Makita's Mega-Combo kit offers heavy-duty firepower for any gut-check situation. Starting with two 2.2 amp hr NiMH batteries and a charger, this package gives you a powerful drill/driver, the circular saw that garnered both the Popular Mechanics One of the Ten Best Tools of 1999 and Hanley-Wood's Tools of the Trade Editor's Choice awards, an aggressive reciprocating saw, and an extra ration of light. The drill exerts up to 404 inch-pounds of torque at up to 450/1,400 rpm, depending on which of the 18 clutch settings and two torque positions you select. The keyless chuck and ergonomic design are two user-friendly features. The circular saw spins a large 6-1/2-inch blade to cut two-by material even when beveled at 45 degrees. It has an electric brake that stops blade rotation within a split second--a safety feature that has not yet made its way to all cordless saws and one that we appreciate. Finally comes the reciprocating saw, which features toolless blade changing and shoe adjustment, a fast-stopping electric brake, and variable speed.
Geared for extended use under a contractor's tough assignments, each of these tools is designed to allow you to easily replace the brushes from the outside--a handy feature you won't find in other brands on the market. As with most 18-volt tools, they feel a little weighty in the hand and probably aren't the best choices for working overhead, but they can be depended on to pull through even the grimmest conditions. --Justin Paul
