[Gary J]

H.G.P Consider the cordless impact wrenches . They are a bit more versatile for moving around without a cord limiting your movements. Get one with a higher voltage for more power and a longer life battery. 18 volt is good. Milwaukee has one for 240 ft lbs. of torque and a reversible battery in case on way has the battery in the way. It comes with 2 batteries and a charger so it can always be ready. Makita and Ryobi and others have one also.
1/2 inch refers to the drive at the end. 3/8's is pretty standard for hand tools unless you wrench for a living but there are adapters to reduce the 1/2 inch to 3/8's if thats what most of your current sockets are. That adapter will lengthen your tool and make it harder to fit in tight spaces but thats part of the trade off for not getting a new set of sockets. High impact sockets are best due to the quality and resistance to breakage but Craftsman doesn't say you can't use ther standard sockets for impact purposes.
Costs are $300.00 and below, depending on brand name, voltage and quality.
Spend the money and keep the economy going.