A setting method for expansion anchors via an impact wrench has a first phase S1 and a second phase S2. In the first phase, a rotary impact is repeatedly exerted on a screw element of the expansion anchor and a torque transmitted from the rotary impact to the screw head is estimated. The first phase S1 is ended when the estimated transmitted torque exceeds a threshold value specified for the expansion anchor. During the second phase, a first number of rotary impacts specified for the expansion anchor are exerted on the screw head. A current rate of change of the estimated torque is monitored at least during the first phase. In response to the current rate of change exceeding a limit value for the rate of change specified for the expansion anchor, a modified second phase is started, in which a second number of rotary impacts specified for the expansion anchor are exerted on the screw head, the second number being less than the first number.