Best Makita Saws

Updated October 2020

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Bottom Line

Pros

Cons

Best of the Best

Makita

JR3050T 11 Amp Reciprocating Saw

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Bottom Line

A sawzall for DIY folks that pros wouldn’t be embarrassed to use, this reciprocating saw tackles a variety of demolition and precision cutting tasks.

Pros

Keyless chuck enables fast blade changes. Less powerful 9-amp motor allows better control and cutting precision. Cuts old wood fences, metal fence posts, and more with ease. Doesn’t bog down after hours of use.

Cons

Trigger can be easily unlocked. Tool grows hot after continuous use. Some users are stymied by the blade-changing process.

Best Bang for the Buck

Makita

5007MGA Magnesium 7-1/4-Inch Circular Saw with Electric Brake

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Bottom Line

A fairly light circular saw that offers enough power for most DIY jobs along with desired safety features like a guard and brake.

Pros

Fairly lightweight and easy to control. Users can see cutting guides from either side of the saw. Cuts most materials without splintering. Brake is a welcome safety feature. Blades are easy to swap out.

Cons

Keyed chuck adds time to blade changes, and key could get lost. Doesn’t fit well in its included case.

Makita

SP6000J1 6-1/2-Inch Plunge Circular Saw with Guide Rail

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Bottom Line

A circular saw that experienced users swear by, this Makita is precisely aligned right out of the box and cuts easily through most woods.

Pros

Durable, precisely aligned saw offers years of performance. Excellent dust control and collection, esp. when paired with a wet-dry vac. Easy to use for both straight and angled cuts.

Cons

Cutting track can slip if dust accumulates underneath. Blade can scorch certain types of wood, and saw struggles through hardwoods. Score lever knob falls off easily. Power cord is fairly short.

Makita

4329K 3.9 Amp Variable-Speed Top-Handle Jig Saw

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Bottom Line

This jigsaw’s smaller motor makes for a lighter, easier-to-handle saw without compromising cutting accuracy.

Pros

3.9-amp motor is about half the power of other saws but makes for a lighter, easier-to-handle jigsaw. Stays on course. Runs smoothly and quietly. Included case is sturdy.

Cons

Keyed chuck slows blade changes, though some users find it a more secure option. Bevel lock is not exact.

Makita

LC1230 12-Inch Metal Cutting Saw

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Bottom Line

For garage workshops, this saw is a durable, precision-cutting workhorse when working with smaller-diameter metal.

Pros

Perfectly square, burr-free cuts with no “wandering” or deflection by the blade. Parts remain cool to the touch. Work table is sturdy. Blade stays sharp through multiple cuts.

Cons

Chip collector tray doesn’t catch everything. Reports of saw blade not being properly centered, cutting into the deck. Chain hold-down should be redesigned, users feel.

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Other Products We Considered

The BestReviews editorial team researches hundreds of products based on consumer reviews, brand quality, and value. We then choose a shorter list for in-depth research and testing before finalizing our top picks. These are the products we considered that ultimately didn't make our top 5.

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