Professional Hedge Trimming Without Gas, Fumes, or Ladders

The Makita XNU02T 18V LXT® Brushless Cordless 24" Pole Hedge Trimmer Kit is engineered for landscapers, groundskeepers, and property maintenance professionals who need to maintain tall hedges cleanly, quickly, and safely — without pulling a ladder, mixing gas, or dealing with a pull-start engine. At 80-1/2 inches overall length, 4,400 SPM, and a 24" dual-action double-sided shear blade, the XNU02T reaches up to 11 feet overhead while delivering the cutting performance of a full-size commercial trimmer — and weighing up to 30% less than gas. This kit includes two BL1850B 5.0Ah batteries and a rapid charger, so you're fully equipped for all-day professional use from the moment it arrives.

Full Specifications

• Model (Kit): XNU02T | Model (Tool Only): XNU02Z
• Platform: Makita 18V LXT® (world's largest 18V cordless system)
• Motor: BL™ Brushless
• Blade Length: 24" (610 mm) dual-action, double-sided shear blade
• Max Cutting Capacity: 1 inch diameter
• Tooth Spacing: 1-3/8 inches
• No-Load SPM: 4,400 (high) | 3,600 (medium) | 2,000 (low)
• Overall Length: 80-1/2 inches
• Net Weight (with battery): 8.7 lbs.
• Net Weight (without battery): 7.3 lbs.
• Runtime: Up to 75 minutes (with BL1850B 5.0Ah battery)
• Kit Includes: XNU02Z trimmer, (2) BL1850B 5.0Ah batteries, DC18RC Rapid Optimum Charger, 24" blade cover
• Protection: XPT™ (Extreme Protection Technology) + Star Protection Computer Controls™
• Warranty: 3-year limited (tool, battery, and charger)
• Country of Manufacture: China

Key Features & Benefits — Why Pros Choose the XNU02T

• 80-1/2" Overall Length → Reach Up to 11 Feet Overhead — No Ladder Needed: The pole length alone allows most users to trim hedge tops at heights well above shoulder level. Which means: dramatically faster job completion, eliminated ladder setup time, and significantly reduced fall risk on commercial properties.
• 24" Dual-Action Double-Sided Blade → Cut in Both Directions on Every Pass: The blade cuts on both the forward and return strokes, and on both edges — so every single pass removes material from both directions. Which means: cleaner, faster cuts with fewer passes compared to single-action blades that only cut on one stroke.
• 3 Speed Settings (2,000 / 3,600 / 4,400 SPM) → Match Power to the Job: Low speed for light touch-up and detail work near delicate stems. Medium for general maintenance trimming. High speed for aggressive shaping of overgrown hedges. Which means: better blade life, less battery drain, and more operator control across diverse trimming scenarios.
• BL™ Brushless Motor → More Runtime, Less Maintenance, Longer Tool Life: Brushless motors run more efficiently than brushed, converting more battery energy into blade motion rather than heat. Which means: more trimming time per charge, a cooler-running motor in summer heat, and a tool that outlasts brushed alternatives by a wide margin.
• Up to 75 Minutes Runtime per 5.0Ah Charge → Full Residential Property on One Battery: At high speed on a fully charged BL1850B, the XNU02T delivers up to 75 continuous minutes of trimming — enough to complete a full residential property's hedges without stopping to swap batteries on most jobs. Which means: the two included batteries provide up to 150 minutes of combined runtime per kit charge cycle.
• XPT™ (Extreme Protection Technology) → Built for All-Weather Professional Use: Internal seals channel water and dust away from the motor and electronics. Which means: the XNU02T performs reliably in morning dew, light rain, and dusty dry conditions that would compromise standard tool electronics.
• Star Protection Computer Controls™ → Smart Battery Management: Real-time communication between the tool and battery monitors for overload, over-discharge, and overheating — and shuts down before damage occurs. Which means: your batteries and motor are protected even during the most aggressive commercial cutting sessions.
• Adjustable Loop Handle → Reduce Fatigue on Long Trimming Sessions: The rear loop handle adjusts to the operator's grip preference and working angle, distributing the tool's weight more evenly during extended use. Which means: less wrist and forearm fatigue when working through large commercial properties over multiple hours.
• Commercial-Duty Gear Case → Built for Daily Professional Use: The gear case is engineered to a commercial durability standard — not the same as residential-grade trimmers. Which means: the drive mechanism handles repeated high-load use cycles without the wear issues that prematurely fail residential tools in professional applications.
• Weighs Up to 30% Less Than Gas → Less Fatigue, Safer Overhead Work: At 8.7 lbs. with battery, the XNU02T is significantly lighter than a gas pole trimmer. Which means: reduced operator fatigue, less strain on the lower back and shoulders during overhead work, and the ability to maintain precision later in the work day when fatigue typically causes quality to drop.

