Metabo HPT Impact Drivers
Metabo HPT, the former Hitachi Power Tools, builds two triple-hammer impact drivers with a lifetime tool warranty. Here is how the 18V and 36V MultiVolt models differ and who the platform suits.
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The best Metabo HPT impact driver for most users is the 36V MultiVolt WH36DC: 1,903 in-lbs, 0-3,400 RPM, five modes and only 4-1/2 inches long. If you already own Metabo HPT 18V packs, the 18V WH18DBDL2 (1,832 in-lbs, 4-stage speed switch) is the practical choice. Both use a triple hammer design and carry a lifetime tool warranty. The trade-off is a smaller tool range and fewer retail outlets than Makita, DeWalt or Milwaukee.
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Metabo HPT impact driver lineup
Metabo HPT sells two current brushless impact drivers, one on each battery platform. Both use the brand's triple hammer design. Specs below come from Metabo HPT's product pages. Torque ratings are measured differently by each brand, so compare across brands with caution.
| Spec | WH36DC (36V MultiVolt) | WH18DBDL2 (18V) |
|---|---|---|
| Rated torque | 1,903 in-lbs | 1,832 in-lbs |
| No-load speed | 0-3,400 RPM | 0-2,900 RPM |
| Impact rate | 0-4,100 BPM | 0-4,000 IPM |
| Modes | 5: Soft, Power, Bolt, Bolt Single, Self-Drilling | 4-stage speed switch, limited and continuous impact |
| Length | 4-1/2 in | Check the current listing |
| Weight | 2.0 lb bare | 2.9 lb as listed |
| Weather rating | IP56 | IP56 |
| Battery | MultiVolt only | 18V slide or MultiVolt |
BPM (blows per minute) and IPM (impacts per minute) mean the same thing. Metabo HPT uses both terms.
What triple hammer actually means
A standard impact driver has a hammer with two lugs that strike a two-lug anvil. Metabo HPT adds a third striking point, so the load is shared across three contact faces instead of two. Metabo HPT says this gives faster driving, more torque and less vibration. The logic is sound: more contact points spread each blow and allow more strikes per turn. How much difference it makes in use is hard to isolate, since motor and electronics changed at the same time. Treat it as one reason these drivers feel smooth, not a magic upgrade. Our explainer on how an impact driver works shows the basic hammer and anvil system.
Best Metabo HPT impact driver: WH36DC
Metabo HPT 36V MultiVolt Triple Hammer BOLT Impact Driver (WH36DC)
Best for: trades who want a short, powerful driver with useful modes.
- Torque
- 1,903 in-lbs
- Speed
- 0-3,400 RPM
- Impacts
- 0-4,100 BPM
- Length
- 4-1/2 in
At 4-1/2 inches and 2.0 lb bare, the WH36DC is as short as the Makita XDT16 and shorter than most 18V drivers. The five modes cover the jobs that matter: Soft for small screws, Power for 3-1/2-inch and longer screws and hardwood, Bolt for nuts and bolts, Bolt Single for light work like rack and furniture bolts, and Self-Drilling for metal. It can also run corded with the optional ET36A AC adapter.
Strengths
- Very compact for its torque
- Five well-chosen modes
- IP56 rating and lifetime tool warranty
Weaknesses
- Needs MultiVolt packs, which are bigger and heavier than small 18V packs
- Fewer stores stock it
- Smaller tool range than the market leaders
Metabo HPT 18V Brushless Triple Hammer Impact Driver (WH18DBDL2)
Best for: users already on Metabo HPT or Hitachi 18V.
- Torque
- 1,832 in-lbs
- Speed
- 0-2,900 RPM
- Impacts
- 0-4,000 IPM
The WH18DBDL2 is the long-running 18V model. Its 4-stage speed switch plus limited-impact mode gives good control on small fasteners and soft materials. It is a proven tool, but the 36V model is newer, faster and shorter.
Strengths
- Works with older Hitachi 18V packs and MultiVolt packs
- 4-stage speed control
- Often discounted as an older model
Weaknesses
- Lower top speed than the WH36DC
- Older design; check whether a newer 18V model has replaced it
How the MultiVolt battery works
MultiVolt is Metabo HPT's dual-voltage battery. Inside, the cells can be connected two ways. In a 36V MultiVolt tool they run in series for 36V. In an 18V tool they switch to parallel, which halves the voltage and doubles the amp-hour figure. That is why the packs carry two ratings, such as 4.0 Ah at 36V and 8.0 Ah at 18V.
| Battery | Fits 18V tools | Fits 36V MultiVolt tools |
|---|---|---|
| MultiVolt 36V/18V | Yes | Yes |
| 18V slide pack | Yes | No (shaped not to fit) |
The catch is weight. The smallest MultiVolt pack is bigger than a compact 18V pack, so a 36V driver with its battery is not always lighter in the hand than a compact 18V driver. Metabo HPT also offers a tabless T-PWR MultiVolt pack for high-draw tools, which is more than a driver needs. Our impact driver battery guide explains capacity and weight trade-offs.
