This drill easily drove the large lag screw to the full depth, making it about half of the way in high gear, then easily finished it off in the lower gear. This test was through a 2×4 into a 4×4 on end, with an appropriate pilot hole drilled. Some nice features about the Makita 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Drill are the included clamp-on handle and the shorter length. The clamp-on handle makita cordless drill makes it easier to hold the drill when using larger drill bits, and the shorter length can be very handy when using the drill in more confined areas. Makita supports the creation of an enriched society on a global scale, through the provision of power tools, outdoor power equipment, and pneumatic tools. We really want your feedback on the products we sell at Tallman Equipment.
While I was able to get through the cut, it stopped several times on the way. The peak torque value is 0.714% higher than the max tightening torque – that’s very close agreement. Nm refers to Newton meters, a metric system measure of torque. Lock torque seems to be akin to “stall” torque, which usually isn’t used to describe cordless drill performance. Basically, it seems that the drill doesn’t come with a side handle because it doesn’t deliver anywhere close to 970 in-lbs of fastening torque.
This 18-volt Makita has a 1/2 inch chuck and offers two speed ranges. It is sold with 2 Li-ion batteries and has a 3 year warranty. I use the higher of the two values, 130 Nm, in the chart below, as the maximum tightening torque. This drill got off to a fantastic start with the 1-inch paddle bit.
I reviewed a Ridgid 18V cordless drill (model R86116) a few years ago, and it was advertised as delivering 750 in-lbs of max torque. Several of Makita’s most powerful cordless tools use the 18V X2 LXT platform that is powered by two of its 18V batteries. The 18V X2 LXT Circular Saw is one that we’ve reviewed and really like. However, getting that much torque out of their heavy-duty hammer drill only takes one battery paired with the BL Brushless Motor. Makita’s 18V SubCompact cordless drill delivers 40 Nm max lock torque, 40 Nm max hard torque, and 25 Nm max soft torque. Makita drills are renowned for their high performance, quality manufacturing and meticulous design.
Makita’s 18V and XGT flagship cordless hammer drills are both advertised as delivering 141 Nm of peak torque. However, the XGT model is said to deliver 140 Nm max tightening torque while the 18V drill delivers 125 or 130 Nm max tightening torque (depending on the publication source). Makita’s higher performance XGT 36V/40V Max cordless hammer drill is advertised as delivering 125 Nm max lock torque, 141 Nm max peak torque, 140 Nm max hard torque, and 68 Nm max soft torque. Makita’s 18V SubCompact drill is advertised as delivering 350 in-lbs max torque. For that model, the max fastening torque and max lock torque are the same.
Most drills I’ve used can handle the 1″ threaded spade bit before being dropped into low speed, so it’s a pretty good benchmark to start with. As expected, the hammer drill bored easily through the 2x material with no issues. Indicates the largest size full-shank tool (twist drill bits on power drills) that a drill’s chuck can hold. Common sizes include .375 inch (3/8 inch) typically for general usage, and .5 inch (1/2 inch) for drill intended for heavy duty jobs. Fixed 1/4 inch hex chucks only accepts 1/4 inch screw bits or special drill bits. It seems that this is why the drill doesn’t ship with an auxiliary side handle, because it doesn’t deliver “a full 970 in-lbs” of max fastening torque.
In some cases, we also have advertising or affiliate relationships with manufacturers and retailers of products and services we review. For additional information please visit our additional disclosure policies. The USA model is only advertised by its 970 in-lbs (110 Nm) max torque value. The drill feels plenty comfortable to hold, though it is a bit on the heavier side, tipping the scales at about 4 pounds, 7.7 ounces.
A small light, located on the body of the drill, to help in low-light job conditions. Includes the drill and battery pack, to the nearest tenth of a pound. Based on the drill’s weight and balance, along with the effort needed to position the head. Reflects how much work the drill can perform per battery charge, as measured on a dynamometer. Check out the all new Makita website just for the Electric Utility industry.
In addition, we also have impact driver drills that come with a special kit that contains a large number of accessories. The 18V Sub-Compact Driver-Drill is part of a new class of compact, with the size and weight of lower voltage tools but with the performance, power and compatibility of 18V. The expansive breadth-of-line of the Makita 18V LXT® Series means an 18V battery from any LXT® tool will power the 18V Sub-Compact Driver-Drill. The XFD11ZB has an efficient brushless motor with two speed settings and dual L.E.D. lights to illuminate the work area.
The unmatched quality and durability of Makita products is driven by the company’s strong R&D capabilities, and have earned the trust of professional users worldwide. A competing brand advertises their product as delivering 850 in-lbs max torque, and this is based on its measured max fastening torque, which is what I would expect. When you see the phrase maximum torque in a cordless drill’s marketing materials, the value typically refers to the tool’s maximum hard-joint tightening torque.