Makita XAD04Z 36V (18V X2) LXT Brushless 7/16-in Hex Right-Angle Drill (Tool Only) review

Makita’s exact U.S. XAD04Z page labels the 36V (18V X2) LXT brushless 7/16-in hex right-angle drill discontinued and identifies the suffix as tool-only. Its linked XAD04 family flyer has a separate XAD04Z equipment line for the drill and side handle; the PT kit’s batteries, charger and bag are not part of that Z listing. This review treats it as an earlier configuration reference, not as a claim about seller stock, condition or price.

Tool-only X2 power requires a package check

The XAD04Z does not include battery or charger. The XAD04 manual says the tool uses two 18V LXT battery cartridges for its 36V X2 operation and names approved battery models and charger families. Verify the precise pack and charger against that model-specific list before assembling a setup. If comparing the XAD04PT kit, remember that it is a separate suffix: its exact page lists two BL1850B 5.0Ah packs, a DC18RD charger and a bag. Those contents should not be transferred to XAD04Z.

The linked family flyer’s XAD04Z equipment line lists the drill and side handle. The exact manufacturer page says tool-only and is the lifecycle source; the flyer provides the written accessory detail. Because this is a discontinued SKU, a listing for a surviving unit could be incomplete, used, or otherwise different from the documented package. Check the actual box and seller description rather than assuming that “tool-only” guarantees the remaining accessory is present.

7/16-in hex sleeve, not a 1/2-in chuck

The XAD04 manual specifies a 11.2-mm (7/16-in) hex bit shank. Its sleeve slides back for insertion and secures the bit when released; Makita instructs the operator to insert the shank fully and check that it is held. This is not the keyed 1/2-in chuck on the XAD03, so a conventional chuck bit should not be assumed to fit. The manual’s separate 1/2-in steel-hole limit describes material drilling capacity, not the size of the XAD04Z holder.

The manual lists high speed up to 1,400 rpm and low speed up to 350 rpm. For wood it distinguishes a 2-in auger in either gear, a self-feed bit up to 2-9/16 in in high or 4-5/8 in in low, and a hole saw up to 4-1/8 in in high or 6-1/4 in in low. These are the manufacturer’s bit- and gear-specific limits. They do not answer how an unknown bit or workpiece will behave. The manual describes a low-speed torque limiter and advises firm bracing, a secured workpiece and careful control when a bit binds or breaks through.

Overall length is not head clearance

Makita lists 21-1/4 in overall length; the manual also gives 24 in with the front handle extended. Neither value supplies the exact head length used by the finder’s six-inch constraint. Measure the real work envelope with the selected bit, two battery packs, hand position and approach direction in mind. The right-angle form changes access direction, but a product photo or overall measurement cannot prove clearance in a cabinet, joist bay or other confined location.

The product page gives a 13.1-lb figure with battery, while the manual lists 11.9–13.2 lb depending on attachments and battery. Those values are not a bare-tool weight, and the maker’s stated range is not a measurement from this review. For an earlier tool, a buyer should also establish whether the included or intended batteries are healthy and whether the listed power equipment is actually available; no present seller offer is evaluated here.

When the discontinued XAD04Z remains relevant

It is worth comparing only when the intended bit uses the 7/16-in hex shank, the X2 LXT arrangement makes sense, and the exact unit’s condition and power setup can be independently checked. If a keyed 1/2-in bit interface is essential, the XAD03 family is the different fit. If the bundled two-pack kit is important, review XAD04PT separately and verify its package; this Z SKU does not inherit those kit contents.

Before considering a specific older unit, confirm the XAD04Z suffix, visible condition, hex sleeve and handle, approved battery/charger models, the proper bit and gear, and the real work clearance. The manual provides operating boundaries, but neither the manual nor discontinued label confirms a seller’s stock, offer, package completeness or suitability for a particular job.