The Makita XNB01Z cordless brad nailer has been on the market for a while now, and it has garnered a respectable reputation among professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. Being a cordless option, it offers the convenience and flexibility that many people look for in a brad nailer. In this comprehensive review, we will dive into the features, performance, pros, and cons of the Makita XNB01Z so you can decide if it's the right tool for your needs.
The Makita XNB01Z is an 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 2" Brad Nailer, which means that it is specifically designed to drive 18-gauge brad nails ranging from 5/8" to 2" in length. This cordless nailer is part of Makita's expanding 18V LXT ecosystem, which is the world's largest cordless tool system powered by 18V lithium-ion slide-style batteries. This compatibility allows users to use the same battery and charger across a wide range of Makita tools, making it a convenient and cost-effective choice for those who already own other Makita 18V LXT products.
Features
Design
The Makita XNB01Z features a compact and ergonomic design that weighs only 7.7 lbs with the battery installed. This lightweight construction helps reduce user fatigue during extended periods of use, making it ideal for both professional and home use. The nailer also has an anti-dry fire mechanism, which prevents the tool from firing when there are no nails in the magazine, protecting the work surface and the tool itself.
Battery and Charger
As mentioned earlier, the XNB01Z is part of Makita's 18V LXT ecosystem, which means it is powered by Makita's 18V LXT Lithium-Ion batteries. The nailer itself does not come with a battery or charger, so you will need to purchase them separately if you don't already own compatible batteries and a charger. The good news is that the nailer is compatible with all Makita 18V LXT batteries, so you have the option to choose between different battery capacities based on your needs.
Depth Adjustment
The Makita XNB01Z features a tool-less depth adjustment dial, which allows users to easily control the depth of the nails driven into the work surface. This is particularly useful when working with different materials and thicknesses, ensuring that the nailer delivers the perfect depth every time.
Magazine Capacity
The nailer has a magazine capacity of 110 nails, which is quite generous for a cordless brad nailer. This means that you can work for extended periods without having to stop and reload the magazine constantly. The magazine is also designed with a viewing window, allowing users to easily check the remaining nail count at a glance.
LED Light
The XNB01Z is equipped with a built-in LED light that illuminates the work area, improving visibility and accuracy in low-light situations. This is especially useful when working in tight spaces or when ambient lighting is insufficient.
Performance
The Makita XNB01Z delivers reliable and consistent performance, driving nails accurately and with minimal recoil. The nailer can fire up to 1,660 nails per charge when using a 5.0Ah battery, which is quite impressive for a cordless brad nailer. Furthermore, the battery life is consistent, allowing users to work for extended periods without worrying about constantly recharging the battery.
The nailer is also relatively quiet compared to other cordless brad nailers on the market, which is a significant advantage when working in noise-sensitive environments.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Lightweight and ergonomic design
- Part of Makita's 18V LXT ecosystem
- Tool-less depth adjustment
- Good magazine capacity
- Built-in LED light
- Reliable and consistent performance
- Quiet operation
Cons
- Battery and charger not included
- Can be prone to occasional jams
Conclusion
The Makita XNB01Z cordless brad nailer is a reliable and high-performing tool that offers the convenience of cordless operation without sacrificing performance. Its lightweight design, compatibility with Makita's 18V LXT ecosystem, and tool-less depth adjustment make it an excellent choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
However, it's essential to keep in mind that the battery and charger are not included with the nailer, which may be an additional expense for those who don't already own compatible Makita products. Additionally, while the nailer is generally reliable, it can be prone to occasional jamming.
Overall, the Makita XNB01Z is an excellent choice for anyone in need of a cordless brad nailer, offering the perfect combination of performance, convenience, and versatility.