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 LCT307W 12V Cordless Combo Kit Review

Makita LCT307W 12V Cordless Combo Kit Review

The Makita LCT307W 12V Cordless Combo Kit contains some very light and compact tools. Compared with typical competing portable drills, the included FD01W measures only 6 inches from hex chuck to back – and the DT01W Impact Driver is nearly the same. This really makes these Makita tools much more accessible to tight spaces. On both tools, the built-in LED light illuminates with just a touch of the trigger and proved to be very bright and helpful. Under our test conditions where we intentionally worked in tight (and thus dark) quarters, both the Makita Driver-Drill and Impact Driver were great tools.

Makita HM0870C 11 lb Demolition Hammer Preview

Makita HM0870C 11 lb Demolition Hammer Preview

At the 2011 World of Concrete (WoC) show this year, Makita unleashed a new hard hitting demolition hammer that uses less weight to accomplish more. The demo hammer, which accepts SDS-Max bits, weighs only 11.1 lbs. and is ideally suited for horizontal work and jobs where you just don’t want to lift a heavier hammer off the ground. The new tool comes with an Electronic Speed Control that automatically applies additional power to the motor to maintain speed under load to complete the most challenging jobs. It also features a soft start motor to suppress start-up reaction and current draw for more control and better accuracy.

Makita LXFD01CW 18V Compact Li-Ion Driver-Drill Kit Preview

Makita LXFD01CW 18V Compact Li-Ion Driver-Drill Kit Preview

Makita released the new 18V Compact Lithium-Ion Cordless 1/2″ Driver-Drill (model LXFD01CW). The new LXFD01CW is the latest release in Makita’s 18V Compact Lithium-Ion platform and delivers more power with less weight and improved ergonomics for a range of drilling, driving and fastening tasks. In addition to a general weight reduction, the Makita LXFD01CW has one of the fastest charge-times on the market at just 15 minutes. If this bears out to be true, that is pretty fast.

Makita 12V Lithium-Ion Combo Kit LCT208W Preview

Makita 12V Lithium-Ion Combo Kit LCT208W Preview

Makita just released its contribution to the 12V world with its 12V max Lithium-Ion Cordless 2-Piece Combo Kit, model LCT208W. The new combo kit features a tiny but versatile new 3-3/8″ Circular Saw with a range of cutting capabilities, paired with a powerful and compact 3/8″ Driver-Drill. The new LCT208W is the first of what seems to be a growing line of 12V max cordless solutions that deliver pro power and pro speed in a fairly compact size.

Makita GA4534 4-1/2" Paddle Switch Angle Grinder Preview

Makita GA4534 4-1/2″ Paddle Switch Angle Grinder Preview

Makita announced the new GA4534, engineered with non-protruding brush holders and an innovative motor housing that reduce the barrel diameter to a scant 2-3/16″. In addition, the GA4534 has an ergonomic grip for added comfort, and weighs only 4.2 lbs. for reduced operator fatigue. The side handle is positioned at an increased 20-degree angle for added comfort and control, and the paddle switch has a no lock-on mode for added user preference.

Makita Drywall Screwdriver FS6200TP Quick Look

Makita FS6200TP Drywall Screwdriver Preview

Makita’s new drywall screwdriver line comes with an impressive new lightweight design. There are three new models and each features a 6-amp motor, aluminum gear housing, adjustable depth locator, and LED work light. The only difference between models is the maximum speed (which of course begs the question: why not one tool with three settings?). The FS6200 delivers 0-6,000 RPM while the FS4200 delivers 0-4,000 RPM – and both weigh just 2.9 lbs. The FS2200 delivers 0-2,500 RPM and weighs 3.5 lbs. Makita also provides several model options: The FS4200A features a 50 ft. cord and the FS4200TP a 50 ft. twist lock cord. The FS6200TP also features a 50 ft. twist lock power cord.

Makita BO5041K 5-inch Random Orbit Sander Quick Look

Makita BO5041K 5-inch Random Orbit Sander Preview

The Makita model BO5041K 5″ Random Orbit Sander is engineered for cabinetry, furniture, wood boats, decks, and general carpentry, and is ideal for carpenters and general contractors seeking a best in class random orbit sander. Model BO5041K includes abrasive paper, dust bag, and tool case (Makita offers a variety of hoses and adapters – sold separately – for attachment to vacuum systems).

Makita LCT203W 10.8-volt Combo Kit review

Makita LCT203W 10.8-volt Combo Kit

With a new trend in sub compact power tools, many manufacturers are coming out with these tiny tool sets. Don’t let the small size of The Makita LCT203W 10.8-Volt Compact Li-Ion Cordless Combo Kit fool you because it packs a pretty big punch. With the Li-Ion battery small size and power to new motor technology, these types of tools are evolving into a new generation of pocket rockets.

Makita LXT702 18 Volt Li-Ion 7-piece Combo Kit Review

Makita LXT702 Combo 7-piece Kit Review

Makita is breaking into the lithium-ion realm with gusto and is offering 8 new 18V li-ion combo kits, from 2-piece kits to full 15-piece master kits that will leaving you wanting for nothing. We took a first look at their latest 7-piece combo kit which includes, among other things, a 1/2-inch hammer drill, a 6.5-inch circular saw, impact driver, reciprocating saw, 4.5-inch angle grinder, flashlight and jobsite radio. This is a robust kit that only leaves off smaller-sized versions of what’s provided here.