Porter-Cable PCC641 Impact Driver Review
Editor Rating: 4.3/5
Great
Porter-Cable PCC641 Impact Driver Review
Reviewed by: Timothy Henderson
Published on:
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Porter-Cable PCC641 Review Summary:
Designed for quick removal and insertion of screws, as well as for drilling holes, an impact driver is an inseparable part of every handyman’s toolbox. When compared to cordless drills, these tools produce a much higher level of torque and are, therefore, the right choice when it comes to fastening and driving.
The impact drivers manufactured and sold by Porter-Cable are among the better devices of this type on the market (check out our top picks of Porter Cable tool sets). Although not as sophisticated or feature-packed as those made by Bosch or DeWalt, these tools do their job very well and are a favorite choice of many hobbyists and professionals.
The company’s PCC641 model, available in combo kits and as a bare tool, is currently one of their cheapest offerings. Is it worth the money? Does it have the right design and performance? To find the answers to these questions, keep reading – we’ll check out the model’s characteristics in detail.
Specifications:
- Weight – 3.3 pounds
- Dimensions – 9.4″ x 9.3″ x 3.7″
- Power Source – Battery (Li-Ion)
- Torque – 1,450 in-lbs
- Voltage – 20V
Porter-Cable PCC641 – The Basics
Sporting the usual black/grey/red color palette, the PCC641 impact driver has a construction that’s very compact and lightweight. It is 6.9″ long and weighs just a bit more than 3 pounds – user fatigue is minimized, and it’s possible to use the tool in tight areas.
The high-performance engine of this device reaches 3,100 BPM and 2,800 RPM, and also delivers the impressive 1,450 in-lbs of torque. Quick fastening is guaranteed with PCC641, allowing the user to engage in jobs such as repetitive driving, deck lying, cabinet making, metal frame assembly, and other tasks.
Other features worth mentioning are the ¼-inch hex head chuck, 22 clutch settings, the magnetic bit holders, the clip, as well as the integrated LED light. Although not designed for heavy-duty work, the PCC641 does its job pretty well and doesn’t disappoint when it comes to performance.
The Features
Design
The design of this impact driver will be familiar to all those who ever used Porter-Cable power tools. With a slim profile and the low weight of just 3.3 pounds, the PCC641 feels exceptionally comfortable in hand, and maneuvering with it is as easy as it gets.
Just like most other power tools currently on the market, this unit also has a rubberized handle with a fine texture that prevents slippage. The trigger is well-positioned and the whole thing has a solid balance with the battery attached to its base.
Another great thing about PCC641’s design is that it has a built-in LED light – it conveniently illuminates the workpiece you’re operating on. This can come in very handy when working at night or in poorly-lit spaces, as well as when you’re working on the insides of a cabinet.
Power
The model packs a pretty strong punch with a torque rating of 1,450 in-lbs and the maximum speed/blow rating of 2,800 RPM/3,100 BPM. Although it doesn’t have a brushless engine, the unit performs really well when it’s used for the right jobs. After all, Porter-Cable is among the more dependable manufacturers, and one can’t really expect a disappointing performance from their power tools.
The model’s ¼-inch hex chuck lets the user swap the bits quickly and easily, allowing him to do it with just one hand. It’s an excellent example of how the bit replacement can be a hassle-free process when it’s implemented by knowledgeable power tool designers.
Other Features
Along with the built-in LED light, we were pleased to see two magnetic holders, which are situated on the engine’s top side. There is also a clip on the model’s base. Regarding warranty, the PCC641 is covered by a limited warranty for three years from the day of purchase.
Pros:
Ergonomic, anti-slip design
22 clutch settings
Easy bit swapping
Integrated LED light
Cons:
Only for light and medium use
Below average battery life
Things we liked about it
Although it indeed isn’t the most powerful tool of this type out there, the Porter-Cable PCC641 is a great option for those who need an impact driver for light and medium-sized jobs.
First of all, it’s a slim, well-balanced tool that feels great in hand. As it sports the ergonomic design that’s featured on all other Porter-Cable power tools, this impact driver can be used for hours on end without feeling fatigue.
It is also quite a sturdy machine, as it has the torque and speed ratings needed to meet the demands of DIY enthusiasts and professional contractors. It also has a couple of advantageous features, such as the LED work light or the magnetic holder, and these only raise the model’s overall convenience and value for the money.
Things we didn’t like
As we already said, using this impact driver for the really demanding tasks is not advisable. It can be used professionally, yes, but it’s much more useful when used for occasional home-improvement tasks.
The model uses a 1.3Ah battery, and these have less capacity than your standard 1.5Ah cells used by other tools. This leads to below-average battery life and will require you to recharge the cell more frequently than you’re used to
General Impressions
The users say that this impact driver is a well-made and useful power tool and that it has all the necessary features they need for successful driving and fastening. They’re also saying that PCC641 is an excellent alternative to PCC640, as it costs less but has all the essential features of that model.
Those who purchased it are particularly pleased with its trigger, claiming that it’s very responsive and sensitive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, we can safely say that our overall impression of this impact driver is a favorable one – the tool looks and works just as advertised, and one can’t really expect anything less from Porter-Cable. Not only does it come at an affordable price, but it’s also reliable, durable, and very efficient.
In our opinion, PCC641 is a fantastic choice for plumbers, electricians, mechanics, and professional contractors who know which jobs are suitable for an impact driver of this construction and which are too demanding for it. It is also great for hobbyists, who will find it to be of great assistance and a good introduction into the world of DIY projects.
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