Makita LXPH03 18V Cordless 1/2″ Hammer Drill-Driver Preview

Makita formally announced its newest 18V hammer drill this week, the LXT-powered LXPH03 1/2″ Hammer Driver-Drill. The new Makita LXPH03 puts out 750 in.lbs. of (max) torque, but it’s more compact and lightweight than the previous model. The new LXPH03 is also engineered for increased resistance to water and dust, though we don’t see an IP certification on the tool as of yet. On this new hammer drill, Makita used a proprietary 4-pole motor to up the torque and speed. The new driver/drill puts out up to 30,000 BPM and 2,000 RPM. The new all-metal planetary gear system is more efficient so the LXPH03 ends up being more compact than the Makita XPH07M hammer drill. In fact, it measures just 8-7/8” long and weighs 5.1 lbs. with the battery.

The LXPH03 features Makita “Extreme Protection Technology” (XPT). XPT is a protective seal inside the tool engineered for improved water resistance by channelling water and dust away from the tool’s key internal components. The XPT-equipped LXPH03 (as well as the earlier-released LXDT04 18 Impact Driver) is engineered for improved operation in harsh jobsite conditions.

Ease-of-use and efficiency features in the LXPH03 include 21 clutch settings for optimal fastening torque control, and an all-metal 1/2” ratcheting chuck. The dual LED lights help illuminate the work surface, and the tool belt clip attaches to either side of the tool. The LXPH03 features a new rubberized grip redesigned for improved comfort, including an ergonomically-contoured area at the top-back of the handle to provide optimum fit for the U-shaped area between the user’s thumb and index finger.

Makita Lithium-Ion tools are backed by Makita’s 3-Year Warranty which covers repair due to defective materials or workmanship up to 3 years from the purchase date. 1-year warranty on the batteries and charger.