To conclude our Toolbox series with Makita, we are giving one lucky reader the chance to get their hands on the DK0014G202 XGT 40VMax 2piece Combo Kit – in celebration of the company’s 50th anniversary of trading in the UK.
The power tool and equipment industry can generate some lively debate on job sites up and down the country. Many professionals have strong opinions when it comes to the colour of the tools in their toolbox and what the best products are. The teal-blue colour associated with Makita is one that many are familiar with and will associate with expertise in cordless tool technology. In fact, the company, founded in 1915, has been active in the UK for 50 years this year – plenty of time to build a legion of Makita fans and brand advocates – which is to be expected, given the company’s investment into product development and battery performance.
Through this investment and with this experience, Makita has a strong understanding of what professionals need. Many will agree that the company offers an extensive product range that equips the end user with the equipment needed to handle a wide range of tasks with ease and aid on site efficiency and productivity.
With over 100 years of heritage and since entering the UK market 50 years ago, the manufacturer has evolved its cordless ranges to provide users with an array of machines that offer the improved flexibility and safety needed for regular, professional use.
Looking back
Makita launched its first battery-powered product in 1969; the 6500D Drill could be connected to a rechargeable battery using a short lead. In 1978, the company launched the 6010D – its first power tool with a built-in rechargeable 7.2V battery.
Since then, the company has introduced several more efficient battery technologies and has perfected a wide range of cordless products that deliver the power, speed, and run-time to handle any project.
LXT
2005 saw the launch of the 18V LXT platform in to offer professionals a safer and more flexible solution that also enables them to work disruption-free for longer. Due to their energy density capacity, lithium-ion batteries offer high output and can work for long periods of time between charges.
The introduction of LXT batteries enabled tradespeople to charge their tools at any time – as these batteries do not have to be drained down completely before charging. They also have minimal self-discharge, which enables users to ensure that their batteries are always fully charged at the beginning of the workday.
Since then there been further work to optimise the battery charging process, to ensure that its LXT batteries continue to perform at their optimum. It has designed its batteries to communicate with the charger and this allows the charger to identify any issues with the battery, such as over discharge or overheating. The charger will then work to rectify any issues (for example, by cooling the battery down before charging commences) to ensure no damage is caused to the battery – and make the charging process faster and more efficient.
As a result of this process, the company’s 18V LXT lithium-ion batteries can be charged in as little as 22minutes (for 3.0Ah batteries) up to 55minutes (for 6.0Ah batteries) – enabling professionals to keep their tools going throughout the day.
With over 270 LXT products in its range, professionals can easily switch between applications and tasks using the same battery to provide the power.
XGT
Most recently, Makita launched its XGT 40VMax and 80VMax battery platform, engineered to achieve the optimum power required for heavier load applications without sacrificing run time. In fact, the XGT 40VMax and 80VMax machines can deliver output that rivals the equivalent petrol and corded products without the noise, emissions, and challenges of working around trailing cables and storing, transporting, and handling fuel.
Similar to the LXT platform, XGT batteries have been designed for rapid charging and optimised run times. A 2.5Ah XGT battery will charge in just 28 minutes, a 4.0Ah battery in just 45 minutes, and a 5.0Ah battery in approximately 50 minutes, minimising user downtime. They have also been built for durability and feature a secure connection mechanism that prevents accidental detachment and a heavy duty, shock absorbing outer casing and cell holder that protects from accidental heavy impacts. What’s more, the batteries are IPX4 rated with a triple layer waterproofing, which means they are splash and shower proof – ideal for those working outdoors in unpredictable weather.
The expanding XGT range now comprises over 50 machines, including construction tools such as circular and mitre saws, impact drivers and brad nailers – and outdoor power equipment such as blowers, hedge trimmers, brush cutters, linetrimmers and split shaft multi-function tools.
To find out more about Makita UK and its wide range of cordless products visit www.makitauk.com
YOUR CHANCE TO WIN!
To celebrate its 50th Birthday in the UK, Makita is giving one lucky winner the chance to get their hands on the DK0014G XGT 40VMax 2piece Combo Kit. The DK0114G is a must have for any tradesperson and includes the TD001GZ XGT 40VMax Impact Driver and HP001GZ XGT 40VMax Combi Drill – as well as two 2.5Ah XGT batteries and the DC40RA Fast Charger all conveniently packed into a Type 3 Makpac case for easy storage and transportation.
All you have to do to be in with a chance of winning is answer the following question and provide your contact details:
