Tools of the Year 2022: Power Tools

Aug 31, 2023

This is the Power Tools category of the exclusive Successful Farming "Tools of the Year" program to highlight innovations and must-have tools and shop supplies for your farm operation. These tools will help you get the job done.

Our editor selected one tool as an "Editor's Choice" and other tools as "Recommended" in Metalworking; Storage; Shop Essentials; Shop Supplies; Hand Tools; and Power Tools.

Here is the list of the 2022 winners in Power Tools.

The 3/8-inch-drive Extended Reach DeWalt Cordless Ratchet offers 3.9 inches of additional reach (the entire tool is 16.9 inches long), making it ideal for tight spaces in engine work. The 12-volt cordless ratchet offers 60 foot pounds of maximum torque for fastening and removal of nuts and bolts. Tool features include an LED work light, trigger lock, and variable speed trigger.

The model DCF503E retails for $189. Go to dewalt.com.

Providing up to 2,100 foot-pounds of maximum reverse torque, Ingersoll Rand's 1-inch-drive air impact operates with a 6-inch-long anvil to remove bolts from deep tire wells. A standard anvil length is also available. The 2850MAX is 25% lighter than other 1-inch impacts weighing in at 21 1/2 pounds. Features include a 360° adjustable side handle, swivel hose connection, and chemical-resistant composite housing and steel nose.

The model 2850MAX-6 retails for $769.99.

Put hammering in fence staples to bed with Milwaukee's utility fencing stapler, which can drive 600 staples between recharges. The M18 Stapler is compatible only with Milwaukee 9-gauge staples available in 1 1/2-, 1 3/4-, and 2-inch lengths.

The model 2843-20 retails for $599 (tool only).

Metabo's Mid-Torque Impact Wrench is both water- and dust-resistant for operating in harsh conditions. Delivering up to 774 foot-pounds of nut-busting torque (2,400 rpm and 3,400 bumps-per-minute) the ½-inch drive wrench has the ability to convert from battery to corded power with Metabo's exclusive AC adapter (sold separately). The feature-rich tool offers a responsive variable speed trigger and auto stop that prevents over tightening and thus breakage of bolts.

Model WR36DEQ4 (tool only) features an LED light and retails for $199. Go to metabo-hpt.com.

The wide variety of configurations, including four lengths and 90° and 120° angle tools, allows users to choose the Chicago Pneumatic Die Grinder that fits their needs. A unique feature of the CP74 series is a spindle lock system that does away with a spanner wrench to change burrs. You instead use a rotate and push mechanism to switch tools. The new line provides for less heat transfer between the motor and the sleeve because of composite housing.

The CP7405 retails for $129.99. Go to cp.com.

We welcome your feedback and nominations for 2023!