Tool Review: Makita LXT 1/4" and 3/8” Cordless Ratchets

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Q: How did the tool/equipment function as far as saving you time?  

A: Makita was one of the first manufacturer’s whose cordless products I sought out and purchased. I remember when my 7.2V cordless drill was the new kid on the block and once the other techs had used mine, many more in the shop appeared. The LXT lineup is the current top dog by Makita. This ratchet is great for mobility and functionality. The versatility to use either 1/4" or 3/8" greatly increased the range of jobs it can be used for. No dragging air lines around, or losing time in tight spaces where a traditional hand ratchet wouldn’t have range of motion. It’s slimmer profile helps it get into more restricted places. Now, even though it can be used as a non-powered ratchet, I recommend using a traditional ratchet or wrench to break stubborn fasteners loose before applying the Makita LXT. With 800 rpm, it quickly backs out or snugs up fasteners. 

Q: What kind of setup was involved before using the product?  

A: Once you remove it from the packaging, you need to plug in the charger and fully charge the included 18V LXT battery. Then, select the adapter for the size of drive needed and away you go. 

Q: How easy was it to use?  

A: With a charged battery, the LXT ratchet is pretty much point and shoot. Place the desired socket on the adapter, apply it to the fastener, select a direction and pull the trigger. 

Q: What types of jobs/repairs did you use this tool for?  

A: We used the LXT ratchet for removal of panels and heat shields on several pieces of equipment. One tech used it for valve cover gasket replacement on their personal vehicle, a Hyundai Sonata. We used it for tightening the front cover fasteners on a John Deere industrial engine in one of our air compressors. 

Q: How was its packaging? Did it come with any accessories?  

A: It was packaged in a branded carboard box. The LXT ratchet comes with the tool, rapid charger, one battery, 1/4" and 3/8” interchangeable adapters and a branded canvas carry bag. 

Q: What features did you like?  

A: The Makita LXT ratchet’s slimmer profile than other cordless ratchets make it easier to use in tighter spaces.  We really appreciated how the battery mounting is in line with the overall profile. 

Q: Is there any way you could think to improve or add to this tool?  

A: If Makita is going to stick with the interchangeability of the drive heads, I’d like to see a positive locking feature and a good secure storage option for the remaining drive head. Maybe make the heads opposing, so have 1/4" on one side, and the 3/8” on the flip? It would make the trigger possibly awkward on the flip, so maybe allow for the head to be flipped and indexed? I know of traditional hand ratchets like this out there. 

Q: On a scale of 1 to 10, how would you rate this tool overall?

A: With the thin profile, interchangeable heads, higher RPM, and overall balance we feel confident that this tool rates a solid nine.