Full Review ⭐ Kielder KWT-155-06: 18v TYPE18 Brushless Cordless 1/4" Ultra Compact Impact Driver, Bare Unit

Impact wrenches are powerful cordless tools that provide high torque for driving and removing fasteners. Kielder is a relatively new player in the power tool market that aims to deliver professional quality at an affordable price point.

The Kielder KWT-155-06 is an ultra compact 18v impact wrench designed for automotive repair, construction projects, and general DIY use. As a bare unit without a battery or charger, it provides flexibility for buyers who may already have compatible Kielder batteries.

This lightweight but robust impact wrench packs a surprising punch thanks to its brushless motor and compact form factor. Kielder claims it has best-in-class power-to-weight ratio.

In this review, we'll take a close look at the features, performance and handling of the Kielder KWT-155-06 to see if it lives up to its promises as a high value impact wrench suitable for professionals and homeowners.

Overview

The Kielder KWT-155-06 is an 18-volt cordless 1/4" impact driver that delivers impressive power and performance in an ultra-compact and lightweight design. This bare tool unit comes without a battery or charger, allowing you to purchase compatible batteries separately.

With a brushless motor, the KWT-155-06 can produce up to 155 Nm of max torque and 3200 RPM no-load speed. It measures only 5.5 inches front to back and weighs just 1.32 lbs with the battery, making it easy to use in tight spaces and reducing user fatigue during extended use. The 1/4" hex quick release chuck allows for fast bit changes.

Some key specs:

• Voltage: 18V
• Max Torque: 155 Nm
• Speed: 0-3200 RPM
• Tool Length: 5.5 inches
• Weight with Battery: 1.32 lbs

This compact impact driver is designed for efficiency, convenience, and power. Its brushless motor requires less maintenance while delivering performance similar to larger models. The lightweight magnesium housing stands up to heavy use on the jobsite or around the house.

For bigger fastening jobs, consider pairing the KWT-155-06 with the Kielder KWT-012-83: 18v Brushless Cordless 1/2 Mid Torque Impact Wrench. With 340 Nm max torque, the KWT-012-83 can generate significantly more tightening force for lug nuts, large screws, and other heavy duty applications. Its 1/2" anvil is compatible with impact sockets for versatility. Like the KWT-155-06, it has a brushless motor for efficiency and reduced maintenance.

With the lightweight and compact KWT-155-06 impact driver, plus the higher torque KWT-012-83 impact wrench, users have a versatile fastening system for all types of jobs. Keep the KWT-155-06 close at hand for quick driving tasks, while the KWT-012-83 handles high torque needs. Both feature LED lights to illuminate the work area.

Kielder's 18V cordless power tool lineup includes other useful tools as well like drills, circular saws, reciprocating saws, angle grinders, and more. All models work with the same interchangeable 18V lithium ion battery packs. So you can build a complete system with batteries and chargers that power the whole range.

With the KWT-155-06 compact impact driver, you get impressive torque and performance in a small package. And it can team up with larger impact wrenches like the KWT-012-83 for even more power when you need it. Check out the full Kielder 18V cordless system for versatile, hardworking tools on the jobsite or around the home.

Design

The Kielder KWT-155-06 impact driver features a compact and lightweight design that maximizes usability and comfort. Despite its small size, it packs impressive power and versatility.

At only 5.5 inches long and weighing just 2.2 pounds with the battery, this ultra-compact impact driver is easy to maneuver into tight spaces. Its slim grip and rounded edges allow for comfortable handling, even when using the tool continuously or overhead. The grip has textured rubber overmolding to provide a secure hold.

An LED light is integrated into the tool's base to illuminate dark work areas. The battery slides into the bottom of the handle for optimal balance. Overall, the design emphasizes portability without sacrificing performance. This makes the KWT-155-06 ideal for automotive repairs, construction jobs, home projects, and other applications requiring a compact but powerful impact driver.

