Metabo HPT is refreshing the branding and messaging behind their MultiVolt cordless power tool system, focusing on the flexibility their tech provides.
The MultiVolt battery can power any of Metabo HPT’s 18V tools, as well as any of their 36V tools.
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If you want go lighter, such as with the more compact 18V tools, you can pair such tools with compact 18V battery options.
If you need to go longer, there are higher capacity MultiVolt batteries to choose from.
And if you want to go all day, Metabo HPT is the only brand to offer an AC adapter that works with ALL of their 36V cordless power tools.
Note: I’ll be putting a lot of time in with a couple of Metabo HPT 18V and MultiVolt tools as part of a sponsorship with the brand. If you have any questions or requests, please let me know!
The MultiVolt cordless power tool system has grown quite a bit, and is still growing. If you recall, the brand recently launched a new cordless full-size brushless router.
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The “MultiVolt Advantage” is easy to navigate.
Battery Options for 18V Tools
- 1.5Ah
- 3.0Ah – I really like this size battery for compact drills and impact drivers!
Battery Options for 18V or 36V Tools
- 2.5Ah/5.0Ah MultiVolt
- 4.0Ah/8.0Ah MultiVolt
Capacity is in 36V/18V format. For instance, first battery delivers 5.0Ah charge capacity when paired with an 18V cordless power tool, or 2.5Ah when paired with a 36V tool. The energy capacity, or 90 watt-hours is the same in any configuration.
AC Power Option for 36V Tools
- MultiVolt 36V AC adapter
My Take on it
I think that the 5.0Ah battery is the “sweet spot.” It works with all of the MultiVolt 18V and 36V tools and is a great place to start. If you need a lighter solution, go with an 18V tool and compact battery. If you need longer runtime, go with the higher capacity MultiVolt battery. And then you have the AC adapter if you need or want it for 36V tools.
For some tools, you can go 18V or 36V, such as with similar impact drivers in both systems. Do you think you’ll want to use it with a compact battery? Go with the 18V option. Do you think you might want to use the AC adapter? Go with the 36V version.
Retail Availability
The MultiVolt system is available at Lowe’s stores nationwide, as well as Menard’s, Amazon, and select independent dealers.
More specialty tools are also available online, such as:
- Rebar cutter/bender
- Cordless plunge router
- Metal connector nailer
- Duplex nailer
- 10″ cordless table saw
Many of these tools are not available from any other brand, such as the full 10″ sized table saw.
Quite a few of you have been asking for a cordless metal connector nailer. Well, here you go!
FREE Swag Offer!
Metabo HPT has revamped their cordless power tool displays at local stores and is offering a great incentive for you to check it out:
Step 1: Visit your local Lowe’s, Menard’s, or other Metabo HPT tool dealer.
Step 2: Take a selfie photo of yourself in front of their setup.
Step 3: Follow their posting instructions (full entry details are included in the social post embedded below).
Step 4: Enjoy your super soft Metabo HPT t-shirt.
The offer ends 6/20/21 unless supplies run out sooner.
“But I’m not on social media!” You can also participate via email! Check out the promo page for full details.
Social media rules:
But I don’t want to take a selfie!
This past weekend, I visited my parents for the first time in about a year and a half, and we caught them by surprise. Do you know what my father was wearing? A super-soft Metabo HPT t-shirt that I gave him a while back. It’s super-comfy, and I gave it to him because he tends to really like swag.
The Metabo HPT cordless power tools are definitely worth checking out, and a free super-comfy t-shirt is worth taking a selfie during your next visit to the store.
But in case you can’t make it to the your nearest Metabo HPT-stocking store, or maybe you’re not a fan of social media or selfies, how about this:
We asked Metabo HPT to set aside 5 t-shirts for a ToolGuyd reader giveaway.
Take another look at this Metabo HPT MultiVolt 18V and 36V family photo. Are there any tools you’d like to learn more about?
Maybe one of their cordless nailers, of which there are several industry-first’s? The sub-compact tools?
