Makita has expanded their 40V Max (36V nominal) XGT cordless power tool platform with a new air duster (model AS001G).
This isn’t exactly the type of tool I thought Makita had in mind when they started hyping up the next-level power and capabilities of their XGT cordless power tool system. Still, the duster looks incredibly versatile.
There is no word as to whether Makita will introduce a similar duster as part of their 18V cordless power tool system, but it will likely remain an XGT exclusive. As a reminder, Makita’s 18V and XGT power tool systems are not cross-compatible. There is also no word as to if or when the duster will be available in the USA.
To start off, the Makita XGT air duster and inflator comes with a lot of different attachments and accessories to suit a broad range of applications.
I can’t tell if Makita intends for this to be called a duster, or if that’s a result of the Japanese-to-English translation, but I feel this to be an appropriate descriptor.
In addition to serving as a compact and focused blower, the new tool can also serve as an inflator and deflator.
When I think duster, I visualize cans of pressurized air being used to clean the dust out of electronics, other such equipment, and computer cases.
Vacuums are usually advised against, since they could lead to the build-up of static electricity that could discharge and potentially damage components, which is why blowers and dusters are usually used.
There are specialized anti-static dusters, but they’re pricey.
Makita shows off the XGT cordless duster being used to clean various computer components, such as fan filters.
It also comes with a hose attachment that can be used in tight spaces, such as to clean out case fans and heatsinks.
It doesn’t look like you have any choices regarding the nozzle at the end of the tubing, but it shouldn’t be too much trouble to improvise with different hose fittings.
They also show off the duster cleaning delicate electronics such as a DSLR camera.
Makita shows the XGT duster being used to clean out an overhead fan grill, although it’s unclear as to whether the extension comes with the kit or is an add-on accessory or improvisation.
There’s a semi-circular-shaped nozzle that is shown being used to clear off part of a car windshield. It seems that cleaning an entire windshield with this nozzle would be slow, and so perhaps this is just a proof-of-concept example. I could see this being useful for clearing water away from small areas.
The 40V Max duster can also inflate beachballs.
Makita also shows off the XGT duster inflating a pool of some kind.
And, when it’s time to pack things up, you can use a vacuum hose with the duster’s intact to quickly draw air out of inflated products.
The duster also comes with a wide suction cup-style vacuum hose attachment, which looks to be used for pulling the air out of space-saving garment or blanket bags.
Although the Makita duster looks to be a rather specialized tool, I’d say that its accessory bundle greatly broadens its utility.
Raise your hand if you could use a tool like this.
