Makita LXFD01CW 18V Compact Drill-Driver Kit

Introduction

Anyone who has had the pleasure of using a cordless drill understands that the freedom of movement offered by these compact, yet powerful devices makes them a toolbox essential. Auto repair technicians, electricians, professional contractors, and homeowners have all seen the value of these tools in action. The Makita LXFD01CW 18V Compact Drill-Driver Kit constitutes another option in an already impressive line of cordless utensils offered by a company known for delivering quality power tools.

As will be shown later in the technical section of this review, this drill driver combo packs loads of power into its compact, lightweight frame, and is powered by Lithium-Ion batteries that are said to reach charge in only fifteen minutes and last for the duration of the job. Makita backs their tool with a three-year warranty and their batteries with a one-year warranty. All in all, the Makita LXFD01CW 18V Drill-Driver Kit continues Makita’s legacy of high-quality, professional grade tools.

The Target Market

• Professional Contractors.
• Auto Repair Technicians.
• Homeowning Handypersons.
• The Burgeoning Upcycle Crowd.

Features & Benefits of Makita LXFD01CW

X-Factors

The Makita LXFD01CW 18V Compact Drill-Driver Kit comes equipped with Makita’s 4-pole motor, that provides 480 in-lbs of torque. This drill-driver is also furnished with a two-speed variable trigger that allows the motor to move, and 290 in-lbs of PTI Torque. The two-speed trigger can easily move from a range of 0-400 RPMs to a maximum rate of 0-1,500 RPMs. Weighing only a hair over 3 lbs and featuring a recently redesigned rubberized grip, this Makita model is sure to reduce fatigue associated with extended use. Bonus characteristics include a built-in LED light for those dark recesses, as well as an attached belt clip, so you don’t spend ten minutes looking through your crowded work area wondering where you put your drill.

Brawn

Makita’s 4-pole motor and two speed all metal transmission combine to allow this 18V Drill to deliver 480 in-lbs of torque and spin at speeds as high as 1,500 RPMs, easily qualifying it as an industrial grade tool. Such a power rating makes the Makita LXFD01CW 18V Compact Drill-Driver Kit ideal for applications such as woodworking, HVAC installment, and repair, electrical contracting, plumbing, and remodeling. While power is a desire, the two-speed transmission allows the drill to move effortlessly from workhorse to fine-tune.

Comfort

Even with the batteries attached, this 18V Makita model weighs only 3.3lbs- all of which is evenly distributed over the 17″ x 6″ x 13″ frame. Combine these compact features with an ergonomically designed handle and recently redesigned soft rubber grip, and you have a tool that can be used for hours without making your hands or arms sore.

Cutting Edge Battery Technology

If you have ever been in the middle of using a cordless device on a time-sensitive job, only to experience sudden power loss, then you know the frustration connected with this type of downtime. By pairing the Makita LXFD01CW 18V Compact Drill-Driver Kit with the very latest in Lithium-Ion technology, Makita has practically negated this concern. Not only do their batteries promise 5x lower self-discharge, but they also sport 16 firm-holding contact terminals to maximize power delivery. Continuing the trend, Makita also includes the 15-Minute Rapid Optimum Charger that can (you guessed it!) charge their batteries in 15 minutes, while extending battery life through fan cooling and built-in microchips that control temperature, current, and voltage.

Extras

Additional amenities included with the Makita LXFD01CW 18V Compact Drill-Driver Kit consist of a drill mounted LED light and tool belt clip, two 18V Compact Lithium-Ion batteries, a 15-minute rapid optimum charger, a double ended bit, and a tool case. You also get a three-year warranty on the tools and a one-year warranty on the batteries. These features make what was already an outstanding tool, even more magnificent.

The Pros

• Muscle: It bears repeating that 480 in-lbs of torque and 1,500 RPMs push this drill-driver to industrial grade levels.
• Design: In addition to being strong, this tool is also lightweight, compact, and ergonomically designed for comfort.
• Charged: The rapid charger coupled with the latest Lithium-Ion technology keep you running with confidence.
• Assurance: Makita’s three-year product warranty demonstrates their confidence in craftsmanship, and the one-year battery warranty means you won’t have to worry about faulty power sources.

The Cons

• Wobble: The most common customer complaint is a wobble in the 1/2″ chuck.
• Encasement: There is little room inside the included case for the charger cord.
• Obstruction: The LED light is partially obstructed by the chuck.

FAQs

Is this drill-driver strong enough to bore into masonry? Yes. This is an industrial grade drill-driver and has power sufficient for concrete and masonry projects. What type of chuck does this drill have? This drill is equipped with a keyless chuck. How do you change speeds on this drill? Speed is selected through pressure on the trigger. For less speed, half a squeeze will do the trick. For more speed, fully depress the trigger.

Insider Tip

To maximize battery life, it is key that you do not leave the batteries on the charger for more than a few hours. Since the Makita LXFD01CW 18V Compact Drill-Driver Kit comes with a high-speed charger that can complete a charge cycle in 15 minutes, there should be no need to leave batteries on charge for extended periods of time.

The Lowdown

One of the most powerful cordless drills on the market, the Makita LXFD01CW 18V Compact Drill-Driver Kit is perfect for professional contractors and amateur tinkerers alike. In addition to packing a punch, this drill-driver is also light enough for extended use, and small enough to fit into tight spaces. These features, as well as those stated above, not only make this drill a must have addition to any tool lovers toolbox, but have pushed this version to a 4.5 Star rating on Amazon while generating these reviews.