Just announced from Makita Tools coming in early 2019 the world’s first cordless 14” chop saw for metal cutting. This saw uses 14” abrasive wheels so it is a “Hot Saw” with lots of sparks. At the same time they are also launching a new thin-kerf abrasive wheel (3/32” thick B-64705) which will give the saw & new wheel combo a 100+ cuts in double stacked 20 gauge metal studs (using 2x 5.0Ah). Total cut capacity is a full 5” with a 3800 RPM that really matches the power of their corded cut-off saws very closely. Rumored price of XWL01PT kit at $500 and bare tool version XWL01Z $350 which yes is much more than a corded $139-179 we typically see but likely there could be deals at launch or shortly after.
In addition to cutting the cord this saw features tool-less wheel change, tool-less fence / vice controls, large spark guard which directs a majority of the sparks toward the ground in the rear of the saw, electric brake, soft-start and a number of other features that make this saw worth upgrading too anyway.
Typically we don’t go too crazy when a manufacturer promises better runtime from a new wheel or blade. This summer Makita really surprised us with their MAX circular saw blade B-61656 which is a thin kerf blade that truly gained some noticeable runtime and speed for our cordless circular saws in testing. Our big concern was lost of blade life but these really seem to last generally just as long because they are removing less material and creating less friction/heat. While we will certainly need to do some testing with these new abrasive wheels we are pretty optimistic these could be nice wheels for corded or cordless metal cutoff-saws.
One of the big questions we keep getting and in-turn asking of Makita, when will we see a 9.0Ah battery using the 18650 cells or will we see any 8.0Ah & 12.0Ah batteries using the 21700 cells? At this point nothing has been announced for the bigger batteries but we did get a sneak peak of their new 4 battery backpack (video below) which can be used with any 18v or 18vx2 Makita tool. Also slated to launch in 2019 this is obviously intended more for the Outdoor Power Equipment or SDS-Max Hammers but we could easily see these mounted and used for stationary tools like this saw or the cordless miter saws.
For all your Makita Cordless Tools check out Ohio Power Tool. If you’ve got any questions contact their pros at 800-242-4424.
XWL01PT – 18Vx2 LXT (36v) Brushless 14” Cut-Off Saw
- Two 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion batteries deliver the power and run time for corded demands without leaving the 18V LXT® platform
- The BL™ Brushless Motor eliminates carbon brushes, enabling the BL™ Motor to run cooler and more efficiently for longer life; delivers 3,800 RPM
- Large spark guard captures and deflects debris away from the surrounding area
- Electric brake allows adjustments to be completed faster for maximum productivity
- “Tool-less” flange removal for quick and easy wheel changes
- Two-stage lock-off power button requires two actions to start the cut-off saw
- Large cutting capacity; cuts up to 5″ round and 4″ x 7-5/8″ rectangular material
- “Tool-less” fence and vise controls for quick and easy adjustments to various needs
- Soft start suppresses start-up reaction for smooth start-ups and longer gear life
- Integrated overload status indicator alerts of excessive battery power draw during heavy loads which may reduce run time performance
- Integrated battery charge light indicator allows user to monitor battery charge level for each of the two batteries
- Locking pin secures cutting head in down position for easy transport and storage
- Stamped steel base provides added rigidity for increased durability
- Ergonomic handle with two finger trigger for increased operator comfort
- Battery :2X 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion
- Blade Diameter :14″
- No Load Speed :3,800 RPM
- Cutting Capacity (at 90°) :5″
- Arbor :1″
- Tool-less blade change :Yes
- Tool-less fence adjustment :Yes
- Lock-Off Switch :Yes
- Electric Brake :Yes
- Overall Length :21-1/8″
- Net Weight :9 lbs.
- Shipping Weight :46 lbs.
- UPC Code : 088381-869638
