Makita CXT 12v tools, are they worth it? CXT review and discussion
Fellow reviewer Zach and myself both have picked up tools in Makita’s CXT 12v line over the past few years, they are very affordable, light weight and easy to use tools. Let’s jump right into our thoughts and impressions of the Makita CXT line.
Reciprocating Saw Thoughts
Zach - This saw is perfect for making small or tight cuts. I have used this on PVC pipe, small pieces of lumber and even smaller tree limbs. The two trigger feature is really convenient and ingenious. To make a normal cut you use the standard back trigger. Then if you want to make an easy one handed cut, simply use the palm trigger located in the middle of the tool. The chuck is has a smooth turn to put in your blade as well.
Indy - My favorite thing about this saw is the double triggers, you can use a close grip or an extended grip with this saw to really reach into tight places. The only thing that holds this saw back is it’s limited power, but for small, tight jobs I love it.
Circular saw
Zach - This mini circular saw is fantastic. I have used it to make one handed cuts on plywood. Very useful if you are working on a ladder or tighter spaces. Don't let the size fool you, it definitely packs a wallop. The only thing I would change is maybe to move the motor to the middle of tool instead of sticking out the side. Still a nice little saw.
Indy - I find these little saws on sale pretty often, so often that I own two. It’s a great saw for making small, precise cuts in delicate material. I find myself reaching for this saw for thin materials before I even think about grabbing an 18v saw.
Zach - When it comes to Makita CXT tools, I have personally owed and used many. These include the multitool, compact reciprocating saw, circular saw and the 3/8 impact wrench. The Makita 12 volt line is designed for comfort and to be as compact as possible. Each tool is very light even with a higher amp hour batteries.
Indy - I seem to find tons of deals on the CXT line and I enjoy using the tools. I have used the drill, impact driver and wrench for many projects around my home.
Multi-Tool Thoughts
Zach - Very light tool with easy to assemble blade head. Also equipped with five speed setting depending on to what your cutting. This is great for making precise cuts with ease. Also this is one of the most reasonably priced multi tools I have seen to date.
Indy - Tiny, light and easy to use, I have never found myself needing a more powerful multi-tool. Baseboards, PVC and anything else I can throw it is cut with ease. I think I got one at Home Depot for $30 on sale and I use it often.
Drills, Impact Drivers and Wrenches
Zach - I'm surprised how powerful this impact wrench is for being 12 volt. It's so light and very manageable. This is perfect if you need to assemble or disassemble so many different projects or jobs. Great for getting into tighter spaces just like many of the other CXT tools. Also ideal for above head work.
Indy - Perfect for around the house work, I have worked on cabinets, sheds, fences, bathrooms and dirt bikes with my drills and impacts. Affordable and durable, CXT is the way to go.
Conclusion
Zach - Over all this is a great line from what I've used so far. One downside is it is hard to find in store. So you may have to order online. Like many lines there is always room for improvement, but as I said before Makita really takes the consumers comfort in mind. The grips on every tool are awesome for hand feel. Also mentioning again, the weight. Very convenient for lighter work and also compact enough to take with you wherever you go easily. I would check out Makita's CXT line whenever you can. Definitely worth a look.
Indy - Only downsides I find to this line are like Zach said, is it’s hard to find in store. Also the brushless CXT tools are a pretty huge step in price that instead I bought into the LXT line. However whenever do see a sale, I grab the any CXT I can find. Definitely perfect tools for around the home!
