Review: Bosch 25618B 18v

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With 1500 in-lbs of torque, this is one of the most powerful impact drivers in it’s class. With comfortable grips and lithium-ion batteries for extra life and lower weight, the Bosch 25618B is a compact and maneuverable tool that can also boast excellent performance.

At 5.7″ long, Bosch can boast they have the smallest impact driver in it’s class – although only by a hair (top competitors like the Makita BTD141Z and Milwaukee 2650-20 are only 0.05″ longer at 5 3/4″) That being said, the amount of torque above it’s competitors is nothing to sneeze at (7% more torque than the Milwaukee and 13% more than Makita).

The small size does indeed make it maneuverable, and the high torque will allow you to tackle any number of tasks. 5″ lag bolts will go through hardwoods with ease, and you can be sure to drive hundreds of deck screws without a slip or stripped head.

Bits are held in a 1/4″ hex drive with Quick Release, which is basically the same pull-sleeve mechanism on all the impact drivers. With so much power, be sure you are using impact-rated bits and drivers or you will be certain to snap them off.

Bosch lithium ion batteries are small, and longer lasting than the ni-cad. About 45 min to charge a dead battery, which is a bit longer than other brands, but they do last a good amount of time between charging.

This impact driver cannot take both types of batteries, so if you only have the ni-cad you’ll need the buy a pair of batteries and a charger. In that case, you’ll want to get the drill/impact driver kit that comes with 2 batteries and charger.

The lithium ion line uses Bosch’s “Electronic Cell Protection”. This is technology they built into their batteries prevent some of the main causes of short battery and tool life – overheating, overloading, and deep discharging.

• The Bosch 25618B sports an LED light that turns on when you squeeze the trigger.
• It also includes the immeasurably useful belt hook that should be included on all tools.
• The variable-speed trigger allows for good torque control, once you get the hang of it.
• The motor brushes are replaceable, which may be needed if you are a daily user of the tool.

Excellent power in a very compact size. While the weight is a little higher than some competitors, it brings with it more torque. If you are a power junkie, this is a great tool to add to your collection.

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Bosch 25618 info and prices at Amazon

	Bosch Bare-Tool 25618B 18-Volt Lithium-Ion 1/4-Inch Hex Impact Driver,Blue 18v cordless impact driver, bare tool (no battery)
	Bosch 25618-01 18-Volt Lithium-Ion 1/4-Hex Impact Driver Kit with 2 High Capacity Batteries, Charger and Case 18v cordless impact driver, two FatPack 18v li-ion batteries, 18v charger, carrying case, phillips bit, belt clip
	Bosch 25618-02 18-Volt Lithium-Ion 1/4-Hex Impact Driver Kit with 2 Batteries, Charger and Bag 18v cordless impact driver, two SlimPack 18v li-ion batteries, 18v charger, carrying case, phillips bit, belt clip
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