Abstract: A socket-drive anvil element (22, 94) includes a base (44, 96) configured for alignment with a rotational axis (47) of a rotary motor (38) of an impact wrench (20, 92). The socket-drive element (22, 94) further includes a plug element (50) configured for receipt of a wrench socket (24). The plug element (50) includes side faces (48) coupled to and extending from the base (44, 96). A top face (54) is coupled to a distal edge (56) of the side faces (48). A first and second side face (58, 60) of the side faces (48) and the top face (54) include a continuous groove (62) formed therein. A spring wire element (68) is secured in the groove (62) and is configured to provide resistance to the removal of the wrench socket (24) from the plug element (50).