# What does body only, bare or tool only mean?

Source: https://drillandbit.co.uk/blog/what-does-body-only-mean
Published: 2026-10-12
Publisher: Drill and Bit

**In short:** Body only, bare unit, skin, naked and tool only all mean the tool without a battery or charger. You need batteries and a charger from the same platform to use it. Makita often marks bare tools with Z at the end of the model, DeWalt with N and Milwaukee with 0. Bare tools are good value when you already own batteries, but not for a first tool.

Shopping for cordless tools, you will see the same drill listed at very different prices. Often the cheaper one is body only. That can be a bargain or a disappointment, depending on whether you already own the right batteries. This guide explains the terms, model code letters and what to check before you buy a bare tool.

## The terms

These phrases all mean the same thing in UK listings: **body only**, **bare unit**, **bare tool**, **tool only**, **skin**, **naked** and **solo**. The box contains the tool and sometimes a belt hook, bit holder or case, but no battery and no charger.

Kit listings, by contrast, include one or two batteries and a charger, usually in a case or bag. See [combi drill kits](https://drillandbit.co.uk/best/best-combi-drill-kits) for examples.

## Model code letters

Brands use suffix letters to show what is in the box. These are common patterns, but always read the box contents in the listing, as they vary.

| Brand | Bare tool | Kit examples |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Makita LXT | Z, ZJ (with Makpac case) | RFE, RTJ, letters for battery size and case |
| DeWalt XR | N, NT (with TSTAK case) | P2, D2, M2 for two batteries of a given size |
| Milwaukee M18 | 0, 0X (with case) | 402C, 502X for battery size and count |
| Bosch Professional | Solo or bare unit in title | Kits list battery size and count |

Common suffix patterns (check the listing)

## When body only makes sense

If you already have batteries and a charger on the same platform, a bare tool is usually the cheapest way to add a tool. Many people buy a twin pack or kit to start, then add bare saws, multi-tools and SDS drills. See [what is in a power tool kit](https://drillandbit.co.uk/best/best-power-tool-kits).

Bare tools are also handy as a second drill on the same batteries, or to replace a worn tool without buying more packs.

[See power tool kits](https://drillandbit.co.uk/best/best-power-tool-kits)

## When to avoid it

If you have no batteries, buying a bare tool and then a separate battery and charger often costs more than a kit. Bare tools also do not fit batteries from other brands; see [are tool batteries interchangeable](https://drillandbit.co.uk/blog/are-tool-batteries-interchangeable).

Watch for platform differences within a brand. Makita LXT 18 V, XGT 40 V max and CXT 12 V max use different batteries. DeWalt 18 V XR packs fit 18 V tools, and FlexVolt packs fit both 18 V and 54 V tools, but 18 V packs do not run 54 V tools.

## Checklist before buying a bare tool

A few quick checks before you order save a return and the wait for a replacement.

- The platform and voltage match your batteries.
- The listing says bare, body only or tool only, and shows box contents.
- Your battery size suits the tool; saws and SDS drills like 4 Ah and up.
- The seller is reputable, to avoid copies.
- The warranty registration works for a bare tool.

Note: Use only genuine or maker approved batteries and chargers. Unofficial batteries and adapters may lack protection and can overheat.

## Batteries for bare tools

Small 2 Ah packs keep drills and drivers light. Saws, grinders and SDS drills work better with 4 Ah to 5 Ah and higher packs. See [volts and amp hours explained](https://drillandbit.co.uk/blog/volts-and-amp-hours-explained) and compare packs with the [battery energy calculator](https://drillandbit.co.uk/tools/battery-energy-calculator).

Copies of popular brand batteries are sold online. Check [how to spot fake Makita and DeWalt tools](https://drillandbit.co.uk/blog/spotting-fake-makita-and-dewalt-tools) before buying cheap packs.

## Kits, twin packs and bare tools together

A common way to build a set is to buy one kit with two batteries and a charger, then add bare tools as you need them. A drill and impact driver twin pack is a popular start, as in our [combi drill and impact driver sets](https://drillandbit.co.uk/best/best-combi-drill-and-impact-driver-sets). Later, a bare circular saw, multi-tool or SDS drill adds a lot of capability for the cost of the tool alone.

Watch for seasonal bundles that include a free bare tool or a spare battery with a kit. They can be good value if the extra tool is one you would buy anyway. Compare the battery sizes in each bundle, as a cheap kit with small 2 Ah packs may not suit saws.

## Frequently asked questions

**What does DCD796N mean?** In DeWalt codes, N usually means bare tool with no battery or charger. NT often adds a TSTAK case.

**What does Z mean on Makita tools?** Z usually means body only. ZJ is body only in a Makpac case.

**Does body only include a case?** Sometimes. Check the box contents in the listing.

**Can I use any 18 V battery with a bare tool?** No. It must be from the same brand platform, or an official partner system.

## Buying guides on this topic

- https://drillandbit.co.uk/best/best-power-tool-kits
- https://drillandbit.co.uk/best/best-combi-drill-kits
- https://drillandbit.co.uk/best/dewalt-18v-xr-drills-compared