What he calls “struggling” I call it “working”. If the was in danger the battery lights would flash and the tool would shut-off. I love me some Milwaukee.
This is by far the best comparison film I have seen about the difference between M12 and M18. Thank you for this, made my choice now without second thoughts......
Do you have the 3/8 or 1/2 stubby. I’m trying to decide which one to get as they are both the same rated power. I just wondered if there was an advantage to one over the other. I almost feel like the 1/2 should hold up better having a beefier anvil also theoretically the 1/2 should produce more power with the momentum of the bigger heavier anvil spinning. Thanks for any input you can give.
ARTURO EL MAFIOSO I have the 3/8” model. The size of the impact suits it to 3/8’s sockets better in my opinion. Since it’s a short impact for tight places you you’d want a smaller over all socket. 1/2 inch sockets tend to be kinda long and have thicker walls in them.
@@jamesfair9751 if you work on vehicles a lot, you're honestly not going to be bad getting both. But most of the time I found space being an issue for the smaller 3/8" size fasteners so if you're just gonna get one, I'd get the 3/8".
I can't wait till they figure out how to make a High Torque M18 Stubby. The thing will have to be made of titanium or something and you'll have to mortgage your house to buy it, but it would be friggin awesome.
This is the first comparison video between any impacts that actually compare the size of each wrench and what situations one will fit and the other won’t. Every other one I’ve seen, speed and torque are the only things compared. Great job showing the real life comparisons between the two!
Thank you for always showing videos using the tools. I hate when other you tubers just got over specs off the box and put bolts in a vise. Your videos are real world situations
@@mike_t_007 the 2767 is heavy lol it's only used for heavy duty stuff. But the ratchet on the other hand is worth it! Its like an electronic ratchet. Nice and light weight. I don't use them ever day but when I do get to use them it's awesome. I feel like it's definitely faster
Just a different point of view: The Stubby may be able to overpower a breaker bar (unless you have enough room for a strong posture) and the head of a breaker bar can fit into tighter spaces. So, I'm thinking the Mid torque and a breaker bar would be a good combo too.
Am a home DIY guy and got only M12's for my use. Got the 1/2" fuel stubby and the hex drive 1'4" stubby . The hex 1/4" takes the lug nuts of my Subie Crosstrek=89Ft-Lbs. Works for me. Great review thank you!
I was blown away by my Stubby 3/8 M12. There are things I'd use a bigger impact wrench for but if I had to have one, it would be the stubby as it gets 90% of bolts on a regular sized car & you can fit it in most places.
@@never2be07 Yeah I agree with you as an owner of a 1/2 drive stubby M12, it's an excellent tool to have but I think people are exaggerating about the M12's actual power and torque.
Okay, I watched your other video on the stubby. I'm gonna get one. You convinced me. Something about watching Milwaukee tools work brings in the want factor.
Is there any advantage to having the 3/8 over the 1/2 version? Im guessing the 3/8 is ever so slightly smaller due to the anvil size but it must be negligible.
@@captainswashbuckle5143 more sockets and tools to fit. Using a reducer also reduces some power. I have plenty of 1/2 impact sockets but I wish I got the 3/8 ball style
Try watching just one video from VCG construction. The guy yells constantly. He is intolerable. Plus, he has enough free Milwaukee tools for 25 guys using one in each hand.
love the stubby and ratchet helps getting big jobs done fast without fatigue. Stubby can get into places with good power that others can't. Only issue is can't do rusted suspension bolts. Taking motors in and out with the Stubby is what this tool is for
I use my stubby impact for all sorts of task. Sometimes it takes a little bit, but it will still break it free. I have a 1400 ft-lbs gen 2 m18 impact for the stubborn stuff. Heck, before I had the stubby, I was using the gen 1 impact driver to remove the lug nuts off of my silverado 1500 w/t. It worked great, struggled a bit with the removal, but ultimately would pull all the tires on a single 4.0ah battery. (And then some) milwaukee makes some great tools. I usually opt for the m12 tools because they are much smaller and lighter, and I think they aren't quite as big of battery hogs as the m18 tools.
I’d like to pick up a 3/8 stubby and a 1/2 stubby. That way I don’t have to drag the air line around when pulling wheels and suspension parts and the 3/8 stubby is perfect for speeding up under hood work
M12 3/8 stubby easily takes care of 99.9% of everything. It’s the boss of any other tool at this time. Has the compact size etc. there is no competition.
Excellent video. Very helpful for mechanics looking to see what these tools are actually capable of. All the videos of people taking off lug nuts aren’t an accurate representation of the tools capabilities in real world shop use. Thanks bud for taking the time to make this video. 👌🏻👍🏻
How to Automotive I’ve been looking at getting the stubby 3/8 for engine and interior work. At some point I’m going to replace my ingorsol 3/8 with the mid torque.
Just have to say that your video was great and packed with real-life useful information. No over-the-top yelling and fake dramatics; just good objective information, fairly pointing out the pluses and minuses for each tool. Thanks for reviewing the tool, and not being "the tool." Cheers!
gregroy rizzuto Yeah. I have the 1/2” stubby and the high torque. I just changed a control arm on my Focus and all I used was the stubby and open end wrenches. It’s perfect. I want to purchase the 3/8 and 1/4 just because of the versatility and space savings.
@@fee9687 It doesn't change it at all since they are all the same voltage (12v for the stubby and 18v for the mid torque) The only thing that the battery size changes in this case is how long they last.
@@michaspi Not true. For example: Milwaukee batteries #48-11-1828 and #48-11-1850 both have 10 battery cells in them. They are physically the same size but the 1850 one outlasts the other because of it's battery cell composition.