Using the modes well
Mode systems only help if you use them. Here is a starting point for the WH36DC. See impact driver speed settings for a full explanation across brands.
- Soft: cabinet screws, hinges, drywall screws, anything small in softwood.
- Power: 3-1/2-inch and longer screws, structural screws, lags, hardwood.
- Bolt: running nuts and carriage bolts on and off quickly.
- Bolt Single: light bolts where overtightening would crush or strip, such as racks and furniture.
- Self-Drilling: tek screws into steel studs and metal roofing.
No mode replaces a torque wrench. Finish lug nuts and structural bolts with a spec using one, and wear eye and hearing protection.
Metabo HPT vs Makita and other pro brands
Metabo HPT's closest rival in feel and philosophy is Makita: short, refined drivers with useful modes rather than headline torque. The Makita impact driver lineup is larger and easier to find. Metabo HPT counters with a lifetime tool warranty and a strong nailer range.
| Factor | Metabo HPT | Makita, DeWalt, Milwaukee |
|---|---|---|
| Tool warranty | Lifetime on tool body (lithium-ion tools) | 3 to 5 years |
| Tool range | Moderate; strong in nailers and saws | Very large |
| Retail availability | Lowe's, tool dealers, online | Everywhere |
| Dual-voltage battery | Yes (MultiVolt) | DeWalt FLEXVOLT is similar |
If you already run Metabo HPT nailers, adding the WH36DC keeps you on one battery. If you are choosing from scratch, weigh the whole tool list. Our guide to choosing a cordless tool platform helps, and our best impact drivers for professionals compares Metabo HPT with the leaders.
Who should buy a Metabo HPT impact driver?
- Framing and finish crews on Metabo HPT nailers: buy the WH36DC and run everything on MultiVolt packs.
- Owners of older Hitachi 18V tools: the WH18DBDL2 keeps your packs useful. Add a MultiVolt pack later if you move to 36V tools.
- Buyers who keep tools for decades: the lifetime tool body warranty is a real advantage. Register the tool and keep the receipt.
- Homeowners starting fresh: Metabo HPT works well, but a platform with wider store availability and more DIY tools may suit you better.
Decoding kit codes helps when shopping. On Metabo HPT listings, a Q4 suffix usually marks the bare tool, while an M suffix usually marks a kit with batteries, charger and case. Confirm the contents on the listing, since kit configurations change.
Verdict
The Metabo HPT WH36DC is one of the most compact high-torque drivers sold, with five practical modes, IP56 protection and a lifetime tool warranty. The WH18DBDL2 remains a solid 18V choice for existing users. The weaknesses are bulkier MultiVolt packs, fewer stores and a smaller range than the big three. Buy it if you are on Metabo HPT already or value the warranty; otherwise compare platforms first.
Frequently asked questions
Is Metabo HPT the same as Hitachi?
Yes. Hitachi Power Tools was renamed Metabo HPT in North America in 2018 after a change in ownership. The tools, engineering and service network carried over. Older Hitachi 18V slide batteries generally fit Metabo HPT 18V tools.
Is Metabo HPT the same as Metabo?
They share a parent company, Koki Holdings, but are separate brands in the US. Metabo (green) sells its own 18V tools with a different battery system. Metabo HPT batteries do not fit Metabo tools.
Can I use 18V batteries in a Metabo HPT MultiVolt tool?
No. MultiVolt packs work in both 36V and 18V Metabo HPT tools, but standard 18V packs are shaped so they do not fit 36V MultiVolt tools. Buy MultiVolt packs if you want one battery for both.
What does the Metabo HPT lifetime warranty cover?
Metabo HPT lists a lifetime warranty on the tool body of its lithium-ion cordless tools, with batteries covered for 2 years and chargers for 1 year on the WH36DC page. Registration and exclusions apply, so read the current terms on metabo-hpt.com.
Are Metabo HPT impact drivers good for professionals?
Yes. They are rated for trade use, have IP56 dust and water ratings and carry long warranties. Many contractors also use Metabo HPT nailers, which makes the platform a natural choice for framing and finish crews.