Excellent review. I was sick of all the speed comparison reviews on RUclips and glad you drew attention to that. Really I care more about refinement as I’m sure most everyday users of an impact driver do. Pure speed isn’t so important. We waste hours of our lives staring at bits of wood scratching our heads, so 0.15 seconds doesn’t really bother me when it comes to how long it takes to drive a bolt or screw!
Thanks! I think the main reason we focus on it more as tool RUclipsrs is that it makes it easier to show differences between tools that can be felt when using but not as mic on camera. It’s a balancing act since it will be important to some and others will prioritize control or ergonomics more.
Well said. Flat out power is one thing. Lately, FLEX & Milwaukee have taken that cake. The FLEX is a beast, but my god is it heavy and huge. The M18 is better, but still wouldn't call it fantastic in anything other than Power. The Metabo HPT & Makita drivers are just a joy to use. Great triggers, great ergo, plenty of power, just way more refined. Past a certain point, when it comes to power, you should probably be using an impact Wrench y'know. I run an M12 Surge for the small stuff, and a MHPT 36V Bolt for the bigger stuff. Great 1-2 punch for me. Like the looks of this 173. I was one of the few who liked the Side panel on the MHPT B Model. Having the controls on the back is nice as well. To me, it makes more sense on the side, or the back than the front. Which is what nearly all have lol
I hope this back panel placement catches on. It’s great. And while I complained about the size of the handle here I don’t think it was a result of the move. Just a design choice they made.
J. Wick, Milwaukee M18 Gen4 is super heavy like a $2 Cinder Block especially with 6ah high output battery. And heavy tools will definitely get you fatigued in the jobsite. Milwaukee is only good for DIY like Ryobi and Ridgid. Same as the Flex. They're so friggin heavy. And who would want to run their cordless tools with a big fat battery like about a size of your car battery?? 🤣 And at the end of the day you're still gonna want to drill a pilot hole for your screws because you don't wanna damage or split your materials?? And you're using a cordless tool with a car battery sized battery pack. What the heck?! Isn't that 1400in/lbs and 2800rpm and 3400ipm good enough?
@@J.Wick. no that's not what you said John wickily tickily split lickety. You just only praised your Milwaukee M18. What I said are the facts here. Milwaukee M18 is only good for DIY just like Ryobi and Ridgid and FLEX. They're so friggin heavy like Cinder blocks or tons of bricks. Don't let me repeat that again! And I'm not gonna put myself on the line with heavy tools, I wanna make more money without getting that much fatigue. 2ah battery pack is good enough it can do the job. Otherwise for framing it's either I use my good ole pneumatic air framing nailer or my good ole fashion Framing Hammer. For Decking it's either Makita XDT16 or XDT-19. Or DeWalt 885 or 840 with 2ah battery is good enough. For cutting lumbers my DeWalt DWE575sb corded sidewinder is good enough to build a 6 bed room 3 bathroom, 2 Floor House for Framing. It's the lightest cutting tool I ever have only 8lbs. Compare to the cordless circular saws that weighs 14lbs or more because of their bulky Car Sized battery packs.
The controls, the light, and it being manufactured in Japan definitely makes the $220 price tag understandable and getting it before North American distributors. But like you said buddy for half the cost the 19 or even the 16 are not going to do you wrong. The only lxt I have is the XDT13 and the black compact. The compact sucks but I love the XDT13
Exactly they are amazing impact drivers with the feeling of no other except the lxt xgt and hatachi or hpt drivers. In my opinion they just feel so good in the hand and the triggers are so variable!! Unlike flex it's all or nothing lol I love my flex and Milwaukee there powerhouse impacts but if the triggers were more refined then we would have a truly amazing impact driver!!??
@@TacticalThib Yea when you really need to drive a heavy fastener or you have to hammer out a ton of deck screws or something the Milwaukee gen 4 is an absolute hammer. Its a good tool to have. But honestly for regular day to day use I always lean towards my Makita or M12 impacts. They are more refined, and more pleasant to use. And contrary to what he said I really like the smaller grips on the Makitas. My hands are definitely smaller than his though!
I use a xdt19 for finer, more lax work but if I’m just driving screws all day into a deck, I’ll switch over to the FLEX. Love both. Unexpectedly, I’ve dove pretty deep with flex recently and I’m happy. Flex & makita and just a few tools from dewalt still as that’s what I started with.
The flex tools I own are pretty nice. They have loads of power but I prefer the ergonomics of other brands more. But for a first offering, I don’t think we can complain much.
I think these are the Lexus of impact drivers. I'd like to have the TD173 to accompany my TD172. There's really nothing like the 173 on the market today.
You don't need JIS bits. Just put something in the collet before you insert a normal bit. It brings the bearing slot in line properly. I'm makita all day and got the 171 before pretty much everyone else in Canada at the tail end of 2018. They really need to focus on some other tools...nailers being one of them
I’m about halfway through the video and just from seeing the modes, numbers etc, this one looks to be a better driver for woodworkers. Even better than the Dewalt atomic. It sounds to have much more finesse and control.
In my opinion The TD173 is the light update from TD172(or XDT19) i like the Led Ring but i don't like the location of Control Panel on TD173 if Makita could replace the location of the TD173 control Panel like previous model TD172/XDT 19 that will be very great
I feel like most Makita impact new versions could be called a light update. This one felt the most aggressive in terms of what they changed but in terms of performance it still just stays there.