For automotive use I can see where the M12 stubby would come in handy. But I think a better comparison would be the M18 3/8" Compact Impact Wrench. At 210 ft-lb it is much closer to the specs of the M12 stubby and it easily fits into all but the tightest of areas.
I agree that probably would be a better comparison between the two. But my viewers always ask me about the mid torque or the stubby So that’s the video I made.
@@HowtoAutomotive Yeah this is something I wanted for a long long time. Do I really need Mid torque? should I go for m12 stubby for the light weight and smaller size? Comparing to M18 3/8" Compact, I would buy m12 stubby over it for sure. Not a question on that
I have 3/8 and 1/2 in stubby and highest torque rated m18. Then I have 3/8 and 1/2 ratchets from them too. I use them all the time those are my favorite tools. Stubbies are nice when you are taking something apart. I was rebuilding an engine and having the stubby there was great cause I didn't have to keep a hold on the bigger ones.
@@HowtoAutomotive good question, probably 3/8 high impact. I could always use a breaker bar when needed, and the 3/8 will fit in more places than the 1/2. Then when I could afford one I would get the long reach 3/8 ratchet.
I'm looking to get the M18 1/2" high torque for "maximum effect", but I'm not sure if it would give me the ability to do brake and suspension work on my truck...do you have experience with this?
@@1966johnnywayne I had a m18 mid torque it was amazing just very bulky and heavy I did brakes a d suspension on a ram 2500 and it couldn't get into alot of spots that the stubby could have
@@1966johnnywayne Don't overlook the M18 3\8" impact that's been out for a while. It's rated at 210, but it's an actual 210, whereas the stubby is a"Nutbusting" and that's a marketing term and not real world numbers. There's a video on RUclips debunking the"nut busting" myth method. I forget whose channel it's on.
@@1966johnnywayne yeah the 2767 high torque will fit and work on your truck. Just use swivels. Its uncomfortable and heavy ass hell but it will work lol. I also have a truck. And i bough the high torque then stubby. I rarely use the high torque. The stubby does it all and its super comfortable to use
@@nba3512 See its comments like these that make the Internet a great place! I always thought a Stubby + High Torque is the way to go. Best of both worlds
I find the greatest strength of the M12 stubby is it's footprint. A little more torque wouldn't hurt but I mostly use mine for pulling bellhousing bolts and exhaust manifolds on semi trucks.
i have the 1/2 stubby and the only bolt i couldnt remove was from a control arm bushing really rusted, awesome impact but sometime you need more than 250 ft/lbs
If you could back would you get the mid torque or are you happy with the Stubby? I do a lot of car work for myself and I'm trying to decide which one I should get. Thanks!
The Stubby 3/8 is a beast! Same torque output as the 1/2 inch, but I wonder if the the larger anvil on the 1/2" would result in better breakaway torque. Per pulse torque should be higher, no?
I feel like having either of those impacts in 1/2 might be better. I dont have much experience with 3/8 impacts but it's easier to find and buy a 1/2 impact socket set and some of them go down pretty small in size
I agree. I cannot understand why so many seem to prefer the 3/8. All logic speaks for the 1/2: larger anvil should get more torque out of the same motor, any bolt so small that there are no 1/2 socket for it is likely not extremely tight so the powerloss of a 1/2 to 3/8 adapter is no big deal.
Yes i understand why now.. i started working on old cars and trucks..lot of space to work... but now cars are soo compact .. its better light and stubby tools.. Thanks for sharing Brian.!
I have the 1/2inch stubby with 6.0 battery the only nut that ive found i couldnt take off is an axle nut, but it was a heavily rusted and had to use a Milwaukee high torque
Hi Brian, Thank you for making this comparison video. I have the M18 High Torque 1/2" and I absolutely love it. I was torn between the M12 Stubby and the M18 Mid Torque. Unfortunately, after watching your video, now I want both of them 😉 Thanks again, -Dan the Fix it Man
Since you’re going up to the half inch you won’t lose that much torque. When you go the opposite way you lose to torque. As far as exactly how much you lose I don’t have a way of measuring that.
I've got both.i prefer the stubby it's enough power and battery for 3/8 if need more I go to half.stubby has been a life saver.cornwell 1/2 air stubby is a beast of anyone needs to get an air stubby
I just bought the M12 stubby 1/2" and did some suspension work, what a beast of a 12v tool, plus I don't really see myself having to use size adapters as my impact stuff is all 1/2" so hopefully that will help it remain more efficient.
@@MrSupernova111 I pulled front and rear sway bars and dropped the front engine cradle/crossbar on my friend's car. No problems, just a few rattles and every bolt broke loose and spun off. I've since swapped winter tires on my vehicles and for a couple friends, it felt like it was lacking a little on a Dodge 4500 tow truck but everything else went well.
I have the stubby but want to get the mid torque. Having both tools is the best. Use the stubby for general use and probably most of the time but get the bigger one out when needed. And if the mid torque ain’t enough which does happen on the rare occasion the get out the big boy high torque.
@@HowtoAutomotive Im a mechanic and use my 1/4 impact driver with a socket attachment in replacement of the stubby. the Milwaukee gen 3 impact driver would be just as good as the stubby and perhaps more powerful and smaller.
Thank making all the informative videos. I own a stubby and need to add an M18 mid torque or full torque. I own a 2004 Toyota Sienna and plan in the next few day to press in a new wheel bearing. What would you recommend that I buy. The mid can do almost anything the high torque can do and is smaller…. Thanks in advance for your advice.
