• What's the big buzz on high pressure air tools?

• Makita's 18 volt LI battery is better but what makes it better?

Oh my how things sure have changed in construction over the years and two areas that have seen a good fair share of this change are cordless, and pneumatic, or air powered Makita tools. You see, not only are they lighter, better balanced, and more powerful now, but there's a heck of a lot more of them to choose from now.

High Pressure Makita Tools are No Gimmick

High pressure air tools are the big buzz now and the the more you read about them, the more you're going to be impressed because they're definitely not just a new marketing gimmick. In fact these state of the art tools are the very latest in pneumatics technology, but what really matters most is that they work better, and faster.

To begin with Makita's HP compressor with its one gallon tank, low power draw electric motor, and oil-less pump flat out eliminates most of the hassles that come with using a compressor. Think about it for a second. How much of the bulk of a standard unit is made up of the tanks? A heck of a lot of it.

So then what about that little one gallon tank? Well would you believe that it stores and puts out the same volume of air as standard compressor and on top of that it has two sets of air nozzles, so it runs both standard, and high pressure air guns. That's right you can still keep, and use your standard air guns.

Lower power draw on this unit that by the way, is substantially quieter too means few trips to the power box to flip breakers, and less problems sharing power cords. Then the icing on the cake, is the easy flip water bleeder valve on the bottom of the tank that completely does away with screw valve hassles.

OK, so this is new air compressor is a definite step for Makita power tools, but what about their high high pressure nail guns because after all, your standard nail guns are working just fine? The answer to that is that not only are these new guns lighter, more compact, and better balanced, but the bottom line is they save time, and time is money.

The main selling point of Makita high pressure nail guns is that they ram nails home flush every time, and this goes for all nailing tasks. So harder stock like glu-lams, LVLs, and knots in beams, or linear stock are no problem. Also no more going back to pound down nail heads on sheer panel, floor decking, and roofs.

The real nice thing about these guns that you won't realize until you hold one in your hand, is that high pressure means a far less bulky piston head. A less bulky head means head means better handling up high, and a gun that you can now actually hang on your belt to free up your hands when your rolling joists and stacking roofs.

Makita Tools 18 V Batteries are Definite Game Changers

If you're not old enough, or been in the trades long enough to remember when the first cordless tools came out then you just wouldn't know what a huge splash they made. People just freaked out over them, and they were expensive too. Then something happened that rained on the entire parade.

That was that those earlier nickel cadmium batteries inevitably started in on their slow downhill death glide. In short all those amazing cordless tools that started out as the new toy of the job site soon ended up fizzled out, and just another tool box decoration. You see, everyone had to learn the hard way about the memory effect and new batteries for cordless Makita tools definitely weren't cheap back then.

Well in time along came nickel metal hydride or NIMH batteries that were supposed to be the solution, but while they didn't have near the memory effect that wore out nickel cadmiums they just didn't have the same kick. This meant that there was yet one more hard lesson to be learned only this time it was about about internal resistance factors of rechargeables that lowered their power output rate.

In short, they worked great on some Makita tools but on power hungry tools like saws, and larger drills they just didn't have the kick that was needed on tougher jobs. Of course they work OK, but as anyone who has used them on a real working job site knows all too well, there are definitely some compromises that have to be made.

So to make up to everyone who has been left disappointed by rechargeable batteries in the past, Makita tools has gone out of their way to make not just the best 18 volt lithium ion battery on the market but the best selling LI as well. So now you're wondering why theirs is the best, because aren't all lithium ion batteries the same?

Listen up because this is important! Of all the types of rechargeable batteries that are made, the purity and quality of the raw materials that go into lithium ion batteries is most reflective on the overall quality of the finished product. Simply put, the better the stuff that goes into it, the better the battery.

So don't all tool makers use the same quality of materials in their LI batteries?? The simple answer to that question is “nope”. You see LI batteries are by far the most complex in terms of what's inside of them and there are several different combonations of ingredients that are used by the various tool companies. Bottom line: there's plenty of room for skimping.

