Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 2-Pc. Combo Kit

As a seasoned user of various power tools, I recently had the opportunity to incorporate the Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 2-Pc. Combo Kit (model XT268M) into my routine. This kit includes two essential tools: a blower and a string trimmer, both powered by Makita’s reliable 18V lithium-ion batteries. Here’s my comprehensive take on their performance and usability.

First Impressions and Build Quality

Right out of the box, the Makita combo kit exudes a sense of robust engineering. The blower and string trimmer are both lightweight, making them easy to handle during extended use. Despite their light weight, they don't feel flimsy or cheaply made. The plastic construction is solid, and while it’s not the glossy, brittle type, it does feel durable enough to withstand regular use.

Performance of the Blower

Let’s start with the blower. This tool is a standout performer. It’s impressively powerful for its size and weight, making it ideal for various tasks around the yard and job site. Whether it’s clearing leaves off the patio, blowing snow off the steps, or even getting a fire pit started, the blower handles it all with ease.

The blower’s power modulation is particularly noteworthy. It allows for precise control over the airflow, which is a handy feature when you need to adjust the intensity for different tasks. The thumb control wheel that locks the blower at any power level is a clever addition, enhancing its usability.

However, it’s important to temper your expectations regarding battery life. The blower can discharge a battery in about 15 minutes of continuous use. For extensive yard cleanups, this means you’ll need to have several fully charged batteries on hand. Despite this, the blower’s performance and convenience make it a valuable tool in any toolkit.

Performance of the String Trimmer

Moving on to the string trimmer, this tool presents a mixed bag of experiences. On the positive side, it’s quiet and starts instantly with a simple trigger pull, thanks to its electric operation. Its lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver, which is particularly appreciated during longer trimming sessions.

However, the string trimmer falls short in the power department. Compared to gas-powered trimmers, it is noticeably underpowered. It struggles with thicker grass and tougher tasks, which can be frustrating if you’re used to the muscle of a gas trimmer. The detachable shaft feature seems redundant, as the trimmer doesn’t have the power to drive more demanding attachments effectively.

Despite these shortcomings, the string trimmer has its place. For light trimming tasks around the garden, it performs adequately. Its low noise and zero emissions are significant advantages, especially if you’re looking for an eco-friendly alternative to gas trimmers. My wife, for instance, prefers this trimmer for its simplicity and ease of use.

Battery Life and Charging

The kit comes with a standard speed charger and a 4.0Ah battery, which is adequate for the trimmer but marginal for the blower. During extended use, the blower rapidly consumes battery power, necessitating frequent battery swaps. To maintain continuous operation, especially with the blower, having multiple batteries and high-speed chargers is advisable.

Usability and Ergonomics

In terms of ergonomics, both tools score well. The blower, despite being bulky, is surprisingly light and comfortable to handle. The string trimmer, while feeling somewhat chintzy, is well-balanced and easy to use. The tap-to-advance head on the trimmer functions adequately, though the included trimmer line is of poor quality and should be replaced immediately for better performance.

Overall Value

Considering the overall performance and build quality, the Makita combo kit offers excellent value. The blower alone justifies the investment with its powerful and versatile performance. The string trimmer, while not a powerhouse, serves well for lighter, routine tasks, making it a useful addition to the kit.

Recommendations

Would I recommend the Makita 18V LXT Brushless Cordless Combo Kit? Absolutely, but with some caveats. If you’re in the market for a powerful, reliable blower, this kit is a fantastic choice. The blower’s performance and ease of use make it a standout tool for various applications.

For the string trimmer, if you’re primarily dealing with light trimming tasks and value quiet operation and zero emissions, it’s a good fit. However, if you require a trimmer with more power for tougher jobs, you might need to look elsewhere or consider supplementing this kit with a more robust option.

In conclusion, the Makita combo kit is a worthwhile investment for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts who need a dependable blower and a serviceable string trimmer. It might not replace your heavy-duty gas tools entirely, but it certainly complements them well for everyday tasks.