More speed, more power, a smaller tool body and some cool extra features puts this driver at the very head of its class. That’s not to say we don’t also love its yellow colleague, but Makita’s tucked in such innovative details into this tool. When we picked it up, it felt lighter and more compact than others we’ve tried out in its power and price range, handling a little better, too, in part because of the really comfortable rubber grip and nicely balanced design. And when we checked the specs, sure enough, it’s a couple ounces lighter and a bit more compact than its nearest competitor. When the battery charged and we popped it on (which, incidentally, is a nice smooth operation), we could have driven screws effortlessly all day: the torque is incredible! We’ll take Makita’s word for it that it maxes at 1,110 inch-pounds of force. Even in the blows-per-minute category, it beats everybody else out at 3,200 bpm, and since it works harder, you can work a little easier. There

FEATURED Makita 6980FDWDE 12-Volt NiMH Cordless Impact Driver

• Powerful efficient impacting 92-1/2-Feet;/Pound; (1,110 in/Pound) For industrial applications
• Efficient impacts per minute (0-3,200 ipm) for high production
• Impact resistant magnesium alloy gear case for increased durability
• True variable speed for smooth acceleration and complete control to match all applications
• Powerful (2-3/5ah) ni-mh batteries have greater capacity and longer run time than any ni-cd battery for finishing extended jobs with less downtime; 1-year warranty

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