Customer Reviews for Makita 12-Volt MAX Lithium-Ion Cordless Reciprocating Saw (Tool-Only)

The best feature of this saw, and it goes without saying, is the ability to be able to take where a larger reciprocating, let alone cordless, saw would be too cumbersome or inconvenient to set up. Being able to activate the saw from 2 places is a nice touch and can be advantageous depending on the grip provided. I bought this saw because I already had the 12v Max battery system from Makita and have other tools that use the batteries. My primary intention is to use it for cutting PVC piping in cramped quarters, overhead, or within enclosures and cabinets. This saw will handle that duty without any problems. I have also already cut electrical conduit up to 1" in diameter and have cut 1/2" plumbing pipe again with no problems--use the appropriate high-quality blade (Milwaukee carbide tipped blades in my case) and let the tool do the work. The toughest thing I have cut with this saw is a 2" diameter branch from a dying Peach tree, and it took about a minute of constant cutting and managed to bog the motor down slightly because of how the branch, as it was being cut, added side pressure to the blade. I got the tool and battery a bit warm, and my estimation is that at least 1/3 of the battery's charge level was depleted. Overall, I am happy with the purchase, and my only regret is that I am already invested in the 12v Max system, and not the 12v CXT, which offers higher capacity batteries. If you are just starting your 12v Makita tool lineup, go for the newer models--same performance with larger available batteries. But if you already have the battery for this system, then this is a good purchase you won't regret.

If you are looking for a powerfull "job site" saw that will cut through anything then this isnt the one for you. That being said, if you want a saw for the every day homeowner it is perfect. I had a project that needed to be done in a tight space and have enough power to finish the job and it worked perfectly. It worked within my expectations and I am happy to own it. I was pleasntly suprised by the weight and ease of use. The LED light built into the front made the project much easier also. My decision to purchase this saw due to me already owning the 12-volt drill and driver drill combo with 12-volt batteries and charger I can swap batteries and use one charger for all.

I needed this tool but already had batteries that came with my Makita 12-Volt Max Lithium-Ion Cordless 3/8 in. Driver-Drill. So this gave me the opportunity of getting the tool I needed without getting more than I needed.