Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 5-3/8" Circular Trim Saw

Embarking on various carpentry projects often requires a tool that can balance power, precision, and portability. The Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 5-3/8" Circular Trim Saw, also known simply as the Makita Trim Saw, promises to meet these expectations. After putting this compact circular saw through its paces, I've gathered some thoughts on its performance, strengths, and areas that could use improvement.

Design and Build Quality

Straight out of the box, the Makita Trim Saw impresses with its compact and lightweight design. Weighing just 6 pounds, it’s easy to maneuver, reducing fatigue during prolonged use. The rubberized soft grip handle enhances comfort, ensuring a firm grasp, even in less-than-ideal conditions. The build quality is consistent with Makita's reputation, featuring a heavy gauge, precision-machined base that promises accurate cuts.

One of the standout design elements is the built-in dust blower. This feature keeps the line of cut free from debris, allowing for better visibility and precision. Additionally, the built-in LED light is a thoughtful touch, illuminating the work area and proving particularly handy in dimly lit environments.

Performance

The core of any saw is its motor, and the Makita Trim Saw doesn’t disappoint. Its Makita-built motor delivers 3,600 RPM, which is quite impressive for a tool of this size. This speed translates to faster cutting, making quick work of materials like plywood, MDF, and even 2x4s. During my use, the saw consistently delivered smooth and precise cuts, living up to the high standards one expects from Makita.

However, it’s worth noting that this tool isn’t brushless. In an era where brushless motors are becoming the norm due to their efficiency and longevity, this might seem like a drawback. Despite this, the saw's performance remained robust throughout my testing, and the battery life was commendable, especially when paired with larger Makita batteries.

Usability

One of the aspects I appreciated most about the Makita Trim Saw is its user-friendliness. The lightweight design makes it easy to handle, even for users who might not have the strength for larger, heavier saws. This makes it ideal for one-handed use, which is particularly beneficial for left-handed users, as they can see the blade more clearly.

The electric brake is another feature that enhances usability and safety. It stops the blade almost instantly when the trigger is released, reducing the risk of accidental cuts. However, this feature also introduces a minor inconvenience. If you release the trigger mid-cut, the brake activates, and you must press the safety release to continue cutting. This can be a bit cumbersome, especially when working in tight spots.

Blade and Cutting Capacity

The saw uses a 5-3/8" blade with a 5/8" arbor, capable of cutting up to 2 inches at 90 degrees and 1-3/8 inches at 45 degrees. While this is sufficient for most trim and light-duty applications, finding replacement blades can be challenging. The 5-3/8" size isn’t as commonly stocked as more standard sizes, so it’s advisable to keep a few spares on hand or be prepared to order them online.

Some users have experimented with 5-1/2" blades, which fit but may interfere with the plastic shield and exhaust port. Although this workaround can be tempting, I would recommend sticking to the specified blade size to avoid potential damage to the saw.

Battery Compatibility

The Makita Trim Saw is compatible with Makita’s 18V Lithium-Ion batteries, which is great if you’re already invested in Makita’s ecosystem. However, I did encounter some issues with battery compatibility. Some batteries required modification to fit properly, which was a bit of a letdown. If you already own several Makita tools, this could be a minor inconvenience, but it’s something to be aware of.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Lightweight and easy to handle
• Powerful motor with 3,600 RPM
• Built-in dust blower and LED light
• Electric brake for enhanced safety
• Compatible with Makita 18V Lithium-Ion batteries

Cons:

• Not brushless
• Finding replacement blades can be difficult
• Some battery compatibility issues
• Base plate could be sturdier

Conclusion

After working with the Makita Trim Saw, I can say it’s a valuable addition to any toolkit, especially for those who prioritize portability and ease of use. Its powerful motor, combined with its lightweight design, makes it ideal for various trimming and light-duty cutting tasks. The built-in features like the dust blower and LED light add to its usability, making it a practical choice for both professional and DIY users.

However, the challenges with finding replacement blades and occasional battery compatibility issues are worth considering. Despite these drawbacks, the saw’s performance and convenience outweigh the cons, making it a worthwhile investment, particularly if you’re already using Makita tools.

In summary, I would recommend the Makita Trim Saw for its impressive power, ease of use, and thoughtful design features. It’s a reliable tool that delivers on its promises, making it a solid choice for anyone needing a compact, efficient circular trim saw.