The Makita XSS02Z is one of the few circular saws on Amazon that have multiple features and it might be just what you need
What we Like
- Cordless
- Adjustable rafter hook
- Lightweight
- 3,700 RPM motor
- Heavy gauge
- 50° degree maximum bevel
- 6½ inches blade
- Battery-powered
What we Don’t Like
- Battery degradation
Bottom Line
The Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-1/2″ saw is one of the best portable saws out there. The 3,700 RPM allows you to enjoy faster cuts and rip tough wood accurately.
Being cordless and portable makes it easy for you to move the saw from place to place as you can see from our Makita XSS02Z review. However, the battery is prone to degradation over time and this can be frustrating even if you can replace it.
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Until such a time when computers can learn how to cut wood and build furniture, saws will always have a place in the world. There are different types of saws but they are all manufactured for the same purpose.
We have the circular, jigsaws, band saws, and miter saws just to mention a few. Since you’re reading this review, you’re most likely considering buying a circular saw. Our Makita XSS02Z review is about one of the best circular saws in the market.
The Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-1/2″ has some great features and a few cons which are negligible for a battery-powered saw.
Related article: Makita JV0600K Jig Saw Review
Features of the Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-1/2″ Saw
Cordless and Battery-powered
The Makita XSS02Z saw is cordless and battery-powered. There are many benefits of cordless saws. For starters, cordless saws offer just the right amount of power because they come with smaller blades compared to corded saws.
Small blades consume less cutting power than large blades. That’s the price you will pay for the convenience cordless blades offer. However, corded blades are the recommended option for those who need a tool for heavy-duty jobs.
The fact that there is no cord or extension means the saw is low maintenance and you can easily maneuver it while you work. This feature comes in handy when you want to perform overhead tasks or climb a ladder with the saw.
You can always use the Makita XSS02Z saw outdoors without worrying about your electricity supply because it is battery-powered. If you’re worried about the battery running out, you can go with an extra one as long as it is a Lithium-ion battery.
Related Reading: Makita 18V X2 LXT Circular Saw
Portable and Lightweight
Another reason why the Makita XSS02Z is great is that it weighs just 7.04 pounds. The predecessor of this saw from Makita weighed about 10 pounds. Both options depend on personal preference.
If you have the arm and shoulder strength required to use a heavy saw for extended periods daily, you can go for the previous version. However, if you want something lightweight that offers the same performance, you should consider the Makita XSS02Z.
The depth cuts from the Makita XSS02Z is commendable as it can make 90-degree cuts in 2x materials in a single try. For thicker materials of 4x, you will need two cuts to complete the job.
This isn’t unusual for the size and weight of the saw. The saw is also incredibly well balanced which is why it can easily be used for one-handed cutting.
6 ½ Inches Blade and Electric Brake
The Makita XSS02Z comes with a 6 ½-inch blade which is perfect for the size of the saw. There is an electric blade on the saw that stops it from working right after you take your finger off the trigger.
The blade will stop working automatically and instantly. There are silver markings on the body that come in handy when you have to make adjustments. There is also a depth drive adjustment and bevel lever. It has a maximum bevel range of 50°.
So, you can make smooth angled costs whenever you want. Both are easy to adjust depending on your needs. There is a rubber over-mold that is used to engage or disengage the adjustments.
Related Reading: Makita SP6000J1 Circular Saw
Automatic Speed Change
Apart from the bevel and depth drive adjustment mechanisms, the Makita XSS02Z also has an automatic speed change feature. This allows it to adjust to the torque and speed automatically ensuring optimal performance.
When the cut demands more energy, the saw adjusts automatically by redirecting some power and increasing the torque. This way, the saw pushes through difficult cuts that would have otherwise caused the blade to bind. It’s also more effective in pushing through hard cuts than the model before it.
3,700 RPM Motor and Rafter Hook
The Makita XSS02Z comes with a 3,700 RPM brushless motor which is a major upgrade from the motor on its predecessor. Two major benefits of a brushless motor on a cordless saw are; longer run time and more power.
The Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-1/2″ Circular Saw motor provides fast speed and more efficient ripping capabilities than many other cordless saws in its price range.
There is also an adjustable rafter hook attached to the saw. The rafter hook allows you to hang your saw on a rafter after use and during work as well. This saves space and helps you keep your saw close.
Related article; Makita XVJ03Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Jig Saw
Makita XSS02Z Review The Verdict
The Makita XSS02Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-1/2″ Circular Saw is a great portable saw overall. All the features like the 3700 RMP, speed change, and everything in between makes it one of the best saws in the Makita line.
Since it is cordless and battery-powered, you don’t need to worry about access to electricity when you’re using it as you can see from our Makita XSS02Z review.
However, like with most battery-powered saw, you may be faced with degradation after some time. The life span of the battery will keep dropping until there is nothing left. You may need to buy a new battery if you want to keep using the saw.
Also, lack of use can cause the battery to rot and damage the internal parts of the saw. Apart from this, the saw is pretty decent for its price which is about $80 – 90 on Amazon.
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