Illustrative embodiments of controlled pivot impact tools are disclosed. In at least one illustrative embodiment, an impact tool may comprise a hammer configured to rotate about a first axis and to pivot about a second axis different from the first axis, where the hammer includes a cam groove formed in an outer surface of the hammer, an actuator coupled to the cam groove of the hammer and configured to pivot the hammer about the second axis between a disengaged position and an engaged position based on a position of the actuator along the cam groove, and an anvil configured to rotate about the first axis in response to being impacted by the hammer when the hammer is in the engaged position.