Full Review ⭐ Makita XWT15Z: 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 4-Speed 1/2" Sq. Drive Impact Wrench w/Detent Anvil, Tool Only

The Makita XWT15Z is an 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 1/2" Square Drive Impact Wrench designed for demanding fastening applications. Part of Makita's expanding 18V LXT line, the XWT15Z delivers up to 420 ft-lbs of max torque and 1,440 impacts per minute for outstanding fastening and loosening performance.

The XWT15Z features a compact and ergonomic design at only 5-3/4" long for improved control and maneuverability in tight spaces. It has a 1/2" anvil with detent pin for quick and easy socket changes. The 4-speed power selection switch allows users to match the speed and torque to the application.

Overall, the Makita XWT15Z combines high power and performance with excellent ergonomics and control, making it a versatile and productive addition for automotive service, machinery maintenance, and construction fastening tasks.

Power and Performance

The Makita XWT15Z impact wrench is powered by an efficient 18V LXT Lithium-Ion battery that provides ample runtime to complete demanding jobs. With BL Brushless motor technology, it delivers impressive torque output up to 1,180 in/lbs and no-load speed up to 2,600 RPM for excellent power and performance.

The brushless motor is electronically controlled to optimize battery energy use and provide faster driving and bolting speeds. It has a 4-speed power selection switch that lets you adjust the speed and torque for a range of applications. The lower settings allow more control for precision tasks while the higher settings provide maximum torque for heavy-duty fastening jobs. With the 18V battery and high-performance brushless motor, the Makita XWT15Z can take on challenging automotive, construction, and industrial bolting applications with ease.

Another top-rated impact wrench from Makita is the Makita DTW701Z. This 18V Li-ion LXT Brushless model delivers up to 440 ft-lbs of maximum torque and up to 2,900 RPM for blazing fast performance. It utilizes Makita's proprietary hammer and anvil impact mechanism to produce more power while the brushless motor helps increase speed, runtime and durability.

With an ultra-compact design at only 5-5/8" long, the DTW701Z can fit into tight spaces to remove bolts in confined areas. It has 3 speed settings to match torque and speed to the application. The variable speed trigger gives you more control over the output. At just over 3 lbs with battery, this impact wrench is designed for comfortable all day use.

The DTW701Z comes as a bare tool without batteries or charger. So you'll need to purchase Makita 18V LXT batteries and charger separately. It's compatible with Makita's expanding 18V system for maximum flexibility. This impact wrench is ideal for automotive repair, fleet maintenance, industrial manufacturing and construction applications where power and performance are critical.

When choosing an impact wrench, key factors are torque output, RPM speed, battery runtime, ergonomics and features. Makita's 18V brushless models like the XWT15Z and DTW701Z deliver on all fronts. With BL Brushless motors, they provide substantial bolting torque along with long runtime from efficient batteries. The compact size fits in tight areas while the variable speed trigger gives you control. If you need serious power for demanding fastening jobs, Makita's 18V impact wrenches are worth a close look.

Design and Ergonomics

The Makita XWT15Z impact wrench features a compact and lightweight design that makes it easy to maneuver and reduces user fatigue during extended use. Despite its small size, the tool still packs considerable power.

The body is constructed from durable, high-quality materials to withstand job site abuse. It weighs only 7.9 lbs with the battery installed. This light weight allows users to hold the tool overhead or in tight spaces without tiring out their arms.

For improved comfort, the XWT15Z has rubberized soft grips on the main handle and side assist handle. These provide a secure, non-slip hold and help absorb vibrations. The grip contour fits nicely in the user's hand, reducing hand fatigue. Even after long work sessions, the soft rubber coating helps make the impact wrench comfortable to hold.

The well-balanced design also aids in control and ease of handling. With its compact size and ergonomic grip, the XWT15Z delivers power while remaining maneuverable and user-friendly. Its thoughtful design reduces strain on the user during demanding automotive and construction tasks.

In addition to the XWT15Z, Makita also offers the TW140DZ 12V Max Li-Ion CXT Impact Wrench. This ultra-compact impact wrench delivers 140 ft-lbs of max torque and 1,220 RPM yet weighs only 2.0 lbs with battery. Its diminutive size makes it ideal for tight work areas. The TW140DZ features Makita's proprietary hammer and anvil impact mechanism for increased speed and durability.

Despite the small package, the tool provides surprising power. The variable speed trigger gives users precision control over the output. With the lightweight 12V Max CXT Li-Ion slide-style battery, the TW140DZ maintains the balance and handling of a much larger tool. For more information, check out the Makita TW140DZ.

Both the XWT15Z and TW140DZ reflect Makita's commitment to compact, ergonomic design. The reduced weight and thoughtful grip make these tools comfortable for extended use. Makita has engineered the impact wrenches to deliver power and performance without sacrificing maneuverability or ease of handling. Users will appreciate the reduced strain and fatigue thanks to the smart ergonomic designs.

Anvil and Chuck

One of the standout features of the Makita XWT15Z impact wrench is its detent pin anvil design for quick and easy socket changes. The anvil has a spring-loaded detent pin that locks sockets into place, allowing you to swap sockets without needing to constantly hold them in place. This makes changing sockets faster and more convenient during automotive repair or construction projects requiring multiple socket sizes.

