Most cordless impact drivers have a feature called spindle lock that, when selected, locks the motor’s spindle so the chuck cannot turn.
Most models of impact driver will have ‘automatic spindle lock’, which means that the chuck and metal bit are automatically locked when the speed control trigger is released.
When to use spindle lock
Loosening or tightening screws
Sometimes, it can be hard to start removing a screw using a cordless impact driver if it’s very tight. The tool can slip out of the screw head and damage the work surface. With spindle lock, you can use the cordless impact driver like a manual screwdriver, controlling the pressure on the screw and the speed at which you loosen it.
Spindle lock can also be used to finish off the tightening of a screw, so that you don’t drive it too far into the surface of the material.
Safely inserting or removing bits
Selecting spindle lock allows you to insert or remove screwdriver or drill bits without worrying about the chuck rotating and causing injury.