Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless L.E.D. Flashlight

The Makita 18V LXT Cordless LED Flashlight, model DML802, is a compact yet powerful addition to any tool collection, especially if you already own other Makita products that use the same battery system. Having had the opportunity to use this flashlight extensively in various situations, from automotive repairs to outdoor inspections, I’ve found numerous features that stand out, along with a few areas that could see improvement.

First off, the brightness of this flashlight is truly impressive. Rated at 160 lumens, it provides an intense, focused beam that can illuminate objects clearly even at significant distances. This makes it incredibly useful not only for up-close tasks but also for spotting objects in dark environments, like across a large yard or inside a dimly lit workshop. The LED light source is highly efficient, consuming minimal power while delivering sustained brightness for hours on end.

One of the key features that make this flashlight versatile is its 12-position pivoting head. This allows for easy adjustment of the light direction, making it adaptable for various tasks. Whether you need to shine a light into the engine bay of your car, under a sink, or into a dark corner of an attic, the pivoting head offers precise control. The flashlight also stands on its own when attached to a battery, freeing up both hands for work, which I found particularly useful during home repairs.

The build quality of the Makita flashlight is another strong point. It’s constructed from durable aluminum, which gives it a solid feel without making it too heavy. The compact design, measuring just about 10-3/4 inches in length, ensures that it doesn’t take up much space in your toolkit. The added metal hang hook is a convenient feature for storing the flashlight when not in use or hanging it in places where a flat surface isn’t available.

However, there are a few drawbacks worth noting. One significant issue is the cost. At around $50 for the flashlight without a battery, it is relatively expensive compared to other LED flashlights on the market. For someone already invested in Makita’s 18V battery system, this might be justifiable, but for others, the price could be a deterrent.

Another area of concern is the durability of certain components. While the overall construction is robust, the rubber coating on the on/off button has shown signs of wear over time. This could potentially lead to operational issues if the button becomes damaged. Additionally, the hanging hook, though functional, is made of painted metal, which can scratch surfaces if not handled carefully. A rubber-coated hook would have been a better design choice to prevent any potential damage to delicate work surfaces.

Battery life is another strong suit of this flashlight. Depending on the battery capacity used, it can provide continuous illumination for extended periods. With a fully charged 5.0 Ah battery, the flashlight can last up to 20 hours, which is more than adequate for most tasks. However, it’s worth noting that the flashlight shuts off abruptly when the battery charge drops below a certain threshold. This can be inconvenient if you’re not carrying a spare battery or if you’re in the middle of an important task.

The flashlight’s compact and lightweight design makes it easy to use and carry around. Weighing just 2.1 lbs without the battery, it’s not a burden to handle, even during prolonged use. This is particularly beneficial for tasks that require mobility, such as inspecting tight spaces or working on various parts of a large project area.

In terms of usability, the Makita flashlight excels. It's straightforward to operate, with a simple on/off button and a pivoting head that moves smoothly between positions. The beam, though focused, also has enough residual light to illuminate a broader area, making it versatile for different lighting needs. This combination of focused and ambient light is perfect for both detailed work and general illumination.

A minor yet notable shortcoming is that the flashlight does not have an adjustable lens to widen or narrow the beam. While the focused beam is highly effective for most tasks, the ability to adjust the beam width would add another layer of functionality, making it even more versatile.

Overall, the Makita 18V LXT Cordless LED Flashlight is a high-quality, reliable tool that offers superb brightness, versatility, and durability. If you are already using Makita’s 18V battery system, this flashlight is a no-brainer addition to your toolkit. It complements the existing lineup of tools and provides reliable performance across various tasks. However, if you’re not yet invested in Makita’s ecosystem, the high cost and lack of certain features might make you consider other options.

In conclusion, I would recommend this flashlight to anyone who needs a reliable, high-performance lighting solution and is already using Makita’s 18V battery system. Its versatility, brightness, and build quality make it a valuable tool for both professional and personal use. Despite its few shortcomings, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks, making it a worthy investment for those who prioritize quality and performance.