Are there any Metabo HPT tools you use and love? For me, it’s got to be the 18V triple hammer impact driver. I love using that tool more than any other brands’ impact, so much so that I bought and gave away a kit so that I could keep my review sample as a personal tool. It’s smooth, powerful, compact, and battery runtime is amazing.
Leave a comment before and fill out the entry form for a chance at one of 5 t-shirts. If you want a guaranteed t-shirt, be sure to check out Metabo HPT’s official giveaway. Metabo HPT’s giveaway ends 6/20/21 unless supplies run out sooner. Our entry period will end at 11:59pm ET 6/14/21.
Tim
I bought into the HPT line in the weird Lowes super clearance and think these tools are phenomenal.
They almost seem like a top tier brand without a home.
I’ll be expanding further into nailers, the new router and the table saw ASAP.
Big Richard
Their table saw is the best cordless option out there, imo. Not only is it a 10″, unlike other brands 8 1/4″, but it is the only one with the AC option. You won’t be disappointed.
Their miter saw is supposed to be pretty good, too. Menards has it on clearance right now and I have been so tempted to buy it.
Dave
Dibs
Stuart
If only it were that easy…
fred
I find it too bad that KKR could not have brought the Metabo (as in Metabowerke GmbH) and Metabo HPT (aka HKOKI – or the successor to Hitachi branded power tools) closer together to share one battery platform.
When I was still in business we had great respect for Metabo’s line of metalworking tools – and I now see some cordless versions that would seem to benefit from the wider distribution that might come from having the same platform as the Metabo HPT. Here is one example:
https://www.amazon.com/Metabo-KFM-18-LTX-5-5Ah-LiHD-kit/dp/B0714DQMJ3/
MM
I completely agree, if both systems had moved to the same battery platform that would have been amazing.
I just recently bought a Metabo (not HPT) compact recip saw specifically because it took jigsaw blades. The Metabo HPT one does too but I compared the two and felt the non-HPT one was better so that’s the one I bought. I considered jumping into the platform with both feet and picking up some batts, a nice charger, and a couple more tools but there was hardly anything else in the line which my current systems (Dewalt 20V/Flexvolt and M12) don’t already have. I was looking for a bandfile but Metabo’s is a whopping $500 plus different sanding arms are $150 a pop. On the other hand, if I could have also gotten into HPT tools as well with the same battery/charger buy-in? I’d have done it as they have a few things that nobody else really does. The plunge router, the nibbler with the long neck that keeps the motor away from the workpiece, etc. As it stands I plan on using an adapter to use my Dewalt 20V max batts, at least until they come out with some additional tools.
fred
We had both a Dotco and Dynabrade pneumatic bandfiles in the shop. I don’t think either was what one might call “cheap”.
Recently I saw that there is a Ryobi model that might be called “inexspensive” at $79
https://www.homedepot.com/p/RYOBI-ONE-18V-Cordless-1-2-in-x-18-in-Belt-Sander-Tool-Only-PSD101B/313933395
TonyT
That’s what great about Ryobi – they are the only affordable option for some many tools, such as that narrow belt sander (I’ve ordered one from Direct Tools), glue gun, drain auger, and so much more.
MM
I used an early 1990’s UK-market Black & Decker, 240V volt, for years before I wore it out. I’ve since learned that these come in two basic styles. The “contractor” version is fairly low power and typically takes a 21 inch belt. Arms for various width belts are available but they always take ordinary flat belts. These are offered by SBD (corded only), Makita, Ryobi, etc. The “industrial” version found in welding and auto body shops is a different beast. These tend to be much more powerful, using the same motor as an angle grinder, and use an 18″ belt. They typically have sanding arms with a radiused roller at the nose for use with non-woven polishing belts like Scotchbrite, though they can also be fitted with cylindrical rollers for flat belts as well. Cordless models are made by Metabo and Hilti. Ingersoll-Rand makes one that’s kind of in the middle; it takes 18″ belts but is on a 12V platform so clearly it’s not all that powerful, and it only has flat roller arms. Numerous companies make pneumatic versions ranging from light duty to very powerful.