The One thing I don't like about Makita is their Smallish Handles , I just bought the XGT 40V GDT01 Impact Driver and I basically have to force my XL Hand to fit the Handle and I would Love to see the Control Panel on the Back of the tool , the Problem with the Milwaukee Fuel Gen4 Impact Driver is I constantly hit the Speed Selector and change the Speed of the Tool and it drives me Crazy 🤬 ..... 👍🖖
Yeah I don’t think you will love the 173 ever then. I feel like the XGT you mentioned as a “roomy” handle compared to it. They are nice tools but that’s a negative for some I know.
If they do (not saying they won’t I just don’t have any info that says they will) I will be lining up as well. I love a lot about it, just wish the handle had a bit more length to it. Other than that, there is a lot to love about it.
Great review. I just got my td173d and love it. Am I able to register it for the warranty? I’m having trouble with that and am curious if you have any helpful info.
Nice review again. I agree that Makita makes very good, smooth and refined impact drivers. But a standard impact can not compete in this regard with a hydraulic one still...I have the Hikoki tripple hammer and the TD172 / XDT19 ( a Japanese one)- and they are fine, but they are very far from the Milwaukee Surge.
What do you mean exactly? The surge is quieter, but certainly not as powerful as a standard impact. Otherwise hydraulic technology would be pervasive. Its not because while it has good performance it is clearly inferior in power and torque compared to a standard impact. I have seen this first hand many times. My apprentice now only has a surge. Any time we need to drive heavy masonry screws, and sometimes even just lag bolts or longer timber screws his surge will either struggle or flat out not be able to complete the task. Any of my standard 18v impacts can complete those tasks.
@@chazschuck9017 That is true, but for me in carpentry for example - I don't need that extra power, I even use it on second setting most of the time, the comfort and the precision of putting screws incredible.
How does the halo LED compare to the triple LED's on the HPT Triple Hammer? Is it that much of a difference or that much brighter? Do you (from your personal preference) feel the halo LED is actually *necessary*?
Is it necessary? No it's not. But yes it really is that much brighter. I haven't tried a view of the tools that feature the halo light (masterforce has one I think) but this is the brightest tool light have tried. While it's not necessary, I do enjoy and would prefer my tools have it.
Well Mr Taylor I agree with everything you have said.. though the Japanese impact drivers cost more I think the resale value is there when you are tired of it or wanna get the next model there will always be someone wanting a purple or in my case a Forest green hatachi or Makita lxt and xgt impact driver and the triggers are just phenomenal I'm surprised you didn't talk about. The difference between these impacts and the American made powerhouse impacts are night and day!!! The drills to have amazing triggers with power so it's a win win there and I'm talking about the xgt and matabo hpt hammer drills. This was the video I was waiting for and I wanna check back after a little time and ask again how your liking the new 173!!?? And you don't necessarily like the xgt models?
@@glenarseneau4796 no dumb ass when you have over 30 impact drivers like I do when new models come out you have already made all the videos with the last model so sell it to buy the newest model to capitalize on profit from videos from the new one!
I do like the XGT impacts, I just don't feel that they are an upgrade over the LXT Models. With the Hammer Drills, the XGT model is a substantial upgrade of the LXT model and then I think even the XGT saw has improvements over the LXT x2 Saw. So far, I am loving everything but the handle size. It's not a deal breaker but it's just not the best fit for me. But all of the other changes like the light and the rear position of the control panel, I love. It's going to be hard to pick up the other impacts at this point with this one.
Feels every bit as good to me. I used it back to back with the M18 Gen 4 and I thought the trigger was improved on that one but it was noticeable worse than the 173.
I want to know what fasteners these people that only care about power are driving in. I have Makitas original LXT impact, the BTD140 made in Japan and bought at the orange logo store back in 2005 and I have no complaints with it. I do have the black and gold version of the Metabo HPT bolt that I bought off Amazon Japan, but more than anything I use my brushed Bosch 12v ps41. It has no problem with screws up to 3”.
I love the style of the Japanese impact. Agreed on the handle shape issue. I have the XGT. Series one. Like the power. Have fuel gen4, Bosh brushless, and DeWslt 850. Along with Milwaukee brushless gen 2. I’m dying to try the Japanese version with jis bits. $$ a consideration but feel is everything. Makita just has that level of refinement I’m looking for now. Thanks😁
Yeah the bits can be pricey. I have a few and I like them but I haven’t yet committed a ton of money to them. Instead I bot a bit holder so I can use standard 1” bits in the end but I eliminate the slop in the collet.
I have heard of people that have put something down in there or even welded an extension on the bit. The slop doesn’t bother me that much but if it does the vessel bit holder was a decently cheap route to go.
I was a few months before but I felt the same way. They only reason I got the 19 was a saw such a great price on it for this video. Honestly they have all small improvements but performance is very similar and they are all nice to use.
I have always felt that they are understating the torque figures on the LXT models and it might be closer to what they say it is on the XGT models. They really feel identical in use.
Great look at that impact! I’ll definitely buy it when it’s available on XGT. I’m trying to build out my XGT as I see myself use that platform more often now. Weird question (feel free not to answer) are you in Utah by chance? I keep seeing that soda cup in the background that looks like a Maverick cup. Keep up the great work!
@@TinkerWithTools haha I’m the same way!! I can’t live without my Vanilla Coke. I’m down here in St. George and it’s always fun to see someone who is close. Thanks for the awesome videos.
Would love to see a tear down between impacts. Project Farm has done this on last gen impacts and you’ll see the difference within the internal components. Manufacturing in Japan > China
I wouldn’t consider myself an expert on this stuff but I might have to give it a try. I would want to get the same model for both versions but right now I don’t have that so it will have to be forthcoming.
Still not avaible in my country (Slovenia, Europe), but I'm selling every single brand of tools on the market🤦 in our shop😢 best we sell and I own it too ist still here is dtd172.. Would much love to try that one..
