The Best Makita Reciprocating Saws in 2026: 5 Picks

Quick picks

Our 5 picks

1 Best overall

Makita 18V Brushless One-Handed Reciprocating Saw

Best for: tight spaces and overhead work

Power Source

18V LXT

Stroke Length

7/8 in.

Strokes Per Minute

0-3,100 SPM

Motor Type

Brushless

Battery Included

Tool Only

Tool Length

14.4 inches

View on Amazon: Makita 18V Brushless One-Handed Reciprocating Saw Affiliate link

This one-handed reciprocating saw uses an 18V LXT brushless motor to deliver up to 3,100 strokes per minute. Its 7/8-inch stroke length supports faster cutting, while the low-vibration design reduces fatigue. Weighing just 1 pound, it fits tight spaces. You get a compact tool designed for precision work where two hands are not available.

Pros

• Brushless motor reaches 0-3,100 strokes per minute
• Weighs only 1 pound for reduced fatigue
• One-handed grip design for tight spaces
• 7/8-inch stroke length for efficient cutting

Cons

• Sold as a tool only without a battery
• Single-speed motor lacks variable speed control
• No included carrying case or accessories

Good fit if

• You need a compact tool for tight spaces
• You already own 18V LXT batteries
• You require a lightweight saw for overhead work

Skip if

• You need a variable speed trigger
• You do not own an 18V LXT battery
• You prefer a two-handed grip for power

Verdict: Makita XRJ08Z One-Handed Reciprocating Saw fits users who need a lightweight, compact tool for tight spaces and already own 18V LXT batteries.

2 Also great

Makita 18V LXT Cordless Reciprocating Saw

Best for: Makita LXT users needing a compact saw

Power Source

18V LXT

Stroke Length

1-1/4"

Strokes Per Minute

0-2,800 SPM

Battery Included

Tool only

Tool Length

19-1/8"

Blade Clamp

Tool-less

View on Amazon: Makita 18V LXT Cordless Reciprocating Saw Affiliate link

This Makita XRJ04Z is a bare-tool reciprocating saw powered by the 18V LXT battery system. It features a variable speed motor reaching 2,800 strokes per minute and a 1-1/4 inch stroke length for efficient cutting. The tool-less blade change system speeds up blade swaps. Weighing 8.3 lbs with a battery, it offers a compact design for reduced operator fatigue during extended use.

Pros

• Variable speed motor delivers up to 2,800 strokes per minute
• Tool-less blade change system for faster installation and removal
• Compact 19-1/8 inch length reduces operator fatigue
• 1-1/4 inch stroke length ensures faster cutting performance

Cons

• Sold as a bare tool without included battery or charger
• Heavier than some compact competitors at 8.3 lbs with battery
• Single speed range lacks the higher maximum of 3,200 spm found in other models

Good fit if

• You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries and want to add a saw to your collection
• You need a reliable tool with a tool-less blade change system for frequent blade swaps
• You prefer a compact design that is easy to maneuver in tight spaces

Skip if

• You need a complete kit with a battery and charger included in the box
• You require the absolute lightest weight possible for overhead work
• You are looking for a saw with a higher maximum stroke speed than 2,800 spm

Verdict: Makita 18V LXT Compact Reciprocating Saw is a solid choice for existing Makita users who value a tool-less blade change system and a compact design. It fits professionals who need a dependable saw for general demolition and cutting tasks without the bulk of larger models.

3 Best budget

Makita 18V LXT Brushless Reciprocating Saw

Best for: Makita battery owners needing a lightweight saw

Power Source

18V

Stroke Length

1-1/4"

Strokes Per Minute

0-2, 300 (low) & 0-3, 000 (high) SPM

Motor Type

Brushless

Battery Included

Tool only

Tool Weight

7.8 pounds

View on Amazon: Makita 18V LXT Brushless Reciprocating Saw Affiliate link

This Makita reciprocating saw features a brushless motor with a variable 2-speed setting, offering 0-2,300 or 0-3,000 strokes per minute. It includes a tool-less blade change system and a 1-1/4 inch stroke length for efficient cutting. Weighing 8.2 lbs with a battery, it balances power with manageable weight. It suits users needing a reliable, tool-only saw for general demolition or pruning tasks.

Pros

• Brushless motor delivers up to 3,000 strokes per minute
• Tool-less blade change system for quick swaps
• Variable speed trigger for precise control
• Compact 17-1/4 inch length reduces fatigue

Cons

• Sold as a bare tool without battery or charger
• Includes only one small 6-inch blade
• Single speed range lacks high-speed option for hard materials

Good fit if

• You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
• You need a lightweight saw for overhead work
• You prefer tool-less blade changes for speed

Skip if

• You need a complete kit with battery and charger
• You require a longer stroke for heavy demolition
• You want a high-speed setting for metal cutting

Verdict: Makita XRJ05Z 18V Brushless Reciprocating Saw is a solid choice for existing Makita users who need a lightweight, versatile saw for general cutting tasks without the bulk of a full kit.

4 Also great

Makita 18V LXT Compact Reciprocating Saw

Best for: tight spaces and users with 18V batteries

Power Source

18V LXT

Stroke Length

1/2 in.

Strokes Per Minute

0-3,000 SPM

Battery Included

Bare tool only

Tool Weight

3.9 lbs. (with battery)

Tool Length

15-5/8 in.

View on Amazon: Makita 18V LXT Compact Reciprocating Saw Affiliate link

The Makita XRJ01Z is a compact reciprocating saw designed for tight spaces. It features a 15-5/8-inch body and weighs 3.9 pounds with a battery. The tool offers variable speed from 0 to 3,000 strokes per minute and a 1/2-inch stroke length. It includes a tool-less blade change system and a dual-position switch. This bare tool requires an 18V LXT battery.