How to Use the Makita XNU02T Pole Hedge Trimmer

1. Charge the included batteries before first use: Insert each BL1850B battery into the DC18RC Rapid Optimum Charger. A 5.0Ah battery charges fully in approximately 45 minutes. The charger's LED will indicate when charging is complete. Keep the second battery on the charger while using the first.
2. Remove the 24" blade cover: Slide the included plastic blade cover off the blade before operation. Store the cover in a safe, accessible location — always replace the cover when transporting or storing the tool.
3. Install the battery: Slide the BL1850B battery into the battery compartment at the rear of the tool until it clicks securely into place. Press the fuel gauge button on the battery to confirm it shows at least two bars before beginning work.
4. Select your speed setting: Use the speed selector to choose Low (2,000 SPM) for detail work and light maintenance, Medium (3,600 SPM) for general trimming, or High (4,400 SPM) for aggressive shaping and overgrown hedges.
5. Grip both handles firmly: Hold the rear handle with your dominant hand and grip the adjustable loop handle with your non-dominant hand. Adjust the loop handle position so both arms are at a comfortable angle for the trim height you're working at.
6. Begin trimming: Use slow, sweeping horizontal passes along the hedge face for flat surfaces. For the top of hedges, extend the pole upward and use left-to-right sweeping motions. Keep the blade parallel to the cutting surface for clean, level results.
7. Work from the bottom up: When shaping, begin trimming at the base of the hedge and work upward. Clippings fall downward and away from sections already trimmed, keeping your working surface clear and your sight lines unobstructed.
8. Store safely: Replace the blade cover before storing or transporting. Store the XNU02T with the battery removed in a dry, protected location.

Safety note: Always wear ANSI-rated eye protection and work gloves when operating the XNU02T. Keep bystanders, children, and pets at least 50 feet away from the working area. Never operate the trimmer above shoulder height on a ladder — the pole length is designed to eliminate this risk entirely.

Pro Hacks & Power-User Tips for Landscapers

• Use a string line to achieve perfectly flat hedge tops: Before trimming, run a taut string between two stakes at the desired hedge height. Use the string as a visual guide for your overhead passes — the result is a perfectly level top edge that's difficult to achieve by eye alone on tall hedges.
• Start on Low speed after rain or early morning dew: Wet foliage is heavier and stickier than dry. Beginning on the Low (2,000 SPM) setting in wet conditions reduces the chance of blade jamming on wet stems and extends blade life between sharpenings.
• Rotate between both batteries during large commercial jobs: On large properties where trimming time exceeds 75 minutes, keep the second BL1850B on the charger inside your vehicle. Swap batteries at the midpoint of the job — the spent battery will be fully recharged by the time you need it again.
• Trim slightly angled for better light penetration into the hedge base: Professional landscapers shape hedges with a very slight taper — wider at the base, narrower at the top — rather than perfectly vertical walls. This allows light to reach the lower branches, keeping the hedge dense and full all the way to the ground rather than bare at the base.
• Use the Low speed setting for conifer and evergreen species: Arborvitae, cypress, and yew tend to have dense, resinous foliage that clogs blade teeth faster at high speed. The Low or Medium setting cuts more cleanly through these species and extends the interval between blade cleaning stops.
• Clean the blade after every use: Remove sap, resin, and debris with a rag dampened with mineral spirits or blade cleaner after each job. Dried sap dramatically increases blade friction and reduces cutting efficiency at the next use. Lightly oiling the blade before storage prevents rust and extends blade life.

Complete Your Makita 18V LXT Outdoor Kit

Most professional landscaping customers pair the XNU02T with these tools to build a complete cordless outdoor system on shared 18V LXT batteries:

• Makita XRU15 18V LXT Brushless String Trimmer — Clean up edges and trim around obstacles after hedge work; shares batteries with the XNU02T
• Makita XBU02 18V LXT Brushless Blower — Clear clippings from driveways, walkways, and beds immediately after trimming; same BL1850B battery
• Makita XCU06 18V LXT Brushless 10" Top Handle Chainsaw — Handle larger branch removal jobs that exceed the XNU02T's 1" capacity
• Makita XHU07 18V LXT Brushless 24" Standard Hedge Trimmer — Use as a partner tool for ground-level beds and lower hedges where the pole length is unnecessary
• Makita BL1860B 18V LXT 6.0Ah Battery — Upgrade from 5.0Ah for maximum runtime on large commercial properties
• Makita DC18RD Dual-Port Rapid Charger — Charge two 18V LXT batteries simultaneously; essential for multi-tool commercial crews
• 459121-9 Makita 24" Hedge Trimmer Blade Cover — Replacement/additional blade cover for transport protection (one included in kit)

What's in the Box

• (1) XNU02Z 18V LXT Brushless 24" Pole Hedge Trimmer
• (2) BL1850B 18V LXT 5.0Ah Lithium-Ion Batteries (Star Protection)
• (1) DC18RC 18V LXT Rapid Optimum Charger (charges 5.0Ah in ~45 min.)
• (1) 459121-9 24" Hedge Trimmer Blade Cover

Makita XNU02T 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 24" Pole Hedge Trimmer Kit (5.0Ah)

The Makita 18 Volt LXT® Brushless Cordless Hedge Trimmer Kit includes a hedge trimmer, two 5.0 Ah batteries, and a rapid charger. The trimmer ensures efficient trimming of overhead and low-lying hedges and contains a 24" dual action double-sided shear blade that delivers accurate results. The brushless motor operates at a speed of 4400 SPM for quick cutting results. The gear case has a strong, durable construction that makes it ideal for commercial applications. Extreme Protection technology prevents the accumulation of dust and water into the tool. Star Protection technology helps in preventing overheating, over-discharging, and overloading of the battery. An adjustable loop on the handle prevents fatigue and gives easy access at different angles. The ergonomic design of the tool provides better operational stability that makes it easy to maneuver the device.

Additional Features