I’m looking to buy some battery powered tools but I noticed the Makita 18v that I want are about 2-3x the price as their counter parts in North America.
Does anyone know any where I can get them cheaper than Amazon, Rakuten or local home center? or does anyone have any experience bring them over from overseas? I have a friend coming in the next couple months I could probably have them bring over some. I heard somewhere the batteries for Makita 18v are the same but I’ll need a new charger from Japan, is this true?
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1. The charger can handle the voltage difference – aftermarket batteries are common although quality (cheap chinesium batteries) can vary – watch the review closely. You’ll need either a plug adaptor for the 3 prong plug (3-500jpy) or just do what I did and cut the ground prong off.
2. I ordered from Amazon US (and fishing gear because why the fuck the same “made in Japan” rod and reel is 1/3 the price in the US is beyond me) but be aware if the tool breaks your warranty is with Makita US not Makita JP.
Be very aware of the airline restrictions on batteries. Some laptops (eg) can only just squeeze in, while batteries for power tools are likely way over the limits–both checkin and carryon.
If your only going to use it once or twice, I suggest renting the tools from a home center 🤔