Saw Critic

Makita XRJ01Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Compact Reciprocating Saw Review

Makita XRJ01Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Compact Reciprocating Saw Review

Amazing Combination of Ergonomics and Performance
Makita XRJ01Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Compact Reciprocating Saw Review

Product Name: Makita XRJ01Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Compact Reciprocating Saw

Product Description: Makita Cordless Reciprocating Saw

Price: $$

Currency: US

Availability: InStock

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  • 8.0/10
    Rating - 8.0/10
8.0/10

Summary

Designed to perform light-duty operations, the Makita XRJ01Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Compact Reciprocating Saw is a right choice for occasional cutting jobs at home and around. The package includes bare tool only and battery and charger are sold separately, but the asking price is still reasonable considering the features this tool offers.

When you require portability, only battery powered units truly offer it. There is no hassle of wires or dragging around air hoses. Advanced technology has regained user trust on cordless models with powerful, lightweight and high-tech components.

Air-powered units make cutting in close quarters easier and engineers of Makita came up with an exclusive design so you can reach confined spaces. Pistol grip usually stays at around 95° but this handle is extended as far as 135° so you can reach as far as you can in real tight spaces. We picked the Makita XRJ01Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Compact Reciprocating Saw for many good reasons so you can select what is best for you.

World’s Largest 18V Lithium-ion Line-Up

The Makita XRJ01Z is cordless reciprocating saw is part of LXT 18V li-ion ecosystem. The lithium-ion battery can hold a charge for years and features fastest charge time. It is equipped with STAR PROTECTION computer controls technology, which protects the battery from overheating, over-discharging and overload. You will have an option to select between 2Ah, 3Ah and 4Ah with 25 minute, 30-minute and 40-minute charge time respectively.

The charger has a built-in fan to keep the battery cool for best performance. During the charging process, it communicates with the battery chip to control current, temperature and voltage. There is dual-position on/off switch so you can press the one easier for you in different orientations. This really is an excellent feature and come in handy if you must choose between a paddle or trigger switch.

Combination of Ergonomics and Performance

The Makita XRJ01Z features a cutting speed of 3000 SP and variable speed trigger is reasonably good for 18V reciprocating saw, but the stroke length is just ½-inch. You can easily cut through 2-inch pipes and wood faster and efficiently. Blade change system is tool-less for reduced downtime. The unit weighs 3.9 lbs (without battery), which is light enough to be easily carried around. Onboard built-in LED illuminates work space for increased visibility in low-light situations.

The XRJ01Z comes with over molded soft grip on the main handle and collar. Overall, this unit is very well balanced when used with both hands but it can cause fatigue of you use the pistol grip only. Due to extended angle, the weight remains way forward so it is better to grip the collar to keep the cuts precise, smooth and balanced.

Specifications and Features

  • 18V LXT li-ion system
  • 0-3000 SPM speed
  • 2-inch max cutting capacity of wood and pipe
  • Half inch stroke length
  • 9 lb weight
  • Variable speed trigger
  • Dual-position switch
  • Tool-less blade change
  • Built-in LED light
  • STAR PROTECTION COMPUTER CONTROL TECHNOLOGY

Pros

  • High energy battery
  • Lightweight
  • Compact
  • User-friendly
  • Exclusive lean forward design
  • Reduced efforts with tool-less blade clamp
  • Rapid Optimum charger

Cons

  • Low on power

Verdict

Designed to perform light-duty operations, the Makita XRJ01Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Compact Reciprocating Saw is a right choice for occasional cutting jobs at home and around. The package includes bare tool only and battery and charger are sold separately, but the asking price is still reasonable considering the features this tool offers. This deal suits Makita users who already have an extra battery and charger with them.

Over 70% users were completely satisfied with this model and an average rating of 4.3 is quite good. Everyone is happy for small cutting applications and Makita backs XRJ01Z with a one-year tool warranty. This saw is good but only for light jobs like wood, plastic pipes, soft aluminum, thin metal pipes and metal sheets.