Cordless screwdrivers for several years occupy a strong position in the sales ratings of hand tools. This is due to the fact that the latest technological improvements have expanded the scope of the models and made them practically independent of sockets. A significant contribution to improving the operational properties of this tool was made by Makita designers. The premium versions of this brand of screwdrivers provide an example of the optimal balance between technical specifications, functionality and ergonomics. The Makita 6281 series, although not advanced in terms of consumer qualities, is quite suitable for private use. Almost all tasks that affect the creation of holes and work with hardware are able to be performed qualitatively by representatives of this family. In addition, many are attracted by the cost of the instrument, which varies from 6 to 7 thousand rubles. average.
Tool Overview
The 6281 line represents several modifications of the screwdriver designed for domestic use. The basic device is the 6281 D Makita, in which the main structural and ergonomic advantages of the entire series are concentrated. This model supports the ability to work in two main modes - as a screwdriver and drill. But this does not mean that professional use is not available for the device. Typical tasks of drilling and twisting can be performed in large-scale construction - another thing is that complex operations can be performed with greater ease with a higher-class tool.
This model is more of a universal home assistant. This is evidenced by the presence of a reverse stroke, and the shock function, as well as the power potential supported by a voltage of 14.4 V - this is the average value for cordless screwdrivers. For comparison, professional models are equipped with 18 V engines. Also worth mentioning is the modification of the Makita 6281DWPE, which features an optimized power system. The owners also note the fact of the later appearance of this version, which indicates the use of a new element base. However, in practice, there are no significant differences. Both versions are equipped with the same case, and in terms of performance, they generally correspond to each other.
Specifications
The Japanese company is famous for its successful selection of operational parameters for its tools, which do not go against each other, but work organically for a common task. That is, if the model is intended for use in everyday life, then the emphasis is on ergonomics and extra functionality from a premium tool is not implemented. The same applies to professional devices, which does not make sense to supplement with options that help amateurs and beginners. With regard to this model, the manufacturer has withstood the balance between ergonomics, safety and performance. The result is a compact, and depending on the version, impact driver, the characteristics of which look like this:
- The voltage of the battery pack is 14.4 V.
- The type of battery is Ni-Cd.
- The battery capacity is 1.9 A * h for modification D and 1.3 A * h for DWPE.
- The engine torque is 36 Nm.
- Diameter of wood drilling is 25 mm.
- The drilling diameter of metallic materials is 10 mm.
- Cartridge size - 10 mm.
- Number of speeds - 2.
- Battery charge time - 1 hour.
- The rotation frequency is a maximum of 1300 rpm.
- Weight - 1.6 kg.
It is worth noting that the nominal operating parameters do not always correspond to the actual ones, but even in the case of compliance, much in efficiency depends on the implementation of the technical and construction part. The same applies to the model "Makita 6281", the characteristics of which in the speed indicator can vary - for example, in the basic version two speeds are provided: at 400 and 1300 rpm. The peak frequency level is typical for almost all modifications of the line, and the minimum initial speed in some versions can be 300 rpm.
Power supply system
Perhaps the most controversial solution for all models in the series is the use of a Ni-Cd nickel-cadmium battery. As already noted, the devices are equipped with elements with a capacity of 1.3 to 1.9 A * h on average, which require about 1 hour to replenish energy. The charge consumption time depends on the nature of the working process. The fact is that since the formation of the fashion for cordless power tools, all major manufacturers, with rare exceptions, have begun to master the advanced technology of lithium-ion cells. Basically, Makita's assortment was formed on such blocks. The cordless screwdriver from the 6281 series, in turn, was an exception. Why is the Ni-Cd element bad?
Basically, users complain about the so-called memory effect, which consists in the fact that in order to fully replenish energy, the block must be completely discharged. That is, recharging is not recommended. Specialists note the content of heavy metals in such sources of energy supply, which requires increased caution in the physical handling of them. On the other hand, there are positive aspects to the Makita 6281 power supply system, one of which, by the way, provided the instrument with a tolerable price tag - at least, taking into account other technical and operational capabilities. In addition to low cost, nickel-cadmium batteries are characterized by large charge-discharge cycles, allow you to work in cold weather and charge quickly. In comparison, lithium-ion cells on average replenish energy for 2-3 hours. But so that the nickel-cadmium screwdriver does not stand idle for an extra hour, the manufacturer has provided two power supplies in the kit to replace each other.
Features of Makita 6281
The manufacturer has provided several technological solutions to support various aspects of tool operation. It’s worth starting with the working qualities, which have been improved by the possibility of a reverse stroke of the nozzle, backlight and the presence of a shock function. However, maintaining the impact does not apply to all modifications. It is present in the DWPLE version, also included in the 6281 family. During use, an impact driver allows you to cope with the twisting of old and rusty hardware, and also provides the function of a drill with a perforating effect.
In the design part, there are also several features. This is primarily a keyless chuck. Its presence allows the operator to perform a nozzle change without unnecessary efforts and time costs - this is very useful if several diverse tasks are performed in one working event. In addition, during operation, the user can select the desired torque for each operation - 16 positions are provided, each of which is focused on a specific nozzle stroke. Special attention was paid to security systems. In particular, the Makita 6281 cordless drill received air cooling, which prevents overheating of the structure. To protect against accidental switching on, there is a special lock on the start button.