I guess it will depend on what is important to you. I find the US equivalent of the TD172 (XDT19) to be more comfortable for my hand size. But the placement of the control board, the improved ring light and the overall size of the tool (being smaller) to be improvements. If you are looking to buy a tool, it's a worthy upgrade, but the new model will not truly have a performance benefit over the 172.
One thing you didnt show that i'd like to know is how to change the different modes, changing the power is easy 1-4 but i just dont know how to change the different modes. Great video though.
The buttons on the base of the tool are going to be the way that you do that. As for what modes do what I might have to highlight it in a better video - but I typically have to turn to the manual to see specifically what each mode on a Makita is going to do.
@TinkerWithTools thanks ever so much. I did read the online manual to find that I had bought a very good fake one that the function modes just didn't work. I am sending back for full refund and bought one direct from Japan.
Gotta' love a thoughtful review that doesn't go head over heels just because it's shiny and new. Thanks! That said, I really like the new light and controls at the back, but I've got big hands so moving the handle to the middle and making it cramped is a deal breaker for me. The "power" wars are a joke in my opinion. I have my XDT16 set to power 3 most of the time as full power has broken fasteners on me or drives screws in too deep too quick... Lags or long timber screws and I'll bump it up to full power (or grab the correct tool for the job). If I was in the market, I'd get a 16 instead of a 19 as the only difference I can see is the layout of the special features --everything else is exactly the same unless I missed something...
Yea the "power wars" made plenty of sense awhile back, but these days when it comes to lower draw tools just about every brushless option on the market will provide more than enough power for most professionals. When it comes to impacts specifically there are so many other factors to consider.
I would love to get a purple Makita but I'll wait until they're available in Canada with the 9.5 collet. The light and the control panel placement sells it to me. I also run M18 impact driver and wrench and the control panel on those have horrible placement, especially when I'm trying to see it and the light is shinning in my eye.
What you can do with the JDM's is use a lathe to cut an impact bit off the back and leave it at 6.07mm, makita sells an adapter insert but I think by far cutting it on the lathe is the best option.
@@TinkerWithTools Yes, it can be removed without any problem, I have a black DT172 that I bought on Amazon Japan and I didn't use it for 2 weeks because I didn't have a 13 mm bit, in the end I used a Makita bit from the xps line to put it in the lathe (by far the hardest tips, they were the only ones that required a carbide cutter).
@leotejada4936 yeah ...see this is way to much work for the reward ...I appreciate your science to it but just can't find it worth it manufacturing a bit ...thanks bud !
Just a heads up. If you buy a vessel bit holder, the bit holder will have the japaneese shaft meassurements but so will the bit holder ball aswell so it does not hold western bits very well, at least the ones i have tried. Small bits shaft will go past the ball and get jammed
@@jonathanviborg4229 anvil meaning replace the internals of the drill itself ( sorry I’m not to familiar with the drill itself) also there is a small part you can get to put inside the collet to remove the play for rest of world bits etc, but I’m sure you already know that.
@@Rangertozero yeah sorry i was typing in a haste but yeah the entire chunky propeller looking thing and the shaft for the collet is the same piece. There is a bunch of videos showing the way to do it. Yeah i forgot that little cone piece! That might be the wisest move as it is easier, cheaper snd does not ruin any warranty. I have never tried one of those but the conclucion i would make is if you go with the cone you might consider using a extension with small bits instead of long bits as the cone could fall out and get lost while swapping bits
I have tried looking and don’t have the information current. Angle grinders isn’t something that I use frequently but if I come across the info I’ll pass it on
They are supposed to be coming out with i believe xph16 hammer drill this summer and it looks tiny! Imagine the room and weight you can save with these lighter tools!
My current go to compact 18v drill is the DeWalt DCD800. It's not the most powerful drill on the market but it almost feels like the pound for pound champion. Hopefully the XPH16 can rival that.
Just watched some videos of your dewalt,looks like a very good drill,im reaching more and more for my hpt compact( not the sub) 18v...so I'm hoping the same about the upcoming new lxt..
If it doesn't matter what platform you are on, I would recommend the XGT hammer drill. It's pricey and you have the big batteries, but it's a really nice drill. I do like the XPH14 if you are on LXT alternatively, just not as much as the XGT.
They seem to bounce back and forth between the lines on which one they update. I would guess that it would be soon but I think you might see small differences between the XGT and the LXT still.
@@TinkerWithTools Did you get it from your affiliate HVAC? If so, is it new in the box or a refurb? That price is better than the Home Depot price $234 but what is the catch?
@@hendrst1918 I got the 19 off eBay. It was new in box but given that it was not an authorized retailer I would be confident in my future ability to do a warranty claim on it. The price fluctuates between 100 and 115 depending on the day. It’s a bit of a gamble but for the cost savings and what I wanted it for (having many other impacts) I was willing to take the chance. The tool so far works great.
@@TinkerWithTools Ok. I am looking for a third drill/driver primarily for fine wooodworking/cabinetmaking/shop fixtures. Which one of the Makita impacts would be best for that?
I would take the Makita at this point. It's nicer and more refined but that's not saying the Hikoki is a worse tool... just not quite as nice as the Makita.
I definitely don’t like the handle placement because at times you need that extra clearance to drive a screw without adding an extension just a little inconvenient
I won't profess to be an expert but i can't think of any harm. if there is any difference I would say it might be more performance related but I haven't noticed anything specific.
makita stands up to abuse like no other also, i could care less about the marginal power numbers. My impact hammer drill combo kit from 2011 just crapped out this year and they have been professionally used and abused, big falls, rain, mud, sand.....batteries lasted over 10 years also. Hands down win on longevity. Btd141 impact just on the verse of burning out and its a 2021...crazy how the 19m is $225 now n 1 yr ago 105
Honestly that’s still a lot of power in a compact size/form factor and with an 18v battery. I hate to say it because I know that there are DeWalt fanboys but DeWalt would not even stand a chance to this Makita impact driver.
