Professional Builder’s Tibby Singh nails it with the Makita Cordless 18V Framing Nailer LXT DBN900
Makita is a well-known brand that manufactures high quality power tools and probably the first brand of tools I started my career in construction with. I was excited to get my hands on the new Makita Cordless 18V Framing Nailer LXT DBN900 and was looking forward to testing to see if they had nailed it.
Owing to their size, Framing Nailers – or first fix nailers – don’t usually come in their own case. It is, however, the first time I’ve seen one in its own solid protective case, and there’s the added convenience of ample space to store batteries, charger and spare nails. So, no more hunting for batteries or nails when you’re in the middle of a job.
As expected, it’s not a lightweight tool but, having said that, I don’t know of any first fix nailer that is. It weighs between 4.9kg to 5.4kg, depending on the battery being used. However, it’s well balanced so it doesn’t feel like it’s leaning to one side. The advantage of having some weight behind the tool is that it adds to the sturdy, solid feel, giving you confidence in every nail driven. It is designed to handle 50mm-90mm nails, making it versatile enough to tackle framing and other construction tasks with ease.
Easy to operate
The tool is incredibly easy to operate with an ‘On’ button on the side. It is equipped with both single-fire and bump-fire modes, which gives you the ability to tackle a wide range of tasks. Whether you need a precise, single nail placement or the speed of rapid-fire nailing, this gun has got you covered. And you can rest easy knowing that with Makita’s advanced technology you’ll experience no misfires. Although you may need to check if the nail really has gone in because, with its air spring mechanism, it penetrates through the surface in a flash.
The design on the nail gun isn’t just about power but the control too. With the pointed teeth on the nose, it excels at skew nailing, which is also known as toe nailing. This is a technique for fastening two pieces of wood together by driving nails at an angle. This improves the accuracy and means it’s less likely to slip, which can be dangerous. Usually, first fix nail guns don’t have a nose cover, but this Makita example has. It ensures that delicate surfaces stay undamaged, keeping your work surface clean and pristine. It’s not often you would need to do this, but the option is there and it is a great idea.
Lighting the way
Another bright feature is a small light at the front of the tool, which improves visibility when working in darker environments. The lamp keeps on lighting while pulling the trigger or actuating the contact element. This then goes off approximately 10 seconds after releasing the switch trigger and contact element.
The depth adjustment dial allows you to easily customise the depth of the nails, ensuring a perfect finish on every project. It’s clearly marked which way you would need to turn the knob for the nail to be penetrated more, or less, into the surface so there’s no wasting time or nails by guessing.
This nail gun is engineered with a practicality in mind. It has a swivelling hook to hang the tool, so when you’re taking a break or moving to the next working area your gun is always within reach. The rubberised grip gives you a comfortable hold while also protecting the tool from bumps and drops.
So, whether you’re hammering out a big project – or just nailing the odd screw here and there – the new Makita Cordless 18V Framing Nailer LXT DBN900 is a serious tool that packs a punch. It combines durability, efficiency and innovation in one tidy package, ready to take on anything you throw at it. It’s safe to say, no screws have been left loose, and Makita have nailed it!
For more information on the Makita Cordless 18V Framing Nailer LXT DBN900 go to DBN900 – 18V Framing Nailer LXT®.
