Makita Split Shaft Power Heads Announced
Makita Split Shaft Power Heads Announced
The last few years the major power tool manufacturers have been making a major push into the handheld Outdoor Power Equipment (OPE) world. This makes sense as batteries improve to power tools only previously powered by 2-stroke motors. While most manufacturers have only explored battery technology, one sees the value of both technologies.
Pick Your Power
Depending on your needs Makita split shaft offers power heads in either 4-stroke or dual 18V (X2) configuration. Either power head can pair up with 8 different attachments (not counting an extension shaft). Below are the listed specs but they don’t really translate between the two. There isn’t a good way to compare the two power heads.
Gas Power Head
- Engine Displacement (cc) : 25.4 cc (this is the same engine on the Makita String Trimmer we previously reviewed)
- Engine (HP) : 1.1 HP
- Power Type : 4-stroke gas
- Fuel Type : Unleaded gas
- Fuel Tank Capacity : 20.3 oz.
- Crank Case Capacity : 2.7 oz.
- Dry Weight : 10 lbs.
Battery Power Head
- Shaft Type : Multi-tool attachment
- No Load Speed (var. 3 spd.) : 0 – 9,700 / 0 – 8,200 / 0 – 5,700 RPM
- Battery : 2X 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion
- Overall Length : 39-3/4″
- Net Weight (without battery) : 9.8 lbs.
- Power Type : Cordless
- User Type : Farm/Ranch and Occasional User
Available Attachments
As I mentioned above, there are 8 different attachments in the Makita split shaft system not counting the extension shaft. There is both a curved and straight shaft string trimmer, a brush cutter, articulating and straight hedge trimmers, cultivator, pole pruner, and an edger. Noticeably missing from the attachment offerings are any sort of paddle sweepers or blowers. Pretty decent selection though.
Which One Is For You?
It depends on your usage. If you have a large yard, the gas powered one is probably your best bet. But if you own a bunch of batteries for your other Makita tools, the cordless one may also work. If you have a small yard, the cordless may be for you. Although, if you’re comfortable with gas powered small engines, the 4-stroke gas unit may be for you.
It really depends on your individual situation and if you already have Makita batteries. Either way, having options is good for everyone.
About the author
Jeff Williams
Contributing Editor Jeff Williams is a carpenter for a commercial General Contractor specializing in concrete, steel, and wood buildings. Jeff comes from a long line of contractors. His parents started a commercial General Contracting firm many years ago and it has afforded him life-long, hands-on learning opportunities from rough and fine carpentry all the way to structural steel and concrete. Jeff has a Construction Management degree and loves the thrill of coordinating and successfully managing large jobs from start to finish. Inspired by the difficulties sometimes encountered to complete punch lists his motto is, "Work hard until the job is done."
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[…] motto when it comes to tools. Even knowing this, I was still surprised when I learned that they had two different power heads available for the couple shaft system. There’s a 4-stroke gas powerhead and also an 18V X2 battery […]
Can I use a power broom with the battery power head I see it’s not listed.