New to Makita’s options for 18-volt tools that are powered by its LXT® 4.0Ah Lithium-ion battery is its 6-1/2-in. Circular Saw Kit (Model XSH03M). At its heart, the saw has a BL™ brushless motor that spins the blade at 5,000 rpm. Makita has also equipped the internal electronics of the tool with Automatic Speed Change™ technology that adjusts the motor’s speed and torque to optimize cutting performance as well as battery life.
The 6-1/2-in. LXT saw has a cutting capacity of 2-1/4-in. at 90 degrees for ripping or crosscutting a variety of framing or woodworking lumber, and it will still cut through materials up to 1-5/8-in. thick when the blade is tilted to 45 degrees. An electric brake stops the blade quickly.
Its reinforced magnesium base helps reduce the saw’s weight to 7.3 lbs. with a battery attached. Other user-friendly features include a three-stage LED indicator that monitors the amount of battery charge remaining, dual LED lights to illuminate the cutting area, a dust blower, retracting belt hook and rubberized soft grip handles. This saw also better resists dust and moisture exposure, thanks to Makita’s Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) that seals the internal components from contamination.
In kit form, the LXT 6-1/2-in. Circular Saw comes with two slide-type LXT 4.0 Ah Li-ion batteries, a 40-minute Rapid Optimum Charger, 24-tooth carbide-tipped blade and a tool bag. Depending on the retailer or distributor, it sells for around $379.99. If you already have other 18-volt Makita LXT tools, you can buy this same saw as a “bare” option (tool only—no batteries, charger or tool bag) for around $197 and use your other batteries and charger. The model number for the “bare” version is XSH03Z.
