Leading power tool manufacturer, Makita has expanded its range of 18V LXT cordless garden maintenance machines further with new product launches. The new additions include an 18V LXT blower, a range of 18V LXT hedge trimmers and an 18V LXT 350mm rear handle chainsaw.

 The versatile DUB187 Brushless LXT Blower, which features both blower and vacuum functions, has a variable speed trigger control plus a cruise control for ease of operation. In blower mode the DUB187 produces a maximum air volume of 4.2 m3 /min with an air velocity of up to 64m/sec. As a vacuum to pick up leaves and garden debris, the DUB187 has a maximum air volume of 6.1 m3 /min, benefits from a 25 litre collection bag and features a metal shredder blade on the fan for mulching. For easy and comfortable use, the DUB187 also features top and rear handles as well as a shoulder strap and two casters on the blower/vacuum nozzle for ease of movement. 

 Makita has also launched four new 18V LXT hedge trimmers. The DUH507 and DUH607 LXT hedge trimmers have 500mm and 600mm blade lengths respectively. The machines deliver an output of 250 watts, a blade speed of 2700 strokes per minute and have a 15mm maximum cutting capacity.  

 Also added to the range is the DUH506 and DUH606 Brushless LXT hedge trimmers that similarly have 500mm and 600mm blade lengths. These machines have an output of 320 watts with a blade speed of 4000 strokes per minute and a 20mm maximum cutting capacity. The brushless motors in the DUH506 and DUH606 deliver improved performance and runtimes compared with equivalent machines with conventional brushed motors. 

 All the new hedge trimmers are designed to be lightweight, including an aluminium guide bar, to reduce user fatigue as well as a redesigned front switch for easier operation. The new machines also all have optional chip receivers, and safety features such an electric brake, whilst the DUH506 and DUH606 also feature an anti-restart function. 

 In addition, to help professionals achieve maximum productivity, the DUB187 blower and the new hedge trimmers are all compatible with the Makita PDC01 portable power supply. This backpack battery unit can be fitted with up to four LXT batteries to provide extended run times for a wide range of Makita 18V and Twin 18V (36V) LXT machines via a connection adaptor. 

 Finally, Makita has also added a new rear handle chainsaw to its line-up. The DUC357 Brushless LXT 350mm Chainsaw achieves a high level of torque using a gear reduction mechanism making it ideal for more demanding applications.  

 Kevin Brannigan, Marketing Manager at Makita commented: “We are continually developing our range of cordless garden and grounds maintenance machines to provide professionals with a choice of products to suit their needs. This latest wave of new product launches broadens these options further with lightweight and easy to handle, but highly effective solutions.”