Makita XSH03Z Cordless Circular Saw Review Powerful Brushless 18V LXT Tool

Description

Pluses of the Makita XSH03Z-R Cordless Circular Saw

Testing the Makita XSH03Z-R 18V LXT Brushless Lithium-Ion 6-1/2 in. Cordless Circular Saw has been quite an experience. This bare tool, meaning it comes without a battery, surprised me with its brushless motor that delivers a robust 5,000 RPM, allowing for faster cuts through various materials like wood, plastic, and metal. The automatic speed change technology really stands out; it dynamically adjusts the speed and torque during use, optimizing the performance based on the load. This feature makes cutting smoother and more efficient, especially when switching between dense and lighter materials.

Another feature I appreciated was its compact and ergonomic design. At just about 13 3/4 inches long and weighing roughly 7.3 pounds with a battery (though I tested it without the battery included), it felt comfortable to handle for extended periods without much fatigue. The large cutting capacity – roughly 2 1/4 inches at 90 degrees – combined with a bevel capacity of 0 to 50 degrees, gave me the flexibility to tackle a variety of projects from straight cuts to angled bevels. The rubber handle offers a good grip, which enhances control and safety during operation.

• Brushless motor with 5,000 RPM for fast, efficient cutting
• Automatic speed and torque adjustment for optimized performance
• Compact size and lightweight design reduce operator fatigue
• Large cutting and bevel capacity for versatile use

Shortcomings to Keep in Mind

Even though this cordless circular saw impressed me in many ways, it’s not without flaws. The fact that it comes as a bare tool might be a downside for some; you need to already own compatible 18V LXT Makita batteries or be prepared to purchase them separately, which adds to the initial investment. This isn’t ideal if you’re just starting your power tool collection.

The blade diameter is 6 1/2 inches, which is somewhat smaller compared to some other saws in the market. While this size is great for precision and portability, it limits the maximum cutting depth. I found it a little challenging when needing deeper cuts on thicker wood panels. Also, despite the ergonomic design, the weight of about 7.7 pounds (without battery) felt a bit heavy during prolonged overhead or awkward angle cuts, causing some fatigue after a while.

• Bare tool requires separate battery purchase
• Smaller 6 1/2 inch blade limits cutting depth
• Weight can cause fatigue during extended use
• No battery or charger included

Performance and Versatility in Daily Use

Using this cordless saw on various projects, ranging from cutting plywood sheets to slicing through metal pipes, demonstrated its versatility. The brushless motor truly makes a difference in sustained power output, and the automatic speed adjustment means the saw doesn’t bog down even under tougher loads. I noticed that it handles edge cuts and rip cuts with surprising smoothness, and the 24-tooth high-speed steel blade delivers clean finishes in most cases.

The adjustable bevel angle, going up to 50 degrees, proved useful when crafting custom trim and molding. Adjustments are straightforward, with a simple lever mechanism, which helps maintain accuracy during angled cuts. However, I did notice some minor blade deflection during very thick or dense materials, but overall the saw maintained good stability.

Handling and Ergonomics

Holding this tool felt natural thanks to the rubberized handle, which provides a comfortable and secure grip. Its compact size helped me maneuver the saw easily in tight spaces or awkward positions. The balance of the tool is decent, though it’s slightly front-heavy when the battery is attached, which some users might find takes getting used to.

The saw’s trigger is responsive and offers good control over starting and stopping the blade, which adds to safety during work. I also liked the integrated blade guard, which moves smoothly and provides reliable protection without interfering with visibility or cutting.

Product Comparisons with Other Popular Brands

Looking at how this cordless circular saw stacks up against competitors like the DeWalt DCS570 or the Milwaukee M18 Fuel, a few differences stand out. While the Makita tool boasts a brushless motor with impressive speed and automatic torque control, the DeWalt model offers a slightly larger blade size (7 1/4 inches) and deeper cutting capacity. On the other hand, the Makita feels more compact and lighter, which might appeal to those who prioritize portability.

Milwaukee’s saw tends to have a longer battery life and some advanced safety features like electronic brakes, which the Makita lacks. However, the Makita’s automatic speed change technology is an innovative edge that helps it adapt better to different materials, something I found lacking in the others. Price-wise, the Makita bare tool might come across as a better value if you already own compatible batteries, but for newcomers, the total cost might be higher after adding the battery and charger.

Value Proposition: Is It Worth It?

Considering the features packed into this cordless circular saw, it offers solid value for those invested in the Makita ecosystem. The brushless motor alone makes it a durable and efficient tool, while its adjustable bevel and cutting capacity cover a wide range of applications. The bare tool format can be a double-edged sword: it keeps the initial price lower but requires additional purchases if you don’t already have compatible batteries.

For someone who frequently works with wood, plastic, or light metal, this saw delivers reliable performance without unnecessary bulk. However, if you need deeper cuts or a saw ready to go out of the box, you might want to explore other options or be prepared for extra spending on batteries. In terms of long-term investment, the combination of speed, precision, and ease of use makes it a practical choice for serious DIYers or professionals.

Highlights of the Tool’s Design and Features

The metal construction of the saw adds to its durability, making it feel like a tool built to last through tough job site conditions. The brushless motor not only improves efficiency but also extends battery life, which is a huge plus. I admired the automatic speed change technology that dynamically adjusts performance depending on what you’re cutting, something you rarely see in cordless circular saws at this price point.

The cutting angle adjustment mechanism is simple yet effective, allowing quick transitions between straight and bevel cuts. The saw’s dimensions (12″ L x 9″ W x 7″ H) make it compact for storage and transport. While the rubber handle ensures grip security, I would have liked a bit more vibration reduction for heavy-duty cutting to lessen hand fatigue further.

Drawbacks You Should Consider

While this tool has many strengths, a few limitations are worth noting before pulling the trigger. The absence of battery and charger in the package might frustrate first-time buyers. Also, the 7.7-pound weight without battery can feel cumbersome for some, especially during overhead or prolonged cutting sessions.

The cutting depth at just over 2 inches might not suffice if you regularly work with thicker lumber or materials. Additionally, the lack of advanced safety features like an electronic brake or LED cut line makes it a more basic option compared to some pricier counterparts.

• Requires separate purchase of battery and charger
• Cutting depth limited to around 2 1/4 inches
• Heavier than some competitors, causing fatigue
• Lacks advanced safety features like electronic brake

This cordless circular saw stands out with its brushless motor and automatic speed adjustment, offering a smooth and efficient cutting experience. However, the need for separate batteries and its moderate cutting depth might make it less suitable for every user. It strikes a balance between portability, power, and price, shining especially for those already invested in Makita’s battery platform.

Additional information