Top Cordless Grease Guns for Truck Work
The DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Grease Gun is our top pick for truck owners. It delivers high pressure and flow, handles thick greases, and its battery lasts long enough for multiple fittings. Its main limitation is that it is heavy and may tire your arm during extended use.
Greasing trucks is a regular chore that can be messy and tiring with a manual gun. Cordless models save time and effort, letting you lube fittings quickly without a compressor.
We looked at real-world performance from owners who use these on pickups and semis. Our focus is on pressure, flow, battery life, and how they handle thick grease in cold weather.
What to look for
The best picks, ranked
DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Grease Gun
Owners report this gun delivers consistent high pressure even with cold, stiff grease. Its 10,000 PSI rating handles the toughest fittings, and the two-speed control helps with precision. The included 18-inch flex hose reaches tight spots on trucks.
Pros
- High pressure for stubborn fittings
- Two-speed control for accuracy
- Durable build withstands shop abuse
Cons
- Heavy at over 9 pounds with battery
- No built-in light on some models
LubriMatic 12V Cordless Grease Gun
This gun offers decent pressure for occasional use without breaking the bank. It has a simple pistol grip and a lock-on trigger to reduce hand fatigue. Owners note it is not for continuous heavy use but works fine for a few trucks.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Rechargeable battery with charger
Cons
- Lower pressure may struggle with thick grease
- Battery life limited to about 20 minutes
MILWAUKEE M18 Cordless Grease Gun
Milwaukee’s grease gun is a beast with variable speed and a powerful motor. It delivers up to 10,000 PSI and is compatible with all M18 batteries. Users appreciate the on-board LED light for dark undercarriages and the digital gear indicator.
Pros
- Excellent battery life with M18 batteries
- Variable speed trigger for control
- LED light in dark areas
Cons
- Expensive without battery
- Heavy and bulky
DeWalt 12V MAX Cordless Grease Gun
This 12V gun is lighter and easier to maneuver than its 20V sibling. It still provides a solid 6,000 PSI, adequate for most truck maintenance. Owners say it is perfect for reaching tight spaces and for quick greasing on the go.
Pros
- Lighter weight reduces fatigue
- Compact size fits in small tool bags
- Good value for the price
Cons
- Lower pressure for heavy grease
- Battery life moderate
Ryobi 18V One+ Cordless Grease Gun
If you already own Ryobi 18V tools, this grease gun is a cost-effective addition. It provides 5,000 PSI and a decent flow for occasional use. Users report it is easy to use and clean, but it may take longer on bigger jobs.
Pros
- Shares battery platform with many tools
- Lightweight and well balanced
- Simple operation
Cons
- Lower pressure limits heavy use
- Battery not included
Ingersoll Rand 20V Cordless Grease Gun
This professional-grade gun offers a high flow rate of 6.5 oz/min along with 10,000 PSI. It features a two-speed control and a variable speed trigger for precision. Owners love its durable build and long battery life, perfect for busy shops.
Pros
- Very high flow rate speeds up work
- Two-speed control plus variable trigger
- Rugged construction
Cons
- More expensive
- Heavier than competitors
Makita 18V LXT Cordless Grease Gun
Makita’s grease gun runs quieter than many others, which is a plus in enclosed spaces. It produces 10,000 PSI and has an automatic shut-off to prevent over-greasing. Users report it is reliable and consistent, with good battery life from LXT batteries.
Pros
- Quiet operation
- Automatic shut-off prevents damage
- Dual hose included
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Slightly less flow than top models
How they compare
| # | Model | Pressure | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | DEWALT 20V MAX Cordless Grease Gun | 10,000 PSI | Heavy-duty truck fleet maintenance | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | LubriMatic 12V Cordless Grease Gun | 6,000 PSI | Quick lube jobs on light trucks | 8.2 | Check price |
| 3 | MILWAUKEE M18 Cordless Grease Gun | 10,000 PSI | All-day professional use | 9.1 | Check price |
| 4 | DeWalt 12V MAX Cordless Grease Gun | 6,000 PSI | Compact and portable use | 8.5 | Check price |
| 5 | Ryobi 18V One+ Cordless Grease Gun | 5,000 PSI | DIY truck owners on a budget | 8.0 | Check price |
| 6 | Ingersoll Rand 20V Cordless Grease Gun | 10,000 PSI | High-volume truck shops | 9.0 | Check price |
| 7 | Makita 18V LXT Cordless Grease Gun | 10,000 PSI | Quiet operation and reliability | 8.7 | Check price |
Frequently asked questions
What PSI do I need for greasing a truck?
For truck fittings, you want at least 6,000 PSI. Many heavy-duty guns offer 10,000 PSI, which is better for thick grease and cold weather. Higher pressure ensures grease penetrates the joint without struggling.
Can I use any grease with a cordless grease gun?
Yes, most cordless grease guns handle standard greases like lithium or moly. However, very thick or tacky greases may require a higher pressure gun. Always check the grease’s consistency and the gun’s specifications.
How long does a battery last on a cordless grease gun?
Battery life depends on the gun, battery capacity, and usage. A typical 20V battery may last for 30 to 60 minutes of continuous operation. For heavy use, consider carrying a spare battery.
Are cordless grease guns as good as pneumatic ones?
Cordless guns are more portable and convenient, but pneumatic guns often deliver higher flow rates and can run indefinitely. For most truck maintenance, cordless guns offer enough performance and freedom from hoses.
How do I prime a cordless grease gun?
Most have a prime button or lever that you press to push grease through the hose. Fill the barrel with a fresh tube of grease, remove air, and prime until grease comes out of the nozzle.
Can I use a grease gun on my truck’s ball joints and U-joints?
Yes, those are common points that require regular greasing. Use the appropriate adapter or needle nozzle if needed. Follow your truck’s maintenance schedule for lubrication points.
What is the best way to clean a grease gun after use?
Wipe off excess grease from the exterior. For the hose and nozzle, you can purge with a small amount of fresh grease. Store the gun in a clean, dry place. Some models have a bleed valve to release pressure.
Do I need a battery and charger included?
Not necessarily. If you already own compatible batteries from the same brand, you can buy a bare tool. However, if you’re starting fresh, look for a kit that includes a battery and charger for convenience.
Can I use these grease guns on other vehicles like tractors or trailers?
Absolutely. They work on any equipment with grease fittings. Just ensure the pressure is sufficient for the application. Many users use them on farm equipment and trailers.
What is the warranty on cordless grease guns?
Warranties vary by brand. Most offer a 1-year to 3-year limited warranty. Some brands offer longer warranties if you register the product. Check the manufacturer’s policy.
The verdict
For most truck owners, the DEWALT 20V MAX is the best balance of power, reliability, and value. If you need lighter weight for occasional use, choose the DEWALT 12V. For professional daily use, invest in the MILWAUKEE M18 for its superior battery system. Avoid the cheapest models if you regularly work on heavy trucks.
Tony Russo
Tony trained as an automotive technician and spent years in service and parts retail before moving into writing. He focuses on garage tools, car care products and accessories from a hands-on maintenance perspective.
