Makita has come out with a new 18V LXT cordless brushless impact driver, model LXDT06, that features a 3-setting power and speed selection switch, as well as an innovative Quick-Shift mode. The Quick-Switch mode is essentially an electronic controller that allows for quicker application speeds.
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When you set the tool to Quick Shift mode, it starts off at the highest speed and power setting. Once the impact mechanism kicks in, signaling an increase in fastener resistance, the tool automatically shifts down to the medium speed setting for final tightening. This leads to quicker speed of application, compared to starting off at the slower medium speed setting, and still works to prevent damage to bits, fasteners, and workpieces.
Features and Specs:
- 1/4″ hex bit holder
- brushless motor
- 1500 in-lbs of maximum torque
- 4 speed and power settings:
- Low: 222 in-lbs max, 0-1400 RPM, 0-1300 IPM
- Medium: 490 in-lbs max, 0-2300 RPM, 0-2800 IPM
- High: 1500 in-lbs max, 0-2800 RPM, 0-3400 IPM
- High with Quick-Shift mode
- Quick-Shift mode (automatic downshifter and speed/impact reduction)
- Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) for improved dust and weather resistance
- 5-1/8″ length (this looks to be best in class)
- LED worklight with independent on/off switch
Buy Now(Kit via Amazon)
Buy Now(Bare Tool via Amazon)
First Impressions
Makita’s new LXDT06 looks to be a direct upgrade of their LXDT01 3-speed brushless impact driver. We’re very intrigued in how well it performs, and the “Quick-Shift” feature sounds very appealing.
The video below describes how the Quick Shift technology works, and after a quick call to Makita about the tech, I feel that I can answer any questions about it.
The new LXDT06 impact driver looks to be an upgrade to Makita’s LXDT01 driver, with last spring’s LXDT08 impact driver being a lower-priced option.
We cannot comment further about a tool we have yet to test or see in action, but the LXDT06 seems to be a very competitive top-shelf impact driver. Actually, it seems to be the top brushless impact driver currently on the market, with more innovative features and a shorter front-to-back length than Milwaukee’s M18 Fuel and Dewalt’s premium 20V Max DCF895 brushless impact drivers.
Makita seems to be leading the way with their impact driver technology. First it was with brushless motors, then it was the development of multiple speed settings, and now they’ve got automatic downshifting. It will be interesting to see what comes next.
This post was originally published October 16th, 2012, and was republished April 17th, 2013 with new information added.
joe says
The only thing i like aoto is my cars transmission
Jeff Tieman says
This is shorter in length than even Dewalt’s brushless impact, by 1/8″.
Stuart says
True, but it is unclear as to whether the Makita accepts 1″ insert bits or only 2″ power bits.
Jeff Tieman says
Oh, yeah. That’s right, I didn’t think of that. Doh!
EPConsult says
Impact drivers typically will only accept power type
bits, because they use a ball retention chuck for
a positive lock.
For limited clearance you can buy 1 1/2″
insert bits made by Apex,they won’t lock in
but they shouldn’t fall out if inserted all the way.