Editor's Review: All About Impact Drivers

by Roland Johnson

review date: October 25, 2012

The TI 15 Hybrid Impact/Drill Driver is the latest tool innovation from Festool. Powered by an efficient brushless motor and fueled by a 14.4-volt, 3 amp-hour lithium-ion battery, the tool has enough get-up-and-go to drive a boatload of screws and then does double duty as a drill, simply by adding an adapter or using the included keyless chuck, both of which override the impact function. (Other impact drivers can drill, but not without going into loud, slightly rough impact mode. See "Tool Test: 18v Brushless Impact Drivers") Also, a variable-speed wheel is conveniently located at the base of the handle and limits the top speed, creating a more usable range for particular drilling or driving needs.

The driver features Festool’s Centrotec chuck and bit holder, which holds its proprietary hex-shank bits (available at highlandwoodworking.com); plus a keyless chuck that will hold everything else. I was frustrated by the fact that I couldn’t use the hex-shank bits I already own. You can remove the Centrotec chuck and insert a standard hex bit directly into the spindle, but the bit isn’t locked in tightly. Small graces make the drill nice to use: magnetic bit holders molded into the handle base, a comfortable soft-grip handle, convenient belt clips on either side, and a bright green battery-level indicator. It also has a bright LED, but adding the override adapter or the keyless chuck cast a shadow where light is needed.

But these are small issues. This innovative drill is a winner. The kit includes the drill, Centrotec chuck, impact override adapter, three-jaw chuck, two batteries, a charger, and a case. If you have other C or T series Festool drills, you can skip the batteries and charger and buy the basic kit for $350.

Editor Test Results: