Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 6-Pc. Combo Kit

The Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 6-Piece Combo Kit is a powerhouse of a toolset that promises to cater to a wide variety of applications. As someone who frequently juggles between different types of projects, from woodworking to metalworking, I was eager to put this combo kit to the test. Here’s my take on each of the tools in this impressive package.

Hammer Driver-Drill

The 1/2 inch hammer driver-drill is perhaps the most versatile tool in this set. The keyless chuck makes switching out bits quick and easy, which is a significant time-saver. The variable 2-speed settings and adjustable clutch provide excellent control, preventing the over-tightening of screws and minimizing the risk of stripping. The hammer function is particularly useful for drilling into masonry and concrete, making it a reliable companion for heavy-duty tasks. The built-in LED light is a thoughtful addition, illuminating dark workspaces effectively.

Circular Saw

The 6-1/2 inch circular saw quickly became my go-to for cutting wood. One of its standout features is the blade placement, which offers a clear line of sight for precise cuts. The saw’s guide is accurate, ensuring that cuts are made exactly where intended. With a no-load speed of 5,000 RPM, it has the power to slice through 2-inch thick boards effortlessly. However, it’s worth noting that the saw may struggle a bit with harder or thicker materials, so it’s best suited for standard woodcutting tasks.

Reciprocating Saw

The reciprocating saw in this kit is a workhorse. Blade changes are a breeze thanks to the tool-less blade change mechanism. The adjustable shoe base allows you to use different parts of the blade, extending its life. I found it highly effective for both wood and metal cutting, making it a versatile addition to my toolkit. The 1-1/4 inch stroke length provides efficient cutting, and the saw’s overall performance is robust enough to handle daily use.

Impact Driver

The impact driver is a beast when it comes to driving screws and bolts. With a maximum torque of 1,550 in. lbs., it effortlessly drives lag screws into both wood and metal. Its compact and lightweight design makes it comfortable to use for extended periods without causing fatigue. The variable speed trigger offers excellent control, ensuring that you can start screws slowly and then ramp up the speed as needed.

Angle Grinder

The 4-1/2 inch angle grinder is another strong performer in this set. It comes with two different wheel guards—one for grinding and another for cut-off wheels—adding to its versatility. With an 8,500 RPM no-load speed, it has enough power for most grinding tasks. I primarily used it with a cut-off wheel for metalwork, and it performed admirably. The balance and ergonomics of the grinder are excellent, making it comfortable to use for longer sessions.

Flashlight

The LED flashlight is the only tool in the kit that left me somewhat underwhelmed. While it offers decent illumination with its 200 lumens output, I found that it occasionally turned off after a few minutes of use. This could be a minor issue, but it’s something to keep in mind if you rely heavily on a flashlight for your work. On the bright side, the flashlight’s four-position head adds flexibility, allowing you to direct light exactly where you need it.

Battery and Charger

The kit includes two 18V LXT® 5.0Ah batteries and a rapid charger. The batteries are a key selling point, offering extended runtime and quick charging capabilities. With a full charge taking just 45 minutes, downtime is minimized, allowing you to keep working without long interruptions. The Star Protection Computer Controls™ technology is a nice touch, monitoring battery health and preventing issues like overloading and overheating.

Carrying Bag

The rolling tool bag is a well-thought-out addition to this combo kit. It’s spacious enough to hold all the tools and accessories, and the wheels and collapsible handle make it easy to transport. The build quality of the bag is solid, although I did encounter a minor issue with the zipper, which required some fiddling to get it to work properly.

Overall Performance and Value

The Makita 18V LXT Combo Kit is a high-performing, versatile set of tools that delivers on its promises. The brushless motors in each tool contribute to their efficiency and longevity, ensuring that they can withstand the rigors of daily use. The kit’s variety of tools makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from drilling and driving to cutting and grinding.

One area where the kit could improve is the inclusion of additional batteries or a multi-tool instead of the flashlight. This would enhance its value even further, especially for professionals who rely on these tools for extended periods.

Recommendation

I wholeheartedly recommend the Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 6-Piece Combo Kit to both professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts. Its combination of power, versatility, and reliability makes it a valuable investment. While there are minor areas for improvement, the overall performance and quality of the tools more than justify the price. Whether you’re in construction, woodworking, or metalworking, this combo kit is sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.