Backed by its cutting-edge innovation, Makita has consistently engineered a broad range of power tools and industrial accessories. The Makita 18V LXT Li-Ion Cordless 3/8″ Angle Drill XAD02Z combines performance and convenience to provide a capable cordless solution for drilling and driving applications. The 3/8 inch keyless chuck makes bit removal fast and easy. Its compact 3-1/2 inch total head length makes the XAD02Z the tool of choice for drilling in close quarters. The XAD02Z sports a slim design and over a foot of tool extensions making it both easy and comfortable to use.
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Frequently asked questions about the Makita Right Angle Drill
Q: Is it possible to remove the handle from the drill for a better fit in tight spaces?
A: Yes, this unit comes with a removable handle.
Q: What is contained in the kit that comes with this product?
A: The kit comes with the bare tool only. The battery and charger are not included; you’ll have to buy them separately.
Q: Can the BL815 battery from the Makita 18V drill/drive cube fit this drill?
A: This unit will only use work with BL1830 and the BL185O 18V batteries. The BL1815 is too small to fit in the XAD02Z.
My Thoughts on Makita
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The basics
The XAD02Z is just another example of the manufacturer’s commitment to best-in-class engineering and innovative technology. Makita’s 18-Volt Lithium-Ion batteries have a respectable energy star rating which gives it an edge over previous technologies, especially in the fast-charging department. It is equipped with a soft grip, a low profile and a conveniently placed paddle switch for comfortable handling. Though the item does not ship with a battery pack, Makita does well to ensure its products are compatible with numerous 18-Volt battery packs.
Features and specifications explained in detail
The XAD02Z sports a Makita built four pole motor capable of churning out 121 in-lbs. of maximum torque. The variable speed motor can deliver up to 1800 RPM making it ideal for drilling into wood and steel. At only 12-3/8 inches in length, the engineers did a solid job of giving it a compact yet ergonomic design making it the go-to solution when drilling in tight spaces. The Makita 18v lithium ion battery series have the fastest charging time in the industry. Makita’s optimum charger can charge the 18-volt LXT batteries in only 30 minutes. Makita’s star protection technology facilitates efficient communication between the tools and the battery to exchange data in real time. Star protection computer control serves to monitor the unit’s operations to prevent overloading, overheating and over-discharging. Makita has also carefully engineered a built-in LED light, with afterglow, to better illuminate the workspace.
Product care and maintenance
To ensure you get the best out of your Makita right angle drill, it’s important to use it only as per the manufacturer’s specifications. Issues are most likely to develop when technicians fail to follow the instructions provide in its use and care manual. If you do experience any problems with the chuck system, it’s advisable to take it to an authorized Makita technician for examination and replacement.
Accessories
In the kit, you’ll only find the bare tool. You will have to purchase the battery and optimum charger separately. However, the unit is compatible with numerous Makita 18V Lithium-ion battery packs containing the star symbol. Common accessories in the Makita’s LXT series include rechargeable flashlights, job site radios and a multitude of combo kits. The unit is also commonly used alongside screw guns, rotary hammers, impact wrenches and grinders.
Who can use this cordless right angle drill?
The XAD02Z is perfect for steel framing, woodworking, garage installation, assembly, electrical works and any other task that demands a compact drilling solution in tough to reach spaces. As a result, the unit is very popular among carpenters, woodworkers, plumbers, as well as full-time and part-time contractors. Put simply, this unit has no trouble boring holes in either wood or steel surfaces. Hobbyists, absolute beginners, and DIYers will also find this item useful given its straightforward and easy-to-follow instructions.
What I didn’t like about the Makita XAD02Z right angle drill?
From a size and design standpoint; this unit does a good job. However, the chuck seems to have some minor flaws. Numerous technicians report that the clutch struggles to stay tight no matter how forcefully it’s tightened. The bits also tend to loosen after just a couple of starts and stops. If you encounter this problem it’s advisable to take the unit to an authorized dealer and have a chuck key installed. The failure to include a battery and charger in the shipping kit does not augur well with most buyers.
How this drill compares to other right angle drills?
Makita Vs Milwaukee
Both the Makita and Milwaukee pack 18V Lithium-Ion batteries. However, Makita’s star-powered technology is arguably the best in the market resulting in better battery life and faster charging times than the Milwaukee. The Milwaukee units, however, do pack more torque, 125 in-lbs. compared to the Makita’s 121 in-lbs. Thanks to its compact and ergonomic design, the Makita is arguably more comfortable on hand than the Milwaukee.
Makita vs DeWalt
DeWalt with its MAX 20-Volt battery units is a tad more powerful than the 18-Volt Makita units. However, you will hardly come across any job where the DeWalt excels and the Makita fails. Both manufacturers offer a 3-year warranty and free replacement for faulty tools. The variable speed impact drivers are almost identical but the Makita has a slightly higher RPM.
Makita vs Bosch
The Makita right angle drills have a 6 combo tool kit compared to the Bosch’s 4 combo kit. With Bosch, you get a 1-year warranty compared to Makita’s 3-year limited warranty. Both manufacturers offer 18V batteries for their units. Bosch units are also retail for a slightly higher price than Makita units.
What do users say about this item?
Most users are impressed by its lightweight nature as well as its compact and ergonomic design which makes it easy to work in tight spaces. The drill is both comfortable on hand and fun to use. Others say its innovative battery technology makes charging faster and contributes to a superb battery life allowing users to work longer on projects. The powerful motor has high variable speeds which get work done faster than other drillers in the market. The only downside to the unit is the average chuck which loosens over time; an issue reported by only a few customers.
Final thoughts
All in all, the Makita XAD02Z 3/8 Inch right-hand drill is a capable machine that delivers in a broad range of applications from steel to woodworking. The item is conveniently priced and comes with a set of high-quality tools. With this unit, you’ll be getting a powerful cordless drill that can stand the test of time. The Makita XAD02Z is a handy drill machine that deserves a spot in the list of the best cordless right angle drills on the market.
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