I own an older 18-volt impact driver. It’s a sure-fire work horse–and it weighs about as much as one.

Don’t get me wrong, it’s an exceptional tool, and it’ll drive a three-inch Phillips head screw without much effort. But that new Makita Lithium-Ion tool is a real improvement.

So why do I wish I owned the Makita instead?

First off, it’s very light. Weighing in at just by three pounds, it delivers an astonishing 1280 inch-pounds of torque.

Next, it’s a snub-nosed wonder. that little machine fits in tight
spots–and there’s always tight spots when you have large lumbering
tools.

At first, I thought the little light on the tool was hokey. soon after I needed it, and that’s when it became a real blessing.

If you’ve ever hunted
for a screw head in low light with the tip of a tool, you know precisely
what I’m talking about.

It additionally comes equipped with a handy belt hook
that makes me think they haven’t left out a trick.

If any of my relatives are reading that, I wouldn’t be one bit upset finding a tool just like that one under the tree.

More tools I wish I owned:

The fundamental Japanese pull saw.

More Makita coverage:

Makita’s product page.

Toolmonger’s review of that tool.

The Amazon page ($270, with a slew of 5-star reviews).