MAKITA 18V LXT Lithium-Ion 6-1/2" Brushless Cordless Circular Saw (XSH03Z)
MAKITA’s tried and true LXT cordless line adds the workshop-grade XSH03Z to fill the highly competitive gap between beginner and professional. This 6-1/2″ cordless saw is backed by an extensive line of LXT tools and accessories that deserve a spot in any workshop.
Check out our comparison of the XSH03Z against other leading competitors.
Quick Specs
| Blade Diameter | 6-1/2" |
| Speed | 5000 rpm |
| Weight | 7.3 lbs |
| Arbor Size | 5/8" |
| Max Bevel | 50° |
| Warranty | 3 years |
The XSH03Z comes equipped with MAKITA’s Automatic Speed Change Technology, which is helpful during particularly strenuous cuts. Torque (and thus speed) is adjusted on the fly to optimize performance and prevents the saw from bogging down.
Additionally, the lack of brushes in the motor decrease maintenance time and increases the life of the tool. The integrated blade brake quickly slows the blade so that workflows continue at a faster rate.
Further advanced circuitry keeps the tool and battery in optimal health. The Star Protection that is found in many MAKITA tools keeps the tool and battery in constant communication in regards to power throughput. By regulating and optimizing the power flowing from the battery to the tool, the XSH03Z and the battery are protected from overloading and overheating.
Excessive discharging from the battery is also prevented, which definitely saves money in the long run since overly-aggressive charge/discharge cycles can lead to a quick death for lithium-ion batteries.
An onboard LED power guage keeps you informed of current power levels. The forward-facing dual-LED worklight illuminates the cutline ahead of the blade, which is a helpful feature.
We like the dust port included on the XSH03Z. It accepts commonly-sized shop vac hoses so workspaces are kept much cleaner than other competing models. While the dust port handles backward-thrown dust, forward-thrown dust can present a problem for visibility. An integrated dust blower makes sure that the area directly in front of the saw is clear to allow for better worklight illumination.
The base plate and blade guard feel very sturdy. They’re both constructed of solid magnesium, which stays light-weight while also holding up to all sorts of abuse.
Like most circular saws, the MAKITA XSH03Z bevels to around 50 degrees. Unlike most circular saws, this model includes a positive stop at 45 degrees for confident beveled cuts without any error.
A tool hook is stored at the front of the saw around the forward handle. It’s a neat feature that we didn’t use much but could definitely be handy for wall storage. It can also be helpful during framing jobs or other tasks where flat surfaces are not available.
- LED worklight + forward dust blower
- Rear dust port
- Positive 45-degree bevel stop
- 5000 rpm isn’t the quickest
CONSENSUS:
The MAKITA XSH03Z is an excellent addition, especially if it will join other blue tools in the LXT line. For the price, it contains an impressive number of features. It’s a fantastic choice for both the mobile jobsite and the stationary workshop.