Maintenance-Free hypoid gearing lasts longer than Worm Drive Gears
Thick gauge base plate is chemically treated to resist rust and warping
Ergonomic rubberized grip for minimal operator fatigue
Editorial Review:
This saw has a powerful 15 AMP motor and weighs only 15 lbs. The maintenance-free hypoid gearing system lasts longer than traditional worm drive gears due to the high quality, heat treated hypoid steel gears do not prematurely wear like traditional bronze-alloy worm drive gears. This saw is 100% maintenance free as the oil bath technology is created with a built-in fan and sealed gear housing to ensure 100% oil surface coating. The blade-left design improves visibility and provides a clear view of the cut line for accuracy with 0 degree - 50 degree bevel cutting capacity which is ideal for truss & rafter cut-outs. Ergonomically designed rubberized grip improves control while minimizing operator fatigue. Thick gauge base plate is chemically treated to resist rust and warping. Includes premium 7-1/4" x 24T Carbide-Tipped Blue Maks blade for faster cutting in pressure treated lumber.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.0 / 5.0
Made in China:
My old Makita, which I absolutely love, was made in Japan and/or the USA. When my new Makita saw arrived, it was made in China. It is a really nice saw but some of it is cheap, like the handle grip on the top. I would not have ordered it if I had known where it was made just because I have not found the quality to be as good from China. There is too much cost cutting by executives seeking to boost their stock option bonus by shipping jobs and quality overseas plus I like products made by the USA or it's... more info
Makita Hypoid (Worm Drive) Circular Saw:
Like other Makita products, this saw is built for a lifetime of use. Its has to be one of the heaviest saws i've ever lifted, but it's worth the extra weight. I doubt i'll ever wear it out, but if something does happen to it, it'll be replaced with another one just like it.
Better than direct drive saw, but Skill still rules.:
Framing - I like the saw. I took the stock blade and tossed it for a Freud Diablo ultra fine cut coated blade. I was able to make paper thin cuts of 2x4 the long way for shims, flipping the wood over, and held registration outside the line no problem with the clear visibity of the blade and guides. The saw does buck when you power up unlike a Skill Saw, but I let the saw power up to full speed, and then register and cut. Surgical cuts are no problem, and this saw will make you a better finish or rough... more info
Another gem from Makita:
This is an excellent tool. It has a relatively quiet, smooth motor and precision cutting ability. The hypoid design allows easy viewing of the cutting area. It's nicely balanced, although it's a bit on the heavy side.
The tool belt that comes with the package is cool as well. It's fairly heavy duty with plenty of pockets, a hammer loop, etc.
If you've been considering a hypoid or "wormdrive" saw, buy this one.
