Professional Tool Reviews for Pros
The Milwaukee M12 Fuel impact driver saw big improvements from its first generation to its second, gaining power while becoming more compact. We’ve had a chance to get our hands on the third generation to see what’s coming up next.
Editor’s Note: The 3rd generation M12 Fuel Impact Driver is on its way. To see our original review of the 2nd generation, scroll down to the bottom and click “Next Page”
Check out our top impact driver recommendations for 2022!
Let’s start with speed. The Milwaukee 3453 third-generation picks up nearly 10% more speed, moving from 3300 RPM on the 2553 to 3600 RPM on the latest model. Despite that, the impact rate remains the same at 4000 IPM.
The torque also gets a nice boost, jumping up 200 in-lbs to reach 1500 in-lbs in mode 3. That combination of speed and power has the ability to take on some of the compact 18V/20V Max impact drivers.
Controlling the performance is exactly the same as the previous generation with the 4-mode drive control. Press the button in the center to cycle between modes 1, 2, 3, and self-tapping screw.
The size and weight don’t change a ton for the latest model. It’s 5.0 inches long, dropping about 0.1 inch from the last version. The weight comes down a little bit as well, dropping a couple of ounces down to 1.6 pounds bare. A 2.0Ah battery puts the total weight right at 2.0 pounds.
The Milwaukee 3453 gets a big upgrade to its LED, shifting from a single light above the trigger to three LED surrouning the collet. It’s a significant different and does a great job of eliminating shadows compared to other light placements.
One-hand bit insertion is a nice feature that the Milwaukee M12 Fuel impact driver has. Instead of holding the collet out to install bit, just slide it right in and you’re good to go!
Look for this model to hit Milwaukee retailers as both a bare tool and kit starting in August 2022. The bare tool price is $139. The kit is $169 and includes a pair of 2.0Ah batteries along with a charger and soft case.
Keep your eyes open for a combo kit that includes the Gen 3 impact driver and Gen 3 hammer drill (model 3497-22)
Milwaukee warranties the tool for 5 years and the batteries for 2 years.
Learn more at Milwaukee’s website!
On the clock, Kenny dives deep to discover the practical limits and comparative differences for all kinds of tools. Off the clock, his faith and love for his family are his top priorities, and you'll typically find him in the kitchen, on his bike (he's an Ironman), or taking folks out for a day of fishing on Tampa Bay.
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With the redesign, I’m ready to get one. I have the original first gen m12 impact that came in a 3 tool kit with the hex driver and flashlight, bought it January 2009, and I still use it every day. Had 2 batteries die from leaving them in the garage on empty a couple years, but one of the originals is still kicking. Noticed a reduction in fastening torque last couple months after I used it for running thousands of self tappers through .050 aluminum into .125 stainless, but that has only made it even more sensitive for running #8s… Read more »
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Professional Tool Reviews for Pros