Accessories and supplies
The basic equipment of a screwdriver includes two battery packs, a charger, a company case and a built-in flashlight. Additional accessories, fixtures, consumables and spare parts will have to be purchased in a separate order. As for accessories, personal protective equipment will be required to organize safe operation. It is also especially important when working with metal to have adapters and adapters for special drills on hand. In terms of the choice of consumables, one should focus on the tasks that the Makita 6281D tool will solve. Spare parts are purchased as individual parts and parts wear out, but you should always have a cartridge, gearbox and carbon brushes in the engine in stock. According to the manufacturer, the metal gearbox ensures the durability of the tool, but intense loads in regular use can exhaust the resource of any power filling. Actually, this is one of the differences between this model and professional screwdrivers, whose design is initially focused on harsh operating conditions. And for the tool to serve at home as long as possible, you should adhere to the recommended rules of operation and maintenance of the device.
User's manual
Before starting work, make sure that the battery pack is sufficiently charged and ready for use. Further, it needs to be integrated into a special niche on the handle - it is easily inserted into the connector until a click appears, which will mean the fixation is correct. Then, a drill or bit suitable for operation is inserted into the keyless chuck. It is recommended to use a Makita 6281 screwdriver in combination with original branded attachments, which in terms of power qualities correspond to the capabilities of the tool. After that, the optimal mode is selected. Torque switching is performed manually, while the switch tab should not be located in the middle between the values of the stroke frequency. It should be accurately oriented to a specific figure.
For the convenience of changing speed, a special switch is provided. But drastically changing the intensity of the current pace of work is not recommended. Moreover, the modification of the Makita 6281DWPE supports a reverse stroke, which can only be turned on only after disabling the normal speed. As for the work process itself, it is important to be careful not to exert excessive pressure during drilling and to orient the bit bit to the center of the screws, avoiding deviations.
Maintenance Instructions
Before starting maintenance, the tool must be disassembled. That is, to free the structure from additional structural and functional components - from the nozzle, flashlight, keyless chuck, battery pack, etc. Caution should be exercised in handling the battery of the Makita 6281 apparatus. The instruction warns users from shorting the contacts of the nickel-cadmium element and any touch to them. It should be kept in a dry place at room temperature and away from metallic materials.
The tool itself is checked for structural integrity, the tightness of the connection of the individual parts and the condition of the contacts in the battery connector. It is important to pay attention to the ventilation holes. They can become clogged in the process of working with wood, so after each treatment session you need to clean them. Cooling a Makita 6281 screwdriver with air plays a large role in extending its life, so this part of the service should not be ignored.
Positive tool reviews
The tool is highly appreciated by ordinary users who periodically perform simple repair work. Owners note the convenience in handling the device, and a sufficient supply of power, and its functional filling. In terms of ergonomics, it should be noted that the Makita 6281 screwdriver is almost unique, since it has small dimensions and modest weight at high productivity. This makes it possible to perform twisting and drilling in inaccessible places. And here is indicated the support of the flashlight, which highlights the same inaccessible and unlit areas. To this it is worth adding a good package bundle, which for many becomes a decisive factor in the choice. Models of this level are rarely supplied with plastic cases and two batteries as standard, not to mention the LED backlight.
Negative reviews
Many brand fans were disappointed with the overall quality of the instrument. The company is famous for its high resource of structural parts and consumables, but in this case there was a clear saving on materials. Most of all, the battery that supplied the Makita 6281 D model got the most from the critics. Reviews point to fast charging as the only merit of this unit, behind which there are many weaknesses. The main complaint is that after a short time of operation, the batteries literally lose volume. According to various estimates, the resource is enough for a year, after which the time of their action is reduced to 15-20 minutes. Obviously, there is no question of the full use of the tool in such intervals.
Still, the battery is not limited to the flaws of the model. Users indicate poor quality cartridge, gearbox and related parts. As practice shows, the most wear-out mode is the reverse stroke of the Makita. The cordless screwdriver in this design also sins with the quality of the materials from which auxiliary parts are made. The creators, for example, are criticized for plastic gears - it is obvious that with such an element base it is not necessary to talk about a high working resource.
Conclusion
With all the disadvantages of the device, one should not forget that it is almost impossible to find analogues with the same functionality. That is, they are found in the assortments of little-known Chinese manufacturers, but the quality of such products is unlikely to be higher than even the Japanese model under consideration. In addition, do not forget about how much a Makita 6281 screwdriver costs - 7 thousand for a model with such capabilities, this is very good. In families of manufacturers of the same level, screwdrivers costing up to 7-8 thousand can only boast a combination of 14.4 V power, the presence of an impact function and a wide range of equipment in exceptional cases. On the other hand, they are more likely to be equipped with reliable lithium-ion batteries, not to mention the durable parts in the filling. Therefore, there can be no single answer to the question of the appropriateness of acquiring this unit. Still, the prospect of regular repairs is unlikely to please the home foreman. If only he needs to resort to the help of a screwdriver in rare cases - but then the need for an extended option disappears. For a professional, this option can also cause a lot of problems, although there will also be certain benefits.