The brushless motor provides efficient power transfer and improved runtime compared to brushed motors. It delivers 1,500 inch-pounds of max torque, with variable speed settings up to 3,200 RPM and 1,900 IPM for versatility across applications and materials. An ergonomic push button allows easy control of speed/power output.

For maximum compatibility, a 1/4" hex quick release chuck accepts a wide range of driver bits. The KWT-155-06 comes with a 2.0Ah 18V Li-ion battery that provides long runtime. For extended use, pair it with the Kielder KWT-085-02: 18v Brushless Cordless 1/2 1790Nm High Torque Impact Wrench Kit which includes two 5.0Ah batteries.

Weighing only 3.7 lbs with a battery, the KWT-085-02 impact wrench is designed for comfortable prolonged use. Its compact size allows access in tight engine bays and corners. The tool measures just 5.5 inches front to back. An integrated LED light aids visibility in dark spaces.

This impact wrench delivers up to 1,790 Nm of max torque and 3,400 blows per minute. The 4-speed settings allow the user to match power and speed to the application. The 1/2" friction ring allows quick and easy socket changes.

The KWT-085-02 comes with two powerful 5.0Ah lithium-ion batteries. These batteries provide longer runtime for extended use applications. Combined with the KWT-155-06 impact driver, users have a versatile and capable cordless tool system for automotive and construction jobs.

Performance

The Kielder KWT-155-06 impact wrench delivers impressive power and speed in a compact format. It packs a punch with 155 Nm of maximum torque and 2,800 RPM no load speed. This allows you to efficiently power through stubborn bolts and fasteners.

Despite the small size, it has a 1/4" anvil with hog ring retention to easily change sockets. The brushless motor provides sustained performance, with no power fade during tough applications. It can drive over 100 lags on a single 1.5Ah battery charge.

The variable speed trigger gives you control, starting slowly and building to full speed. This helps prevent overtightening and stripping bolts. Even on the highest setting, the impact mechanism prevents abrupt, high torque reactions.

Overall, the KWT-155-06 combines pro-level power and runtime in an ultra-compact size. The performance won't disappoint for most automotive, construction, and home repair tasks. It's a versatile option whether you need short duty cycles or sustained use.

Features

The Kielder KWT-155-06 impact wrench comes equipped with several handy features for convenience and versatility.

• LED Light: There is an integrated LED light right above the trigger, providing illumination in dimly lit areas. This allows you to see your workpiece clearly even in dark spaces.

• Variable Speed Trigger: The trigger offers variable speed control, with a maximum speed of 2800 RPM and 3200 BPM. This allows you to match the speed to the application, preventing fastener damage. For precision work, you can use the lower speeds.

• Battery Fuel Gauge: The 18V 2.0Ah lithium-ion battery pack has a fuel gauge so you can check the remaining battery life. No more guessing if you have enough juice left to finish the job. The battery also features protection against overcharging, over-discharging and overheating.

• Compact Size: Weighing only 1.32 lbs with battery, the KWT-155-06 is ultra compact and portable. The short 5.3 inch length allows it to fit into tight spaces. Combined with the 1/4" hex chuck, this small impact wrench is versatile for automotive and home projects.

Pros

The Kielder KWT-155-06 impact driver has several advantages that make it a great choice for professionals and DIYers.

Compact Size

One of the standout features of this impact driver is its ultra-compact size. It measures just 5.5 inches front to back, making it easy to fit into tight spaces and work overhead. The compact head design provides excellent visibility. Weighing only 2.2 lbs with the battery, this is an extremely lightweight impact driver that reduces fatigue during extended use.

Brushless Motor Efficiency The KWT-155-06 utilizes a powerful brushless motor that delivers 155 ft-lbs of maximum torque. Brushless motors are more efficient, run cooler, and have a longer lifespan than brushed motors. You'll get more runtime per charge with the brushless design.

Adequate Power Despite its small size, this impact driver packs a punch with 1,800 RPM and 0-2,600 IPM for fast driving and drilling. The four speed settings allow you to match the power to the application. Most users find the KWT-155-06 has sufficient power for drilling, driving screws, and other tasks around the house or job site.