I bought the m18 mid tourque and im a bit dispointed in it, works ok for lugnuts but stuggles with civic caliper bracket bolts, 5.0 amp battery. Deffinately not regretting it, very useful just not as powerful as I'd hoped. Was planning in grabbing the stubby but now I don't know.
How to Automotive I watched your previous compare video on impacts. I never thought the 1/4” impact would be useful until I got it in a M18 Kit. Made building my work bench so much easier. And installing various fasteners around the house. I picked up some 1/4” Hex to 3/8” & 1/2” square impact rated adaptors and was able to muscle it around the brakes on my Xterra before I got the 1/2” impact. Thanks for the videos. Really helps a DIYer like myself complete maintenance on my vehicles.
If you already had the high torque which one would you go for? The mid 3/8 or the stubby 3/8? I fix a lot of vehicles lawnmowers atv’s motorcycles etc. I’m torn between which one to get outta the 2
Peep18m if you’re doing a lot of suspension and brake work I would go with the mid torque. If you’re working under the hood most the time taking up brackets and stuff I will go with the stubby.
I go with the stubby.. get the 1/2" for lug nuts axle nuts flywheel bolts crank bolts suspension bolts that is 17mm 19mm 3/4" plus nuts and bolts. But i try to purchase all 3
@@MrSupernova111 get the stubby. Hands down the best. Its not heavy. Very compact and powerful. Lug nuts and axles I wouldn't recommend, maybe it'll get by.
I do a lot of work on dirt bikes debating on stubby or mid torque I’m leaning toward the stubby is stubby a better choice for motorcycles ? Or maybe the 1/4 inch stubby be a better choice ?
I've got the M18 impact driver and use 1/4", 3/8", and 1/2" hex adaptors for most stuff, the 1/2" stubby for tight spots and the 1/2" high torque for the big stuff.
Impact brand: Milwaukee/ Dewalt Engine bay: Stubby/12 v xtreme Interior work: stubby/12v xtreme Suspension/wheels: 2852/DCF 894 CV Axle nuts/crank pulley bolt: 2867/dcf899 You might need a weighted socket as well as crank pulley bolts can be TIGHT. You need all three of them, especially if you don’t have air or you have rust issues.
I have the stubby in 3/8" and the mid-torque in 1/2" flavors. The stubby had trouble with lugnuts... but I was using a 1.5Ah battery. Probably could have done it with a better battery. But it sure is handy in a tight spot. It worked wonderfully on tie rod bolts and a ball joint separator where a manual ratchet would have been a chore. Both have their place, and I'm fortunate to have both in my tool arsenal.
Mark Thomas - just bout to order the 3/8 stubby. Glad for your comment. Ty! Saved me to overthink of buying one or not. His video definitely is also a good reference. Thanks Brian!
I have the m12 3/8 stubby and m18 1/2 mid torque. I find myself using the stubby more often even for most wheel rotation. But it is nice to have the mid torque for back up
Thank you for the insightful vid. Is the difference between the 1/2" variant of this 3/8" M12 Fuel only in the anvil size? I'm looking into purchasing the M12 Fuel and deciding between the 3/8" or 1/2" version for the same automotive purposes as demonstrated. Thank you.
My mid torque struggles taking of wheel bolts torqued to 180nm but the stubby whips it off no trouble. But the mid whips hub nuts out torqued rove 200nm with ease what’s happening Milwaukee wish I brought the high torque and the stubby.
This is such a hard decision to choose one. I want the power of the mid torque gun but I like the compact size of the Stubby. My concern with the mid torque is that it might brake bolts that are stuck or rusted. I want to be able to remove any old stuck bolts that I come across. This is for DIY jobs of course.
Thank you for sharing the video excellent job highlighting various strengths of each in a given situation. Based on your reviews I have obtained stubby m12 1/2 inch in addition both the high and mid range 1/2 m18 they have made the mechanical work far easier to tackle
I am using the m12 3/8 stubby and the m18 high torque combination so I have the extra power if needed but being 1in longer than the mid torqued m18 could be a problem for some
Love it! Good power, and battery life so far its held up a good beating. Biggest downside its too bulky so it can be a struggle using it in tight spaces which has somtimes been super frustrating.
The high torque M18 is great! I bought mine to tighten lug nuts on my truck, something the stubby is not even close to. And I bought the stubby to do work on my SUV as it can get into places my M18 high torque could not even dream of. Both have their use and place. The M18 mid torque though? No!
@@no0channel0at0all Just for laughs I tried to google that, but did not find any results immidiately. But would you please tell how a 339 Nm tool will remove semi truck lug nuts torqued down around 650-700 Nm? You know what? I'll take mine to work today and film it and put it up on my channel!
Great vid with actual usage of the tool doing common repairs. A question as a home do it yourselfer who will use it for brake calipers etc. What is the advantage if any for getting the 3/8" drive over the 1/2" Milwaukee "stubby" impact wrenches?
Hello. The advantage of 3/8 for me is I have a lot more 3/8 sockets so that gives me more options. Both Tools are nice and you can’t go wrong with either one. Thank you for watching!
Love my M12 1/2" stubby. Great for pulling wheels and doing brakes. Haven't had any suspension work yet but I think it will handle it fine. As long as your extensions are impact rated they shouldn't rob any torque. I love not having to drag an air hose around and listen to the compressor run in my garage.
And when it comes to a half inch, try to find an old rebuilt matco or porter cable (pneumatic) from 15ish years ago if at all possible. If not grab a newer matco or one of those earthquake guns from harbor freight, they're reasonably reliable and have great torque
I have the 1/2-in high torque (don't use it that much). I have the 1/2-in mid torque, and 3/8 stubby. If you doing regular automotive work and you can only get one for now get the mid torque. But definitely get the 3/8 stubby next it is awesome, and the ratchet is really great. You can't get wrong with any of Milwaukee's impact wrenches or ratchets.
