I've misplaced my Milwaukee Fuel M12 impact driver (model 3453-20), and I currently own the M18 2953-20 and the M12 1/2 impact wrench (model 2653-20). I mainly used the M12 impact driver for basic screw driving around the house and light woodworking. I'm wondering if the Surge is a reliable replacement and if it performs well enough compared to my regular M12 impact driver. Since I have other options with more power, I'm not too worried about losing a bit of power in the Surge but would love to hear what others think! Thanks!
5 Answers
The Surge is a mixed bag for many users. Some say it doesn’t have enough power compared to traditional impact drivers; however, others find it perfectly capable and appreciate its quieter operation. Personally, I like the Surge, but I think it’s a bit outdated compared to the newer M12 tools. Both the Surge and the regular M12 impact driver come with the same warranty though, so reliability shouldn't be a concern.
The M12 Surge is a fantastic electric screwdriver with fantastic control! It’s super smooth and perfect for tasks like installing cabinets or building furniture. If you pair it with a high-output battery, it performs really well and is my go-to for most DIY tasks, especially when combined with my other tools for added power.
I have both, and I always go for the regular impact driver. It’s not just about the power; the extra lights, lighter weight, and quicker speed make a big difference. Many people think the new DeWalt outperforms the Surge, pushing Milwaukee to step it up with a newer version. By the way, that subcompact model coming soon looks really promising!
Personally, I prefer the Surge because it delivers steadier torque, which makes it ideal for driving fasteners. I find it gives you better control, especially for DIY projects. I also have the M18 model, and it’s been solid for my use.
Just a heads up, they’re rolling out a new subcompact M12 impact soon, around April. It’s supposed to have more than double the torque of the Surge! That said, it’s still less powerful than the one you lost. The Surge has 450 torque, while the subcompact will boast around 1100, whereas your old driver had 1500 torque. Definitely worth considering!
Totally agree! The Dewalt DCF870 is the current champion of hydraulic impacts; nothing really compares.