From a belt availability standpoint I think the 18″ models have an advantage in that there are a variety of companies making high-quality modern belts in that size whereas the 21″ “contractor size” tends to limit you to generic tier belts, or you can cut them from wider belts.
I ended up buying the Makita XSB01Z, I figured since my earlier one was not an industrial grade model I could get by with that and it seems like a nice middle-of-the-road option. If I end up feeling that it’s underpowered or I end up getting a lot more use out of it than expected then I might go and pick up the Metabo but we’ll see how it does first.
fred
Proxxon also makes corded and cordless sanding files for hobbyist applications. The corded version has been the subject of a couple of posts on ToolGuyd – but here’s a link to a seller of the cordless:
https://www.micromark.com/Cordless-Proxxon-Belt-Sander-with-Battery-and-Charger
Also FYI – here is a link to a Dotco:
https://omegatec.com/dotco-gearless-belt-sander-12-23-12l2384-b1.aspx
MM
@Fred
I have seen (and used) many of those Proxxon tools before. I think they’re nice for what they are–model making tools–but they are extremely light duty. There was a competing line of tools, Minicraft, which I think may have been owned by Black & Decker many years ago? Like Proxxon they made scaled-down versions of common wood shop tools, and a line of rotary tools. My understanding is that they were the UK equivalent of a “Dremel” back then; I encountered both lines of tools visiting family in England during the early 1990’s. Micro Mark has their own lineup of mini power tools as well.
fred
BTW – the Makita cordless nibbler also seems to have a relatively long neck – but not sure how it compares to the Metabo HPT.
We often used an Evolution or Morse 9 inch circular saw for cutting corrugated roofing deck – the saw and the blade were designed (at the time) to produce better cuts with fewer sparks and hot debris than many other saws.
https://www.amazon.com/MK-Morse-CSM9NXTB-Cutting-Circular/dp/B00ISCAOJ4?th=1
We also had a corded nibbler (Kett brand 10ga.) too – but mostly it was assigned for cutting up old heating oil tanks. The only issue with it was the seemingly endless number of little discs that were produced as debris.
Leo B.
I’m interested in learning more about the full-size router, and its capabilities. I’m also curious about the saws, and the lack of a blade left circular saw. I think Metabo HPT could make a very well-executed blade left rear-handle saw, or a smaller blade left 6 1/2” saw. I think it’d be a good incentive for professionals to enter the line, in addition to the good nailer selection and the cordless/corded adapter for the stationary saws and power-hungry tools. I’m looking forward to seeing more from the brand!
Tom D
Placeholder reply.
MFC
Who took my placeholder?
Stuart
What are you talking about?
=P
Tom D
The AC adapter interests me because I have Milwaukee tools that seem to be able to draw MORE power than a standard outlet 15amp could provide – and so in theory an adapter wouldn’t work.
MM
You’re right that a wall adapter would put a hard limit on the power that it could supply continuously. Theoretically it would be about 1800 watts but in reality no power converter is 100% efficient so probably something like 1500 watts max would be my guess for any wall adapter expected to work in North America. There are some battery systems which can supply more than that, like Milwaukee’s M18 HO and MX series, the larger Dewalt20V max and Flexvolt, etc. I suspect the AC adapter will still work in HPT’s “high powered” tools, it just wouldn’t be as capable as a fully-charged large battery and instead would have similar power output as a partially-charged or smaller capacity battery.
It’s also possible that they could design the AC adapter to have the ability to provide higher amounts of power for short peaks by incorporating capacitors or battery technology into the adapter. I think a hybrid system like that makes a lot of sense for many tools, especially something like a chop or miter saw where you have relatively brief but high loads.
