The problem with traditional impact drivers is they is designed around a straight shaft which doesn’t play very nice in cramped quarters. To access those nuts in crawlspaces, or behind flanges you’ll find yourself having to twist your arm to make the shot. Over time, that twisting can cause carpal tunnel injuries.
Some folks purchase a right angle adapter which help but it also add bulk and reduces torque. So they solved this problem with the Craftsman Nextec right angle impact driver, making the right angle part of the tool itself. It’s a well-integrated package, including both battery and motor.
No additional attachment are needed; all that power travels around the corner. This new moddern model from their Nextec line raise the primary question: Is this simply a marketing concept, or does it actualy work? Do the mechanisms offers convenience without sacrificing the raw power of an impact driver?
Reviewing The Craftsman Nextec Right Angle Impact Driver
The Problem with Traditional Impact Drivers
Integrated Right Angle Design
To achieve this, the battery is mounted perpendicular to the output shaft which gives tool a good balance. It move the center of gravity from that of a typical pistol grip tool and that makes a difference working overhead and in tight quarters. You feel like it’s balanced naturaly in your hand and you’re able to pivot it easy without having to fight its mass, lessening fatigue after long work session.
Improved Balance and Ergonomics
The primary issue with right angle tools is torque. Gear reduction reduce efficiency. Some mechanical adapter don’t drive long screws and risk stripping fasteners.
Torque Performance and Driving Power
Tests indicates that this model provide good impact force. In fact, it was able to easily drive a couple of inch-long structural screws into joist hanger. That’s not easy for many right angle tools, which often fail to drive long screws because they loses efficiency.
Battery Compatibility and System
For those who uses other Craftsman tools, one of its strengths will be the battery system. The Nextec line use the same 20 volt Max batteries as their other pro series tools. So if you buy one tool from that series, you can use its power source on all the others without purchasing additional cell and chargers.
That means saving some cash and keeping more stuff out of your garage shelves. If you’re already an owner of Craftsman tools, then this driver becomes an addition to your work flow without any practical issues. It’s built well enough to stand up at a job site.
Build Quality and Control
It has a nice solid feel in your hand and it does not chip easy even after accidental drops on concrete. And the trigger action is very snappy, providing precise control when you are driving drywall screws near finished surfaces. Full power for heavy stuff and light for more delicate applications.
That means that this is a do-all type of tool instead of a niche one. There are small compromises. The right angle head increase the overall length of the tool and that can get awkward in really tight places.
Size Limitations in Tight Spaces
So you do need to think about how you’ll work in very deep recesses so you don’t knock off the motor housing with the tool. It is not a perfect fit for all tight spots, but it works for most situations where a regular driver doesn’t cut it. Just respect the shape of the tool.
Value and Cost Effectiveness
For the DIYer and contractor doing light jobs, it’s a nice price. Performance specs are similar to more expensive professional brand versions but at a lower price point. So in that regard, bang for buck, you’re getting a lot of tool for not a lot of money.
If you want a right angle drill specifically and don’t want to pay a bunch, this makes the value clear. This is a tool that doesn’t make problems, but actualy fixes one. For example, on projects requiring plenty of torque but not much room for a large tool, the Craftsman Nextec right angle impact driver fits the bill.
Versatility for DIY and Contractors
This thing can fit in places other drivers won’t. Need to drive a bunch of screws in tight quarters? No problem.
Got a bunch of furnitures to assemble in your tiny apartment? Piece of cake. Trying to build a room inside an existing house?
Done deal. It makes what once seemed impossible seem easy to drive.