Tool Review: Makita three-piece combo kit

Oct. 30, 2008
Makita’s Three-Piece Combo Kit has all the cordless power needed for installing and removing nuts and bolts, drilling and fastening tasks.

Makita's Three-Piece Combo Kit has all the cordless power needed for installing and removing nuts and bolts, drilling and fastening tasks. The 3/8" impact wrench (BTW253) sports 155 ft./lbs. of torque and weighs 3.4 lbs. The 1/2" driver-drill (BDF452) delivers 450 in./lbs. of torque and 1,500 rpm, weighing 4.1 lbs. The flashlight features a new xenon bulb for extra brightness. The combo kit also includes two 18V lithium-ion batteries, a Rapid Optimum Charger and a contractor bag.

THE REVIEW

This is what former Pep Boys instructor Bruce Lunsford said about the Makita set:

"As a technician, this is one of the better combo kits I have seen — this hits home for having the right tools for the trade. Most combo kits have a lot of woodworking tools that are not suited for professional auto repairmen and if you buy [just the auto tools] separate it increases the total cost. This makes it a good value.

"This 15-minute Rapid Optimum Charger which communicates with the battery's built-in chip throughout the charging process to optimize battery life is one of the quickest charging systems I have used. It actively controls current, voltage and temperature. The charger also has a built-in fan to cool the battery to produce longer life of the battery system.

"This set lives up to the Makita name for quality and service. The 3/8" impact wrench's torque coupled with the long-life battery gives it full power from start to finish. The 1/2" driver-drill with four-pole motor features a great power-to-weight ratio.

"With the multi-position flashlight, this makes a complete usable set for the technician and it is all put together in a heavy-duty travel bag."

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