Makita's diamond core drill lineup consists of three models: the 6300T, DM122, and DM172. Each differs in maximum core diameter and weight, making it straightforward to match the right machine to the scale of the job.
This article covers the genuine bit diameter range, after-sales support, and other operational considerations to help inform your purchase decision.

A 1,330W diamond core drill weighing 8.3 kg. The standard core bit nominal diameter range is φ14.5–120 mm, with a maximum coring capacity of φ160 mm. The bit mount uses an M27 thread, ensuring full compatibility with genuine Makita bits.
Its lighter weight compared to the DM172 makes it a highly versatile model that handles a wide range of jobsites—including MEP, HVAC, and electrical conduit work.

A 1,430W diamond core drill weighing 14.1 kg. The standard core bit nominal diameter range is φ14.5–170 mm, with a maximum coring capacity of φ180 mm. The bit mount uses the same M27 thread as the DM122.
The additional weight over the DM122 comes with the ability to handle larger-diameter coring and higher-load applications. It is the model of choice for jobs that require hole diameters beyond φ160 mm—such as water supply, drainage, and gas pipe penetrations.

A lightweight model drawing just 570W and weighing only 2.5 kg. Its concrete coring capacity is φ105 mm × 180 mm depth (maximum φ120 mm), and the keyless chuck also accepts standard bits from φ2 to 13 mm. Rather than the M27 thread used on the DM122 and DM172, it uses a general-purpose chuck.
Output and coring capacity are more limited than the DM122 and DM172, but at just 2.5 kg, it is an easy-to-use model for jobsites where portability and maneuverability are the top priority.
Makita's diamond core drill lineup is well suited for contractors handling pipe penetrations and MEP work who need to select the right machine for hole diameters in the 105 mm to 180 mm range based on the scale of each project. Because the three models are cleanly organized by diameter range and weight class, narrowing down the right candidate is as simple as confirming the job requirements.
For the DM122 and DM172, a wide range of genuine wet diamond core bits is available, and the ecosystem of compatible accessories makes it easy to build out a complete setup alongside the drill body.
This site also features diamond core drills from a wide range of manufacturers beyond Makita. Use this information to find the product that best fits your specific operational requirements.

Makita's diamond core drill lineup is organized into three distinct models: the 6300T, DM122, and DM172. The 6300T prioritizes lightweight portability; the DM122 is the mid-range workhorse covering up to 160 mm; and the DM172 handles large-diameter work up to 180 mm. Because the relationship between diameter range and weight is clearly laid out, it is easy to narrow down candidates based on the scale of the jobsite.
For the DM122 and DM172, separately sold accessories include wet diamond core bits, extension bars, water tanks, and vacuum pumps. The ability to plan a configuration that accounts for not just hole diameter but also drilling depth and water supply conditions means the system is well suited for contractors who want to go beyond the drill body alone and build a setup that matches actual jobsite requirements.
Through its inquiry page and publicly available instruction manuals, Makita provides straightforward access to the information needed for product verification and maintenance decisions. Specifications are easy to check before purchase, and after delivery, the instruction manual search function serves as a starting point for reviewing operating conditions and compatible accessories. It is a structure that makes it easy to stay organized before and after putting the tool to work.
I use this regularly for work. It's relatively light and easy to handle—a real help on the job. It's comfortable to use, leaves a clean core finish, and I plan to keep using it going forward.
The separately sold accessories for the DM122 and DM172 include wet diamond core bits covering φ14.5–160 mm, with the DM172 rated for a standard nominal diameter range of 14.5–170 mm and a maximum of 180 mm. Extension bars, water tanks, and vacuum pumps are also listed, making the lineup a good foundation for planning configurations suited to deep-hole work or specific water supply requirements.
Pricing is not consolidated on the official website, so retail marketplaces are a practical reference point. The DM122 body is listed in the low-to-mid JPY 100,000s on retail sites, and bit prices vary by diameter and dealer.
| Item | Details | Compatible Model |
|---|---|---|
| Bit Diameter | Primarily φ14.5–160 mm | DM122, DM172 |
| Large-Diameter Range | 170 mm and 180 mm fall within the DM172's coverage | DM172 |
| Accessories | Extension bars, water tanks, vacuum pumps | DM122, DM172 |
Makita was established in 1915 and incorporated in 1938. Headquartered in Anjo, Aichi Prefecture, Japan, it is a comprehensive manufacturer and seller of power tools, outdoor power equipment, pneumatic tools, and household equipment.
The company is listed on both the Tokyo Stock Exchange and the Nagoya Stock Exchange, and its products are available domestically and internationally. For procurement managers selecting tools for MEP, plumbing, and construction applications, Makita offers a corporate foundation that makes it easy to verify long-term business continuity and the strength of the domestic support network.
| Company Name | Makita Corporation |
|---|---|
| Established | December 10, 1938 |
| Headquarters | 3-11-8 Sumiyoshi-cho, Anjo-shi, Aichi Prefecture, Japan |
| Sales Network | Direct sales offices in approximately 50 countries worldwide |
By Priority:
3 Diamond Core Drills, Matched to Your NeedPrioritize Lightweight
Japanese-Built Durability in a Serviceable Compact Design
Built to strict Japanese quality standards, this compact machine packs a high-performance motor into a 13.6 kg body. Robust against temperature swings and tough conditions—lightweight yet reliable enough to keep crews drilling with minimal downtime.
A proprietary control design that delivers both precision and light weight. The Automatic Feeding System reads drilling load in real time, physically preventing operator over-feeding and eliminating abnormal tool wear. Holds steady drilling speed and extends consumable life(*1)—even on sites with limited space or a high volume of small-diameter holes.
Prioritize Automation
Advanced Digital Control for Automation and On-Site Safety
Hilti Cut Assist digitally controls drilling pressure and water flow throughout the cut. Once set, the hole is drilled fully automatically. This drives labor savings and productivity gains on large-scale jobs with hundreds of holes.
Active Torque Control (ATC) instantly detects jamming of the core bit, and electronically stops sudden kickback that can cause workplace injuries. ATC meets strict safety standards for large-scale projects while reducing the risk of human error.
Prioritize Value
Professional Coring Performance at a Reasonable Price
Rig-based drills start in the $200s, while handheld models start in the $100s, offering affordable options across the lineup(*2). The drill delivers a strong ROI both as a backup for primary machine downtime and for rapid deployment at expanding jobsites.
A reliable mechanical gearbox and a rigid extruded-aluminum stand reflect a specialist manufacturer's focus on core drilling fundamentals. It reliably delivers precise drilling performance even at demanding jobsites, at a competitive cost.
*1.Based on CONSEC SPZ-253U2i specifications: two-speed no-load at 490/1,150 min⁻¹ with the proprietary Automatic Feeding System (optional).
Source: CONSEC CORPORATION Official Website.(https://www.consec.co.jp/article_source/data/en_product/detail/158.html)
*2.Among the 15 brands ranking at the top of an English-language Google search for "diamond core drill," these models are priced below the category average and are among the lowest in both rig-based and handheld categories (based on the editorial team's independent research as of April 17, 2026).