Milwaukee 3049-20 M12 FUEL 3/8″ Subcompact Impact Wrench w/ Friction Ring – Tool Only

The Milwaukee M12 FUEL™ 3/8″ Subcompact Impact Wrench with Friction Ring is built for professional mechanics, technicians, and anyone working in tight automotive or equipment spaces. At just 4.5″ long and weighing only 1.6 lbs, this tool provides exceptional access under the hood or in tight assembly areas, reducing the need for extensions or swivel joints. Powered by Milwaukee’s M12™ REDLITHIUM™ HIGH OUTPUT™ battery system (sold separately), it delivers up to 225 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque—plenty of power to remove stubborn fasteners with speed and precision. The 4-Mode DRIVE CONTROL™, including an auto shut-off and bolt removal setting, gives you unmatched control while preventing overtightening and dropped bolts.

This impact wrench is designed to maximize productivity in fast-paced automotive or light industrial environments. A Tri-LED work light delivers clear, shadow-free lighting, and single-handed mode changes make it easy to shift between settings even with gloves on. With 30% faster application speeds than previous models and a compact footprint, the 3049-20 helps reduce strain and fatigue during long shifts while keeping your workspace more efficient and organized.

Battery and Charger Sold Separately!

Milwaukee M12 FUEL 3/8″ Subcompact Impact Wrench At a Glance

• Best Underhood Access: Compact 4.5″ length gets into tight engine bays without the need for extensions
• Up to 225 ft-lbs of Nut-Busting Torque: Strong enough to handle tough bolts in automotive and mechanical applications
• Lightest Weight in Its Class: At just 1.6 lbs, it reduces fatigue during overhead or extended use
• 30% Faster Application Speeds: Complete jobs quicker and improve workflow
• 4-Mode DRIVE CONTROL™: Offers multiple torque and speed settings, including auto shut-off and bolt removal for optimal control
• Auto Shut-Off Mode: Prevents overtightening by limiting torque to 15 ft-lbs in forward
• Bolt Removal Mode: Slows RPM once the bolt breaks free to prevent it from dropping
• Tri-LED Work Light: Illuminates tight spaces without casting harsh shadows
• Variable Speed Trigger: Fine-tunes output to match each task
• Single-Handed Mode Changes: Easy adjustment even while holding the tool mid-task
• Friction Ring Retention System: Speeds up socket swaps for fast-paced environments
• Fully Compatible with M12™ Batteries and Chargers: Leverages Milwaukee’s trusted battery platforma

Markets

• Automotive Repair Shops Ideal for techs working under the hood or inside wheel wells where space is tight and power is critical.
• Fleet Maintenance Efficient for working on transport vehicles, buses, and service fleets needing quick torque applications without extra adapters.
• Mobile Mechanics Lightweight and compact enough to carry in mobile toolkits without sacrificing torque.
• Municipal Services Reliable tool for field repairs on city vehicles, equipment, or utility infrastructure.
• Equipment Assembly Lines Fits into confined assembly cells while offering fast torque applications to increase throughput.
• Trade Schools & Training Programs A dependable learning tool that mirrors what’s used in the field, perfect for educating the next generation of technicians.
• Small Engine Repair Helps quickly service lawn care, marine, and recreational vehicles without disassembling extra parts.

Whether it’s for removing brake calipers, changing suspension components, or tackling engine work, this tool is a time-saver. Auto shops, fleet maintenance crews, and mobile mechanics can speed through repair tasks without sacrificing precision. Municipal service departments will appreciate the portability and torque for field repairs. Even light manufacturing and equipment assembly teams can benefit from the tool’s compact design and strong torque output—especially in tight quarters where larger impact wrenches can’t reach.

Milwaukee 3049-20 M12 FUEL 3/8″ Subcompact Impact Wrench w/ Friction Ring – Tool Only Features

• Best Underhood Access
• Up to 225 ft-lbs of Nut-Busting Torque
• Lightest Weight
• 30% Faster Application Speeds
• Mode 1 RPM: 0-1,150; Mode 2 RPM: 0-2,400; Mode 3 RPM: 0-3,400;
• Mode 4 RPM: FWD: 0-1,600, REV: 0-3,400 / 0-1,500
• Tri-LEDs deliver high definition lighting to increase workspace visibility with less shadows
• Variable speed trigger for precise control
• 4-Mode DRIVE CONTROL™ provides greater control over output speed and power. Includes auto shut-off and bolt-removal mode
• Auto shut-off mode prevents over tightening and increases productivity by applying no more than 15 ft-lbs. of torque.
• Friction ring socket retention system: Reduces downtime on applications involving frequent changing of accessories
• Compatible with all M12™ batteries & Chargers
• Single-handed mode changes for increased productivity
• Mode 1 IPM: 0 – 1,000; Mode 2 IPM: 0 – 3,400; Mode 3 IPM: 0 – 3,600; Mode 4 IPM: 0 – 3,600

Milwaukee 3049-20 M12 FUEL 3/8″ Subcompact Impact Wrench w/ Friction Ring – Tool Only Includes

• (1) M12 FUEL™ 3/8″ Subcompact Impact Wrench w/ Friction Ring (3049-20)
• (1) Belt Clip
• Battery & Charger Sold Separately

Milwaukee 3049-20 M12 FUEL 3/8″ Subcompact Impact Wrench w/ Friction Ring – Tool Only Specifications

• Drive Size: 3/8″
• Tool Length: 4.5″
• Tool Width: 2.0″
• Weight (Bare Tool): 1.6 lbs
• Max Torque: Up to 225 ft-lbs
• Speed Settings: 4-Mode DRIVE CONTROL™
• RPM Range:
  • Mode 1: 0–1,150
  • Mode 2: 0–2,400
  • Mode 3: 0–3,400
  • Mode 4 (FWD): 0–1,600, (REV): 0–3,400 / 0–1,500
• IPM (Impacts Per Minute):
  • Mode 1: 0–1,000
  • Mode 2: 0–3,400
  • Mode 3: 0–3,600
  • Mode 4: 0–3,600
• Lighting: Tri-LED
• Battery System: M12™ (sold separately)
• Socket Retention: Friction Ring
• Warranty: 5-Year Limited Warranty

Milwaukee 3049-20 M12 FUEL 3/8″ Subcompact Impact Wrench w/ Friction Ring – Tool Only Warranty

• 5 Year Limited Warranty

Why Customers Choose the Milwaukee 3049-20 M12 FUEL™ 3/8″ Subcompact Impact Wrench w/ Friction Ring

Many mechanics refer to this tool as a “pocket-sized impact” or a “go-to underhood wrench” because of how quickly it handles stubborn bolts without needing workarounds like long extensions or universal joints. It’s commonly found on tool carts in busy shops and used for everyday tasks like caliper bolts, engine brackets, or undercarriage fasteners. Its small size and big torque make it a favorite for anyone working in tight spots—without sacrificing power or control. Whether you’re running an auto bay or maintaining a city fleet, the 3049-20 is a proven tool that keeps up with the pace of the job.