I have a Craftsman 19.2v 300ftlb rated impact. It hasn't let me down. I like doing my own car maintenance, but this weekend it couldn't remove stubborn Tahoe control arm cam bolts. Had to bring it to a shop. I've also found regular size impacts get in the way. For regular work and not owning any Milwaukee tools yet, do you think a stubby 1/2 m12 would cover most of what I need?
that stubby just broke free a 200ftlb axle nut, seems plenty for doing 110ftlb tires even if theyre corroded on, and itd fit into a lot more wheel wells for doing brake and suspension work
Be sure to check out the How to Automotive Tool Store www.amazon.com/shop/howtoautomotive
What he calls “struggling” I call it “working”. If the was in danger the battery lights would flash and the tool would shut-off. I love me some Milwaukee.
This is by far the best comparison film I have seen about the difference between M12 and M18. Thank you for this, made my choice now without second thoughts......
This was a great review and was exactly what I was looking for. There isn't another one on RUclips that I currently have found.
Glad you like the video. Witch one do you like?
Deboss garage does some good reviews of the Milwaukee impacts as well.
I love my m12 stubby. It’s been an awesome little impact.
Do you have the 3/8 or 1/2 stubby. I’m trying to decide which one to get as they are both the same rated power. I just wondered if there was an advantage to one over the other. I almost feel like the 1/2 should hold up better having a beefier anvil also theoretically the 1/2 should produce more power with the momentum of the bigger heavier anvil spinning.
Thanks for any input you can give.
@@jamesfair9751 What did you dooooo??? i just got the 3/8 stubby because i didnt know there was a 1/2. dangit.
ToAstYNaChO oops sorry lol I want both myself too but I doubt I’ll afford both.
ARTURO EL MAFIOSO I have the 3/8” model. The size of the impact suits it to 3/8’s sockets better in my opinion. Since it’s a short impact for tight places you you’d want a smaller over all socket. 1/2 inch sockets tend to be kinda long and have thicker walls in them.
@@jamesfair9751 if you work on vehicles a lot, you're honestly not going to be bad getting both. But most of the time I found space being an issue for the smaller 3/8" size fasteners so if you're just gonna get one, I'd get the 3/8".
The long swivel sockets Matco makes are a dream with the Stubby m12
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@@FahimibnDawud SBUPEM6V
Great example of both tools. I think they’re both a must have and have their own place in each job. I have both and love them both.
I agree they both have their place. Thank you for watching!
I can't wait till they figure out how to make a High Torque M18 Stubby. The thing will have to be made of titanium or something and you'll have to mortgage your house to buy it, but it would be friggin awesome.
That would be cool. I am going to the Milwaukee Tools New Tool Symposium and we’ll see what they have up their sleeves.
Yeah! I know it's stupid to wait, but that will make me finally get into cordless impacts.
I would so get that!
Titanium is softer and weaker than steel, so it wouldn't be an improvement.
In 5 years it probably will be a thing.
This is the first comparison video between any impacts that actually compare the size of each wrench and what situations one will fit and the other won’t. Every other one I’ve seen, speed and torque are the only things compared. Great job showing the real life comparisons between the two!
Thanks!
I just ordered me a 3/8" Stubby...... Can´t wait to use it!
How is it
Thank you for always showing videos using the tools. I hate when other you tubers just got over specs off the box and put bolts in a vise. Your videos are real world situations
Got the 3/8 stubby, love it. Use the 1/2 mid torque on bigger fasteners and when that doesn't work, I bring out the air gun... but that's rare.
Try using the 1/2in high torque. more powerful than the air impact
The problem with the high torque is it's too big. Doesn't fit like an air impact will.
This is an awesome review, direct to the point without a lot of fluff. I own the M12 stubby and have been debating getting the mid torque M18
Tread Lightly Services LLC. Glad you like the video. Thank you for watching! Are you going to get the Mid Torque now or still thinking?
Best milwaukee comparison video for me, less talking straight to the point.
I guess using the breaker bar and the m12 would be a good start...
Or a high torque and stubby combo!!!
@@mike_t_007 I ordered that combo but with the ratchet instead until I get enough money for the stubby
@@chastblind7606 Nice!
First thing I noticed at the store was how heavy it was to hold.
How do you find it to be in everyday use?
@@mike_t_007 the 2767 is heavy lol it's only used for heavy duty stuff. But the ratchet on the other hand is worth it! Its like an electronic ratchet. Nice and light weight. I don't use them ever day but when I do get to use them it's awesome. I feel like it's definitely faster
Just a different point of view: The Stubby may be able to overpower a breaker bar (unless you have enough room for a strong posture) and the head of a breaker bar can fit into tighter spaces. So, I'm thinking the Mid torque and a breaker bar would be a good combo too.
Am a home DIY guy and got only M12's for my use. Got the 1/2" fuel stubby and the hex drive 1'4" stubby . The hex 1/4" takes the lug nuts of my Subie Crosstrek=89Ft-Lbs. Works for me. Great review thank you!
Congrats on the Tools. I think you’re set for a Subaru. Thank you for watching!
I was blown away by my Stubby 3/8 M12. There are things I'd use a bigger impact wrench for but if I had to have one, it would be the stubby as it gets 90% of bolts on a regular sized car & you can fit it in most places.
jcadlols I agree it’s an amazing tool. For me it’s just depending on what I’m working on which one I choose.
Not out here in Chicago where everything welds with rust
@@never2be07 Yeah I agree with you as an owner of a 1/2 drive stubby M12, it's an excellent tool to have but I think people are exaggerating about the M12's actual power and torque.