Pros

• Compact 15-5/8-inch length for close quarter cutting
• Variable speed up to 3,000 strokes per minute
• Tool-less blade change system for quick swaps
• Dual-position on/off switch for paddle or trigger use

Cons

• Shorter 1/2-inch stroke length limits deep cutting capacity
• Sold as a bare tool without battery or charger
• Heavier at 3.9 pounds with battery compared to newer models

Good fit if

• You need a saw for tight spaces and close quarters
• You already own 18V LXT batteries
• You prefer a paddle switch option

Skip if

• You need a longer stroke for heavy-duty demolition
• You want a complete kit with battery and charger
• You prioritize the lightest possible tool weight

Verdict: Makita 18V Compact Reciprocating Saw fits users who already have 18V LXT batteries and need a compact tool for tight spaces. It is not ideal for those needing a longer stroke or a complete kit out of the box.

5 Best drill driver

Makita 40V XGT 4-Piece Combo Kit

Best for: users needing drill and impact driver

Power Source

40V MAX

Motor Type

Brushless

Included Tools

Drill Driver, Impact Driver

Dimensions

25.7 × 15.3 × 9 inches

Weight

1 pounds

View on Amazon: Makita 40V XGT 4-Piece Combo Kit Affiliate link

This Makita 40V MAX XGT kit includes a hammer driver-drill and an impact driver. It features brushless motors for efficient power delivery. The set is designed for cordless operation. It is suitable for users who need multiple tools in a single package. The teal color matches the brand standard. It offers a compact solution for various drilling and driving tasks.

Pros

• 40V MAX power source
• Brushless motor technology
• Includes hammer driver-drill
• Includes impact driver

Cons

• Reciprocating saw not included in this specific 4-piece kit
• Heavier build at 1 pound for the tools alone
• Larger footprint with 25.7-inch length

Good fit if

• You need both a drill and an impact driver
• You prefer 40V MAX XGT battery systems
• You want a complete multi-tool set

Skip if

• You are looking for a reciprocating saw only
• You need a single-hand compact tool
• You prefer 18V LXT compatibility

Verdict: Makita 40V XGT 4-Piece Combo Kit suits professionals who require a drill and impact driver without a reciprocating saw. It is ideal for those already invested in the 40V XGT ecosystem.

Specifications side by side

Makita Reciprocating Saws At A Glance

You can choose between single tools and combo kits. The Makita 18V Brushless One-Handed Reciprocating Saw weighs one pound and measures 14.4 inches long. It fits users who need a lightweight option for tight spaces. The Makita 18V LXT Compact Reciprocating Saw offers a slightly heavier build at 2.69 pounds for general demolition tasks. These bare tool options suit existing battery owners. The Makita 40V XGT 4-Piece Combo Kit includes a drill driver and impact driver. It suits professionals needing multiple tools without a reciprocating saw. Each model uses cordless power sources. You should select based on your existing battery ecosystem and specific job requirements.

Where Makita Fits Your Needs

Makita’s current lineup centers on the 18V LXT system, offering bare tools that rely on existing batteries. You will find compact, one-handed models weighing just one pound, alongside standard reciprocating saws around eight pounds. The range also includes a 40V XGT combo kit for users needing drill and impact driver capabilities. However, none of these products include batteries or chargers in the box. You must purchase power sources separately. There are no corded options or specialized heavy-duty demolition saws listed here. This brand suits those already invested in its ecosystem who need portable, efficient cutting tools.

How to Choose the Right Makita Saw

1. Check Voltage Compatibility

   Most models use the 18V LXT system, but one kit uses 40V XGT. You must match the voltage to your existing batteries. If you already own 18V packs, stick to the XRJ08Z or XRJ04Z. The 40V XGT kit requires separate 40V batteries. Choosing the wrong voltage means buying extra power sources. Verify your current battery ecosystem before purchasing any bare tool or combo kit.

2. Prioritize Weight for Overhead Work

   Weight significantly impacts comfort during overhead tasks. The XRJ08Z weighs only one pound, making it ideal for tight spaces and ceiling work. In contrast, the XRJ05Z weighs 7.8 pounds, which may cause fatigue. The XRJ04Z is even heavier at eight pounds. If you work overhead frequently, choose the lighter one-handed option. Heavier models suit ground-level demolition where stability matters more than lift.

3. Verify Included Tools in Kits

   Not all combo kits include a reciprocating saw. The 40V XGT 4-Piece Kit includes a drill driver and impact driver only. It does not contain a saw. If you need a reciprocating saw, select a bare tool like the XRJ01Z. Always read the included tools list carefully. Buying a drill kit when you need a saw wastes money. Check the attributes section to confirm which tools are in the box.

4. Assess Motor Type for Efficiency

   Brushless motors offer better efficiency and longer runtime. The XRJ08Z and XRJ05Z feature brushless motors. The XRJ04Z does not list a brushless motor in its attributes. Brushless technology reduces heat and wear. This matters if you cut metal or hardwood frequently. For occasional use, a brushed motor may suffice. Compare the motor type to ensure you get the performance you need for your specific cutting tasks.

5. Confirm Battery Inclusion Status

   Most listed items are bare tools, meaning no battery is included. You must already own compatible Makita batteries. The 40V XGT kit also lacks batteries. If you are new to Makita, you will need to purchase batteries separately. This increases the initial cost. Check the battery included field before ordering. