Accessories

rock solid l'il item
I'm not very much into chuck-less drills, and even less into cordless, so I bought this Makita 6402 as an all-around drill in my already-electrified shop. And when compared to, say, a similar Craftsman chuck-less 3/8 drill at half the price, what strikes me is the increased compactness or density of the Makita model. Also, the slower 1200 rpm would seem to be preferable since the black-oxide drill bits that are generally available these days are only rated to a maximum of 1500 rpm. My only gripe with this model has to do with the illustration as given here and elsewhere. An earlier model seems to be depicted, one that had a variable-speed dial built into trigger. Sadly, this is lacking in the currently-produced version that I received; although, I must confess, the variable speed trigger as supplied is very sensitive for low-speed drilling as needed. Also, the previous reviewer remarked that this drill was made in the USA. And while I appreciate and agree with his remarks as a whole, my own drill as received turns out to be made in Nippon (nothing inherently wrong with this as far as I am concerned). Also preferable to the Milwaukee series as mentioned is the Makita 6402's more right-angled handle design. And the analogous 9 amp Hitachi model is also a 1/2 drill in a 3/8 dress. So let's hear it for Makita's maintaining a realistic balance between the motor and tool weight/dimensions.

A Great All Around Drill
This is one great drill. I was looking for a good basic drill for work in the shop,for general drilling and driving screws[witout constantly changing batteries] and this Makita more than fits the bill.Not too big,not too small. I already have a 1/2" Porter-Cable, a Porter-Cable hammer drill, a Milwaukee hole shooter, as well as a Makita cordless.However the one I reach for most is the 6402. It's just the right size, not too heavy and has good balance,and plenty of power. Say what you want about keyless chucks, they are a great convience, but give me a keyed chuck anyday. It only takes a few seconds more and a little effort.But they are the only ones that really lock the bit tight. Nothing more frustrating than to have constantly tighten up the chuck. Ive used it to drill and drive screws, and have put hole saws on it as well,and used a 1" forstner bit, and it has worked effortlessly,and it does not slip either. The reverse switch is in a good spot on the bottom,does not get in the way. No woodworker/handyman's tool box is complete without a Makita 6402. Its not the biggest,the baddest or the most powerful drill out there. But if you are looking for a great all around drill, the Makita 6402 is for you.[And the battery never seems to die just when you need it most] I almost bought a Milwaukee 3/8" drill. Its a super drill, but the size and weight are just like a 1/2" : kind of like a 1/2" drill disguised to look like a 3/8". A great drill, but I already have a 1/2", I dont need 2. Give this a workbench test drive, I doubt you will be disappointed. Ohh, did I forget to mention, its made in U.S.A.!! How many tools can you say that about today?