Cordless, jobsite-ready miter saws are gaining popularity of late, but the limitation is always battery runtime and power. Makita’s new 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 7-1/2-in. Dual Slide Compound Miter Saw (model XSL02Z) doubles up on its competition in that regard: it’s the first cordless miter saw to be powered by two 18-volt lithium-ion batteries. This provides the battery power and runtime of a 36-volt battery, without requiring users to leave the 18-volt battery platform. It functions with both Makita 18V LXT® and Compact Lithium-Ion batteries with Star Protection tool/battery communication technology, in 2.0, 3.0, 4.0 or 5.0 amp-hour versions.
The XSL02Z is powered by a Makita BL™ brushless motor that delivers 5,700 rpm — the fastest blade speed in the category, Makita reports. Soft start suppresses start-up reaction, and Automatic Speed Change™ Technology adjusts cutting speed and torque during the cut. A direct-drive gearbox increases cutting efficiency, and it will require less long-term maintenance than a belt drive system. An electric brake stops the blade quickly.
The saw has a four steel rail sliding system (see below) riding on four linear ball bearings to help produce smooth and accurate sliding action. Its aluminum base supports large stock.
Cutting capacity of the XSL02Z is 2″ x 12″ at 90˚ and 2″ x 8″ at 45˚. It has a 5/8″ arbor and positive miter stops at 0˚, 15˚, 22.5˚, 30˚ and 45˚ left and right. The saw swivels 47 degrees left and 57 degrees right for making miter cuts. It tilts up to 45 degrees left and 5 degrees right for bevel cutting. A rubberized soft-grip handle should improve comfort during repetitive cutting.
The XSL02Z weighs 28.2 lbs. with battery. It comes with a 7-1/2-in.-dia., 40-tooth carbide tipped saw blade, dust bag, a vertical hold-down clamp and two steel extension wings. Batteries and charger are sold separately.
This new cordless saw is part of Makita’s expanding 18-volt lithium-ion series, which will exceed 125 tools in 2016. It is the world’s largest cordless tool line-up powered by 18-volt lithium-ion slide-style batteries.
Currently, Makita’s 18V X2 LXT® Lithium-Ion (36V) Brushless Cordless 7-1/2-in. Dual Slide Compound Miter Saw sells for around $600.
