A dies grinder can be your best friend when doing metal prep work and it’s not like there is always going to be an outlet around to plug into. This new cordless die grinder LXDG01 ($349, Amazon) seems like an obvious new addition to the already huge line up of Makita 18v tools. Our biggest concern was going to be power and runtime.
Power and speed were right on, the Makita die grinders spin at 25,000 RPM and this new cordless model one is no exception. When we really pushed on the material it just kept on digging, certainly no lack of power in the die grinding applications. Brand new titanium coated burs certainly help get the job done but we were very impressed how similar the cordless die grinder performed to our other corded version.
In runtime it is obviously going to vary greatly on how hard you run the tool but with pretty constant use the battery made it over 30 minutes, or enough time for the other battery to be done charging. Vents on the top of the tool help keep the motor cool but also blow heat and debris away from the user. While this probably isn’t the ideal tool for constant all day use, it is well built and certainly would be very handy in small-midsized prep jobs.
One complaint we had, more so with the majority of die grinders cordless or corded, why no variable speed controls? Sure most of the time it would stay on full throttle anyway but why not give a little more control options. To see it in action watch the youtube video or read the full press release on new Makita Cordless Die Grinders below that.
La Mirada, Calif. – Makita, a worldwide manufacturer of technologically advanced power tools that are more compact with less weight yet deliver industrial strength power and results, has added to its groundbreaking line-up of 18V LXT Lithium-Ion tools which now includes over 40 cordless solutions. The new 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless ¼" Die Grinder (model LXDG01) combines speed and portability in a compact size for a range of metalworking applications.
"The new LXDG01 die grinder was designed for surface prep metalworking applications like grinding, smoothing and cutting," said Ethan Haughawout, Makita Product Manager, Cordless Tools. "With 25,000 RPM and 18 Volts of Lithium-Ion power, it is another trade solution for pro’s working in plumbing, automotive, service and maintenance." The new LXDG01 is powered by a Makita-built motor that delivers 25,000 RPM for faster grinding. The compact design with barrel grip weighs only 4.4 lbs., and the stepped neck makes it ideal for working in tight spaces. The slide switch has a lock-on for operator convenience, with vent slots designed to direct exhaust air away from the user. The LXDG01 also features a solid aluminum housing for added durability. The LXDG01 includes a built-in L.E.D. protection circuit with over-torque to protect the motor. In addition, the L.E.D. light flashes red when it is time to recharge the battery.
Makita 18V Lithium-Ion
The LXDG01 is Makita’s latest release in the 18V LXT platform with more solutions on the way. Makita is the leading innovator in cordless and LXT was the industry’s first 18V Lithium-Ion line-up in 2005. Today there are 40 Makita 18V cordless tools powered by one 18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery. Makita’s groundbreaking 18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery charges on Makita’s ENERGY STAR qualified Rapid Optimum Charger and reaches a full charge in only 30 minutes for more work and less downtime.
The LXDG01 18V LXT Lithium-Ion 1/4" Die Grinder is a kit and includes the die grinder, 2 ea. 18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery, 30 minute Rapid Optimum Charger (ENERGY STAR qualified), Contractor Bag, 1/4" collet cone, and 2 ea. wrench. Model LXDG01Z includes the tool only (batteries and charger not included).