Makita Launches Two 4-Speed 18V Impact Wrenches On the Compact Side
Makita has introduced two more cordless impact wrenches to the 18V stable of tools. The new additions are on the compact side of the torque spectrum, though they’re almost reaching into the mid-torque range.
This power level provides the kind of fastening control that automotive, installation, and fabrication Pros will appreciate. These new Makita cordless impact wrenches come with either a friction ring anvil or a detent anvil.
10-Second Summary
- Models: Makita XWT14Z (Friction Ring), XWT15Z (Detent)
- 1/2″ square drive
- Brushless motor
- 240 ft-lbs max torque, 430 ft-lbs nut-busting torque
- 4-speed power selection
- Speeds: 1,000-3,200 RPM and 1,800-4,000 IPM
- 3 forward and 3 reverse Auto-Stop modes
- Warranty: 3-year
- Price: $199.99 (bare tool), $399.99 (kit)
Capable Makita Power
Each Makita 18V 1/2″ impact wrench features a brushless motor that delivers 240 ft-lbs of max torque. They also drive 430 ft-lbs of “nut-busting” (take-off) torque.
It’s an interesting power level, almost too high to be considered compact but not quite reaching into where we expect true mid-torque models to be. The size really seals the deal, though. Right at 4.0 pounds with a battery and just 5 5/8 inches long, these are strong compact models.
Precise Fastening
Power is only half of the equation with these wrenches. The other half revolves around precision. These Makita impact wrenches feature a 4-speed power selection switch that lets you cycle between various speeds (RPM) and impacts per minute rates (IPM). The modes function like this:
- Mode 1: 0-1,000 RPM / 0-1,800 IPM
- Mode 2: 0-1,800 RPM / 0-2,600 IPM
- Mode 3: 0-2,600 RPM / 0-3,400 IPM
- Mode 4: 0-3,200 RPM / 0-4,000 IPM
Additionally, they have three forward and three reverse Auto-Stop modes that help you avoid damaging materials or breaking your fasteners. The forward Auto-Stop modes let you apply more torque while keeping it within a specific range.
The reverse Auto-Stop modes give you more control when removing fasteners. It seems particularly helpful when working overhead or anywhere you might lose a nut or bolt when removing it.
In reverse Auto-Stop mode, the impact wrench senses lowering tension and will stop rotation when the nut is near the end of the bolt, even at full trigger. This helps eliminate the hassle of dropped fasteners.
Aaron Israel, associate product manager, Makita U.S.A.
Makita Impact Wrench Specifications
- Models: XWT14Z (friction ring), XWT15Z (detent)
- Speed: 0-1,000 / 1,800 / 2,600 / 3,200 RPM
- Impacts per minute: 0-1,800 / 2,600 / 3,400 / 4,000
- Torque (fastening): 240 ft-lbs (330 Nm)
- Torque (nut-busting): 430 ft-lbs (580 Nm)
- Weight: 4.0 lbs.
- Length: 5-5/8 in.
- Warranty: 3 years
- XWT14Z price: $199.99 (bare tool)
- XWT15Z price: $199.99 (bare tool)
