Main Facts: The Next Generation of Pro-Grade Driving Power
When Flex introduced its 24V Quick-Eject Impact Driver to the professional tool market several years ago, it made an immediate and lasting statement. Known for relentless power and a willingness to challenge established industry giants, the brand carved out a formidable reputation among trade professionals. Now, Flex is rolling out its latest batch of flagship tools within the 24V ecosystem, anchored by the launch of the new Flex 24V One-Touch Impact Driver (FX1372).
At first glance, the FX1372 bears a striking resemblance to its predecessor, the FX1371. However, a closer inspection reveals that Flex has implemented a series of calculated, deliberate engineering upgrades. Designed to satisfy the rigorous demands of contractors, electricians, and carpenters, this next-generation driver focuses on shaving down physical dimensions, enhancing usability, and maintaining top-tier performance benchmarks.
Retailing at $299 as part of a comprehensive kit—which includes two 5.0Ah batteries, a rapid charger, and a rugged hard-shell storage case—the FX1372 arrives with high expectations. Backed by a standard 3-year warranty that extends to a full 5 years upon online registration within 30 days of purchase, this tool is positioned as a serious investment for heavy-duty users already entrenched in the Flex 24V platform.
Chronology: Evolution from the FX1371 to the FX1372
To understand the strategic positioning of the FX1372, it is helpful to look back at the timeline of Flex’s heavy-duty impact driver lineup:
- The Baseline Established: Flex introduced the original high-performance 24V brushless architecture, setting high industry standards for raw torque and speed.
- The Quick-Eject Era (FX1371): The introduction of the Quick-Eject collet system marked a major usability milestone, allowing users to release bits via a front-mounted button. Despite its success, users still had to manually pull hot or stuck bits out of the chuck.
- The Modern Refinement (FX1372): Flex engineers returned to the drawing board not to completely reinvent the wheel, but to refine ergonomics and mechanics. The result is the FX1372, which transitions from a "quick-release" to a true "one-touch ejection" mechanism, alongside a slightly more compact and lighter overall profile.
Supporting Data: Head-to-Head Performance and Specifications
To determine whether Flex’s engineering adjustments translate to tangible job-site improvements, the FX1372 was put through standardized, rigorous performance protocols alongside top-tier competing models from the "Big Three" Pro brands (Milwaukee, Makita, and DeWalt).
Motor and Output Metrics
At the core of the FX1372 lies an upgraded, high-efficiency brushless motor.
- Max No-Load Speed: Up to 4,100 RPM (across three adjustable speed modes: Mode 1 at 1,500 RPM, Mode 2 at 2,000 RPM, and Mode 3 at 4,100 RPM).
- Impact Rate (IPM): Up to 4,550 IPM.
- Maximum Torque: 2,500 in-lbs.
- Specialized Modes: Two distinct self-tapping modes designed specifically to optimize control when driving fasteners into thin (T1) or thick (T2) sheet metal.
Historical testing data places the FX1372’s speed and impact rate firmly at the absolute summit of the professional cordless category.
Benchmark Testing Results
1. Heavy-Duty Screw Driving Test (RSS Screws)
In standardized driving evaluations using heavy structural screws, the Flex FX1372 completed the task with an impressive average time of 5.84 seconds per screw.
- Comparison to Predecessor: This matches the performance of the older FX1371, which averaged 5.86 seconds. Because Flex did not attempt a massive leap in raw speed—having already dominated this category—the consistency is expected.
- Comparison to Competitors: The FX1372 comfortably outperforms several industry benchmarks, including the Milwaukee M18 Fuel 2953 (5.96 seconds), the DeWalt 20V Max XR DCF860 (7.54 seconds), and the Makita XGT GDT01 (13.11 seconds).
2. Bolt Break Test
Evaluating sheer rotational force and breakaway torque through standard bolt-breaking protocols, the FX1372 averaged 1.74 seconds per nut.
- Comparison to Predecessor: Virtually identical to the FX1371’s 1.75-second average.
- Market Standing: Flex joins an elite group of mainstream brands capable of finishing this test in under 2 seconds, standing right alongside Milwaukee (1.54 seconds) and the Ridgid 18V R862312 (1.93 seconds). DeWalt (2.56 seconds) and Makita (2.80 seconds), while respectable, trail behind by a noticeable margin.
Specification Comparison: FX1371 vs. FX1372
| Metric | FX1371 (Previous Generation) | FX1372 (New Generation) |
|---|---|---|
| No-Load Speed | 0–1,900 / 2,700 / 4,000 RPM | 0–1,500 / 2,000 / 4,100 RPM |
| Impact Rate | 0–1,300 / 3,600 / 4,450 IPM | 0–3,000 / 4,000 / 4,550 IPM |
| Max Torque | 2,500 in-lbs | 2,500 in-lbs |
| Bare Tool Weight | 2.8 lbs | 2.4 lbs |
| Kitted Weight (5.0Ah) | 4.9 lbs | 4.6 lbs |
| Head Length | 4.75 inches | 4.40 inches |
Official Responses and Engineering Philosophy
Flex’s design strategy for the FX1372 embodies the timeless adage: "If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it—just make it better." Rather than chasing gimmicks or fundamentally altering a proven platform, company representatives emphasized a commitment to micro-ergonomics and practical, user-driven enhancements.
The most notable mechanical evolution is the transition to the One-Touch Ejection Collet. On the previous generation, pressing the front-mounted button merely unlocked the collet, requiring users to manually pull out the bit—a frustrating task when handling hot bits after driving heavy fasteners. The updated One-Touch system takes this a step further by automatically kicking the bit out of the chuck the moment the button is engaged.
Furthermore, engineers successfully reduced the overall head length from 4.75 inches down to a much more maneuverable 4.40 inches, while shedding 0.4 pounds from the bare tool weight. This makes a tangible difference when navigating tight floor joists, awkward cabinetry spaces, or overhead applications.
Implications: Market Position and Buying Advice
Ergonomics and Balance
Weighing 2.4 pounds as a bare tool (and 4.6 pounds when paired with the kitted 5.0Ah battery), the FX1372 is slightly heavier and bulkier than the absolute lightest ultra-compact impact drivers on the market. However, Flex maintains its signature high-grade rubber overmold and secure grip texture. Even with the substantial 5.0Ah battery attached, the tool remains exceptionally well-balanced, reducing wrist fatigue during prolonged, overhead work sessions.
Should You Buy It?
The Flex FX1372 is an exceptional tool for professionals who demand uncompromising power.
- For New Buyers / Flex Loyalists: If you are already invested in the Flex 24V platform, or if you are looking to enter the ecosystem with a top-tier driving solution, the FX1372 is an effortless recommendation. Its blend of elite performance, refined ergonomics, and the brilliant automated bit ejection system make it a joy to use on the job site.
- For Current FX1371 Owners: If you already own the previous-generation Quick-Eject model, the upgrades—while thoughtful—do not present a dramatic enough leap in raw performance to justify ditching your current tool. The core speed and torque metrics remain largely identical.
Ultimately, Flex has proven with the FX1372 that restraint can be just as powerful as innovation. By focusing on quality-of-life improvements and minor structural reductions, they have secured the FX1372’s place at the very pinnacle of the professional cordless impact driver market.