DEWALT is in a strange middle ground in my opinion. They don’t make a bad impact driver but it’s not as powerful as flex and Milwaukee and not as refined in my opinion as the makita.
Xdt19 made in China. My old xdt14 was also made in China. The 173 is made in Japan. You are paying for Japanese labor compared to Chinese. I don’t mind paying the premium. The Japanese care more. And I’m sure the Japanese send quality control to inspect the Chinese factories but I still just rather everything be done in Japan. Also, I’d like to have a made in America option for an impact. Does Milwaukee make one in US?
They do not. I could be wrong but apart from the older Dewalts that were made in the USA with global materials, I can't think of one that is made here now.
I came from a Ryobi combo kit and wanted to get a impact driver. I searched for an answer and found the TD172D and shiped it from Japan. I had zero references and had only been using a drill driver with chuck before and it sure got the job done. But before commiting to a brand i got interested in Milwaukees 12v platform. Never been a fan of batteries larger than the tool. So I got rid of my TD172D and bought a m18 FID2 as i got a nice deal i thought it to be a good alround tool in addition to the 12v setup. And oh my god I had no idea how good the trigger and speed control of the Makita was. It almost had the same percision as a clutch chuck. In comparison the Milwaukee was way more aggressive and almost was not able to go slow at all. I now use a m12 surge hydraulic driver and complement it with a m12 stubby impact wrench. Its great but even the m12 surge although it has very controlled impacts it needs some load to go slow. The Makita stood up for the 0-whatever rpm it said in the specs. No matter how soft and gently i press the trigger the Milwaukees has way higher minimum speed which annoys me.
It is the way you layout your testing that makes me come to your channel for informed purchasing & knowledge of operation/function with these tools. When comparing specific drills/impacts against the competition or "familial" testing, you go back to that tool after each test of competition ( as opposed to doing a single demonstration with a tool). You even preface the testing by demonstrating a quick run-through of a tool & its capabilities & features. There's no fluff.... just a dude in his shop - tinkering with tools! You share your bias(es) & don't allow them to influence or dictate the tests or the results. Your videos are not speed-centric or power-centric ( speed & power are simply attributes &/or features of the tool). There are no odd-ball promos or paid "results"; nothing about your videos feels/seems contrived. As unfortunate & bass-ackwards as it is, those types of channels seem to have the bigger followings. It makes ZERO sense & I'm beginning to think that the movie 'Idiocracy' was/is some type of hind-sight documentary/ Definitely appreciate all of* these things as well as the time/effort they require!
Excellent review. I was sick of all the speed comparison reviews on RUclips and glad you drew attention to that. Really I care more about refinement as I’m sure most everyday users of an impact driver do. Pure speed isn’t so important. We waste hours of our lives staring at bits of wood scratching our heads, so 0.15 seconds doesn’t really bother me when it comes to how long it takes to drive a bolt or screw!
Thanks! I think the main reason we focus on it more as tool RUclipsrs is that it makes it easier to show differences between tools that can be felt when using but not as mic on camera. It’s a balancing act since it will be important to some and others will prioritize control or ergonomics more.
Well said. Flat out power is one thing. Lately, FLEX & Milwaukee have taken that cake. The FLEX is a beast, but my god is it heavy and huge. The M18 is better, but still wouldn't call it fantastic in anything other than Power. The Metabo HPT & Makita drivers are just a joy to use. Great triggers, great ergo, plenty of power, just way more refined. Past a certain point, when it comes to power, you should probably be using an impact Wrench y'know. I run an M12 Surge for the small stuff, and a MHPT 36V Bolt for the bigger stuff. Great 1-2 punch for me. Like the looks of this 173. I was one of the few who liked the Side panel on the MHPT B Model. Having the controls on the back is nice as well. To me, it makes more sense on the side, or the back than the front. Which is what nearly all have lol
I hope this back panel placement catches on. It’s great. And while I complained about the size of the handle here I don’t think it was a result of the move. Just a design choice they made.
J. Wick, Milwaukee M18 Gen4 is super heavy like a $2 Cinder Block especially with 6ah high output battery. And heavy tools will definitely get you fatigued in the jobsite. Milwaukee is only good for DIY like Ryobi and Ridgid. Same as the Flex. They're so friggin heavy. And who would want to run their cordless tools with a big fat battery like about a size of your car battery?? 🤣 And at the end of the day you're still gonna want to drill a pilot hole for your screws because you don't wanna damage or split your materials?? And you're using a cordless tool with a car battery sized battery pack. What the heck?! Isn't that 1400in/lbs and 2800rpm and 3400ipm good enough?
@@twinbee4243 that's what I said
@@J.Wick. no that's not what you said John wickily tickily split lickety. You just only praised your Milwaukee M18. What I said are the facts here. Milwaukee M18 is only good for DIY just like Ryobi and Ridgid and FLEX. They're so friggin heavy like Cinder blocks or tons of bricks. Don't let me repeat that again! And I'm not gonna put myself on the line with heavy tools, I wanna make more money without getting that much fatigue. 2ah battery pack is good enough it can do the job. Otherwise for framing it's either I use my good ole pneumatic air framing nailer or my good ole fashion Framing Hammer. For Decking it's either Makita XDT16 or XDT-19. Or DeWalt 885 or 840 with 2ah battery is good enough. For cutting lumbers my DeWalt DWE575sb corded sidewinder is good enough to build a 6 bed room 3 bathroom, 2 Floor House for Framing. It's the lightest cutting tool I ever have only 8lbs. Compare to the cordless circular saws that weighs 14lbs or more because of their bulky Car Sized battery packs.
