Makita 40V MAX XGT Brushless 2-Piece Combo Kit Review

This 40V XGT combo kit delivers the torque numbers that matter: 1,950 in.lbs from the impact driver and 1,250 in.lbs from the hammer drill. Those aren’t marketing numbers — they’re what you get at the chuck when you’re driving lag bolts or boring through engineered lumber.

Skip it if you’re already invested in Milwaukee M18 or DeWalt 20V MAX. Starting a new battery platform costs money. This kit makes sense for contractors upgrading from corded tools or older 18V systems who need genuine industrial-grade power.

Power and Performance Specifications

The torque specs tell the real story here. The impact driver pushes 1,950 in.lbs of max torque — enough to drive 6-inch structural screws without pre-drilling. The hammer drill delivers 1,250 in.lbs, which handles everything from timber drilling to masonry anchors.

Tool	Specification	Value
Impact Driver (GDT01)	Max Torque	1,950 in.lbs
	No-Load Speed	0-1,100 / 0-2,100 / 0-3,200 / 0-3,700 RPM
	Impacts Per Minute	0-1,100 / 0-2,600 / 0-3,600 / 0-4,400 IPM
	Length	4-3/4”
	Weight with 2.5Ah Battery	3.7 lbs
Hammer Drill (GPH01)	Max Torque	1,250 in.lbs
	No-Load Speed	0-650 / 0-2,600 RPM
	Blows Per Minute	0-9,750 / 0-39,000 BPM
	Chuck Size	1/2”
	Length	7-1/8”
	Weight with 2.5Ah Battery	5.3 lbs

The impact driver features 4-speed power selection with a one-touch speed selector button. The low speeds aren’t throwaway settings — they’re calibrated for control when you need it. T-mode handles self-drilling screws, and auto-stop mode prevents over-driving.

Battery System and Runtime

Full charge in 28 minutes beats sitting around waiting for batteries. The kit includes two BL4025 2.5Ah batteries and the DC40RA rapid charger with digital display. That display shows actual charge status, not just blinking lights.

The 2.5Ah batteries keep the tools lighter than 4.0Ah packs. At 3.7 lbs for the impact driver with battery, you’re not wrestling unnecessary weight overhead all day. The trade-off is runtime — fine for most tasks, but heavy users might want spare batteries.

Reviews highlight the kit’s suitability for heavy-duty applications in wood, masonry, and metal work. The 4.0Ah batteries mentioned in some listings add convenience for extended use, though the standard kit ships with 2.5Ah cells.

Durability and Jobsite Protection

Both tools feature Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) — Makita’s system for dust and water resistance. XPT matters in Montana where jobsites see everything from spring mud to summer dust storms. The impact driver gets a reinforced gear housing for drops and impacts.

Active Feedback-sensing Technology (AFT) on the hammer drill shuts down the motor if the bit binds. That’s saved plenty of wrists and gearboxes over the years. Multiple reviews confirm the tools hold up in harsh environments.

The 3-year limited warranty matches industry standard. Both tools carry UL listing and XPT certification.

The Bottom Line

Worth buying if you need the torque. At 1,950 in.lbs (impact) and 1,250 in.lbs (drill), this kit handles structural framing, large-diameter drilling, and continuous production work. The 28-minute charging keeps downtime minimal.

The 40V XGT platform represents Makita’s industrial-grade answer to Milwaukee M18 FUEL and DeWalt FlexVolt. Reviews average 4.7 stars across 104 reviews, with users praising exceptional power and fast charging. The main complaint centers on battery size — the 2.5Ah cells are compact but need more frequent swaps on big jobs.

Buy it for the power. Buy it for the XPT protection in harsh weather. Skip it if you’re already deep in another battery system or if your work stays light-duty. The kit includes both tools, two batteries, charger, and bag — everything needed to start working.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the actual difference between 40V XGT and the older 18V LXT platform?

XGT is significantly more powerful for industrial use. The 40V system pushes higher sustained loads without the voltage sag that hits 18V tools under heavy use. XGT batteries and tools won’t cross-compatible with LXT — it’s a completely separate platform.

How does the charging time compare to other brands?

The DC40RA charger delivers full charge in 28 minutes for the 2.5Ah batteries. That’s competitive with Milwaukee’s rapid chargers and faster than standard chargers from most brands. Some sources cite charge times under 28 minutes for 4.0Ah batteries, though that seems optimistic.

Will these tools handle continuous production work?

The kit targets heavy-duty drilling/driving in wood, metal, and masonry, plus large fasteners and structural framing. Common professional use cases include heavy-duty drilling in wood, masonry, and metal on professional job sites. The brushless motors and reinforced construction suggest they’re built for production, not just occasional use.

What comes in the box?

The kit includes: GPH01Z Hammer Drill, GDT01Z Impact Driver, 2x BL4025 2.5Ah Batteries, DC40RA Charger, and a bag. Instruction manuals are included. No bits or accessories beyond what’s listed.