Okay, I watched your other video on the stubby. I'm gonna get one. You convinced me. Something about watching Milwaukee tools work brings in the want factor.
I have the 1/2 stubby to reduce the need for giant 3/8 drive sockets and adapters. So far it hasnt failed me yet.
Is there any advantage to having the 3/8 over the 1/2 version? Im guessing the 3/8 is ever so slightly smaller due to the anvil size but it must be negligible.
@@captainswashbuckle5143 more sockets and tools to fit. Using a reducer also reduces some power. I have plenty of 1/2 impact sockets but I wish I got the 3/8 ball style
I got the m12 for a little work on my car and loved it as industrial electrician I use it everyday which was surprising to me this sucker kicks butt
This is a great real experience review. No yelling. Thank you.
swampwhiteoak1 sommer is yelling. I don’t know if I know a reviewer that does that. Thank you for watching!
Try watching just one video from VCG construction. The guy yells constantly. He is intolerable. Plus, he has enough free Milwaukee tools for 25 guys using one in each hand.
swampwhiteoak1 I’ll give him a look so I know what not to do 😎 thank you for watching!
because of your videos, I picked up an M18 mid torque. Thank you very much for your videos
love the stubby and ratchet helps getting big jobs done fast without fatigue. Stubby can get into places with good power that others can't. Only issue is can't do rusted suspension bolts. Taking motors in and out with the Stubby is what this tool is for
I use my stubby impact for all sorts of task. Sometimes it takes a little bit, but it will still break it free. I have a 1400 ft-lbs gen 2 m18 impact for the stubborn stuff. Heck, before I had the stubby, I was using the gen 1 impact driver to remove the lug nuts off of my silverado 1500 w/t. It worked great, struggled a bit with the removal, but ultimately would pull all the tires on a single 4.0ah battery. (And then some) milwaukee makes some great tools. I usually opt for the m12 tools because they are much smaller and lighter, and I think they aren't quite as big of battery hogs as the m18 tools.
Grant Deisig Milwaukee makes some amazing stuff. Thank you for watching!
I’d like to pick up a 3/8 stubby and a 1/2 stubby. That way I don’t have to drag the air line around when pulling wheels and suspension parts and the 3/8 stubby is perfect for speeding up under hood work
evan keyes i agree the hose is a pain.
Curious as to...why both?
Goldmarble I like the Mid Torque for suspension work and the stubby for under hood work. That’s just me.
I have all the Milwaukee tools just ordered the stubby can’t wait to use it. Thanks for the video
M12 3/8 stubby easily takes care of 99.9% of everything. It’s the boss of any other tool at this time. Has the compact size etc. there is no competition.
Excellent video. Very helpful for mechanics looking to see what these tools are actually capable of. All the videos of people taking off lug nuts aren’t an accurate representation of the tools capabilities in real world shop use. Thanks bud for taking the time to make this video. 👌🏻👍🏻
hawkman8835 thank you I’m glad you like the video. Which one did you like?
How to Automotive I’ve been looking at getting the stubby 3/8 for engine and interior work. At some point I’m going to replace my ingorsol 3/8 with the mid torque.
hawkman8835 the stubby is perfect for that👍
Just have to say that your video was great and packed with real-life useful information. No over-the-top yelling and fake dramatics; just good objective information, fairly pointing out the pluses and minuses for each tool.
Thanks for reviewing the tool, and not being "the tool." Cheers!
The stubby has its place in my tool box getting small spots and the mid torque place has its place like doing heavy work
gregroy rizzuto Yeah. I have the 1/2” stubby and the high torque. I just changed a control arm on my Focus and all I used was the stubby and open end wrenches. It’s perfect. I want to purchase the 3/8 and 1/4 just because of the versatility and space savings.
I have the 3/8 and I love it a lot
i have tve 1/2" Stubby and and love it but an HT Impact is still nice to have if you need it.
3/8 Stubby with a 6.0 battery.... Perfect combo!
I'm very curious to see the effect of the larger batteries on the power/torque output
@@fee9687 It doesn't change it at all since they are all the same voltage (12v for the stubby and 18v for the mid torque) The only thing that the battery size changes in this case is how long they last.
Timothy Mancheski It does make a difference. More cells in a battery means higher resistance to voltage sag during high current draw.
@@michaspi Not true. For example: Milwaukee batteries #48-11-1828 and #48-11-1850 both have 10 battery cells in them. They are physically the same size but the 1850 one outlasts the other because of it's battery cell composition.
I gotta say an XC 4 battery light my m12 tools up better than the regular batteries
3/8 stubby is one of the best tools ive ever bought. I can do like 80% of my work with just the impact/few sockets and extensions.
Just sold my stubby and bought a right angle impact, its a game changer..
Both, the 3/8 stubby and depending on what you work on, the 3/8 or 1/2 MT. I went with the 1/2" in the MT, 3/8" in stubby. That stubby is a beast!
That's the best comparison video I've ever seen. Thank you
For automotive use I can see where the M12 stubby would come in handy. But I think a better comparison would be the M18 3/8" Compact Impact Wrench. At 210 ft-lb it is much closer to the specs of the M12 stubby and it easily fits into all but the tightest of areas.
I agree that probably would be a better comparison between the two. But my viewers always ask me about the mid torque or the stubby So that’s the video I made.
@@HowtoAutomotive Yeah this is something I wanted for a long long time.
Do I really need Mid torque? should I go for m12 stubby for the light weight and smaller size?
