Makita has just expanded its professional tool lineup with a silent but significant release this month. The power tool giant officially dropped the new 40V Max XGT Brushless 4-Speed 1/2-inch Square Drive Impact Wrench at major retailers. This tool promises to bridge the gap between compact size and heavy-duty performance for mechanics and contractors.
It appears Makita skipped the massive fanfare to get this tool directly into the hands of pros who need it most. The new model is already listed at Home Depot and other authorized dealers. Users can pick up the bare tool for roughly $339 or opt for the complete kit. This release signals Makita’s continued aggressive expansion of the XGT platform.
Delivering Serious Torque and Speed
The headline feature of this new impact wrench is the impressive power output packed into a relatively small frame. Mechanics know that breaking loose rusted or over-tightened bolts is the true test of any cordless wrench. This model delivers 465 ft-lbs of breakaway torque. That is more than enough muscle to handle suspension work, heavy equipment maintenance, and structural steel fastening.
It also offers a fastening torque of 260 ft-lbs. This balance ensures you have the power to drive lag bolts or lug nuts without stripping threads on delicate jobs. The power comes from a highly efficient brushless motor. Brushless motors run cooler and last longer than older brushed designs.
Key Performance Specs:
- Breakaway Torque: 465 ft-lbs
- Fastening Torque: 260 ft-lbs
- Max RPM: 3,200
- Max IPM: 4,000
- Drive Size: 1/2-inch Square
Speed is just as important as raw power in a professional shop. The tool features a variable speed trigger that feels ultra-smooth during operation. You can feather the trigger for delicate starts or pull it fully for maximum output. The wrench tops out at 3,200 RPM. This high rotation speed combined with 4,000 impacts per minute helps drive fasteners home incredibly fast.
Makita 40V Max XGT cordless impact wrench black and teal
Intelligent Modes and Rugged Design
Raw power is useless without control. Makita has equipped this impact wrench with six specialized auto-stop modes. You get three modes for forward rotation and three for reverse. These modes are a game changer for automotive technicians. They help prevent the common headache of shearing off bolt heads or over-tightening hardware.
When in reverse, the auto-stop mode can loosen a nut and then immediately stop the tool once the fastener is free. This prevents the nut from flying off and getting lost in a busy engine bay. It saves time and frustration on every job.
“These auto-stop modes will increase your fastening efficiency and help prevent overtightening that could otherwise damage your hardware.”
Durability is another major focus for the XGT line. This tool features Makita’s Extreme Protection Technology (XPT). XPT is a series of integrated seals engineered to channel water and dust away from key internal components. This is vital for construction workers who use their tools outdoors in unpredictable weather.
The physical design is also worth noting. The tool measures just shy of 6 inches in length. This compact footprint allows users to fit the wrench into tight spaces where a larger high-torque gun simply would not fit. It combines the access of a compact tool with the power of a mid-torque wrench.
The XGT Battery Advantage
This new impact wrench runs on the Makita 40V Max XGT battery platform. This system was launched in mid-2020 and has grown rapidly. The XGT batteries are designed for high-demand applications that stress standard 18V batteries.
The XGT system utilizes advanced digital communication. The tool and the battery actually talk to each other during use. This data exchange optimizes performance to prevent three common issues.
XGT Protection Benefits:
- Overload: Prevents the motor from burning out during heavy stalls.
- Overheating: Monitors thermal levels to keep the cells safe.
- Over-discharge: Stops the tool before the battery drains too low.
If you choose the kit version for $559, you receive more than just the tool. The kit includes two 40V Max XGT batteries and a rapid charger. This charger features a unique dual-fan design. One fan cools the battery while it charges. The other fan cools the charging circuitry itself. This results in significantly faster charge times so you can get back to work sooner.
Market Availability and Pricing
Makita has positioned this tool as a premium option for serious users. The bare tool price of $339 places it competitively against other pro-grade brands like Milwaukee and DeWalt. However, the $559 kit price offers better value for those who do not yet have XGT batteries.
Buying Options:
| Package Type | Price | Includes |
|---|---|---|
| Tool Only | $339 | Impact Wrench, Belt Clip |
| Full Kit | $559 | Tool, 2x Batteries, Charger, Bag |
Early reception looks promising. A handful of verified purchasers on the Home Depot website have already rated the tool 5 stars. They cite the balance of weight and power as a primary selling point. The tool also comes with a three-year limited warranty. Makita explicitly advises using only genuine XGT batteries to ensure the tool lasts for the full warranty period and beyond.
This release adds to a massive ecosystem. The XGT line now includes circular saws, rotary hammers, angle grinders, and even outdoor power equipment. For professionals already invested in the 40V platform, this impact wrench is a logical addition to the arsenal.
Who is this tool for?
- Automotive Mechanics: Great for lugs, suspension, and brake work.
- Steel Erectors: Perfect for structural bolting at heights.
- General Contractors: Versatile enough for driving large lags in timber.
The tool industry is moving toward higher voltages for cordless equipment. Makita is clearly betting big that professionals want the sustained power that 40V provides. This new impact wrench proves that they can deliver that power without making the tool bulky or unwieldy.
Conclusion
Makita continues to innovate with this latest addition to the XGT family. The new 40V Max Impact Wrench offers a compelling mix of high torque, smart safety features, and rugged build quality. It addresses the needs of professionals who require more than what a standard 18V tool can offer. While the price point is premium, the included technology and warranty suggest it is built to last. As the XGT line grows, it is becoming a dominant force in the heavy-duty cordless market.
What are your thoughts on the shift to 40V platforms? Do you think the extra power is worth the upgrade from 18V systems? Share your opinion in the comments below or tag us on social media using #MakitaXGT2025 to show off your current setup.
