Makita 18V LXT Brushless String Trimmer XRU12

Precise Trimming and Edging From Makita XRU12 Trimmer

Makita continues to provide tools for you to “Rule the Outdoors”. This time we find the Makita XRU12 18V LXT string trimmer making waves. With a combination of unique design features, a lightweight build, and some solid runtime, Makita’s newest string trimmer addition makes the ideal choice for precise trimming and edging.

Makita XRU12 Key Features

The Makita XRU12 String Trimmer features a 3-speed brushless motor that delivers between 4,000 and 6,000 RPM. It includes a handy reverse rotation function to clear your trimming head of any tangles. We don’t find this on a lot of string trimmers. so it’s great to see it here.

This Makita 18V string trimmer also includes Automatic Torque Drive Technology. This mode automatically shifts your speed setting to find the best balance between power and runtime. If you don’t want to worry about what speed to be in, this mode takes care of it for you and optimizes runtime at the same time.

Speaking of runtime, one of the big talking points surrounding the Makita XRU12 revolves around its “fuel economy”. With a 4.0Ah battery, this string trimmer can run for up to 80 minutes on a charge. That’s enough to keep up regular maintenance on most residential yards—and then some.

Finally, the Makita XRU12 features a split shaft design. Here, the lower shaft and trimmer head detaches from the upper shaft to facilitate easier transport or storage.

Other Features We Like

The Makita XRU12 trimmer cuts a 12″ swath—not huge, but certainly sufficient for smaller yards. The convenient bump and feed trimmer head comes preloaded with the brand’s own 0.080″ twisted quiet line.

The rubberized soft grip and adjustable loop handle make this a comfortable string trimmer to use. It also weighs just 8.6 pounds with the battery attached. With this tool’s balance and lighter weight, you’ll have no problem turning it on its side to tackle edging applications.

The Makita XRU12 String Trimmer also features Extreme Protection Technology. XPT basically consists of a series of integrated seals that channel dust and water away from sensitive electrical components. This should extend the life of the trimmer.

If you want a more powerful trimmer, go for the Makita XRU17 or XRU18. However, if you want something a bit more lightweight that still get the job done, the XRU12 provides a smaller solution that still packs Pro-level features.

Pricing

The Makita XRU12 Brushless String Trimmer comes as either a bare tool or kitted together with a 4.0Ah battery and charger. As a bare tool, it retails for $149. As a kit, you can pick it up for $199. Either option comes with Makita’s 3-year warranty.

Makita Brushless String Trimmer Specs

• Model: Makita XRU12
• Motor: Brushless
• Cutting Capacity: 12 in.
• No Load Speed: 4,000 / 5,000 / 6,000 RPM
• Arbor Shaft: M8 x 1.25 LH
• Overall Length: 70-1/2 in.
• Weight: 8.6 lbs.
• Warranty: 3 years
• Price: $199