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Makita XSR01 Review-36v Right Hand Circular Saw

Introduction-The Role of the Circular Saw

A circular saw is a crucial tool when it comes to framing. Imagine having to climb down from the top of a roof every time a cut needs to be made. Also, it is a lot easier to cut an 8ft sheet of plywood with a circular saw, than to hoist that 40-50lb sheet onto a table saw.

Types of Circular Saw Handles- Rear Handle Vs Top Handle
VS

Circular saws come in two main style configurations; the sidewinder and the rear handle (see above)

The top handle/sidewinder is the more common/conventional grip style. The rear handle is often preferred by framers and professionals.

The main difference between the two, other than the handle placement is the motor location. With the rear handle circular saws, the motor is often in line with the blade instead of offset. This slight difference allows the rear handle saws to dish out more torque than the sidewinder. Another factor to consider with the handle location is that the rear handle saws are better at controlling kickbacks and easier to make long straight cuts.

Makita XSR01 Review-36v Rear Handle Circular Saw

Features-Makita XSR01 Review

36v dual battery operation

558 cuts per charge in 2×4 SPF lumber with two 5.0Ah batteries

3-year limited warranty

die-cast magnesium base and blade guard

12.4 lbs. with 2x 5 A.h batteries

Electric brake

5100 RPM

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Makita XSR01 Review-36v Rear Handle Circular Saw

The Makita XSR01 36v rear handle circular saw is a rear handle worm drive circular saw powered by two 18 volt batteries. The Makita XSR01 36v rear handle circular saw boasts a powerful brushless motor capable of spinning the blade at 5100rpm.

The goal with the Makita XSR01 was to create a cordless circular saw that was just as powerful as its corded counterpart. Makita did an excellent job at meeting and exceeding that goal with the Makita XSR01.

To help cut down on weight, the saw sports a magnesium base and blade guard. Even after weight reduction measures the saw still weighs in at 12.4lbs with two 5AH batteries. This rear handle circular saw is definitely not the lightest on the market, but that is just something that needs to be accepted when going with a cordless worm drive saw. The Makita XSR01 comes with a 3-year warranty, which protects against manufacturer defects, should anything go wrong.

The only complaint I have with the Makita XSR01PT is a lack of indexing for the various angles. The saw has basic angles like 45, 53, 22.5, 30, and 15 degrees, but the base has no cut markings for the various angles other than 45 and 0.

Final Verdict-Makita XSR01 Review

There is a time and a place for a rear handle circular saw. If you are willing to use a heavier saw in exchange for better control, more power, and fewer kickbacks, the rear handle is the way to go. The Makita XSR01PT is a great option for those who are on the Makita 18v battery platform.

If you are on the Milwaukee platform you may also want to consider the Milwaukee version of the Makita XSR01, so you can stay on one battery platform. Check out my review of their equivalent saw, the 2830-20 here. 

If you have any specific questions about the Makita XSR01 feel free to reach out to me using the form at the bottom of this page!