The Milwaukee M18 High Torque Impact Wrench is not just another cordless tool — it’s the go-to powerhouse for professionals in automotive, heavy equipment, construction, and maintenance.
Whether you’re busting loose rusted lug nuts, torquing suspension bolts, or assembling structural steel, this wrench delivers maximum torque, cordless freedom, and rugged durability — all backed by Milwaukee’s legendary M18 FUEL™ platform.
In this expert guide for 2025, we’ll cover everything you need to know, including:
✅ Top models like the 2967-20, 2767-20, and 2864-20
✅ Real torque output, power specs, and drive sizes
✅ Pros, cons, and which model is right for your work
✅ Comparisons with Dewalt and Makita alternatives
✅ High-torque use cases, maintenance tips, and FAQs
Let’s dive in 🔽
🔋 What Is the Milwaukee M18 High Torque Impact Wrench?
Milwaukee’s M18 High Torque Impact Wrenches are built for extreme fastening jobs. They use brushless motors and REDLITHIUM™ battery technology to deliver high output torque, often over 1,000 ft-lbs of nut-busting power.
What makes them special?
- Cordless performance that rivals pneumatic tools
- REDLINK PLUS™ intelligence to prevent overheating and overload
- Friction ring vs. detent pin setups — ideal for quicker socket swaps without sacrificing grip.
- Multiple drive sizes (1/2″, 3/4″, 1″) for broad job coverage
This isn’t your average impact wrench — it’s built for serious work.
🏆 Top Milwaukee M18 High Torque Impact Wrench Models (2025)
Let’s break down the most popular and powerful M18 high torque models:
🔧 1. Milwaukee 2967-20 M18 FUEL™ 1/2″ High Torque Impact Wrench
Features a friction ring for fast and easy socket swaps.
Released in 2023, this is Milwaukee’s latest generation high torque model — and it’s a beast.
- Torque: 1,100 ft-lbs fastening / 1,600 ft-lbs nut-busting
- RPM: 0–1,750
- IPM: 0–2,100
- Drive: 1/2″ Friction Ring
- Length: 7.6″
- Weight: 6.9 lbs (tool-only)
- Modes: 4-mode DRIVE CONTROL™ with Bolt Removal Mode
✅ Pros:
- Most powerful cordless 1/2″ impact wrench Milwaukee makes
- Compact enough to fit under wheel wells
- Advanced trigger control + bolt removal mode
- Improved battery efficiency
❌ Cons:
- Heavier than mid-torque options
- May be overkill for light-duty work
🔧 2. Milwaukee 2767-20 M18 FUEL™ 1/2″ High Torque Impact Wrench – Designed with a friction ring to allow quick and seamless socket swaps.
The classic powerhouse — a mechanic’s favorite for years.
- Torque: 1,000 ft-lbs fastening / 1,400 ft-lbs nut-busting
- RPM: 0–1,750
- Drive: 1/2″ Friction Ring
- Length: 8.39″
- Weight: 7.5 lbs (tool-only)
- Modes: 4-mode DRIVE CONTROL™ with bolt removal
✅ Pros:
- Proven reliability across trades
- Tons of parts, accessories, and user reviews
- Built-in LED light for low-light work
❌ Cons:
- Slightly bulkier than newer 2967
- No angle or Bluetooth tracking (see M18 One-Key)
🔧3. Milwaukee 2862‑20/2862‑22 M18 FUEL ONE‑KEY High‑Torque Impact Wrench (1/2″ Pin Detent)
Torque: 750 ft‑lbs fastening / 1,100 ft‑lbs nut‑busting
Drive: 1/2″ pin detent (maximum socket retention)
ONE‑KEY enabled: Yes
Length: 8.1″ — most compact in class
Comes (2862‑22): Includes 5.0 Ah battery, charger, and carrying case (~$399)
✅ Pros:
Firm socket retention — ideal for single-size, heavy-duty work
Compact and feature-rich with LED light and ONE‑KEY customization
❌ Cons:
Slower to change sockets; frustrating if switching sizes frequently
Slightly lower torque compared to the pin detent 2864‑20
📊 Milwaukee M18 High Torque Impact Wrench Comparison Table
| Model | Torque (Fastening / Nut-Busting) | Drive Type | ONE‑KEY | Length | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Milwaukee 2967‑20 | 1,200 / 1,600 ft‑lbs | 1/2″ Friction Ring | Yes | 7.6″ | Tool Only |
| Milwaukee 2767‑20 | 1,000 / 1,400 ft‑lbs | 1/2″ Friction Ring | Yes | 8.39″ | Tool Only |
| Milwaukee 2862‑20/22 | 750 / 1,100 ft‑lbs | 1/2″ Pin Detent | Yes | 8.1″ | (2862‑22) Kit: Battery + Charger + Case |
🛠️ Real-World Use Cases
These tools aren’t just about numbers — they’re built for serious daily jobs, like:
- Lug Nut Removal: Break free rusted truck lugs with 1,600 ft-lb
- Suspension Bolts: Quickly torque or remove control arm, strut, and frame bolts
- Fleet Maintenance: One-Key versions save torque logs for compliance
- Agricultural & Off-Road: Loosen axle nuts, yokes, or U-bolts
- Ideal for Steel Construction: Install lag screws or heavy-duty bolts efficiently—no need to deal with air hoses slowing you down
Pro Tip: The 2967-20 is becoming the go-to for techs wanting high output without jumping to 3/4″ or 1″ drives.