@@twinbee4243 ok guy. That's what I said guy.
The controls, the light, and it being manufactured in Japan definitely makes the $220 price tag understandable and getting it before North American distributors. But like you said buddy for half the cost the 19 or even the 16 are not going to do you wrong. The only lxt I have is the XDT13 and the black compact. The compact sucks but I love the XDT13
I’ve heard good things about the 13. But I don’t see the point in buying it now with the others I have.
Exactly they are amazing impact drivers with the feeling of no other except the lxt xgt and hatachi or hpt drivers. In my opinion they just feel so good in the hand and the triggers are so variable!! Unlike flex it's all or nothing lol I love my flex and Milwaukee there powerhouse impacts but if the triggers were more refined then we would have a truly amazing impact driver!!??
@@TacticalThib Yea when you really need to drive a heavy fastener or you have to hammer out a ton of deck screws or something the Milwaukee gen 4 is an absolute hammer. Its a good tool to have. But honestly for regular day to day use I always lean towards my Makita or M12 impacts. They are more refined, and more pleasant to use. And contrary to what he said I really like the smaller grips on the Makitas. My hands are definitely smaller than his though!
Does the xdt13 have a quick insert? I’m seeing videos that can push in the bit quickly with 1 hand but I can’t on mine.
I use a xdt19 for finer, more lax work but if I’m just driving screws all day into a deck, I’ll switch over to the FLEX. Love both. Unexpectedly, I’ve dove pretty deep with flex recently and I’m happy. Flex & makita and just a few tools from dewalt still as that’s what I started with.
The flex tools I own are pretty nice. They have loads of power but I prefer the ergonomics of other brands more. But for a first offering, I don’t think we can complain much.
Spot on. I use my impact driver 8 hrs a day. I want smooth and polished performance. Nothing but. Makita is the best. Not close in my book.
I think these are the Lexus of impact drivers. I'd like to have the TD173 to accompany my TD172. There's really nothing like the 173 on the market today.
Agreed.
What's the point having 2?
You don't need JIS bits. Just put something in the collet before you insert a normal bit. It brings the bearing slot in line properly.
I'm makita all day and got the 171 before pretty much everyone else in Canada at the tail end of 2018. They really need to focus on some other tools...nailers being one of them
Thanks for suggesting this.
Yeah people actually make a insert to go in the impact you just need to glue it in thats all
I’m about halfway through the video and just from seeing the modes, numbers etc, this one looks to be a better driver for woodworkers. Even better than the Dewalt atomic. It sounds to have much more finesse and control.
I agree with you. It has a lot of options and is very smooth in use. The atomic isn’t bad but in my opinion this is more refined.
It’s so much better
In my opinion
The TD173 is the light update from TD172(or XDT19) i like the Led Ring but i don't like the location of Control Panel on TD173 if Makita could replace the location of the TD173 control Panel like previous model TD172/XDT 19 that will be very great
I feel like most Makita impact new versions could be called a light update. This one felt the most aggressive in terms of what they changed but in terms of performance it still just stays there.
The One thing I don't like about Makita is their Smallish Handles , I just bought the XGT 40V GDT01 Impact Driver and I basically have to force my XL Hand to fit the Handle and I would Love to see the Control Panel on the Back of the tool , the Problem with the Milwaukee Fuel Gen4 Impact Driver is I constantly hit the Speed Selector and change the Speed of the Tool and it drives me Crazy 🤬 ..... 👍🖖
Yeah I don’t think you will love the 173 ever then. I feel like the XGT you mentioned as a “roomy” handle compared to it. They are nice tools but that’s a negative for some I know.
The moment Makita releases the 173 with xgt, I'm buying it.
If they do (not saying they won’t I just don’t have any info that says they will) I will be lining up as well. I love a lot about it, just wish the handle had a bit more length to it. Other than that, there is a lot to love about it.
The 173 is the ultimate impact
Great review. I just got my td173d and love it. Am I able to register it for the warranty? I’m having trouble with that and am curious if you have any helpful info.
I didn’t try where I bought it from a third party seller, it’s not a model in my country and I just assumed that I could warranty it.
Nice review again. I agree that Makita makes very good, smooth and refined impact drivers. But a standard impact can not compete in this regard with a hydraulic one still...I have the Hikoki tripple hammer and the TD172 / XDT19 ( a Japanese one)- and they are fine, but they are very far from the Milwaukee Surge.
I want to see and update to the surge really bad. Hopefully they continue and we see further improvements.
What do you mean exactly? The surge is quieter, but certainly not as powerful as a standard impact. Otherwise hydraulic technology would be pervasive. Its not because while it has good performance it is clearly inferior in power and torque compared to a standard impact. I have seen this first hand many times. My apprentice now only has a surge. Any time we need to drive heavy masonry screws, and sometimes even just lag bolts or longer timber screws his surge will either struggle or flat out not be able to complete the task. Any of my standard 18v impacts can complete those tasks.
@@chazschuck9017 That is true, but for me in carpentry for example - I don't need that extra power, I even use it on second setting most of the time, the comfort and the precision of putting screws incredible.
@@sizif717 I'm with you. Not a bad tool, and has its place.
How does the halo LED compare to the triple LED's on the HPT Triple Hammer? Is it that much of a difference or that much brighter? Do you (from your personal preference) feel the halo LED is actually *necessary*?