Another thing you need to understand, is that in metals refining and metallurgy in general, high purity levels cost money, so what this adds up to is that the more pure the finished product is, the more it costs. Well guess what? Everything in a lithium ion battery is made from metal and that's where the purity factor of Makita tools LI batteries comes in.

So if you haven't yet had a chance to try any of Makita's newer 18 volt cordless power tools you're in for a surprise, and once you do you'll understand why so many people are switching over from standard AC, and going “full time cordless” on the job. Even folks like tile roofers, concrete form setters and carpenters are saying good-bye to cords for good.

See larger image Makita 1912B 7.5 Amp 4-3/8-Inch Planer (Tools & Home Improvement) List Price: $389.40 USD New From: $246.69 In Stock

The truth is that most people really have no idea how handy wood planers really are, until they use one. Basically, Makita planers are used to shave down wood surfaces. They're great time savers on projects that require heavy sanding, and invaluable for smoothing up uneven joints.

Differences in Lumber Thickness

The truth is that wood stock right out of the lumber yard can have slight differences in thickness up to 1/8 inch, and even more in larger lumber like beans. Even plywood flooring can often have differences in thickness, and this of course can lead to obvious problems on finished and nailed off project.

Makita Planers for Gluing and Clamping

Then again, if you're gluing and clamping two or more pieces of wood together, inevitably a wood planer will be needed to smooth up the finished joints after the glue has set. So wood planers can open the door to so many types of projects that without them, are simply out of reach.

Several Uses in Rough Framing

Even in rough framing, these tools have their place. They're great for matching up surfaces in areas where king studs and trimmers meet up with headers, that all too often are a slightly different thickness. Then after the building is framed in, these tools are great for shaving down bowed studs.

Size Does Matter in the Tool You Use

It's important to know the importance of buying the right sized planer for the tasks you'll be using it for. Larger planers are great for things like floors, but aren't so great for smaller more delicate planing work. On the flip side, smaller Makita planers are perfect for more delicate jobs, but just can't chew off enough wood on larger jobs like floors.

Not a Whole Lot of Features to Check Out

Unlike so many other power tools, planers in general, just don't come with a lot of extra added features. You see, they really only have one use, and that's to shave down wood. So look for size, width, and power to accommodate your specific needs. A large chip port is also nice to avoid clogs.

Model #1002BA

Weighing in at 11.4 pounds, this is a hefty and powerful curved planer that's designed for use on curved and uneven surfaces. It's great for shaving down knots on logs, and it also comes in handy for evening up arches on framing jobs. If you have ever tried to use a flat planer on a curved surface before, then you know how handy this tool can be.

• Planing Width 4-3/8

• Length 3-11/32"

• Planing Depth 5/32"

• No Load RPM 15,000

• 11 amp motor

• Curved Radius 1-13/16" to 12-5/8"

• Cord Length 16.4 ft

• Large front grip

• Large chip ejection chute

• Lock-on button for continuous use

• Weight 11.4 lbs

• Large two-handed design for maximum control of cutter

Model #1806B

This 19.8 pound, 20 ¾ inch long unit packs a 10.9 amp motor, and is a real beast of Makita planers. It features a two bladed head that spins at 15,000 rpms, which adds up to 30,000 cuts per minute that cuts a full 6 ¾ inches of wood in each pass. It also comes with a state of the art solid machined aluminum base, and is double insulated.

• 6 ¾ inch planing width

• 1/16 inch planing depth

• Easy reach lock on button

• Shipping weight 33 pounds

• Lock-on button for continuous operation

• Comfortable handle and easy depth settings

Model #1902

This 5 ½ pound, 4.0 amp unit is the perfect planer for all around light duty. In fact this happens to be the most common size you'll see on commercial construction sites. It's light, easy to use, affordable, and with a 1/32 inch cutting depth, can't do a whole lot of damage if it lands in inexperienced hands.

