DeWALT's 18-volt impact cordless wrench is a good choice for a person who needs a lot of torque for a little money, compared to other cordless wrench models that deliver similar power in a lightweight chassis. On the market for more than four years now, the DW059K wrench can now be found at quite a bargain, selling for as little as 0 from some retailers, while more recent models don't necessarily bring anything new to the impact cordless wrench market at a higher price.
The 1/2" XRP is one of DeWALT's more versatile impact wrenches, as it will accept a wide range of socket sizes. And, although options are many, it was designed to remove or tighten lug nuts in the process of changing vehicle tires. The average user who keeps it in the trunk to deal with the occasional flat will be highly impressed, as this model is regularly used by people working in racing, auto repair and roadside assistance.
And, with 300 ft./lbs. of torque, it handles these jobs with ease. Some may say that this is even too much power for such a job, and that a cheaper model of impact cordless wrench with less power would be enough for most tires changes, but since the XRP has been on the market for some time the extra power can be purchased at a bargain. DeWALT designed and marketed this tool as a professional-grade item, and it delivers professional power.
In fact, one concern with the XRP wrench, it is that it is too strong given its more simplistic, easy-use design. The trigger of the tool also acts as a rocker switch, so when the user squeezes the top of the trigger the wrench spins forward (clockwise), and when the user squeezes the bottom of the trigger, the wrench reverses. Three hundred ft./lbs. of torque is a great deal of power to have accidentally switch directions on the user due to a slip of the finger. Some may prefer a separate directional switch located elsewhere, but it is a small concern.
Control of the XRP is assisted by offering two speeds - 1650 rpm and 2600 rpm. Users should be mindful to take advantage of this low-speed, high-speed control option, because the power of this impact wrench can and will break lug nuts and bolts if not used with some care. The look and heft of the wrench makes it easy for an unassuming user to misjudge its strength.
All of this power is delivered in a comparatively compact, lightweight plastic body with a heavy-duty impact mechanism that eliminates kickback. This impact cordless wrench weighs in at just 7.55 lbs. and measures approximately 16" x 15" x 5" tall, and is easy to handle thanks to its anti-slip grip. Despite the plastic components, though, it is still a very durable wrench. The XRP is made with a magnesium gear case and all-metal transmission, which makes it an extremely strong tool, not only in its class but across the impact wrench spectrum.
