Makita Collated Autofeed Screwdriver Magazine Coming to Drywall Screwgun Near You
The Makita Cordless 18V Drywall Screwdriver (model XSF03) updates the discontinued XSF01 in several key areas. The tool drops almost 2-inches off the length and adds a new brushless motor. It also features Push Drive, so the motor starts only when you actually engage the fastener. Add the optional or packaged 199145-0 Makita collated auto-feed screwdriver magazine, and you can drive strip screws from 1 to 2-3/16 inches.
10-Second Summary
For drywall contractors installing sheetrock, metal framing, subfloors, backer board, or even decking applications, the brushless Makita Cordless 18V Drywall Screwdriver should deliver way more runtime than its predecessor. How much? Makita claims Push Drive mode will sink over 2,300 1-1/4 inch screws when attaching 1/2-inch drywall to 20-gauge steel studs.While that’s impressive, what’s new about the system is the Makita collated autofeed screwdriver magazine. It takes an already excellent tool and makes you that much more productive by quickly auto feeding screws with a design that gets you into tight corners.
Makita Collated Autofeed Screwdriver Magazine
With the new Makita collated autofeed screwdriver magazine, you get more than just the ability to auto-feed strip screws (although that in its own right is great to have!). Makita starts by keeping a reasonably compact design at 8-7/8 inches long.
More importantly, this $99 magazine rotates 360º and locks in any of 8 positions. When you’re working in a tight or awkward corner, it’s a lifesaver.
To install it, you need to remove the nose and bit that comes with the drywall screwdriver first. Install either the Phillips or square driver bit, lock the magazine in place, load up your first strip of screws, and set your depth.
You control the depth with a simple thumbwheel toward the back of the magazine.
Additional Features
- Screw strip releases in reverse direction to clear screws
- Rubber no-mar base cover protects surfaces
- Designed for use with 50-screw flat strips
Makita 199145-0 Collated Autofeed Screwdriver Magazine Specs
- Chuck: 1/4 in. hex
- Collated screw capacity: 1 to 2-3/16 in.
- Length: 8-7/8 in.
- Auto-feed: Yes
- Weight: 0.88 lbs.
- Price: $99
Makita Cordless 18V Drywall Screwdriver Features
Features matter on a cordless drywall screw gun. The standout feature on this tool has got to be the Push Drive system. When you lock-on the tool, simply engage the fastener to drive the tool. This keeps you from wasting the battery on a needlessly spinning chuck. We’re seeing this feature pop up in most current-gen drywall screw guns, but Makita’s been using it since 2014 on this model.
A cordless drywall gun also has to be durable, and it needs to run long enough to get the job done. Makita solves the latter by claiming a 5Ah battery will fasten more than 2,300 1-1/4 inch screws to 20 ga. steel studs. Makita has one of the fastest battery charging systems on the market. If you do run out of juice, you’re back up in just 45 minutes. Carry two batteries, or buy the Makita XSF03TX2 kit and you should have continuous use.
If keeping the weight down is your game, cycle 2.0 Ah batteries. You’ll get somewhere north of 900 screws and the batteries charge even faster.
For durability, Makita built in an aluminum gear housing with all metal gears within. The brushless motor also removes a significant wear point (brushes). Finally, while Makita doesn’t claim any IPXX numbers, they do make a point of saying this tool provides specific dust and water resistance.
Makita XSF03 Specs
- Chuck: 1/4-in hex
- Speed (no-load) : 0/4,000 RPM (2-speed)
- Length: 9-7/8 in.
- Weight (with battery): 3.8 lbs.
- Warranty: 3-years limited
- Bare Tool Price: $119.89
- Kit Price: $229.88
- Kit with Impact Driver Price: $259.00
Get the Makita XSF03TX2 Kit
The Makita XSF03TX2 kit seems like the way to go. It includes the 199145-0 collated autofeed screwdriver magazine along with a bag, charger, and two 5Ah battery packs. You can pick it up for $349.