• Planing Width 3-1/4"

• Lock-on button

• Planing Depth 1/32

• No Load RPM 16,000

• Length 11-1/2"

• High power-to-weight ratio

• Simple dial blade depth setting system
  

Model #1912B

This is the perfect tool for a general contractor. It's 7.5 amp motor provides plenty of power so there's no worries of it being overworked by employees, and the V-groove in the front shoe comes in real handy for dressing up outdoor decorative carpentry. Plus it's compact, so it easily fits in a truck tool box.

• Planing Depth 1-16"

• Planing Width 4-3/8"

• Length 14 inches

• Weight 9.3 pounds

• Double insulated

• Spins at 15,000 rpm

• All ball bearing construction

• Easy access lock-on button

• Precision machined aluminum base
  

Model #KP0800K

At 5.7 pounds, and packing a souped up 17,000 rpm 6.5 amp motor, this unit has a very high weight to power ratio, so it's a wildcat in your hands. It also comes with a spring loaded elevated stand that protects the blades when it's not in use. Yet another plus, is you have the option of fitting it with larger blades for deeper cutting.

• Double insulated

• Tool length 11-1/4"

• Tool weight 5.7 pounds

• Lock-on button

• Cutting width 3-1/4"

• Cutting depth 3/32"

• No Load RPM 17,000

• Custom numbered “click” depth dial

• Rigid die-cast aluminum housing

• High speed carbon steel blades (optional accessory)

Model #KP0810

If the above profiled power tool doesn't have a high enough weight to power ratio then there is this one that has the highest of all Makita planers. It weighs in at 7.3 pounds, and has powerful 7.5 amp motor that spins at 16,000 rpm. A real go getter for its overall size & weight. The chip ejection port can also be directed to either side.

• Tool length 11 ¾''

• Plane width 3 1/4"

• Plane depth 5/32" deep in a single pass

• 7.5 amp motor

• Easy click 1mm depth adjustment

• 3 champforing grooves in front of base (1.4 -3 & 4mm)

• Milled cast aluminum housing

• Guide rule accessory

Model #KP312

So now we come to the largest, heaviest, and most powerful of all Makita planers. In fact even the 33 foot cord on this 40.6 pound unit is big. At 15 amps, the motor is also the biggest out of all seven of them. Ironically though, at 12,000 rpms it's also the slowest spinning but you can chalk that up to the extra weight of the super-wide 12 ¼ inch cutting spindle. This tool is a brute that's made for serious commercial planing work.

• 15 amp motor @12,000 rpm

• Tool length 21 ¾''

• Tool weight 40.6 pounds

• Front roller supports heavy weight

• Extra large ejection chute

• Rubberized front handle

• Large depth set knob

• Spring loaded stand protects blades

• Guide rule accessory
  

See larger image Makita 4351FCT Barrel Grip Jig Saw with L.E.D. Light (Tools & Home Improvement) List Price: $322.00 USD New From: $175.98 In Stock Used from: $160.14 In Stock

These are such amazingand versatile cutting tools, and a good jigsaw will cut almost any type of material. The possibilities of the things that you can create with Makita jigsaws is almost endless, and once you master them, your mind will literally swim with new ideas.

Cheap Flimsy Tables Suck!!

The single most important component on one of these precision cutting tools, is the table. It must be sturdy, easy to adjust, and lock solid once an angle is set. Take a look at the pictures and you can see for yourself that the more expensive, feature laden models tend to have noticeably thicker, more solid looking tables.

Makita Quality Tables Makes All the Difference

As stated above, a table must be easy to adjust, not sticky or loose, and after you've set your cut angle, the table locking mechanism must be solid, easy to engage and be 100% reliable. If any these elements is lacking in any way, it will reflect in the quality of your work.

A Nice Comfortable Feel in the Hand

A jigsaw must also feel comfortable in your hand, provide a clear easy view of the cut zone, and be smooth running. Now these engineering and design features may sound simple, but you would be amazed at just how many so called “quality” name brand saws on the market are lacking in one or more of these areas.

