Recommend the best socket size for a new impact driver?

NYCbianchi

I'm slowly building up my tool set, and I'm considering an impact driver. I will probably stay within the DeWalt 20V family so that I have interchangeable batteries; I'm looking at buying one of these.

I really have no idea what socket size is the most common / useful. 1/2" clearly seems too big but what about 1/4" vs. 3/8"? This is just for general purpose use, screwing in woodscrews and whatnot. What is the most common / popular size for bits?

joecaption

Confusing question.
If all your going to be doing with it is lighter work like screws then the 1/4 will work fine as far as the driver size.
All driver bits come in 1/4".
You can buy a set of adapters that will let you run 1/4, 3/8, or 1/2 sockets.

NYCbianchi

Thanks Joe. I think you answered my question with "all driver bits come in 1/4" " -- I felt like there was a really commone size but I wasn't sure what it was...

woodworkbykirk

so your looking at nut drivers for your impact... i use them all the time for deck work and bolting beams.

impact drivers have a 1/4 chuck, where as impact wrenches will have a 1/2" chuck. but for the impact driver you'll want a 1/2" adapter that fits into your driver, so you can use larger sockets. the other reason that if your trying to use 1/4 sockets the adapter will strip out very easily especially when the anvil kicks in on the drill. i highly recommend the milwaukee shock wave bits and drivers, they last much longer than the dewalt ones available

PaliBob

• Impact Drivers All have 1/4" sockets (Female}
• Impact Wrenches are commonly 3/8" or 1/2" (Male)
• Hex adapters are available for 1/4,3/8 and 1/2" sockets

Here is a source for a Hex Adapter

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woodworkbykirk

thats what i meant....