Perfect for Job Site Work
First I am pleased Makita names their tools 18V and not an exaggerated number with the word MAX added to it.
I’m a woodworker who builds & installs cabinets, doors, book shelves, etc. Makita 18V compact brushless tools are the perfect size for me. They’re light, compact, and have a very long run time for the type of work I do. I started with the Drill / Impact Driver combo set. I’ve driven a lot of wood screws in sheet goods, soft wood & hard wood and have installed a lot of door hardware, and am very pleased with both tools. The soft start trigger and work light are an added bonus. I added a XCV11Z canister vacuum. It’s just the right size for taking to job sites, not too bulky in my truck and big enough to meet my needs. It consumes more battery, so I got a 5.0Ah battery.
Now for the XTR01Z router. The most frequently used router bit for me is a top bearing pattern cutting bit. I use it with shop-built templates to install door hardware, do inlay repairs and occasionally do on-site joinery. My usual depth of cut is the thickness of a hinge leaf or strike plate done with a ½” diameter bit. This does not require a lot of power, so a small tool will do the job plus is easier to handle and gives me better visibility to the cut area. My first impression of the XTR01Z trim router was the fit and finish are great. There is a padded rubber grip that I like a lot especially when my hands get covered with sawdust. The router has an integral work light and electronic variable speed, both features have come in handy. I’m really pleased with the operating sound level- It surprised me. I have no way of measuring it, but it’s about half of what I expected and also not a high pitched whine. The battery mounts to the top, so the larger the battery the more top heavy the tool gets, fortunately for me, the 2.0Ah battery is all I need. I plan to make a larger sub-base probably out of clear Lexan or Plexiglas. This will help a lot when installing 4-1/2” hinges. I like this tool. I like having 1 charging system, I like having interchangeable batteries with fuel level indicators. I wish the accessory DC18SE automotive charger cost less, but sooner or later the right deal will come along. Hope you found this helpful.
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