Comparing to M18 3/8" Compact, I would buy m12 stubby over it for sure. Not a question on that
I have 3/8 and 1/2 in stubby and highest torque rated m18. Then I have 3/8 and 1/2 ratchets from them too. I use them all the time those are my favorite tools. Stubbies are nice when you are taking something apart. I was rebuilding an engine and having the stubby there was great cause I didn't have to keep a hold on the bigger ones.
Yeah if you can afford them all they’re all worth having.
My question for you is if you could only afford one which one would you buy?
@@HowtoAutomotive good question, probably 3/8 high impact. I could always use a breaker bar when needed, and the 3/8 will fit in more places than the 1/2. Then when I could afford one I would get the long reach 3/8 ratchet.
I only have my m12 stubby and there has been NOTHING it couldn’t break free on my old, beat up Hummer H3 yet. The thing is a beast
Swivel impact sockets do wonders. The m18 will get tight spots with a swivel no problems.
I'm looking to get the M18 1/2" high torque for "maximum effect", but I'm not sure if it would give me the ability to do brake and suspension work on my truck...do you have experience with this?
@@1966johnnywayne I had a m18 mid torque it was amazing just very bulky and heavy I did brakes a d suspension on a ram 2500 and it couldn't get into alot of spots that the stubby could have
@@1966johnnywayne Don't overlook the M18 3\8" impact that's been out for a while. It's rated at 210, but it's an actual 210, whereas the stubby is a"Nutbusting" and that's a marketing term and not real world numbers. There's a video on RUclips debunking the"nut busting" myth method. I forget whose channel it's on.
@@1966johnnywayne yeah the 2767 high torque will fit and work on your truck. Just use swivels. Its uncomfortable and heavy ass hell but it will work lol.
I also have a truck. And i bough the high torque then stubby. I rarely use the high torque. The stubby does it all and its super comfortable to use
@@nba3512 See its comments like these that make the Internet a great place! I always thought a Stubby + High Torque is the way to go. Best of both worlds
I find the greatest strength of the M12 stubby is it's footprint. A little more torque wouldn't hurt but I mostly use mine for pulling bellhousing bolts and exhaust manifolds on semi trucks.
Incredible video. Thank you. Great to see both impacts used in loads of different applications.
99Isopropyl glad you like the video. Thank you for watching!!
i have the 1/2 stubby and the only bolt i couldnt remove was from a control arm bushing really rusted, awesome impact but sometime you need more than 250 ft/lbs
If you could back would you get the mid torque or are you happy with the Stubby? I do a lot of car work for myself and I'm trying to decide which one I should get. Thanks!
When u say struggling it makes me smile - i am about to buy my first impact wrench
This demonstration kicks ass. Thanks.
The Stubby 3/8 is a beast! Same torque output as the 1/2 inch, but I wonder if the the larger anvil on the 1/2" would result in better breakaway torque. Per pulse torque should be higher, no?
Thanks for putting this together. Lots of great info. I especially liked seeing them in action.
I’m going to need another toolbox. 😱
lol
🤣🤣
Was thinking the same thing!
I just have to stop grabbing these -00 model # ones & get one with a bag.
I feel like having either of those impacts in 1/2 might be better. I dont have much experience with 3/8 impacts but it's easier to find and buy a 1/2 impact socket set and some of them go down pretty small in size
I agree. I cannot understand why so many seem to prefer the 3/8. All logic speaks for the 1/2: larger anvil should get more torque out of the same motor, any bolt so small that there are no 1/2 socket for it is likely not extremely tight so the powerloss of a 1/2 to 3/8 adapter is no big deal.
1/2” is THE standard. I cannot understand why people would pay more for 3/8”
Started working on cars but only using 1/4 and 1/2 sockets and tools .. but now turning to 1/4 and 3/8 lot better!
I prefer the smaller tools
Yes i understand why now.. i started working on old cars and trucks..lot of space to work... but now cars are soo compact .. its better light and stubby tools.. Thanks for sharing Brian.!
Joana Cristiano thank you for watching!
I have the 1/2inch stubby with 6.0 battery the only nut that ive found i couldnt take off is an axle nut, but it was a heavily rusted and had to use a Milwaukee high torque
For me the stubby in 1/2" is my go to impact but I like both in 1/2".
I am talking getting the M12.I have the M18 which I love using a lot
Having both is nice!
I found out not to drop them,I have to contact Milwaukee about warrantying one M18 5.0 amp battery,broke the top in one spot
Walter Frederick thank such sorry that happened.
Hi Brian,
Thank you for making this comparison video.
I have the M18 High Torque 1/2" and I absolutely love it.
I was torn between the M12 Stubby and the M18 Mid Torque.
Unfortunately, after watching your video, now I want both of them 😉
Thanks again,
-Dan the Fix it Man
I'm alright with struggling, thanks for the video.
Very detail and non biased review. Thanks
Thank you for watching!
I want to know how well you can use the 3/8 mid torque with 1/2 adapter, and how much torque loss you will actually experience
Since you’re going up to the half inch you won’t lose that much torque. When you go the opposite way you lose to torque. As far as exactly how much you lose I don’t have a way of measuring that.
How to Automotive wow! I didn't know that. I would have thought the opposite (going down you don't lose much) would be true. Good to know.
Nice video... which recomend for use personal to take off a tire from chevy silverado 2006 classic?
I've got both.i prefer the stubby it's enough power and battery for 3/8 if need more I go to half.stubby has been a life saver.cornwell 1/2 air stubby is a beast of anyone needs to get an air stubby
I just bought the M12 stubby 1/2" and did some suspension work, what a beast of a 12v tool, plus I don't really see myself having to use size adapters as my impact stuff is all 1/2" so hopefully that will help it remain more efficient.