The impact wrench has a heavy-duty 1/2" square drive chuck that provides a secure grip on sockets, preventing slipping or wobbling during high torque applications. The all-metal chuck is designed for durability when subjected to impacts and high tightening forces. Combined with the detent pin anvil, the 1/2" square drive chuck gives you fast socket changes and robust socket retention when undertaking demanding bolting jobs. Overall, the anvil and chuck design enables efficient use of multiple sockets when working with the Makita XWT15Z impact wrench.

Durability

The Makita XWT15Z impact wrench is designed for durability and long-lasting performance. It features an all-metal drivetrain, from the gears to the hammer mechanism, ensuring it can stand up to heavy-duty use without wearing out prematurely.

The impact wrench has a sealed construction that makes it resistant to dust and water ingress. It is rated IP56 for dust/water resistance, meaning it is protected from dust deposits as well as high pressure water jets from any direction. The seals help keep debris and moisture out of the internal components, protecting them from corrosion and wear.

This sealed, all-metal drivetrain allows the XWT15Z to be used reliably in harsh job site conditions. Users can be confident that it will continue delivering power and performance even after extended use in dusty, wet environments. The robust construction provides durability that professionals require from their power tools.

Controls

The Makita XWT15Z impact wrench features easy-to-use controls for smooth and precise operation. The variable speed trigger allows users to dial in the precise amount of torque needed for the job. Squeezing the trigger harder increases speed and torque, while a lighter squeeze provides more control for delicate tasks.

The speed selector dial has four settings - 1,200 / 2,000 / 2,600 / 3,200 RPM and IPM. This allows users to match the speed to the task, providing the right amount of power without overdriving fasteners. For heavy-duty bolting applications, the higher 3,200 RPM setting delivers maximum torque. For lighter jobs, the lower settings give users more control.

An easy access forward/reverse switch makes changing directions simple with a thumb-operated slider. Quick direction changes come in handy when backing bolts out or releasing stuck fasteners. The convenient placement of the switch minimizes wasted motion during use.

Overall, the XWT15Z has excellent ergonomic controls that allow users to optimize the tool's performance for the job at hand. The variable speed and 4-speed selector give flexibility, while the forward/reverse switch improves convenience.

Batteries and Charger

The Makita XWT15Z impact wrench comes as a bare tool without a battery or charger included. This helps keep the initial cost down for those who already have compatible Makita 18V LXT batteries and chargers.

The XWT15Z is powered by Makita's 18V LXT Lithium-Ion batteries, which are sold separately. It's compatible with Makita's range of 18V LXT slide-style batteries from 1.5Ah up to 6Ah capacity. Higher capacity batteries will deliver longer runtimes.

To charge the batteries, you'll need a compatible Makita 18V LXT charger. Makita makes both single port and multi-port chargers to choose from. The chargers take about 30-60 minutes to fully charge an 18V LXT battery.

So you'll need to factor in the additional cost of batteries and a charger if you don't already have them. But the advantage is you can share batteries across other Makita 18V tools you may own.

Pros

The Makita XWT15Z impact wrench comes with many advantages that make it a great choice for automotive and construction professionals.

• Powerful brushless motor: The brushless motor provides improved runtime, more power and increased speed. Makita claims the XWT15Z delivers up to 740 ft-lbs of max torque and up to 4,000 RPM for faster performance. The brushless motor is also more efficient and requires less maintenance.

• Compact and ergonomic: Weighing only 4.0 lbs with battery, the XWT15Z is designed for user comfort. It has an ergonomic shape that fits nicely in your hand even when wearing gloves. The short head length allows access in tight spaces.

• Fast socket changes: The 1/2" anvil with detent pin allows for quick and easy socket changes. You don't need to hold the socket in place while tightening or loosening bolts, making the XWT15Z very convenient to use.

Cons

While the Makita XWT15Z impact wrench delivers impressive power and performance, it does come with some drawbacks to consider.

No Included Battery/Charger

One notable con is that the XWT15Z does not include a battery or charger. You'll need to purchase these separately, which adds to the overall cost. Some competing models include a battery and charger in the box, making this impact wrench a less appealing value proposition if you don't already have compatible Makita batteries. You'll want to factor the additional expense into your budget if you need to buy a battery and charger.

Expensive

Additionally, the XWT15Z carries a relatively high price tag, especially if you have to purchase a battery and charger. While it delivers excellent power and durability, the cost may be prohibitive for some buyers, especially DIYers or hobbyists. The brushless motor and all-metal transmission do justify the price to an extent, but it's still at the higher end of the market. If your usage will be light, you may want to consider a more budget-friendly alternative.

Conclusion

The Makita XWT15Z impact wrench is an excellent tool that delivers outstanding power and runtime. With a brushless motor that delivers up to 740 ft-lbs of max torque and speed control with 4 modes, it can handle even the most demanding fastening applications.

Despite its power, the XWT15Z maintains a compact and ergonomic design at only 5.9" long and weighing just over 4 lbs with battery. This makes it comfortable to use for extended periods. The 1/2" detent anvil provides versatility in fitting sockets, while the variable speed trigger gives you control.

Overall, the Makita XWT15Z combines best-in-class power and performance with thoughtful design features that make it a pleasure to use. It's built to withstand heavy use on job sites while delivering the torque needed to drive large fasteners. For those looking for a high-powered impact wrench that won't disappoint, the XWT15Z is an excellent choice offering great value. It comes highly recommended for automotive and construction professionals who need a tool that can handle the toughest jobs.