Is it necessary? No it's not. But yes it really is that much brighter. I haven't tried a view of the tools that feature the halo light (masterforce has one I think) but this is the brightest tool light have tried. While it's not necessary, I do enjoy and would prefer my tools have it.
I just ordered this in yellow so I can tell people to get their hands off my Dekita, or my Mawalt.
I have considered the yellow in the Hikoki Japanese versions before. I try to get a new color each time so the next one might have to be yellow.
Well Mr Taylor I agree with everything you have said.. though the Japanese impact drivers cost more I think the resale value is there when you are tired of it or wanna get the next model there will always be someone wanting a purple or in my case a Forest green hatachi or Makita lxt and xgt impact driver and the triggers are just phenomenal I'm surprised you didn't talk about. The difference between these impacts and the American made powerhouse impacts are night and day!!! The drills to have amazing triggers with power so it's a win win there and I'm talking about the xgt and matabo hpt hammer drills. This was the video I was waiting for and I wanna check back after a little time and ask again how your liking the new 173!!?? And you don't necessarily like the xgt models?
🫡💯🫡
Resale value what’s it a used car lol
@@glenarseneau4796 no dumb ass when you have over 30 impact drivers like I do when new models come out you have already made all the videos with the last model so sell it to buy the newest model to capitalize on profit from videos from the new one!
I do like the XGT impacts, I just don't feel that they are an upgrade over the LXT Models. With the Hammer Drills, the XGT model is a substantial upgrade of the LXT model and then I think even the XGT saw has improvements over the LXT x2 Saw. So far, I am loving everything but the handle size. It's not a deal breaker but it's just not the best fit for me. But all of the other changes like the light and the rear position of the control panel, I love. It's going to be hard to pick up the other impacts at this point with this one.
awesome video and knowledge as usual...I have a question about the trigger...is it as smooth as the 40v gen 1 ?
Feels every bit as good to me. I used it back to back with the M18 Gen 4 and I thought the trigger was improved on that one but it was noticeable worse than the 173.
Great video TWT. I wouldnt be a fan of that rounded base either. As you grip your hand would be pushed up.
Agreed
I want to know what fasteners these people that only care about power are driving in. I have Makitas original LXT impact, the BTD140 made in Japan and bought at the orange logo store back in 2005 and I have no complaints with it. I do have the black and gold version of the Metabo HPT bolt that I bought off Amazon Japan, but more than anything I use my brushed Bosch 12v ps41. It has no problem with screws up to 3”.
I think it comes down to larger lags or similar fasteners. But I think also use it for stuff that it’s not intended for like lug nuts occasionally.
Love makita they need to make a long neck 3/8 and my collection will be complete
Do you have another brand you go to for that currently?
I love the style of the Japanese impact. Agreed on the handle shape issue.
I have the XGT. Series one. Like the power. Have fuel gen4, Bosh brushless, and DeWslt 850. Along with Milwaukee brushless gen 2.
I’m dying to try the Japanese version with jis bits. $$ a consideration but feel is everything. Makita just has that level of refinement I’m looking for now.
Thanks😁
Yeah the bits can be pricey. I have a few and I like them but I haven’t yet committed a ton of money to them. Instead I bot a bit holder so I can use standard 1” bits in the end but I eliminate the slop in the collet.
Wonder if you could use a ball or cylindrical neodymium magnetic to fill the gap?
I have heard of people that have put something down in there or even welded an extension on the bit. The slop doesn’t bother me that much but if it does the vessel bit holder was a decently cheap route to go.
Got the combo pack with the 16...right b4 they started selling it with the 19...slight buyers remorse but I love the 16
Meh...that 16 is sweet. Not much difference really. Tad smaller, that's about it.
I was a few months before but I felt the same way. They only reason I got the 19 was a saw such a great price on it for this video. Honestly they have all small improvements but performance is very similar and they are all nice to use.
How exactly are they getting better numbers with the 19 with less apparent torque?
I have always felt that they are understating the torque figures on the LXT models and it might be closer to what they say it is on the XGT models. They really feel identical in use.
@@TinkerWithTools I also feel that way
Thanks for your video 😊
You’re welcome!
Great look at that impact! I’ll definitely buy it when it’s available on XGT. I’m trying to build out my XGT as I see myself use that platform more often now. Weird question (feel free not to answer) are you in Utah by chance? I keep seeing that soda cup in the background that looks like a Maverick cup. Keep up the great work!
You know it! Maverik fountain beverages are life!
@@TinkerWithTools haha I’m the same way!! I can’t live without my Vanilla Coke. I’m down here in St. George and it’s always fun to see someone who is close. Thanks for the awesome videos.
@@nicko5945 I love the St George area. Wish I made it down there more honestly. I’m up along the wasatch front.
Would love to see a tear down between impacts. Project Farm has done this on last gen impacts and you’ll see the difference within the internal components. Manufacturing in Japan > China
I wouldn’t consider myself an expert on this stuff but I might have to give it a try. I would want to get the same model for both versions but right now I don’t have that so it will have to be forthcoming.
Still not avaible in my country (Slovenia, Europe), but I'm selling every single brand of tools on the market🤦 in our shop😢 best we sell and I own it too ist still here is dtd172.. Would much love to try that one..
It's technically not available in my country still either... just had to pick it up on Ebay.
I purchased the TD172 three years ago. Is the 173 a worthwhile upgrade? Or should I look at any American options? Happy with mine, but just curious.
I guess it will depend on what is important to you. I find the US equivalent of the TD172 (XDT19) to be more comfortable for my hand size. But the placement of the control board, the improved ring light and the overall size of the tool (being smaller) to be improvements. If you are looking to buy a tool, it's a worthy upgrade, but the new model will not truly have a performance benefit over the 172.
