Tool Ratings

The cordless drill has become a ubiquitous tool for most of the working world, and even most households nowadays; it has become indispensible for everyone who now owns one. Due to this, there are numerous manufacturers and models available – many to choose from. Makita has been there from the beginning and has developed a very good name for their products. The Makita BDF452HW carries forward with that reputation and sets a standard that other toolmakers must now follow.

Though the Makita BDF452HW is not the absolute best cordless drill on the market, it certainly qualifies as among the top models now available. The motor powering the BDF452HW produces up to 450 inch-pounds of torque, runs up to 1500 RPM, and is capable of drilling into ½ inch-thick steel and 1½ inch-thick wood. As is also a recurring standard, the ½ inch chuck is keyless and includes an auto-locking spindle and the drill has an LED light for seeing where you are drilling. The 18V 1.5 Ah lithium-ion battery is probably the biggest weakness with this model; it drains about 25% faster than the competition, but the 15-minute charge time makes up for this somewhat. Plastic coats the majority of the body, but a well-padded rubber grip makes it easy to hold on to and comfortable to use as much as you need it. And, even with the battery installed, this tool only weighs some 3.5 pounds – one of the lightest out there. As the all-metal transmission is also included with the Makita BDF452HW cordless drill, it will be very durable; to prove that, it comes with a three-year warranty.

Drilling with the Makita BDF452HW 18V cordless tool is made far easier due to the light weight, well-balanced design, and a comfortable grip. The keyless chuck makes switching out bits simple and quick. And, even though the batteries do run out a bit quickly, it is very easy to keep one battery in the charger and simply change them out when needed. That may make one think that the BDF452HW is not for professional use, but nothing could be further from the truth. Makita has made this drill capable of being used everywhere from the worksite to a mechanic’s shop and even in your home’s closet. Powering through your tasks is made even easier thanks to the LED work-light, and the balance helps keep things lined up right for the perfect cut. In short, the Makita BDF452HW belongs where it often sits on many people’s charts – top of the list.
 
Included with the drill at purchase are the tool itself, two 18V 1.5 amp-hour batteries, one 15-minute quick-charger, and one hard plastic carrying case. Suggested retail for the Makita BDF452HW 18V cordless drill is right around US$370, but it is not uncommon to find it for less than $230 at many retailers.

Tool Rating: 4.6 of 5.0