Full Review ⭐ Makita TW001GZ: Max Li-ion XGT Brushless Impact Wrench, Batteries and Charger Not Included, Black, 40 V

The Makita TW001GZ is part of Makita's 40V max XGT line of cordless power tools. It's a high-torque impact wrench designed for heavy-duty fastening applications. This brushless impact wrench delivers up to 1,280 ft-lbs of max torque and 1,180 ft-lbs of tightening torque, making it one of the most powerful cordless impact wrenches on the market.

With no battery or charger included, the tool itself allows users to pair it with other existing Makita 40V max batteries. The TW001GZ features a brushless motor for increased efficiency and longer runtime. It's engineered for demanding automotive and industrial fastening tasks that require substantial torque output. Overall, the Makita TW001GZ provides extreme power in a compact cordless platform.

Brushless Motor

One of the standout features of the Makita TW001GZ impact wrench is its brushless motor. Brushless motors have become increasingly popular in power tools in recent years due to the benefits they offer over traditional brushed motors.

Brushless motors are more efficient than brushed motors, producing significantly more torque and power from a compact motor. This allows Makita to make the TW001GZ impact wrench more powerful and compact than previous models.

The increased efficiency also means less energy is lost as heat during operation. This improves runtime when using a battery and reduces wear and tear on the motor. Brushless motors have no brushes to wear out over time like a brushed motor, so they have a much longer lifespan.

Overall, the brushless motor gives the Makita TW001GZ excellent power while staying energy efficient. This combination of power and efficiency makes brushless tools like this impact wrench a great choice for professionals and DIYers alike. Another excellent brushless impact wrench from Makita is the Makita DTW300Z Li-ion LXT: Brushless Cordless Impact Wrench, Batteries and Charger Not Included, 18 V. The DTW300Z has a brushless motor that provides up to 740 ft-lbs of max torque and up to 2,600 RPM for fastening applications. It is designed for heavy fastening applications with high power-to-weight ratio.

The DTW300Z has three speed modes that allow the user to match the speed and torque to the application. The brushless motor provides longer run times per charge compared to brushed motors. It is powered by Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion batteries which provide fade-free power. The DTW300Z has built-in L.E.D. lights to illuminate the work area.

The brushless motor is electronically controlled to optimize battery energy use for up to 50% longer run time per charge. It also provides faster, stronger tightening while the brushless motor eliminates carbon brushes, enabling the motor to run cooler and more efficiently for longer life. So in summary, the DTW300Z is another great brushless impact wrench choice from Makita providing high power, improved efficiency and longer tool life.

Power and Torque

The Makita TW001GZ impact wrench delivers impressive power and torque for heavy-duty fastening applications. It's equipped with Makita's 40V Max XGT brushless motor that produces up to 339 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 420 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque.

With a maximum torque rating of 339 ft-lbs, the TW001GZ can easily loosen and tighten large lag bolts, lug nuts, concrete anchors, and other challenging fasteners. The 420 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque gives you the muscle to break free even severely rusted or over-tightened bolts. This exceptional torque capacity makes the TW001GZ a versatile tool for automotive, construction, maintenance, and industrial uses where stubborn and high-torque fasteners are encountered.

The four-pole brushless motor utilizes advanced electronics and magnets, rather than brushes and commutators, to efficiently produce high torque while eliminating friction and heat buildup. This results in cooler operation, longer tool life, and more power focused directly into fastening tasks. With no brushes to wear down over time, the brushless motor also requires lower maintenance while maintaining consistent torque output.

Overall, the Makita TW001GZ combines brushless efficiency and Makita's most powerful cordless platform to deliver the torque professionals need for driving, removing, and breaking loose even the toughest bolts and hardware.

For those looking for a more compact and lighter weight impact wrench, the Makita XWT15Z: 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 4-Speed 1/2 Sq. Drive Impact Wrench w/Detent Anvil is an excellent option. Running on Makita's 18V LXT battery system, the XWT15Z produces up to 480 ft-lbs of fastening torque and 700 ft-lbs of nut-busting torque. The four-speed power selection switch allows users to choose the optimal power and speed for the task at hand. At only 5.9 pounds with battery, the XWT15Z is designed for reduced operator fatigue during prolonged use. Like the TW001GZ, it utilizes a highly efficient brushless motor for maximum runtime. With the convenience of cordless operation and impressive torque capabilities, the Makita XWT15Z is a versatile impact wrench suitable for automotive service, general maintenance, and construction applications.

When choosing an impact wrench, key factors to consider are battery platform, torque output, speed settings, and weight. Makita's extensive 18V and 40V Max cordless systems offer users a wide range of tools that can share compatible batteries and chargers. Opting for a higher voltage battery generally provides more torque and runtime, while lower voltage tools are typically more compact. Brushless motors enhance efficiency and durability for professional use. Multiple speed settings add flexibility depending on the demands of the application. Weight is an important consideration for extended use. Makita impact wrenches like the TW001GZ and XWT15Z balance power and performance with ergonomics.

For demanding high-torque fastening jobs, the Makita TW001GZ 40V Max impact wrench is a top choice. When size and weight are important but high torque is still required, the 18V XWT15Z model offers a lighter and more maneuverable alternative. Makita builds their cordless impact wrenches with proven brushless motor technology combined with batteries engineered for efficiency and long life. This makes them ideal power tools for professional automotive, construction, industrial, and maintenance trades where reliability and heavy-duty performance are essential.

Ergonomics

The Makita TW001GZ impact wrench is designed with ergonomics in mind to provide comfort and control during use. At only 2.5kg, it has a lightweight and balanced body that reduces fatigue from extended overhead tasks or when working in tight spaces.

