Impact ratchet vs. impact gun

chvythndr · October 14, 2005

What's the diff. between the 2? I know what they are, but why use an impact ratchet instead of a gun? Is it b/c it's smaller and can fit in more places? Do impact ratchets usually torque as much as a gun?

Wingnut · October 14, 2005

Ratchet has much lower speed, and most of them have a lot less torque as well (one of mine is adjustable though).

az'03Silverado · October 19, 2005

The impact gun has a hammering mechanism inside that applies a lot of torque on whatever fastener. Because of this hammering, you should use non-choromed (black) sockets so the chrome doesn't crack off and fly in your face. The air ratchet is just that, an air tool that spins the socket. No hammering in there. It's basically used to spin the fastener to lessen fatigue on someone who has to turn fasteners all day long. Most have a 3/8" drive so your normal sockets can be used, even the chrome ones.

WEFs99 · October 19, 2005

Several years ago I had to remove the coping from a 40'x20' inground swimming pool. It was attached with six zillion 3/8 bolts. I bought an air ratchet just for that and so far it is the only use I had for it.