Milwaukee Tool has officially launched the next generation of its M18 FUEL 1/2-inch High Torque Impact Wrenches — the 2967 and 2966 series — and the numbers back up the “next-gen” label. These are the tools that automotive techs, ironworkers, and electricians reach for when standard impact drivers run out of steam.
What’s New
Milwaukee’s press release highlights four key updates to the platform: an integrated battery isolation system for vibration control, a new proprietary anvil material engineered for extended durability, a redesigned motor and electronics package, and a claim Milwaukee calls out directly — lightest and most compact high torque impact wrench on the market.
Specs by Model
There are two anvil configurations — friction ring (2967) and pin detent (2966) — each available as a bare tool or a kit with two XC5.0 batteries, charger, and case.
- 2967-20 (Friction Ring, bare): 1,200 ft-lbs fastening / 1,600 ft-lbs nut-busting (with FORGE XC6.0), 0–2,000 RPM, 0–2,400 IPM, 7.6 inches long, 5.9 lbs
- 2967-22 (Friction Ring, kit): 1,100 ft-lbs fastening / 1,500 ft-lbs nut-busting (with included XC5.0), 7.5 lbs with battery
- 2966-20 (Pin Detent, bare): 900 ft-lbs fastening / 1,100 ft-lbs nut-busting, 0–2,000 RPM, 0–2,700 IPM, 7.1 inches long, 5.4 lbs
- 2966-22 (Pin Detent, kit): Same torque as bare, 7.0 lbs with battery — includes lanyard
The friction ring variants get more torque from the higher-output REDLITHIUM FORGE XC6.0. If you’re running XC5.0 packs already — the kit-included battery — the numbers land at 1,100/1,500. Still plenty for most fastening applications. The pin detent model comes in lighter and shorter, which matters when you’re working in engine bays or tight overhead positions.
Market Position
The previous M18 FUEL High Torque line was already the benchmark for 18V impact wrenches in the heavy trades. Milwaukee didn’t overhaul it for the sake of a spec sheet refresh — the redesigned anvil and vibration isolation are practical additions for tools that see thousands of cycles per week. The weight reduction on the pin detent model (now 5.4 lbs bare) puts it closer to mid-torque territory size-wise while keeping high-torque output.
These ship through Home Depot, where Milwaukee holds exclusive distribution. Pricing hasn’t been announced in the press release — check Home Depot’s Milwaukee page for kit pricing as it becomes available.
When and Where
Milwaukee’s official press release is live now. Retail availability at Home Depot — check manufacturer specs and local store availability for confirmed ship dates. If you’re in the market for a high torque wrench in the meantime, our impact wrench roundup covers the current-gen options and what to look for when sizing up the right tool for your application.
Also worth reading: Milwaukee has been on a product launch run recently. The M18 FUEL Demo Hammer ships in June, and the Four-Bay Simultaneous Super Charger lands June 29. If you’re building out an M18 system, this is a busy season for the platform.
