Makita recently debuted its 18-volt lithium-ion-powered drill/driver, model LXFD01CW, designed to accommodate a full range of drilling, driving and fastening tasks. An update of a 2006 model, this new drill is smaller and lighter on the outside, but even more powerful on the inside, says the company.

“To make this new drill so compact, we created a new planetary gear system and transmission that made it 20 percent more compact from a previous model,” says Ethan Haughawout, Makita’s product manager for cordless products.

The previous model weighed 3.5 .lbs. and offered 450 in.-lbs. of torque. The new model weighs 3.3 lbs. and offers up to 480 in.-lbs. for an improved power-to-weight ratio. Haughawout emphasized that the lithium-ion battery chemistry, which is the overall cutting-edge aspect of the drill, has not been altered.

The drill features 16 clutch settings and a two-speed transmission that can reach up to 400 rpm in low gear and up to 1,500 rpm in high gear.

Overall ergonomics of the tool have also been modified. There’s a new rubber grip on the handle for more comfort, while the overall length has been shortened to 7-9/16".

The Makita 18-volt drill/driver is well-suited for installation tasks, says Haughawout. “It’s great for installing hardware, such as sliding tracks for drawers, due to built-in LED lighting that helps illuminate the work area.”

The drill/driver sells for $219 with two batteries and a charger.

Contact: Makita USA, 14930 Northam St., La Mirada, CA 90638. Tel: 714-522-8088. www.makitausa.com

This article originally appeared in the June 2011 issue.