Ease of Use: 4/5
Durability: 4/5
Service: 4/5
Overall Value: 4/5
Right miter: 57°
Left miter: 47°
Blade size: 7-1/2″
Voltage: 18 V
RPMs: 2,200
Weight: 27.5 lbs
Makita’s cordless power uses the same lithium-ion batteries that caused their 18V LXT platform to become so popular. This is an excellent little saw: very portable with outstanding cutting ability that outshines much of the corded competition.
Our Makita LXSL01Z LXT Review
Cut Quality
I like the Makita LXS lithium-ion cordless 7½ -inch dual-slide compound miter because it delivers great cutting capacity up to 2 1/16 inches and 11¾ inch crosscuts at 90 degrees. The powerful Makita-built motor operates at a respectable 2200 RPM without even being chained to a wall socket. At only 27½ lbs., this machine’s compact design is perfect for job-site portability, and its four steel rail sliding system increases rigidity to produce superior accurate cuts.
The six linear ball bearings are incorporated in the dual sliding rail mechanism, providing increased rigidity, which produces precise, adjustment-free cuts right out of the box. The saw also features a 2-stage electrical switch for improved operator safety.
The Makita LXSL01Z has a blade diameter of 7½ inches. This diameter is obviously for smaller jobs, and this saw is best used as a complement to your regular machine. You’ll need to go a little slowly on large stock, as the blade speed is a bit slow.
Ease of Use
Makita gives you ease of use and power in this compound saw. It has a large dimensional lumber capacity of 2″x 8″ at 45 degrees and 2″x 12″ at 90 degrees. On a single charge the Makita LXSL01Z was able to cut 26 inches of 2″x 4″ spruce (89 cuts), 35½ inches of ¾”x 3¼” oak flooring (131 cuts) and 134 inches of 8mm laminate flooring (215 cuts). The bevel range is 45 degrees left and 5 degrees right, while the miter range is 47 degrees left and 57 degrees right.
The saw has positive miter stops at nine settings: 0, 15, 22.5, 30 and 45 degrees left and right. The durable aluminum base supports bigger items for efficient cutting. It also has a direct drive gearbox for more efficient cutting and fewer repairs and a soft-grip handle for comfort while working.
Durability
Other features include an infallible electric brake offering unmatched operator safety, double sliding mechanism, six linear ball bearings and Makita’s new battery protection system. For enhanced performance, overall battery life and battery cycle life, the new battery protection system provides over-discharge, current and temperature protection. The battery and charger are sold separately.
The battery is LXT lithium-ion, and together with the 30-minute Rapid Optimum Charger you get 430 percent more power during its lifetime, with three times as many cycles. The battery and the charger are sold separately.
In addition to the longer battery life, the LXT lithium-ion cell used in this saw will self-discharge five times less than other, comparable brands and it has sixteen firm holding contact terminals. By actively monitoring voltage, current and temperature, the charger connects with the battery’s built-in chip during the process of charging in order to improve battery life. The charger received the ENERGY STAR® designation for adhering to the exacting energy-efficient guidelines set by the US Department of Energy and the US Environmental Protection Agency.
Service
Makita offers a three-year warranty on the tool and a one-year warranty on the battery and charger. Return the WHOLE tool, freight prepaid, to one of Makita’s factory or authorized service centers if any trouble develops within the three-year period. If you’re not satisfied with the product, you can return it within 30 days of purchase and the manufacturer will give you a refund or a replacement.
Included in the box:
- 7-1/2″ 40T Saw Blade
- Dust Bag
- Socket Wrench
- Triangular Rule Vertical Vice
- Extension Wing Tool
(battery and charger not included)
Overall Value
This a a well-built saw, that fits into the Makita tradition of merging innovation and performance. It’s ideal for doing finishes and you can also use it for cutting applications. It provides remarkable torque for its small size. It’s also great for a quick trim or repair work—small projects for which you might not want to bring out your large miter saw.
Our Verdict
This saw is an excellent buy for workmen who don’t want to be confined to their shop. No more running extension cords—you can just take this saw with you wherever you’re working. It’s a natural fit for any contractor’s tool collection. Since it’s so powerful, and so very light, it’s bound to make your life easier. Plus, with the thirty-day return policy and the 3-year warranty, you have nothing to lose, and a lot to gain. Take a look at today’s Amazon.com price on this miter saw and see what deals are available. Or compare it against the best saws on the market with our comparison chart.