Makita 9005B 5-Inch Angle Grinder , Teal

The Verdict

Let me be blunt: if you’re shopping for a 5-inch angle grinder and want something that actually lasts, you already know the Makita name. The 9005B has been a contractor staple for years — but does it still hold up in 2026? Here’s what I found after putting it through real work.

What You Actually Get

The box contains the grinder itself, a side handle, a 5-inch grinding wheel, a wrench for wheel changes, and a rubber pad for the spindle. No carry case — that’s an extra purchase. The teal housing is Makita’s signature color, and the body measures 11-3/8 inches long, weighing in at 5.3 pounds. It’s not the lightest option, but the weight feels balanced, not front-heavy like some budget grinders.

Performance and Build: Where It Shines

The 12.5-amp motor spins the wheel at 11,000 RPM. That’s serious speed — enough to chew through welds, rust, and concrete without bogging down. I tested it on 1/4-inch steel plate, and it removed material noticeably faster than my old 4-1/2-inch unit. The labyrinth construction (a fancy term for sealed bearing housing) keeps dust out of the motor. After a weekend of cutting tile and grinding metal, the internals stayed clean when I popped the brushes out for inspection — something cheaper grinders can’t claim.

The side handle threads into three positions: top, left, or right. That’s a small thing until you’re working overhead on a car frame or against a wall, where one position saves your wrist. The spindle lock is easy to reach with your thumb, though the plastic toggle feels a bit flimsy compared to the metal on higher-end Makita models.

What Buyers Keep Saying

Sifting through the 229 ratings, a clear pattern emerges. One reviewer wrote: “I’ve had this grinder for 8 years and it’s still going strong. Replaced the brushes twice, that’s it.” Another noted: “It’s heavy but bulletproof. I’ve dropped it off a ladder and it just kept spinning.” That durability story repeats — buyers consistently mention decade-long lifespans with only brush replacements.

Where It Falls Short

Honestly? The lack of variable speed is the biggest miss. At 11,000 RPM, it’s aggressive for thinner materials — cutting 16-gauge sheet metal can be like trying to shave with a chainsaw. You’ll need a lighter touch or a flap disc for finer work. The 5-inch wheel size is also worth noting: it’s less common than 4-1/2-inch, so wheel selection at hardware stores is more limited, and the larger diameter means less clearance in tight corners.

Who Should Buy This

This grinder is for the serious DIYer or working professional who prioritizes longevity over features. If you’re a mechanic grinding off exhaust hangers, a fabricator prepping welds, or a mason cutting rebar — this is your tool. Skip it if you need precision speed control for delicate work, or if you’re a weekend warrior who grinds once a month and wants something lighter.

FAQ

Q: Can I use 4-1/2-inch wheels on this grinder?
A: No. The guard and wheel nut are sized for 5-inch wheels only. Don’t force smaller discs — it’s unsafe.

Q: Is the 9005B really dust-proof?
A: “Labyrinth” sealing protects the motor from debris, but it’s not fully sealed. Keep the vents clear and blow it out with compressed air monthly.

Q: Does it come with a warranty?
A: Yes, a 1-year Makita warranty covers defects. Real-world reports suggest you won’t need it, but register it online anyway.

The Verdict

Buy it if: You want a workhorse grinder that survives years of abuse and don’t mind the weight or lack of speed control.

Skip it if: You need variable speed for thin metal, or you want a featherweight tool for occasional use.

At 4.6 stars from 229 ratings, this isn’t a perfect tool — but it’s the last grinder many owners ever buy. For the price per year of service, it’s hard to beat.

Rating: 4.6/5 — Deducting half a star for the missing speed control and plasticky spindle lock. Everything else is genuinely pro-grade.

Where to Buy

👉 Check Price on Amazon →

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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.