Tool review: Makita Impact Gold Double-Ended Power Bits, Nutsetters and Impact Socket Set
The Makita Impact Gold Insert Bits and Double-Ended Power Bits are designed for use with high-torque impact drivers. The Xtreme Torsion Technology helps the bits withstand high-torque fastening applications, and the five-step manufacturing process delivers superior fitment, according to the company. Power bits allow the user to insert the bit directly into the impact driver without the need for an insert bit holder. Impact Gold Double-Ended Power Bits give the user the added benefit of having two tips on one bit. These bits are made of high-quality steel.
The Makita Impact Gold No-Debris Grip-It Nutsetters have a non-magnetic snap-ring that holds the fastener securely in place without collecting unwanted metal debris, unlike other magnetic nutsetters, according to the company. These nutsetters are available in 5/16", 3/8" and 7/16".
The Impact Gold 9-pc 3/8" Drive 6-Point Impact Socket Set is machined from heat-treated alloy steel for extreme torque applications, including fastening applications by contractors and automotive technicians, with a black oxide finish for longer socket life. The 9-pc set includes a 1/4" Hex Shank Adapter with an Impact Gold 3/8” Square Drive Socket Adapter, which is machined from high-quality steel engineered for use with impact drivers, and tilts up to 15 degrees for work in tight areas.This set includes sizes: 5/16", 3/8”, 7/16”, 1/2”, 9/16”, 5/8”, 11/16” and 3/4”.
The Review
Pete Smet a technician of Le Mieux & Son Toyota in Green Bay, Wi, recently tested the Makita Impact Gold #2 Phillips Double-Ended Power Bits with the 3/8" Nutsetter and the 9-pc 3/8" Drive 6-Point Impact Socket Set. He liked that these tools were straightforward and easy to use.
Smet found the packaging of both tools “appealing” saying that, to him, the “Makita name and colors are familiar and trusted.”
After using the Double-Ended Power Bits together with the 3/8” Nutsetter to remove vehicle dashboards, Smet liked that this combo didn’t round out the screws. He says, “It was a huge time-saver,” and the bits “gripped screws well.” In fact, there was nothing that he didn’t like about this tool.
Smet says the 9-pc 3/8" Drive 6-Point Impact Socket Set worked well in tight spaces and he found it helpful that the sockets stayed in the adapter, while in use. He used the set for servicing exhaust headers on a ’65 Ford Mustang saying, “I was previously only able to use a wrench or a 1/4” ratchet, which did not offer enough leverage. With the Makita tool and adapter, I was able to use an impact tool which saved me a lot of time and frustration.”
He also liked the Tilt Adapter feature of the socket set.
To improve all three tools, Smet only suggested that longer versions be made available.
On a scale of one to 10, Smet rates #2 Phillips Double-Ended Power Bits and 3/8" Nutsetter combo at the full score of 10, due to the tools’ longevity. He notes that he used the tool to hang drywall at home and “after hanging sheetrock in a 12’ by 20’ room, I was still using the first bit,” he says. There were “no rounded screws, which is astounding.”
Smet gives the 9-pc 3/8" Drive 6-Point Impact Socket Set an eight out of 10. He said that it is a “high-quality product. There were no issues with rounding bolts, like with some other brands.” He also mentioned it felt good in his hands.
