Product · Makita
Makita DTW285: 280 Nm with a scaffolding mode
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Makita's DTW285 is a light 18 V LXT impact wrench, and its listing makes a point of one group of users: scaffolders. A medium mode is described as suitable for scaffolding work, and at a listed 1.13 kg it is the lightest wrench in our guide. With 280 Nm and a range of M10 to M20 bolts, it suits fitters who value low weight over raw torque.
- Fastening torque
- 280 Nm
- Breakaway torque
- Not stated
- Anvil
- Square drive (size not stated)
- Voltage
- 18 V
- In the box
- Tool only
In its favour
- The listing says the medium mode suits scaffolding applications.
- A battery fuel gauge, protection circuit and LED job light are listed.
- A listed weight of 1.13 kg is the lightest in this guide.
Good to know
- At 280 Nm it is the least powerful wrench here.
- The listing does not state the anvil size or breakaway torque.
Our take
Specification
The listing gives a torque of 280 Nm and a standard bolt range from M10 to M20. Features listed include a battery fuel gauge, a battery protection circuit and an LED job light. The head style is a fixed square drive, although the listing does not state the drive size.
A one year warranty description appears in the specs.
Why weight matters on scaffold
Scaffolders tighten and loosen hundreds of couplers a day, often at awkward angles and at height. A tool that weighs little more than a kilogram reduces fatigue, and a medium mode avoids overtightening fittings or damaging tube. The DTW285 is shaped around that work rather than heavy breakaway jobs.
The battery fuel gauge is also more useful than it sounds at height. Knowing that a pack is nearly flat before you climb saves a trip back down to swap it, which on a busy scaffold is time and effort saved.
Limits for vehicle work
At 280 Nm, the DTW285 has the least torque in this guide. It will run wheel nuts on and off once they are cracked, but seized nuts may need a breaker bar first. The listing does not give a breakaway figure, so for garage work the Makita DTW300 or HiKOKI WR36DH are stronger options.
Batteries and box
This is a body only listing with just the wrench. You need Makita LXT batteries and a charger. A smaller pack keeps weight down, which suits the scaffolding use case.
Because the listing does not state the drive size, confirm that your coupler sockets fit before ordering, or pick an adaptor that suits your existing kit.
Who should choose it
Scaffolders and fitters on Makita LXT will find it a natural fit. Anyone needing big torque should look at the HiKOKI WR36DE or DeWalt DCF900P2T instead.
Verdict
The DTW285 is a good buy for Makita LXT users, especially scaffolders, who want a very light wrench with a mode that suits coupler work. If you need more torque for vehicles, the Makita DTW300 or HiKOKI WR36DH are better choices, and for heavy fixings the DeWalt DCF900P2T is in another class.
Compared with alternatives in: Best cordless impact wrenches
Amazon listing title: Makita DTW285Z Impact Wrench, 18 V, Blue/Black, Small