Bolt
I’d like to see more of the angle grinder and the plunge router since they’d get the most out of the ac/battery power.
fm2176
Much like Tim (first comment), I bought into MetaboHPT on a whim. I was already heavily invested in yellow, red, orange, and laser green brands, but the chance at a MultiVolt saw w/battery and one of the well-regarded pneumatic roofing nailers was too good to pass up. A few weeks later I found the few-frills hammer drill kit and the excellent 18v Triple Hammer on clearance for about $170 combined. Then the blue tool clearance took hold and I added Bosch to the mix… Now my house more Lithium in it than a Nirvana show circa 1992.
I’m a shameless walking tool brand promoter, with three M12 heated jackets; Milwaukee beer coozies, gaiters, beanies, and other gear; DeWalt safety shoes and boots, socks and ballcaps (still have a couple of buckets from the last time Lowe’s sold their 3-pack socks w/cap for $10); headlamps from Milwaukee, DeWalt, and Craftsman, and other stuff.
Would I wear a MetaboHPT shirt worn on ToolGuyd? Heck yes! Will I go out of my comfort zone and take a selfie at Lowe’s this week for a guaranteed shirt? Maybe, but I’d rather pay $15 for one. MetaboHPT should work some kind of gear agreement with Lowe’s. Fools like me would pay to get their brand more public awareness.
Metabo HPT
Hi there! We appreciate your business! If you’d like to be a walking brand promoter for Metabo HPT, and want more than a t-shirt worn on ToolGuyd, we have some available gear for sale on our website! More items will be added soon as well. Here’s the link: https://retail.metabo-hpt.com/
Fm2176
Thanks for the link! I checked it out and will definitely be ordering something soon. I splurged a bit today, buying the 36v hammer drill and the AC adapter.
Mike McFalls
If I wasn’t invested in a tool lineup; I’d consider giving Metabo HPT a serious look due to the versatility of their batter lineup! Their poster send such a clear and strong message; and honestly they stand alone with Dewalt FlexVolt (only on the battery as Dewalt tools are confusing) on battery compatibility across their entire line up. Makita had a similar thing going with their x2 lineup but ruined it with their decision to introduce a new lineup that’s not backwards compatible. Milwaukee has moved to high output in lieu of a 36v or 54v solution- which might be best of all but they too moved to an MX battery for some tools and are somewhere between Metabo\Dewalt and Makita.
joseph
One oddity I’ve noticed with HPT. They are showing a palm router on their poster but it does not seem to exist anywhere I can find. Am I missing something?
Stuart
Coming soon!! It has not been announced yet, I’m sure details are forthcoming.
Jared
Metabo HPT makes more tools than I realized. What’s the thing in the bottom left corner?
What about the similar shaped tool right above the cordless bandsaw?
MM
Very bottom left is a sheet metal shear. The thing right above it cuts and bends rebar.
The one above the bandsaw is a nibbler, but unlike most nibblers this one has a long “neck” to keep the cutting part farther away from the motor. I suspect this is to give it clearance to cut corrugated roofing or similar products.
Jared
Thanks!
Robm
If I wasn’t already heavily invested in dewalt. I’d go hpt multivolt. Sure battery capacity isn’t in the 12-15 AH range, but with the a/c adapter battery life won’t matter as much. I’d love to own some of the tools. Hopefully this system or a system like it is still around when I need to get new tools.
Jaycob P.
I bought the cordless 21 degree framing nailer and it’s a beast. I put together a bridge over my creek with it and it made it go way faster.
fred
We had a number of Hitachi (made before the sale to KKR) pneumatic nail and staple guns that were world-class tools for their time. So if the Metabo-HPT team has maintained some of that engineering/manufacturing capability – it bodes well for their nailers going forward.
Nathan
I bought a cordless framing nailer and wanted more batteries than what came with gun so went ahead and bought the triple hammer and it is my now go to impact. Love it and plan to add more multi volt tools to the trailer.
Perry
This is interesting timing for me, as I’m researching a replacement for my makita 18v line. I had forgot that metabo HPT has a miter saw, which is one of my sticking points since I do a lot of smaller trim and flooring jobs, and really like portability.
If the new router is anything like the older version corded plunge router, that would be fantastic. That older plunge router was the standard in many of the cabinet shops I ran, and I still have one in my own shop.