Look for a Broad Range of Prices

Another thing to look for, is a broad range in models and prices. You see model model you buy, and price that you pay is entirely contingent on the types of cutting tasks that you're going to be using your saw for. For instance you certainly wouldn't want to drag an expensive saw around a framing site, if you only need it for tasks like cutting arches out of plywood.

Top Quality Materials and Rigid Manufacturing Standards

Even the most affordable of Makita jigsaws are made to the the same exacting standards as all their power tools are. Only premium grade, heat hardened carbon steel is used for drive components, and 97% pure copper wire goes into the motors. These tools are made to last, and their reputation is riding on it.

Model #4340FCT

This is truly a top of the line 5.3 pound precision cutting power tool,
and its also the quietest in its class. It offers 40% less vibration than similar competing brands even with its powerful 6.3 amp motor. It varies between 800 and 2,800 SPM, and maintains constant blade speed under heavy cutting loads for complete consistency.

It has shock-proof LED front end lighting that never need replacing, and dust blower so you always have clear shot of your line. It also features 4 separate cutting modes, and they are 3 varying degrees of orbital blade action, and one straight up and down. A real nice touch on this saw is it's easy tool-less blade change system that does away with burnt fingers on hot blades.

Model #4351FCT

This is jigsaw for all intents and purposes is the exact same saw as the the above listed 4340FCT. (Same weight, same everything). That is with the exception of one very obvious difference, and that is its low slung barrel handle. So if you're looking for a full featured saw that has your hand down as close as possible the cutting surface, this particular model may be what you have in mind.

Model #4350FCT

Once again, here is the same saw as the two above shown models, and just as before, this time there is is also one obvious difference. You guesses it! It's the handle. The handle on the 5350FCT is elevated, so if you prefer your hand to be well up and away from your work, this could be the jigsaw you have in mind.

Model #4323K

As you move away from the above profiled, three top models of Makita jigsaws, you run into their less expensive units that of course have fewer features. Just the same, what each of these models does and doesn't have does very greatly, so pay close attention as you read through their specs.

The first big trade off you make on this 4 pound model, is power because it comes with a 3.7 amp motor. It also doesn't have the electrical continuous blade speed system, nor does it have the front end LED light. There's no dust blower on this saw. Instead it has port you can hook a vacuum hose up to.

Its stroke length is 11/16, and it tilts both ways to a 45º angle. It also features a large easy to use trigger switch, and a dust cover that keeps chips from flying up ahead and covering your line. Its speed dial goes from 500 to 3,100 and it's rated for 82 decibels. So this is a cheaper saw, but because it's a Makita jigsaw, at least it's not cheaply built.

Model #4341FCT

For the person who likes the low profile 4351FCT barrel handled saw, but is none the less looking for a price break, there is the 4341FCT that is pretty much the exact same saw with one exception. That is that it doesn't have the electronic blade speed maintenance monitor. Other than that, it's the same saw including the 6.3 amp motor and 5.3 pound weight

Model #4324K

From their pictures, this model looks to be almost the same saw as the 4323K. The truth is that they are almost identical, with the exception of one feature. That feature is 4 cutting mode selection, with 3 being orbital, and the fourth being straight up and down. This model has it, and the 4323K does not.

See larger image Makita BBX7600CA Commercial Grade 4-Stroke 75.6cc Backpack Blower (CARB Compliant) (Lawn & Patio) List Price: $429.99 USD New From: $429.99 In Stock

• Precision made

• Quality hardened steel

• Easy starting

• Warrantied

Makita's reputation for excellence was built over the course of the better part of this past century. The company got it's start developing and building high quality electric motors in Japan, and produced their first electric tool in 1958.

So now they bring their extensive expertise, and unchallenged reputation for quality to their line of Makita leaf blowers.

Makita's Record for Unparalleled Service

Makitas stellar track record for unparalleled service also fits them well in their lawn and yard maintenance division. For as anyone knows who has owned a leaf blower made by any one of the last decades leading makers knows all too well, prompt reliable quality service, and ready access to replacement parts has been sorely lacking.

