Makita BTD140 LXT 18-Volt Lithium Ion Impact Driver Kit

$558 $260
(as of 22/07/2010 03:32 - info)
  • LXT Lithium-Ion battery and optimum charging system produces 280% more lifetime work with 2x more cycles.
  • Makita built 4-pole maximum torque motor delivers 1,280 in. lbs. of efficient torque in a compact size.
  • 50% more compact design at only 5-3/4″ long and weighs only 3.3 lbs. for less operator fatigue
  • LXT Lithium-Ion provides longer run time, 5x lower self-discharge (for use any time) and 16 firm holding contact terminals (for constant high power)
  • Makita’s proprietary hammer and anvil are made using the highest quality steel and heat hardened to last longer.

We’ve come a long way from sweat and a screwdriver. A hundred years ago, builders would never have envisioned a tool as powerful and efficient as this one. Heck, even 20 years ago. Science has ushered battery technology along, and the LXT Lithium-Ion system that powers this impact driver has a ton of advantages over standard NiMH or NiCad batteries. The Lithium-Ion technology means 1,400 battery life cycles, longer run time, lighter weight, a great reduction in the self-discharge rate and built-in shock-absorbing features to protect your battery.

But perhaps the coolest innovation is what Makita calls its 45-minute Optimum Charger. It actually talks to the batteries it charges throughout the cycle, using a built-in memory chip in the battery and, believe it or not, a CPU chip in the charger itself, which analyzes the data stored in the battery chip to decide on the best charging method at that time.

Slide one of these batteries onto the supremely designed impact driver and you’ll be amazed at what you can do. Despite its size (for the record, it’s 5-3/4 inches long and weighs barely 3 pounds), this driver kicks out an unbelievable 1,280 in./lbs. of efficient torque, a no-load speed of 2,300 rpm and 3,200 blows per minute, putting it way out in front of the pack. We really like the integrated worklight, too. It illuminates as soon as you pull the trigger, and it stays on for 10 seconds or so after you release the trigger, too – a handy little feature.

Makita’s always made ergonomically positive tools that feel good in your hand and take the strain off your body, and this one’s no exception. The slightly curved grip is so comfortable, and because it’s super compact and lightweight, this driver’s an absolute pleasure to run. — Kris Jensen-Van Heste

What’s in the Box
Impact driver, two LXT Lithium-Ion 3.0Ah batteries, 45-minute optimum charger, tool case

Impact Drivers

5 Reviews

  1. I. Pagel says:
    Posted May 15, 2010 at 12:00 am | Permalink

    This is a great driver, lots of power and the battery lasts forever. Everybody should have one in their house.

  2. H. Ellingsen says:
    Posted July 18, 2009 at 12:00 am | Permalink

    By far this is the best cordless hand tool I’ve ever purchased. I have several NIMH and NIcad powered hand drills 12v to 18v, and all suffer from short battery shelf life and run time. This Lithium Ion technology is wonderful. I purchased this particular Impact Driver refurbished with 2 – BL1830 3ah batteries, and Makitas Rapid charger all in one carry case. Since then I have driven several hundred 3″ drywall screws, and have only had to recharge the batteries once, each. Recharge time is 20 minutes and can almost be done during the course of ones coffee break. The carry case has also been a pleasant surprise, as I’m able to carry all sort’s of 1/4″ HEX attachments like my nut driver set as well as a set of 1/4″ HEX shanked drill bits, all fitting in the cases compartmented lid.

  3. P. Hanley says:
    Posted October 24, 2008 at 12:00 am | Permalink

    The chuck leaves the bit too wobbly from the start. I’m not speaking of the front to back spacing to allow the impact action, but the overall grip on the bit. It’s possible that if they provided a bit more control via the trigger, this would be remedied. However, I put down a floor of cement board, ran lag bolts into a few ledgers, and forced a few deck boards down, and this tool was indispensable while performing those jobs. It’s an absolute necessity for the contractor’s arsenal.

  4. Macedonian says:
    Posted May 11, 2008 at 12:00 am | Permalink

    Needed impact driver to do assembly work for a very large retailer. Friends and co-workers recommended Makita 140. Because of it’s light weight and long battery life I feel I made the right choice. Would recommend it to anybody.

  5. Doug says:
    Posted February 10, 2008 at 12:00 am | Permalink

    Just bought this gun a couple of weeks ago and all I can say is.. WOW!

    Screws just melt through wood (and keep on going if your not careful!)

    The Good: Drills ok, but it’s strength is in driving screws and bolts! I have a Panasonic 15.6V drill (which I love) but this gun requires little pressure, does not torque the wrist and has an amazing battery life. The little LED light sure is handy as well. Light weight and powerful! You don’t know what you’ve been missing until you’ve tried one of these!

    The not so good: Drills ok, and a little loud, but heck, it’s an impact driver, what do you expect? If your not careful, you can send a screw right through a piece of wood (and it takes surprisingly little effort!). This is a great gun for decks, etc..

    If you’re looking for just a cordless drill (your one and only) I wouldn’t start with this one. A cordless drill would be much more versatile than an impact driver BUT… If your looking for an impact driver, and know what their limitations are, this is the one!

    Will report back in a few months to offer feedback after I’ve put it to the test!


Leave a Reply

Related Products