Thank you for the informed response :)
One thing you didnt show that i'd like to know is how to change the different modes, changing the power is easy 1-4 but i just dont know how to change the different modes. Great video though.
The buttons on the base of the tool are going to be the way that you do that. As for what modes do what I might have to highlight it in a better video - but I typically have to turn to the manual to see specifically what each mode on a Makita is going to do.
@TinkerWithTools thanks ever so much. I did read the online manual to find that I had bought a very good fake one that the function modes just didn't work. I am sending back for full refund and bought one direct from Japan.
That stinks. I'm sorry you got a fake one.
Where did you buy that fake one?@@charlesingram9471
Gotta' love a thoughtful review that doesn't go head over heels just because it's shiny and new. Thanks! That said, I really like the new light and controls at the back, but I've got big hands so moving the handle to the middle and making it cramped is a deal breaker for me. The "power" wars are a joke in my opinion. I have my XDT16 set to power 3 most of the time as full power has broken fasteners on me or drives screws in too deep too quick... Lags or long timber screws and I'll bump it up to full power (or grab the correct tool for the job). If I was in the market, I'd get a 16 instead of a 19 as the only difference I can see is the layout of the special features --everything else is exactly the same unless I missed something...
The 19 and the 173 are very similar in modes and specs... the 16 has one less mode i believe but for most instances they are essentially equal.
I’ve got both of them Japan models. TD172 is a little bit faster under load than TD171 and in my opinion looks better cause its head is slimmer.
Yea the "power wars" made plenty of sense awhile back, but these days when it comes to lower draw tools just about every brushless option on the market will provide more than enough power for most professionals. When it comes to impacts specifically there are so many other factors to consider.
happy to see my small hand will have room
I would love to get a purple Makita but I'll wait until they're available in Canada with the 9.5 collet. The light and the control panel placement sells it to me. I also run M18 impact driver and wrench and the control panel on those have horrible placement, especially when I'm trying to see it and the light is shinning in my eye.
I would love to have the American market version as well but I have no clue how long it will take them to release it
Would this come out as a combo with xph16 one day? That’ll be so awesome.
They will have to release the TD173 here first but one could hope.
What you can do with the JDM's is use a lathe to cut an impact bit off the back and leave it at 6.07mm, makita sells an adapter insert but I think by far cutting it on the lathe is the best option.
Can you ever get the insert out if you put it in?
@@TinkerWithTools Yes, it can be removed without any problem, I have a black DT172 that I bought on Amazon Japan and I didn't use it for 2 weeks because I didn't have a 13 mm bit, in the end I used a Makita bit from the xps line to put it in the lathe (by far the hardest tips, they were the only ones that required a carbide cutter).
@leotejada4936 yeah ...see this is way to much work for the reward ...I appreciate your science to it but just can't find it worth it manufacturing a bit ...thanks bud !
Just a heads up. If you buy a vessel bit holder, the bit holder will have the japaneese shaft meassurements but so will the bit holder ball aswell so it does not hold western bits very well, at least the ones i have tried. Small bits shaft will go past the ball and get jammed
I haven’t used it with any of the really small bits without a ball detent since I knew that’s how it was retaining it. Thanks for sharing.
If that’s the case would you be better buying the a set of Vessel gold double headed bits to get around that issue?
@@Rangertozero yes i would recommend that if they are easily available for you. Otherwise i would buy a new anvil
@@jonathanviborg4229 anvil meaning replace the internals of the drill itself ( sorry I’m not to familiar with the drill itself) also there is a small part you can get to put inside the collet to remove the play for rest of world bits etc, but I’m sure you already know that.
@@Rangertozero yeah sorry i was typing in a haste but yeah the entire chunky propeller looking thing and the shaft for the collet is the same piece. There is a bunch of videos showing the way to do it.
Yeah i forgot that little cone piece! That might be the wisest move as it is easier, cheaper snd does not ruin any warranty. I have never tried one of those but the conclucion i would make is if you go with the cone you might consider using a extension with small bits instead of long bits as the cone could fall out and get lost while swapping bits
Do you know what makita angle grinder is made in Japan like the td173 is, thanks?
I have tried looking and don’t have the information current. Angle grinders isn’t something that I use frequently but if I come across the info I’ll pass it on
Any idea if Makita is going to be releasing a 40V of the TD173?
I haven’t heard anything but I don’t have any sources for that.
They are supposed to be coming out with i believe xph16 hammer drill this summer and it looks tiny! Imagine the room and weight you can save with these lighter tools!
I’m excited for that!
Me too! As the 173 is tiny in its own right...!
My current go to compact 18v drill is the DeWalt DCD800. It's not the most powerful drill on the market but it almost feels like the pound for pound champion. Hopefully the XPH16 can rival that.
Just watched some videos of your dewalt,looks like a very good drill,im reaching more and more for my hpt compact( not the sub) 18v...so I'm hoping the same about the upcoming new lxt..
Is it confirmed? Can’t wait to see the xph16 hammer drill on market.
What makita hammer drill would you recommend?
If it doesn't matter what platform you are on, I would recommend the XGT hammer drill. It's pricey and you have the big batteries, but it's a really nice drill. I do like the XPH14 if you are on LXT alternatively, just not as much as the XGT.
Is there a drill that its pairs with I'm looking to buy from Australia its hard to find
They don't seem to update their drill lineup as much as their impacts. Are you looking for something more compact or full size.
Surprisingly Makita doesn't have a 40V XGT version of this driver yet. Maybe they will have one out soon.
