Long term user of Makita LXT 18v 5Ah batteries and recent purchaser of blower and hedge trimmer. The batteries have been excellent for an SDS drill, combi drill and driver for a few years, but I was unsure whether they would be up to the work of powering a hedge trimmer and blower. I need not have worried. The hedge trimmer easily cuts through 23mm mixed hedge and is less than half the weight of the petrol machine I used before, making the job much less tiring. The lighter weight also means I can reach further. The LXT power completely eliminates the frustration and suspense of trying to get a petrol machine started. Similarly the blower, with two 5Ah batteries has plenty of power to clear the leaves from our garden. Well done Makita!