A Closer Look at the Makita HP003GZ01 40V XGT Brushless Combi Drill
Cordless drills are being asked to do more than ever on modern job sites.
Long structural fixings, dense timber, repeated masonry drilling, and extended runtimes have pushed traditional combi drills close to their limits, especially as generators and trailing leads disappear from site.
Makita developed the 40V Max XGT platform specifically to answer those demands, and the HP003GZ01 sits right at the top of that range.
This is not a minor evolution of an 18V drill.
It is a high torque professional combi drill designed to replace corded performance in applications where power, control, and durability all matter equally.
Where the HP003GZ01 Fits in the Makita Range
The Makita HP003GZ01 is positioned as a flagship model within the XGT platform, sitting above Makita’s established 18V LXT combi drills.
Powered by the 40V Max XGT Li ion system, the drill is designed to deliver sustained output rather than short bursts of power.
This allows it to handle large diameter drilling in timber, drive long structural fixings, and tackle demanding masonry tasks without the gradual drop off in performance commonly experienced with lower powered platforms.
At its core is a high efficiency brushless motor that improves runtime, reduces heat build up, and extends service life, while delivering the torque required for the toughest fastening applications.
This focus on sustained power delivery is what separates the HP003GZ01 from traditional combi drills designed primarily for general fixing work.
What makes it suitable for site conditions
What defines the HP003GZ01 is not just its output, but how controllable that power is in real world use.
The three speed mechanical gearbox, including a dedicated medium speed setting, allows users to match speed and torque more precisely to the task at hand.
Low speed provides controlled torque for heavy fastening, the medium speed setting offers an ideal balance for long screws and high resistance applications, and high speed delivers fast drilling performance in timber and metal.
This reduces the need for constant gear changes and improves accuracy when working close to material limits.
For masonry drilling, the integrated hammer function delivers up to 36000 impacts per minute, allowing effective drilling into concrete and brickwork up to 20mm.
This makes the drill capable of replacing smaller SDS tools for many everyday fixing tasks, reducing the number of tools required on site.
How Does Makita Deliver Control and Safety at High Torque Levels?
With torque levels this high, control becomes just as important as raw performance.
Makita has built multiple safety and control systems into the HP003GZ01 to ensure it remains manageable even during demanding applications.
Active Feedback sensing Technology monitors the tool and automatically shuts down the motor if rotation suddenly stops, helping to reduce kickback risk when drilling large holes or driving long fixings.
This is particularly valuable in structural timber and high resistance materials where sudden binding can cause loss of control.
An electric brake stops the chuck quickly when the trigger is released, improving safety and efficiency, while soft start helps prevent sudden torque spikes at startup.
Together, these features allow the drill to deliver its full capability without compromising operator confidence.
How Is the HP003GZ01 Built to Survive Demanding Job Sites?
The HP003GZ01 is designed to withstand the conditions it is expected to work in.
Makita’s Extreme Protection Technology improves resistance to dust and water ingress, helping ensure reliable performance in harsh site environments, outdoor work, and dusty structural applications.
Despite its output, the drill remains compact and well balanced, making it practical for daily use.
A 13mm keyless chuck allows fast bit changes, an adjustable side handle improves control under load, and an integrated LED job light provides visibility in low light working conditions.
Supplied as a body only tool in a MAKPAC case, it integrates seamlessly with existing Makita storage systems and the wider XGT platform.
Who Is the HP003GZ01 Built For?
This drill is aimed squarely at professional trades who regularly push their tools hard.
Timber framers, structural installers, and trades working daily in masonry and dense materials will benefit most from its combination of torque, control, and durability.
For lighter installation work, an 18V combi drill may still be the more practical choice.
However, for users who consistently reach the limits of standard cordless drills, the HP003GZ01 offers a clear step up in capability without moving to corded tools.
Final Verdict – Makita’s Most Capable Combi Drill to Date
The Makita HP003GZ01 represents a clear shift in what a cordless combi drill is expected to handle.
By combining sustained high torque, refined power control, advanced safety systems, and site ready durability, it is designed to take on work that was once firmly the domain of corded machines.
For trades invested in the XGT platform and those looking to future proof their cordless setup, the HP003GZ01 stands as Makita’s most capable combi drill released to date, and a strong indicator of where high performance cordless tools are heading next.
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