Makita has set a new industry standard for excellence in service.

Exacting Standards in Manufacturing

All Makita lawn and garden maintenance tools are manufactured to the same exacting standards as their power tool line. Top quality heat treated carbon steel is used in the casting and milling of their main drive line mechanisms, and scientifically formulated alloys go into the making of the  gears.

Makita also uses only 97% pure copper for minimum resistance in their motors interior electrical components.

Lawn and Garden Power Tools that Last

The end result off all this sticking for excellence, is lawn and yard power tools that you can count on to deliver years, if not decades of reliable service. They're lighter, more powerful, more sensibly designed, less problematic, far more maintenance free, and through it all Makita tools in general, are more competitively priced.

Their lawn and garden power tools start quicker and last longer.

Makita Leaf Blowers Model # BBX7600CA

Currently one of the best selling Makita leaf blowers, is their 75.6 cc, carb compliant backpack blower model #BBX7600CA . This compact pit bull of a blower is powered by 4 stroke motor that uses non blended fuel, and runs 80 minutes on a full 65 oz tank.

One of the most amazing things about this blower, is that in spite of its 50% more efficient fuel consumption rate, it delivers commercial performance with a rating of 720 cubic feet per minute. It also features an over-sized air filter, and decompression system for much easier starts.

Just like the rest of the tools they produce, Makita leaf blowers in general are sensibly designed to make them far more pleasant to operate. For instance, this unit weighs only 22.6 pounds, comes with extra wide straps, vented back, and the sturdy 4 inch adjustable handle grip is located down on the blower tube

• Fuel efficient 4-stroke engine for 50% fuel savings

• Large muffler for quiet operation-(74dB)

• EPA Phase II, CARB Tier III compliant

• Wide straps & cool ventilated back panel

• 3 year warranty
  

See larger image Makita JR180DWD 18-Volt NiMH Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tools & Home Improvement) List Price: $579.60 USD

• High performance Makita motor

• Externally accessible brushes

• Powerful long life 18-Volt Ni-MH battery

Once you finally realize that the vast majority of sawsall cutting is basically intermittent pick up work, going cordless just makes too much sense. Also as anyone who has owned and worked with a standard reciprocating saw knows all to well, their cords are a hassle to drag around and eventually develop problems where they connect up at the saw.

Makita Coredless Sawsalls Make Going Cordless Easy

So then your next step is to decide which saw to go with, and with Makita Cordless sawsalls JR180DWD being on of the most powerful available, that decision really shouldn't be all that difficult. It's been around for some years now and in that time its garnered a well deserved reputation for durable reliability.

2.6 Ah Ni-MH Battery is the Longest Running Available

This considering that its state of the art 2.6 Ah Ni-MH battery system packs the longest run time on the market. Makita's high performance motor in this workhorse also pushes a maximum of 2,700 7/8” strokes per minute and it also features easy access brushes for keeping it in prime running form.

Sensible Quick Flip Solid Lock Blade Change System

Makita also offers the most sensible and easy to use quick flip blade change systems that in fact you can do with one hand. It's well balanced and features a super comfortable handle, so this saw is real comfortable on the hand and wrist as well. Competitive pricing also helps to make Makita sawsalls JR180DWG the premier choice for serious tradesmen.

• Powerful long life 18-Volt Ni-MH battery

• Hassle free one hand blade change

• High performance Makita motor

• Externally accessible brushes

• Variable speed (0-2,700 SPM)

• Blade stroke depth: 7/8"

• Cuts up to (24) 2x12s on a single charge

• Lock-off safety button

• Solid lock blade system

• Saw length: 17 5/8 inches

• Watt hours: 46.7

• Includes battery, charger and case

See larger image Makita BO5010 2 Amp Palm Grip Random Orbit Sander with Cloth Dust Bag (Tools & Home Improvement) List Price: $117.60 USD

• Trim & light

• Super comfortable hand grip

• 1999 Sander of the Year - Popular Woodworking Magazine

For years, it seemed that small hand held sanders had basically one look and feel. Quite frankly they were bulky and uncomfortable to use and there was really very few options. Today however; that all has change with two Makita palm sanders that are drawing a lot of attention from people who care about how a small precision power tool actaully feels in their hands

Model # BO4555

The smaller pear shaped handle design of the Makita BO4555 palm sander makes it the perfect choice for anyone including women, who are looking for a slightly smaller, slim profile sanding power tool, yet aren't willing to make compromises with regards to power and overall performance. The easy ergonomic grip also makes for better control.

