Manufacturer: Makita

Our Makita tool reviews feature job site testing that uses real-world conditions. We test tools like the Makita X2 rear handle circular saw on both dimensional lumber and sheet goods. For products like the Makita 10″ cordless miter saw, we use 2×12 lumber to test the depth of cut and power. In terms of technology, the Makita AWS Auto-start Wireless System is among the most advanced Bluetooth control systems out there. It’s compatible with the newest Makita Track Saw, the Makita 18V X2 Brushless Angle Grinder, and their cordless vacuum. The system solves the problem of using cordless Makita tools with a cordless dust extractor. Also of note is the Makita Sync Lock system to program batteries and keep them from leaving the job site. Makita Tool Reviews with Job Site Testing The following Makita tool reviews use either in-house scientific baseline testing or we take them on-site. They might be used on a live construction site or in the PTR Shop. For great deals on Makita tools, visit here.

Makita LXPH03 18V Cordless 1/2" Hammer Drill-Driver Preview

Makita LXPH03 18V Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill-Driver Preview

Makita formally announced its newest 18V hammer drill this week, the LXT-powered LXPH03 1/2″ Hammer Driver-Drill. The new LXPH03 puts out 750 in.lbs. of (max) torque, but it’s more compact and lightweight than the previous model. The new LXPH03 is also engineered for increased resistance to water and dust, though we don’t see an IP certification on the tool as of yet. On this new hammer drill, Makita used a proprietary 4-pole motor to up the torque and speed. The new driver/drill puts out up to 30,000 BPM and 2,000 RPM. The new all-metal planetary gear system is more efficient so the LXPH03 ends up being more compact as well. In fact, it measures just 8-7/8” long and weighs 5.1 lbs. with the battery.

Makita LXRH011 Brushless 1" SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Preview

Makita LXRH011 Brushless 1-inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer

Makita has one of the widest ranges of 18V cordless tools, so you’d think they might want to sit back and relax for a while… Apparently not, as the company has just announced a new 18V LXT lithium-ion Brushless 1″ SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer (model LXRH011). What’s more, it includes a HEPA Dust Xtraction Vacuum Attachment. The LXRH011 is Makita’s latest tool using their LXT Brushless Motor Technology. The new Brushless tools can increase runtime by up to 50% and can increase power and speed as well as they are more efficient.

Makita LXMT025 18V LXT Li-ion Cordless Multi-Tool Kit Preview

Makita LXMT025 18V LXT Li-ion Cordless Multi-Tool Kit Preview

Makita just released two new multi-tools, including the new 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Multi-Tool Kit (model LXMT025), and the corded Multi-Tool Kit (model TM3000CX5). Compared to other models on the market, these tools look to be hitting the market as “second-gen” level tools, with sufficient build quality to impress us out of the gate and enough run-time (18V cordless) and power (corded model) to be very practical.

Makita TM3000CX5 Multi-Tool Kit Preview

Makita TM3000CX5 Multi-Tool Kit Preview

The new TM3000CX5 Oscillating Multi-Tool is powered by a 3.0 amp motor with soft start for smooth start-ups. The variable speed control dial allows a flexible operating range (6,000 – 20,000 OPM) and enables the user to match the speed to the application, and the electronic speed control maintains constant speed under load for smoother, higher-quality work. Similar to the 18V Lithium-Ion Multi-Tool, the new TM3000CX5 has a 3.2 degree oscillation angle engineered for faster, more aggressive cutting and sanding.

Makita EK7301 14" Gas Power Cutter Concrete Saw Preview

Makita EK7301 14-inch Gas Power Cutter Concrete Saw

I don’t know about you, but whenever I get to slice through concrete I get a Tim Allen-style rush that makes me giddy with adrenaline. Of course, I don’t do it 8 hours per day, day in and day out. For those who do, they might appreciate the new Makita EK7301 14″ Power Cutter. The new EK7301 gas power cutter was developed to blend the best aspects of both convenience and performance. It improves upon previous Makita offers by including faster starting, more power, and better fuel economy.

Makita LXDT04 18V LXT Cordless Impact Driver Preview

Makita LXDT04 18V LXT Cordless Impact Driver Preview

Makita’s new LXDT04 Cordless Impact Driver uses the company’s variable speed 4-pole motor to deliver 1,420 in. lbs. of maximum torque. It does it with 0-3,200 impacts per minute and up to 2,300 RPMs. We love impact drivers, and Makita’s new model seems suited for a variety of tough-as-nails (or, as is the case, tough as lag bolts) fastening tasks. Since the LXDT04 only weighs 3.3 lbs, it’s also got an excellent power-to-weight ratio and measures just 5-7/16″ long – smaller and lighter than the BTD141 18V Impact Driver that it replaces.

Makita RT0700CX3 1-1/4 HP Compact Router Kit Preview

Makita RT0700CX3 1-1/4 HP Compact Router Kit Preview

Makita is on a roll this week, releasing several new tools to the market. This time it’s the new RT0700C 1-1/4 HP Compact Router. The new Compact Router is also available in a kit (RT0700CX3), which is the only way to buy a router like this as it comes with a plunge, tilt and an offset base for a wide range of routing applications. Compact routers serve a great need in the woodworking and carpentry business – proving a very portable and controllable way to do simple bevels, laminate jobs, etc that would be a bit more of a pain with a full-sized tool. Now, we don’t recommend compact routers for anything heavy-duty – the added weight and bulk of a serious router is always going to outperform when you’re doing some serious projects.