Makita New 18 Volt Cordless Tools For 2014
Makita Showcases New 18V Cordless Tools at STAFDA Trade Show
This was the first year Concord Carpenter attended STAFDA. Typically the show does not have a reputation for big surprises but this year we were pleasantly surprised to see a some new advances in new tools and battery technology from Makita.
Makita 70 Plus Tools – One 18 Volt Battery
18 Volt X2 LXT Lithium-Ion [36V] 7.25” Circular Saw XSH01Z
Makita really surprised us with this completely newly designed circular saw. The XSH01 utilizes two 18 volt, 3.0 Ah batteries to obtain the equivalent of 36 volts.
My guess is that the majority of Makita tool owning contractors seem to be invested in and prefer the 18 volt platform. Utilizing the dual batteries allows Makita to bring this circular saw to the top of the category with a huge fuel tank.
One thing we appreciate is that these 3.o batteries charge up in 30 minutes. Unfortunately Makita has not come out with a dual 18 volt charger yet. They do have a Quad charger. Stay tuned on that – as I’m sure it’s just a matter of time before they offer one with the tool.
I did not get a chance to hold this tool so I can’t tell you anything on its weight or balance. With the dual batteries at the rear of the tool, it does look heavy, or at least out of balance. Time will tell on that one.
Makita feels that this new saw will rise to the top of the tool category and even compete with the Milwaukee Fuel saw. We’re looking forward to seeing if that happens, stay tuned.
Look for this tool in the winter of 2014.18 Volt XLT
18 Volt [36V] Circular Saw
18 Volt X2 LXT Lithium-Ion [36V] 7.25” Circular Saw XSH01Z
Lithium-Ion Compact Portable Band Saw XBP01
This portable band saw is not a game changer for Makita but it does add a nice compliment to their already large 18 volt platform. [70 plus tools]
It weighs 7.5 lbs, cuts at 630 feet per minute, has a 2.5” cutting capacity, a fairly compact size and runs on 18 volt batteries with a 30 minute charge.
I tried this saw out a few times and it cut nicely. Look for this tool in the spring of 2014.
18 Volt XLT Lithium-Ion Compact Reciprocating Saw XRJ01
I’m sad to report that with all the hustle and bustle at the Makita booth I completely missed seeing this saw. I can tell you that it will have variable speed and a 1/2-inch blade stroke.
Makita also engineered this saw with the option to use a paddle or a trigger switch.
Look for this tool in the spring of 2014.
18 Volt LXT Brush-less Lithium-Ion 1/2″ Hammer Drill
This new hammer drill will boast the fastest charging time and will offer long battery run time for low to mid range torque applications.
Since this was a prototype displayed in a glass case we were not allowed to handle the tool or provided any specifics on torque, etc.
Look for this tool in the summer of 2014.
18 volt XLT Lithium-Ion 4.0 Ah Battery
Well it’s about time and were psyched!!!
Making the plunge to the 4.0 Ah battery is obviously a necessity in order for Makita to compete with fuel tank – run time.
A real nice surprise is that these new batteries will fully charge in 40 minutes instead of many competitor batteries that take an hour to charge. Time is money right so reducing down time on charging batteries is money saved!
Look for these summer of 2014.