Make no mistake about it though because this palm sander is a little pit bull. It's 2 amp smooth running motor generates up to 14,000, 1.5mm eccentric orbits per minute and makes it the perfect choice for finer, more delicate finish work. You'll also love the sturdy no hassle dust bag that easily pops on and off for no mess dust dumping.

• Low vibration & softstart integrated technology

• Weight 1.1 kilos or 2 ½ pounds

• Easy Velcro clamp fixing option

• Abrasive pad 112 mm x 102 mm (4 ½ x 4 inch)

Makita Palm Sanders Model # BO5010

It just doesn't take long for a first time use to figure out why Popular Woodworking Magazine named Makita palm sanders model # BO5010 “Sander of the Year”, back in 1999. It's not because of its “trim good looks” either. Rather, it's because this is just one all around sweet power tool that simply blows away the competition in it's price range.

A sure easy grip, round shape and efficient dust vacuum system make this the perfect sander for delicate or intricate woodwork. It features a 2 amp, 12,000 rpm, ball bearing motor for low vibration and “far kinder” lengthy sanding sessions. Additional features that make this the most popular of all Makita palm sanders, include 12 position adjustable dust bag, fast stop, and quick thumb access on/off switch.

• Fast stop feature.

• Light-weight (2.6 lbs.) (1.2 kilos)

• Dust bag adjusts to 12 positions

• Smooth start up pad control system

• super smooth sanding random-orbit action

• Quick change hook-and-loop abrasive discs

• Efficient 8 hole through-the-pad dust collection system

• Conveniently located one hand on/off thumb switch
  

See larger image Makita 845049-A MForce2 Heavy Duty Work Gloves - XXL (Lawn & Patio) List Price: $42.00 USD

• 3-in-1 jacket

• New oil resistant boots and trainers

• Amazing new finishes

• Stylish and super durable

Makita Work Wear now gives career professionals everywhere the option of looking their best while staying comfortable in work wear that's made to last. It's made by Dickies, the # 1 name is super durable work clothes, so you know everything in their lineup can take what ever you dish out on the job site.

One of their most popular selling items is a cotton lined padded shirt with roomy pockets and chest vents. It's high threadcount, microfibre weave makes for an attractive and stain resistant finish, as it also provides excellent protection from the elements It's available in sizes medium to XXX large.

Their 3/1 jacket is cleverly designed so it can be worn as a complete two piece set on cold days, or as a lightweight jacket if the weather is milder. It's both waterproof and breathable and is made from ripstop nylon & polyester micro-fleece, with concealed hood and draw cord waist. Nothing falls out of it's roomy sipper pockets.

Makita's super comfortable steel toed work boot is the ultimate in style and function. Designed in a hiker style, in red & black colorway it features an ST rated waterproof membrane, steel mid-sole, rubber out-sole, and impact absorbing heel. It's also oil and acid resistant and comes in sizes 6 -12.

See larger image Leica Disto D5 Digital Laser Rangefinder with 2.4-inch Screen and 45-degree tilt Sensor (Tools & Home Improvement) List Price: $499.00 USD New From: $489.00 In Stock Used from: $399.99 In Stock

• Super accurate!

• Super Easy!

• Super amazing!

It really is hard to imagine a trades person who works in homes and commercial buildings that can't save time, money, and make their work more enjoyable with an interior use Makita Laser Distance Measure Model LD06P. Of course in the years to come their prices will drop, but in this case who can wait?

