The battery is engineered for more run time (twice the run time of the Makita 3.0Ah LXT battery), but with the same weight and dimensions as the lower-capacity 3.0Ah, 4.0Ah, and 5.0Ah LXT batteries. It reaches a full charge in only 55 minutes, the fastest charge time in its category. For added convenience, it has an on-board L.E.D. charge level indicator.
Users will also benefit from expansive breadth-of-line: the new BL1860B is compatible with over 150 Makita 18V cordless solutions, the world’s largest 18V lithium-ion cordless tool line-up.
The new 6.0Ah battery will set new standards in run time, particularly when used on efficient brushless motor tools or in tandem on select Makita “X2” tools. Makita 18V X2 LXT (36V) cordless tools are powered by two 18V batteries, and are engineered to deliver corded power and run time for select highest-demand tools like saws, blowers and trimmers – but without leaving the 18V battery platform or investing in heavier, high-voltage batteries.
Watt hours is calculated by multiplying voltage and amp-hours. It is a key indicator of battery capacity and run time, and this example offers a comparison between the BL1860 and a higher voltage battery:
Makita 18V LXT 6.0Ah
· 18 x 6.0 = 108 watt hours
· 18V X2 LXT Recip Saw powered by two 18V 6.0Ah batteries: 2 x 108 = 216 watt hours
60V 2.0Ah battery
· 60 x 2.0 = 120 watt hours
“The new 18 volt six amp-hour battery will create new standards in cordless efficiency and productivity,” Quintana added. “With two six amp hour batteries, an 18 volt X2 tool can meet and exceed corded tool performance, but with the same fast-charging 18 volt batteries that contractors use on their core 18 volt tools like drills and impact drivers, as well as flashlights, fans, radios, and many more. For contractors, it’s one 18 volt battery platform and one solution.”
For improved tool performance and extended battery life, Makita created Star Protection Computer Controls. Star Protection is communication technology that allows the Star Protection-equipped tool and battery to exchange data in real time and monitor conditions during use to protect against overloading, over-discharging and overheating. Makita LXT batteries equipped with Star Protection, including the new BL1860, ensure added protection when used with an LXT tool also equipped with Star Protection.
Makita 18V Lithium-Ion batteries deliver consistent power and run time in extreme temperatures, even in winter (-4°F/-20°C). The impact-resistant outer case and shock-absorbing inner-liner are engineered to protect the battery, and each battery has sixteen contact terminals to maintain a constant connection with the tool to help prevent power loss or fluctuation, even during high-vibration applications. The Makita Rapid Optimum Charger (sold separately) is a smart-charging system that communicates with the battery during the charging process to monitor current, voltage and temperature. This advanced charging technology helps optimize battery life and deliver a faster charge. In addition, the Charger has a built-in fan to cool the battery for faster and more efficient charging, even in hot weather conditions.