🧠 Buyer’s Guide: What to Look for Before You Buy
- Torque Range
- 3/8″ Drive: 200–400 ft-lb
- 1/2″ Drive Models: Delivering 1,000–1,600 ft-lbs — a great mix of power and maneuverability ✅
- 3/4″ & 1″ Drive Options: Producing 1,500–2,000+ ft-lbs of torque, perfect for large-scale industrial fastening jobs.
- Drive Type: Friction Ring vs Detent Pin
- Friction Ring: Fast socket swaps, great for auto shops
- Detent Pin: Secure hold, better for industrial environments
- Battery Platform
- All tools use M18 REDLITHIUM™
- Use High Output batteries (6.0Ah or 8.0Ah) for peak performance
- Smart Features
- One-Key = torque presets + tracking
- Bluetooth = location reporting + tool lock
- Weight & Ergonomics
- Consider overall job length — a 7.5 lb tool may be too much for daily overhead use
- Compact models like 2967 are easier on the arms
✅ Pros & Cons Summary
✅ Pros:
- Massive torque — up to 1,600 ft-lb
- Cordless freedom with pro-level runtime
- Premium build quality and reliability
- Multiple speed modes + bolt removal control
- Friction ring and detent options
- One-Key adds remote management
❌ Cons:
- Heavy for long periods or overhead work
- Price point may not suit casual users
- One-Key only available in some models
- Requires high-output batteries for max torque
🧽 Maintenance & Safety Tips
- 🔋 Always use fully charged REDLITHIUM batteries
- 🧰 Lubricate friction ring or detent pins regularly
- ⚠️ Wear gloves and eye protection
- 🔒 Secure workpieces before torquing
- 💾 If using One-Key, sync jobs daily for log backups
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can the M18 High Torque wrench replace pneumatic tools?
A: Yes, in most cases. It matches or exceeds air wrench torque, without needing a compressor or hose.
Q2: What’s the difference between 2767-20 and 2967-20?
A: The 2967-20 is newer, more compact, and offers more torque (1,600 vs 1,400 ft-lb busting power).
Q3: Is the M18 High Torque wrench brushless?
A: Yes. All M18 FUEL models use POWERSTATE™ brushless motors.
Q4: How long do the batteries last on high torque tools?
A: Depends on use. Expect 100–150 impacts per 6.0Ah charge. Use 8.0Ah for longer jobs.
Q5: What’s the warranty?
A: 5 years tool warranty, 3 years on M18 batteries (check purchase source).
Q6: Does it have torque control (in ft-lbs)?
A: Not directly. Use 4-mode DRIVE CONTROL + bolt removal mode for torque management. For precision, pair with a torque wrench.
🏁 Final Verdict: Is It Worth It in 2025?
If your work involves:
- Removing rusted fasteners
- Frequent lug nut or suspension work
- Working without access to compressed air
- Needing high torque with precision control
Then the Milwaukee M18 High Torque Impact Wrench is an essential tool.
Top Pick for Most Pros:
👉 2967-20 – compact, powerful, upgraded in 2023
Best for Tracking & Fleets:
👉 2864-20 (One-Key) – Bluetooth smart features
Best for Extreme Industrial Work:
👉 2868-20 1″ D-Handle – pure torque
Yes, it’s an investment — but one that pays off in speed, safety, and muscle.