No More Need for a Tape End Holder

To start off with this amazing point and click measuring tool is in fact more accurate then a standard tape. It does away with a tapes wobbly tip that makes for 1/8 inch of error, and it completely eliminates the need for another set of hands to pull measurements.

Tighter Measurements - Tighter Materials Estimates

It also makes difficult measurements a snap. For instance, high shots from ladders, shots over open spaces and floor to ceiling shots are done in seconds. Then in the end, because even larger measurements and calculations can be done with far greater accuracy, volume and quantity estimations can be tightened up for less product and materials waste.

Logs Numbers and Does Calculations

You can toss your pencil and piece of scratch paper as well because the Makita laser distance measure automatically logs your numbers and even does your calculations. Square and cubic footage and even metric conversions are done with a simple push of a button and then there is what is called the Pythagoras feature.

The Makita Laser Distance Measure Pythagoras Feature Explained

Pythagoras was a mathematician who lived a few hundred years back. Anyway, he devised a formula for determining the length of the slope of a right triangle by using the height and length of the side and the base. For instance to get the length of a roof rafter with the Makita Laser Distance Measure Model LD06P, simply enter the distance from the wall to the center of the building, and then measure the height to the ridge.

• Easy to use

• Weight - 90g

• Durable soft-grip

• Compact and robust

• Pythagoras feature

• Precise measurements

• Standard or Metric

• Display Illumination

• Measuring range - 0.05m - 60m

• Power supply - 2 triple A batteries

• Measuring accuracy ± 1.5mm over 12m

• Indirect mode for indirect measurements

• Measurements Per Batteries: up to 5,000

• Measuring units - 0.000m, 0.00ft - 0'00" 1/16 - 0.00 1/16ft in
  

See larger image Makita AN453 1-3/4-Inch Roofing Coil Nailer (Tools & Home Improvement) List Price: $524.00 USD New From: $219.00 In Stock

• Competitive pricing

• Performance design

• Easy maintenance

If carpenters can be a little rough on their air guns from time to time, roofers can be downright brutal on theirs. Additionally roofs themselves are tough on tools, so today's Makita roof nailers are designed and built to stand up under extra tough working conditions.

Makita Roof Nailers #AN453 & AN451

Model # AN453 (¾ to 1 ¾ )
Model # AN451 (7/8 to 1 ¾)
Model # AN611 (1 ¼ to 2 ½ )

When you factor in both their affordable pricing and features, these truly are sweet guns. They're Makita's very latest and they do contain everything that qualifies a quality, performance pneumatic roofing gun. They're lighter, more compact, trouble free and come with a whole list of comfort and performance features.

The #AN611

That list starts out with large hardened carbide steel nose piece inserts. Oversized steel wear-plates also insure that these guns will be around for decades if need be, and Makitas specially designed easy-flip nose piece makes removing jams a snap. Then their easy open canister with magnetic nail guide, makes for super quick, no hassle reloads.

The AN453 and the AN451 Makita roof nailers look exactly alike, so the only thing that separates the two is the size of the nails that they shoot. On the other hand, AN611 not only looks considerably different with its longer front end, but it also comes with a non-slipping nose feature.

Makita Roofing Nailers: Features and Specs

• For asphalt and fiberglass shingles

• Holds 120 standard wire collated coil nails

• Built-in air filter

• Quick dial 9 setting nail depth

• Double head valve for faster recycle

• Easily adjust lever lock Shingle gauge

• Built-in magnet for sure set loading

• Contoured handle and conforming rubber grip

• Operating Air Pressure (PSIG) 65 - 120

• Nail Size3/4" - 1-3/4"

• Nail Capacity (pcs./strip)120

• Size (L x H x W)10-3/8" x 4-5/8" x 10-5/8"

• Makita roof nailers net weight 5.2 pounds (5.1 for the AN611)

• Shipping Weight 6.5 pounds

See larger image Makita AN923 3-1/2-inch Framing Nailer (22 Degree Round Head) (Tools & Home Improvement) List Price: $572.00 USD New From: $318.99 In Stock Used from: $259.39 In Stock

There was a time a couple of decades back when one name pretty much dominated the framing nail gun market, and that name was Hitachi. However; that was then and this is now because just like all the other production work tools, Makita nail guns are well on their way to being the #1 choice.

