Makita has one of the largest 18V lines of power tools in the marketplace. Not only do they offer 18V tools, but they also have 12V and 36V tools which we have reviewed in the past. One of the things I love about their 36V line of tools is how it uses 2-18V batteries which means no new battery platform. However, there are sometimes we don’t need all that power. We want power but we want a smaller tool and that is where the Makita 12V line comes into play. So let’s take a look at the Makita 12V Impact Wrench Review.
Makita 12V Impact Wrench Review Overview
The Makita 12V impact we are talking about today is part of their CXT line which you can see by the teal and black colors. The CXT line of tools features their newer slide pack batteries.
We all know that Milwaukee has a huge line of 12V tools, but I feel that most people don’t know much about the Makita 12V line of tools. Their line is huge and they offer a wide range of tools such as drills, impact drivers, saws, fans and more. Some power tool manufacturers only offer a couple of 12V tools which means there isn’t a chance I would ever invest in them. With Makita’s expansive line of 12V tools, it’s worth an investment if this is the type of tools you need.
Makita 12V Impact Wrench Review Features
The Makita impact wrench, model WT02Z, is small in size (6-3/8″ long) and only weighs 2.3 lbs (with battery) making it a tool that won’t wear you out. While the tool is small and light, don’t let that fool you as it packs a powerful punch. The wrench delivers 103 ft/lbs of torque.
The impact wrench is powered by their 12V battery which comes in a 2Ah or 4Ah battery and features a battery fuel status fuel gauge.
The WT02 has a 3/8″ anvil that features a friction ring.
One of the best features of this impact, besides power and weight, is the comfort. I love the grip on this tool. I am not sure if it’s the size or the rubber grip, but either way, it just feels nice.
The tool uses a variable speed trigger that will allow a user to power this up from 0-2,600 rpm and 0-3,200 ipm.
On the head of the impact, there is a rubber piece that not only protects the tool but other areas you are working around. Just below the nose section, there is an LED light which is activated when you pull the trigger.
Makita 12V Impact Wrench Review Performance
For the size, this impact wrench is impressive. There is plenty of power and the comfort is great. Anyone looking for small engine repairs, HVAC, Electricians, automotive uses and more, this is a great tool.
We always try to find at least one con in our reviews, but this one is pretty hard. When you have a compact tool, that delivers ample power and is comfortable to use for long periods of time you have a winner. Not to mention that it comes with a 3-year warranty, plus all the other tools you can expand into.
Makita 12V Impact Wrench Review Value
The Makita 12V impact wrench retails for about $110 on Amazon for a bare tool. I know some might expect this to be priced under $100 because of the size and it’s a bare tool. I really don’t think the price is bad though. Yes, I would agree I would like to see it under $100, but Makita makes quality tools. Sure if you have to buy a battery and charger, you are better off going with a kit. However, if you are into the 12V line, an extra $110 isn’t too bad.
Makita 12V Impact Wrench Review Final Thoughts
Overall I am a huge fan of the Makita 12V line of tools. I think it’s underrated and one of those hidden gems that not a lot of people know about. Like others I have talked to, once you get your hands on them, it’s one of those tool platforms you fall in love with.
The WT02Z isn’t any different. For the size, it’s powerful and comfortable to use which means you can use this for longer periods of time and get into those hard to reach places. If you’re looking to get a small impact wrench, this is one you should take a look at as it performs and has other great tools on the same 12V platform you can expand into.
I like the CXT line up as well, so much so that I ecently sold off most of my M12 tools and replaced them with CXT tools. I have only kept the M12 tools that Makita thus far do not offer their own alternatives, such as the bandsaw, circular saw, rotary tool etc.
I find them to have a better grip due to the slide packs, not to say Milwaukee are bad, its that the Makita grip is nicer. They are also on the whole a little less expensive and from my own experience, equal in power, runtime etc. Definitely worth a look as an alternative to Milwaukee
And as a bonus the above tool is actually cheaper here in Australia than it is in the USA at just $99!
I Love Makita very much Because this is really nice,
I fill Free and Easy to use this Tool, Overall I am a huge fan of the Makita tools. I think it’s underrated and one of those hidden gems that not a lot of people know about. Like others I have talked to, once I get My hands on them, it’s one of those tool platforms I fall in love with.