Right on. I think you made a good decision. Thank you for watching!
Did you have any trouble with the Stubby in your suspension? Which parts did you have to remove?
@@MrSupernova111 I pulled front and rear sway bars and dropped the front engine cradle/crossbar on my friend's car.
No problems, just a few rattles and every bolt broke loose and spun off.
I've since swapped winter tires on my vehicles and for a couple friends, it felt like it was lacking a little on a Dodge 4500 tow truck but everything else went well.
I have the stubby but want to get the mid torque. Having both tools is the best. Use the stubby for general use and probably most of the time but get the bigger one out when needed. And if the mid torque ain’t enough which does happen on the rare occasion the get out the big boy high torque.
I agree 💯
You need the stubby for engine and tight work, You need a bigger unit than the mid torque for heavy duty application, lugs and suspension etc.
Henry Phillips Yep depending on what your working on they both had their places.
@@HowtoAutomotive Im a mechanic and use my 1/4 impact driver with a socket attachment in replacement of the stubby. the Milwaukee gen 3 impact driver would be just as good as the stubby and perhaps more powerful and smaller.
Can u do breakaway torque video please on the m12 please as looking to get on but need to know the breakaway torque on them
Thank making all the informative videos. I own a stubby and need to add an M18 mid torque or full torque. I own a 2004 Toyota Sienna and plan in the next few day to press in a new wheel bearing. What would you recommend that I buy. The mid can do almost anything the high torque can do and is smaller…. Thanks in advance for your advice.
I bought the m18 mid tourque and im a bit dispointed in it, works ok for lugnuts but stuggles with civic caliper bracket bolts, 5.0 amp battery. Deffinately not regretting it, very useful just not as powerful as I'd hoped. Was planning in grabbing the stubby but now I don't know.
Best video I’ve seen so far on those.
Thank you!
Witch one would you pick?
I have them all
dajuan pollard nice
I picked the 1/2” Mid Torque as the 3/8”s wasn’t available from KMS Tools
Have a 1/4” impact driver as well.
Gone.Coastal love the 1/4 impact driver. I use that one for interior work
How to Automotive I watched your previous compare video on impacts. I never thought the 1/4” impact would be useful until I got it in a M18 Kit. Made building my work bench so much easier. And installing various fasteners around the house.
I picked up some 1/4” Hex to 3/8” & 1/2” square impact rated adaptors and was able to muscle it around the brakes on my Xterra before I got the 1/2” impact.
Thanks for the videos. Really helps a DIYer like myself complete maintenance on my vehicles.
That stubby is beast when paired with the 6 amp battery
I got a stubby 3/8 and a high torque 1/2. Great combo!
Awesome your going to love them. Thank you for watching!
Are those impact extensions you were using in the video?
If you already had the high torque which one would you go for? The mid 3/8 or the stubby 3/8? I fix a lot of vehicles lawnmowers atv’s motorcycles etc. I’m torn between which one to get outta the 2
Peep18m if you’re doing a lot of suspension and brake work I would go with the mid torque. If you’re working under the hood most the time taking up brackets and stuff I will go with the stubby.
How to Automotive I think I’ll go w the mid. 👍🏼👍🏼 thanks for the response
Peep18m it’s probably the one I use the most. I think you made a good decision.
Thx Brian for the demo just bought both of them and the hi torque.
crbake nice thank you for watching!
I go with the stubby.. get the 1/2" for lug nuts axle nuts flywheel bolts crank bolts suspension bolts that is 17mm 19mm 3/4" plus nuts and bolts.
But i try to purchase all 3
Did did you get any of them? If so, how do you like them and what has been your experience so far with them?
@@MrSupernova111 get the stubby. Hands down the best. Its not heavy. Very compact and powerful. Lug nuts and axles I wouldn't recommend, maybe it'll get by.
I do a lot of work on dirt bikes debating on stubby or mid torque I’m leaning toward the stubby is stubby a better choice for motorcycles ? Or maybe the 1/4 inch stubby be a better choice ?
Just got the stubby. Seems powerful enough. Still have to get that nut buster 1/2" 😉
Alex M. It’s got power but the nut bust is on A whole Nother level👍
I've got the M18 impact driver and use 1/4", 3/8", and 1/2" hex adaptors for most stuff, the 1/2" stubby for tight spots and the 1/2" high torque for the big stuff.
Erik sounds like you have the prefect setup. Thank you for watching!
Good review video from a real mechanic. Good job.
Impact brand: Milwaukee/ Dewalt
Engine bay: Stubby/12 v xtreme
Interior work: stubby/12v xtreme
Suspension/wheels: 2852/DCF 894
CV Axle nuts/crank pulley bolt: 2867/dcf899
You might need a weighted socket as well as crank pulley bolts can be TIGHT.
You need all three of them, especially if you don’t have air or you have rust issues.
I have the stubby in 3/8" and the mid-torque in 1/2" flavors. The stubby had trouble with lugnuts... but I was using a 1.5Ah battery. Probably could have done it with a better battery.
But it sure is handy in a tight spot. It worked wonderfully on tie rod bolts and a ball joint separator where a manual ratchet would have been a chore.
Both have their place, and I'm fortunate to have both in my tool arsenal.
Mark Thomas - just bout to order the 3/8 stubby. Glad for your comment. Ty! Saved me to overthink of buying one or not. His video definitely is also a good reference. Thanks Brian!
I have the m12 3/8 stubby and m18 1/2 mid torque. I find myself using the stubby more often even for most wheel rotation. But it is nice to have the mid torque for back up
kirk jackson for first cordless tool would you get the 1/2 stubby over the 1/2 mid torque?