In fact Makita is the unchallenged dominate player when it comes to new high pressure air tool technology. If you haven't taken a good look at high pressure yet, you should because it is coming to your job site, and you will be working with it. It's simply the future of pneumatic nailers, and once you check it out you'll understand why that is.

High Pressure Makita Nail Guns

For starters, high pressure guns are a full one third smaller and lighter then standard nail guns, yet thy still hold the same amount of nails. Also because the nails are delivered with greater force, this new technology produces consistent flush nail heads. These guns also drive flush into pretty much “anything” and that includes glu-lams & LVLs

New Advancements in Cordless Gas Charged Technology


The Makita GN900SE 7.2 volt cordless nailer is hands down the best cordless you can buy. So just why is it better? To start out with, it's lithium ion batter charges four times faster then virtually any other gun on the market. This gun also accepts all major brand of nails, including Paslode IM350 nails.

Of course Makita also has a great selection of standard air guns and their model # AN902, 16 & 8 penny coil nailer is one sweet air gun. It's more compact and better balanced than a standard strip nailer, so its by far the better choice for working up high, rolling joists or stacking roofs. Just hang it on your belt by its clip when you have to handle lumber.

There are two standard strip 16 penny Makita nail guns, the AN923 and the AN943. To begin with, they have a slimmer head profile and are about $100 less expensive then a Haitachi. They both also provide smooth trouble free operation, and they also both easily break in two to remove jammed nails.

Common Features on Both Makita Nail Guns

• Quick switch no tool nail depth adjustment with 9 settings

• Large capacity air chamber for increased power

• Retractable hook

• Sharp tip spurs for controlled firing at an angle

• Durable rear loading aluminum magazine

• Adjustable exhaust port

• Rubber hand grip

In fact from all outward appearances these are both essentially the same gun. The difference between them though, is that for the same price they each have a convenience feature for those who want them. One is that the AN923 has a (bounce, sequential, lock) three stage firing mode selector switch that the AN943 doesn't have, and the AN943 has a built in air filter.

Makita Nail Guns Roofing Coil Nailers

Model # AN453 Coil Roofing Nailer ¾ to 1 ¾

Roofers know that above all a good gun has to be able to take beating. Carpenters may be rough on their air tools, but roofers can be downright brutal on theirs. The Makita AN453 roofing coil nailer is a compact, durable, and well balanced gun that was designed to “take licking and keep on ticking”

• Use on Asphalt and fiberglass shingles

• Uses standard wire collated coil of 120 nails

• Double head valve for fast recycle

• Quick dial 9 settings depth adjustment

• Easy single lever lock shingle gauge

• For nailing of asphalt and fiberglass shingles

• Built-in magnet for alignment of initial nail

• Built in ceramic air filter system

• Contoured ergonomic handle and rubber grip

• Specifications - Operating Air Pressure (PSIG): 65-120, Nail Size: 3/4" - 1-3/4", Nail Capacity (pcs./strip): 120, Dimensions - 10-3/8" x 4-5/8" x 10-5/8"

• Weight - 5.2 pounds

Model # AN451 Coil Roofing Nailer 7/8 to 1 ¾


This basically is the exact same gun as the above listed AN453, with one exception. That is that it fires a total of 5 different length fasteners. Those sizes are 7/8”, 1”, 1 ¼”, 1 ½”, and 1 ¾”.

Model # AN 611 Coil Roofing Nailer 1 ¼ to 2 ½

This is the third coil roofing nailer in the Makita nail guns lineup. It's basically the same gun as the above listed models, with two exceptions. Those are that this gun takes the larger 1 ¼” to 2 ½” fasteners and this gun also has a switch for sequential or bounce firing mode.