The rubberized soft grip handle ensures you maintain a firm grasp without straining your hands, even when wearing gloves. It has an optimized grip circumference and rubberized cushion at the end to absorb vibration. The battery location is designed for an even front-to-back weight distribution. With the compact size and ergonomic shape, users report the Makita TW001GZ allows them to access hard-to-reach fasteners easily.

Overall, the ergonomic design elements like the light weight, balance, and comfortable grip make this a user-friendly impact wrench that reduces strain on the user.

Controls

The Makita TW001GZ features both variable speed and control modes to provide maximum versatility for a wide range of applications. The variable speed trigger allows precise speed control, starting slowly and increasing speed as you squeeze the trigger. This helps prevent damage to fasteners and materials by avoiding sudden torque bursts when starting a fastener.

The mode selector switch allows you to toggle between two tightening modes: rotation impacting mode and rotation + impact mode. Rotation impacting mode utilizes only the impact mechanism for high torque removal of stubborn bolts and fasteners. Rotation + impact mode combines the rotation of the motor with the impacts for efficient tightening in wood, metal, and other materials. This dual-mode control makes the TW001GZ extremely versatile for automotive, construction, and industrial use.

The forward/reverse selector switch provides instant direction changes without losing speed. An LED light illuminates dark work areas. The lock-on button enables continuous operation without holding the trigger for more comfortable extended use. Overall, the variable speed trigger and multiple mode options provide excellent control and flexibility for a wide range of fastening applications.

Battery and Charger

The Makita TW001GZ impact wrench does not include batteries or a charger. It is designed for use with Makita's 40V max XGT batteries and chargers, which must be purchased separately. The XGT line uses Makita's most advanced lithium-ion battery technology for longer run times and more power.

The tool is compatible with Makita's dual port 40V max rapid optimum charger, which can fully charge an XGT battery in as little as 28 minutes. It also works with the standard 40V max charger which takes about 52 minutes to charge. Makita offers 40V max battery packs in capacities ranging from 2Ah to 6Ah so you can choose the size that fits your needs in terms of run time versus weight. Overall the charger and battery flexibility makes it easy to keep the impact wrench powered up. Just note you'll need to budget for those items in addition to the tool itself.

Durability

The Makita TW001GZ impact wrench is built to withstand tough job site conditions. It has an all-metal gear housing that provides increased durability and longer tool life. The metal gear housing protects the inner components from damage if the tool is dropped.

In addition, the TW001GZ has a dust and water resistance rating of IP56. This means it is protected from limited dust ingress and can withstand water spray from any direction. The impact wrench can operate in light rain or dusty environments without issue. The water/dust resistance makes the TW001GZ suitable for outdoor applications and reduces maintenance from dirt buildup inside the housing.

Overall, the all-metal gear housing and IP56 rating give the Makita TW001GZ excellent durability for professional use. It's a rugged and reliable impact wrench.

Applications

The Makita TW001GZ impact wrench is ideal for automotive repair and heavy-duty construction applications where high torque and power is needed. Its brushless motor delivers up to 339 ft-lbs of max torque and 1,600 RPM, making it suitable for tasks like loosening stubborn lug nuts, bolts on heavy equipment, or structural fasteners.

The compact size and ergonomic grip with rubber overmold make it easy to handle in tight spaces like under the hood of a car or truck. It can drive large lag bolts into wood or concrete anchors into masonry with authority. The variable speed trigger gives excellent control when precision is needed during final tightening of bolts. With the capacity to use up to 40V Makita Li-ion batteries, it has the stamina to power through long days on automotive or construction job sites.

The Makita TW001GZ is built to withstand harsh jobsite conditions. Its steel gears, all-metal drivetrain, and protective bumper guard provide durability. The sealed design protects the motor and components from dust and water. Overall, it's an ideal impact wrench for heavy-duty fastening applications where power, precision, and ruggedness are required.

Pros and Cons

Makita's TW001GZ impact wrench offers many benefits but also has some downsides to consider.

Pros

• Powerful brushless motor provides excellent torque while running cooler and more efficiently than brushed motors
• Delivers up to 339 ft-lbs of max torque and 3,600 RPM for heavy-duty fastening applications
• Compact and ergonomic design reduces fatigue during prolonged use
• Variable speed trigger gives precise control over output
• Durable and reliable construction made to withstand job site abuse
• Uses Makita 18V LXT lithium-ion batteries for long runtime without fading

Cons

• Batteries and charger must be purchased separately, adding to initial cost
• Heavier than some competing models at over 4 lbs with battery
• Lacks built-in LED light that some users find helpful for visibility in tight spaces
• Not ideal for precision fastening jobs that require lower torque settings
• Higher price than some other cordless impact wrench models

Overall, the Makita TW001GZ is a powerful and rugged impact wrench well-suited for demanding bolting applications. It's a quality tool with excellent torque and runtime when paired with LXT batteries. The high initial investment and lack of included charger may discourage some users, but for those seeking maximum cordless performance, it's an impact wrench worth considering.

Conclusion

The Makita TW001GZ is an impressive cordless impact wrench that delivers outstanding power and performance. Its brushless motor provides increased efficiency, runtime, and durability compared to brushed motors. With 260 ft-lbs of max torque and variable speed control, it can handle a wide range of automotive and industrial fastening applications.

The compact and ergonomic design makes it comfortable to handle, even when using it for extended periods. The ASS mode helps prevent overtightening and stripping of bolts. Overall, the Makita TW001GZ is a versatile, high-quality impact wrench suitable for professional use.

For mechanics, automotive technicians, and industrial users who need maximum torque and power in a cordless platform, the Makita TW001GZ is an excellent choice. It may be more tool than the average DIYer needs, both in terms of power and price. But for professionals who use impact wrenches every day, the performance, features, and durability of the TW001GZ make it a worthwhile investment.