Cons

The Kielder KWT-155-06 impact driver has a few drawbacks to consider.

Short Battery Life

One of the main downsides is the relatively short battery life. On a full charge, runtime is only around 20-30 minutes of continuous use. This is quite limited compared to some competitors that offer over an hour of runtime. The short life means you'll need to have spare batteries on hand and swap them out frequently during longer jobs.

No Batteries Included

Another negative is that the tool does not include any batteries. You have to purchase them separately. Given the high price of 18V lithium-ion batteries, this adds a significant extra cost on top of the already expensive bare tool price. Having to buy batteries separately makes this impact driver a more costly investment.

Overall, the short battery life and lack of included batteries are two disadvantages to weigh when considering this model. You'll need to factor in the additional expense of extra batteries to ensure you have enough runtime for your tasks.

Price

The Kielder KWT-155-06 impact driver is competitively priced at around £120. This puts it in the mid-range for compact 18V impact drivers.

Compared to similar models, the Kielder offers good value for money. It's priced lower than premium brands like Makita and Milwaukee, which can run over £150 for comparable 18V impact drivers. However, the Kielder still provides professional grade power and performance.

The closest competitor is probably the DeWalt DCF787, another 18V brushless impact driver that costs around £130. The Kielder is very comparable in specs and quality, while coming in slightly cheaper.

More budget-friendly options like the Black+Decker BDC120VA are priced under £100. But these tend to sacrifice power and runtime compared to the Kielder.

Overall, the Kielder hits a nice sweet spot between price and performance. For those looking for a high quality compact impact driver without paying premium prices, the Kielder presents an attractive option and good value. It outperforms cheaper models while avoiding the high costs of pro brands.

Verdict

Overall, the Kielder KWT-155-06 is an excellent choice for an 18v impact driver. It packs impressive power and runtime into an ultra-compact and lightweight body.

The brushless motor provides ample torque for driving screws and bolts, while the 4-speed settings allow you to dial in just the right amount of power. At only 2.2 lbs, it's easy to maneuver into tight spaces and reduces fatigue during extended use.

The 1/4" hex chuck accepts standard driver bits and is convenient for quick bit changes. Plus, the built-in LED worklight illuminates dim work areas.

For the size, the KWT-155-06 delivers top-notch performance comparable to larger impact drivers. The 3-year warranty provides peace of mind as well.

Considering its compact size, power, features, and quality, the Kielder KWT-155-06 is highly recommended for automotive, construction, home improvement, and other applications requiring a versatile 18v impact driver. It provides an ideal balance of performance and portability.

Alternatives

When looking for an impact wrench, there are a few other models worth considering besides the Kielder KWT-155-06:

Makita DTD152Z

The Makita DTD152Z is another excellent 18V cordless impact wrench. It's compact and lightweight at only 2.8 lbs, making it easy to handle in tight spaces. The DTD152Z delivers up to 330 ft-lbs of max torque and 3,200 BPM for efficient fastening. It also features Makita's proprietary brushless motor for increased speed, runtime, and durability. The downside is that it's more expensive than the Kielder model.

Milwaukee 2853-20

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2853-20 is a high performance 1/4" impact wrench. It generates up to 300 ft-lbs of fastening torque while only weighing 2.0 lbs. The Milwaukee delivers up to 3,600 RPM and 3,300 IPM for the quickest nut-busting. It uses Milwaukee's POWERSTATE brushless motor for longer motor life. The 2853-20 is durable and designed for heavy use. The main drawback is the high price tag.

Dewalt DCF899P1

The Dewalt DCF899P1 20V MAX XR Brushless High Torque 1/2" Impact Wrench is designed for power. It outputs up to 700 ft-lbs of max torque for breakaway power, while only weighing 7.2 lbs. The DCF899P1 uses a brushless motor and 3-speed settings for versatility. It's ideal for automotive and heavy fastening applications. The downside is that it's much larger and heavier than the compact Kielder model.