They seem to bounce back and forth between the lines on which one they update. I would guess that it would be soon but I think you might see small differences between the XGT and the LXT still.
THE XDT16 IS SO UNDERATED ITS SO POWERFUL AND COMPACT AND SO CONSISTENT.
The differences between the 16 and the 19 are pretty insignificant but both are really great options. I recently got a new 19 for roughly $100.
@@TinkerWithTools nice thats not bad at all!
@@TinkerWithTools Did you get it from your affiliate HVAC? If so, is it new in the box or a refurb? That price is better than the Home Depot price $234 but what is the catch?
@@hendrst1918 I got the 19 off eBay. It was new in box but given that it was not an authorized retailer I would be confident in my future ability to do a warranty claim on it. The price fluctuates between 100 and 115 depending on the day. It’s a bit of a gamble but for the cost savings and what I wanted it for (having many other impacts) I was willing to take the chance. The tool so far works great.
@@TinkerWithTools Ok. I am looking for a third drill/driver primarily for fine wooodworking/cabinetmaking/shop fixtures. Which one of the Makita impacts would be best for that?
Makita td173d or hikoki wh18dc which tool will be more stable and superior?
I would take the Makita at this point. It's nicer and more refined but that's not saying the Hikoki is a worse tool... just not quite as nice as the Makita.
My new impact TD173D stop working and making interesting sound , any one know something about it?
I haven’t had any issue with mine. What sort of sound is it making.
@ the sound like tik tik tik.
Sorry to hear that. I haven't had that happen with any Makita impacts but I'll let you know if I come across anything.
I definitely don’t like the handle placement because at times you need that extra clearance to drive a screw without adding an extension just a little inconvenient
It’s has pushed it forward a little but I can see what you are saying.
Am I causing harm if I don't use the bit piece?
I won't profess to be an expert but i can't think of any harm. if there is any difference I would say it might be more performance related but I haven't noticed anything specific.
makita stands up to abuse like no other also, i could care less about the marginal power numbers. My impact hammer drill combo kit from 2011 just crapped out this year and they have been professionally used and abused, big falls, rain, mud, sand.....batteries lasted over 10 years also. Hands down win on longevity. Btd141 impact just on the verse of burning out and its a 2021...crazy how the 19m is $225 now n 1 yr ago 105
Honestly that’s still a lot of power in a compact size/form factor and with an 18v battery.
I hate to say it because I know that there are DeWalt fanboys but DeWalt would not even stand a chance to this Makita impact driver.
DEWALT is in a strange middle ground in my opinion. They don’t make a bad impact driver but it’s not as powerful as flex and Milwaukee and not as refined in my opinion as the makita.
Xdt19 made in China. My old xdt14 was also made in China. The 173 is made in Japan. You are paying for Japanese labor compared to Chinese. I don’t mind paying the premium. The Japanese care more. And I’m sure the Japanese send quality control to inspect the Chinese factories but I still just rather everything be done in Japan. Also, I’d like to have a made in America option for an impact. Does Milwaukee make one in US?
They do not. I could be wrong but apart from the older Dewalts that were made in the USA with global materials, I can't think of one that is made here now.
I came from a Ryobi combo kit and wanted to get a impact driver. I searched for an answer and found the TD172D and shiped it from Japan. I had zero references and had only been using a drill driver with chuck before and it sure got the job done. But before commiting to a brand i got interested in Milwaukees 12v platform. Never been a fan of batteries larger than the tool. So I got rid of my TD172D and bought a m18 FID2 as i got a nice deal i thought it to be a good alround tool in addition to the 12v setup. And oh my god I had no idea how good the trigger and speed control of the Makita was. It almost had the same percision as a clutch chuck. In comparison the Milwaukee was way more aggressive and almost was not able to go slow at all. I now use a m12 surge hydraulic driver and complement it with a m12 stubby impact wrench. Its great but even the m12 surge although it has very controlled impacts it needs some load to go slow. The Makita stood up for the 0-whatever rpm it said in the specs. No matter how soft and gently i press the trigger the Milwaukees has way higher minimum speed which annoys me.
Yeah the Makita trigger is the top of all tools. Other complies have some good options but none rival
Can’t you just change the chuck so normal bits fit
Hadn’t considered but might have to try that.
Colour nice
Thanks Raj!
For anyone wondering the anvil from any of the previous generations of impact wont fit the 173. Totally redesigned. Booooo. 😂
Only complaint is that purple. Damn it's ugly
Well good news they likely have it in a color that suits you better.
@@TinkerWithTools 🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘
I’m still waiting for it to come to the states, MAKITA is depressing
Yeah I have learned to just jump on the Japanese versions so I am not left waiting. I really wish they would just release everything at the same time.
It is the way you layout your testing that makes me come to your channel for informed purchasing & knowledge of operation/function with these tools.
When comparing specific drills/impacts against the competition or "familial" testing, you go back to that tool after each test of competition ( as opposed to doing a single demonstration with a tool).
You even preface the testing by demonstrating a quick run-through of a tool & its capabilities & features.
There's no fluff.... just a dude in his shop - tinkering with tools! You share your bias(es) & don't allow them to influence or dictate the tests or the results. Your videos are not speed-centric or power-centric ( speed & power are simply attributes &/or features of the tool). There are no odd-ball promos or paid "results"; nothing about your videos feels/seems contrived.
As unfortunate & bass-ackwards as it is, those types of channels seem to have the bigger followings. It makes ZERO sense & I'm beginning to think that the movie 'Idiocracy' was/is some type of hind-sight documentary/
Definitely appreciate all of* these things as well as the time/effort they require!
I appreciate your feedback! Thanks.
No the Japanese made one is easily worth twice the price