fastener into the material with more ease and less likelihood of stripping the screw head.

A traditional screwdriver, on the other hand, is a manual tool with a handle and a shaft ending in a tip that engages with the head of a screw. The user applies rotational force by turning the handle to drive or remove screws.

How Each Tool Works and What Makes Them Unique

1. DeWalt Impact Driver: An impact driver uses a motor to generate rotational force and a hammering mechanism to deliver concussive impacts. This combination makes it highly effective at driving screws quickly and easily, even into dense materials. Impact drivers typically have a hexagonal chuck that accepts only hex-shanked bits, allowing for quick bit changes.

2. Traditional Screwdriver: A traditional screwdriver relies solely on the user’s manual effort to generate rotational force. It offers more control and precision when driving screws but requires more effort and time, especially for larger or more challenging fastening tasks. Traditional screwdrivers are available with various tip types (e.g., flathead, Phillips, Torx) to match different screw heads.

Examples of When an Impact Driver Would Be Helpful When Working with Screws

1. Driving long or large screws: The high torque and speed of an impact driver make it easier to drive long or large screws into dense materials, such as hardwood or metal.

2. Assembling furniture or structures: Impact drivers can quickly and efficiently drive multiple screws, making them ideal for tasks like assembling furniture or constructing decks and fences.

3. Fastening tasks in tight spaces: Due to their compact design and powerful performance, impact drivers are well-suited for driving screws in tight or hard-to-reach spaces where a traditional screwdriver might be difficult to use.

4. Reducing user fatigue: The rapid impacts generated by an impact driver help to transfer the force directly to the screw, reducing the strain on the user’s wrist and arm, especially during prolonged or repetitive fastening tasks.

Can a DeWalt Impact Driver Be Used in Place of a Screwdriver?

Yes, a DeWalt impact driver can be used in place of a screwdriver for driving screws. It is often more efficient and effective at driving screws, particularly in demanding or repetitive tasks. However, keep in mind that an impact driver’s high torque and speed may make it less suitable for delicate or precision work, where a traditional screwdriver might provide better control.

However, the DeWalt DCF850 and DCF887 come with a 3 mode power output function. On the lower power setting, both of these DeWalt impact drives are perfect for delicate precision work.

3-Mode Power Output Function Explained

Low (Mode 1): This mode delivers reduced torque and speed, ideal for delicate precision work or smaller fasteners.
Medium (Mode 2): This mode offers a balance of torque and speed, suitable for general fastening tasks and medium-sized fasteners.
High (Mode 3): This mode provides maximum torque and speed for heavy-duty fastening tasks or large fasteners.

To switch between modes, locate the mode selector switch near the base of the tool’s handle and slide it to the desired position.

Applications for the Lower Power Setting (Mode 1)

The lower power setting (Mode 1) is particularly useful for delicate precision work, where higher torque and speed may cause damage or reduce control.

Some specific applications include:

Fastening small screws in electronics or appliances
Assembling lightweight furniture or cabinetry
Installing delicate hardware, such as hinges or drawer slides
Working with soft or thin materials, such as plastic or aluminium
Driving screws in tight spaces where precise control is crucial

By utilizing the lower power setting, users can ensure they have the necessary control of a screwdriver for delicate tasks, while still benefiting from the convenience and efficiency of an impact driver.

Both the DeWalt DCF850 and DCF887 impact drivers offer versatile performance and control through their 3-mode power output function. By understanding how to adjust the power output based on the task at hand, users can optimize the tool’s performance for regular screwdriver use.

In summary, a DeWalt impact driver can be an excellent tool for driving screws in various applications, offering increased speed, power, and efficiency compared to a traditional screwdriver. However, it’s essential to understand the differences between the two tools and choose the most appropriate one for the specific task at hand, ensuring optimal results and tool longevity.

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