@@soundretarded yes I would get the stubby first. It's going to handle most of your needs I haven't touched my 1/2 inch in 2 months 😆
And I have dropped it over 10 times from 3ft in the air off the car rack still works fine. I had it since the 1st day they hit the market
kirk jackson get it in 3/8 or 1/2? I came up with a great deal on a mid 1/2 +5ah battery + dual charger for $180. It’s niiiiice!
@@soundretarded if u already have the mid 1/2 then get the 3/8 stubby. Perfect combination in my opinion
Thank you for the insightful vid. Is the difference between the 1/2" variant of this 3/8" M12 Fuel only in the anvil size? I'm looking into purchasing the M12 Fuel and deciding between the 3/8" or 1/2" version for the same automotive purposes as demonstrated. Thank you.
My mid torque struggles taking of wheel bolts torqued to 180nm but the stubby whips it off no trouble. But the mid whips hub nuts out torqued rove 200nm with ease what’s happening Milwaukee wish I brought the high torque and the stubby.
This is such a hard decision to choose one. I want the power of the mid torque gun but I like the compact size of the Stubby. My concern with the mid torque is that it might brake bolts that are stuck or rusted. I want to be able to remove any old stuck bolts that I come across. This is for DIY jobs of course.
Best video I’ve seen, both tools in action .
Edmundo Landeros glad you like the video. Witch one do you like?
what brand impact adapters are you using?
Thank you for sharing the video excellent job highlighting various strengths of each in a given situation. Based on your reviews I have obtained stubby m12 1/2 inch in addition both the high and mid range 1/2 m18 they have made the mechanical work far easier to tackle
That’s way I do the reviews to make your life easier. Glad you like them. Thank you for watching!
Both great tools that shine in different areas.
I agree
Thanks so much for taking time making this video. i learn lot from your video.
Thank you for watching!
Can we use normal sockets on impact wrench? Any dangers? I heard the socket will break in the end while using em.
Is that like a battery extension?
I am using the m12 3/8 stubby and the m18 high torque combination so I have the extra power if needed but being 1in longer than the mid torqued m18 could be a problem for some
Just picked up 3/8 stubby we’ll see how it holds in the diesel world. My Snap on failed few months after the 1 year warranty was over.
How do you like the Stubby?
Love it! Good power, and battery life so far its held up a good beating. Biggest downside its too bulky so it can be a struggle using it in tight spaces which has somtimes been super frustrating.
@@mikecar17 .Thank you!
Is any deference between the m12 3/8 stubby and the m12 1/2 stubby?, torque, size, weight?
I just bought the stubby m12 1/2. It’s for home use so I don’t need the high torque m18
The high torque M18 is great! I bought mine to tighten lug nuts on my truck, something the stubby is not even close to. And I bought the stubby to do work on my SUV as it can get into places my M18 high torque could not even dream of.
Both have their use and place. The M18 mid torque though? No!
@@kundetjenesten the m12 stubby can take lug nuts off of semi trucks, look it up.
@@no0channel0at0all Just for laughs I tried to google that, but did not find any results immidiately. But would you please tell how a 339 Nm tool will remove semi truck lug nuts torqued down around 650-700 Nm?
You know what? I'll take mine to work today and film it and put it up on my channel!
Great vid with actual usage of the tool doing common repairs. A question as a home do it yourselfer who will use it for brake calipers etc. What is the advantage if any for getting the 3/8" drive over the 1/2" Milwaukee "stubby" impact wrenches?
Hello. The advantage of 3/8 for me is I have a lot more 3/8 sockets so that gives me more options. Both Tools are nice and you can’t go wrong with either one. Thank you for watching!
How to Automotive I appreciate the response and advice 👍🏽
Love my M12 1/2" stubby. Great for pulling wheels and doing brakes. Haven't had any suspension work yet but I think it will handle it fine. As long as your extensions are impact rated they shouldn't rob any torque. I love not having to drag an air hose around and listen to the compressor run in my garage.
I love not having to drag the air hose out as well.
Even impact rated extensions and adapters rob torque. It's a hammer hitting a hammer instead of a hammer hitting a fastener.
In lamens terms, these are BOTH the FIRST impact wrenches you should buy. Worry about a half inch gun later.
And when it comes to a half inch, try to find an old rebuilt matco or porter cable (pneumatic) from 15ish years ago if at all possible. If not grab a newer matco or one of those earthquake guns from harbor freight, they're reasonably reliable and have great torque
i have the 1/2 and 3/8 stubby, works for pretty much anything
I say get the m12 3/8 stubby, and the mid torque 1/2 inch, the m12 will get almost anything off so no need for two 3/8’s guns
I have the 1/2-in high torque (don't use it that much). I have the 1/2-in mid torque, and 3/8 stubby. If you doing regular automotive work and you can only get one for now get the mid torque. But definitely get the 3/8 stubby next it is awesome, and the ratchet is really great. You can't get wrong with any of Milwaukee's impact wrenches or ratchets.
I agree 💯
I have a Craftsman 19.2v 300ftlb rated impact. It hasn't let me down. I like doing my own car maintenance, but this weekend it couldn't remove stubborn Tahoe control arm cam bolts.
Had to bring it to a shop. I've also found regular size impacts get in the way. For regular work and not owning any Milwaukee tools yet, do you think a stubby 1/2 m12 would cover most of what I need?
It's going to cover that and more is a great tool
I got the mid torque for quick tire change 💪
J Garcia That’s the perfect tool for that job and more. Thank you for watching!
that stubby just broke free a 200ftlb axle nut, seems plenty for doing 110ftlb tires even if theyre corroded on, and itd fit into a lot more wheel wells for doing brake and suspension work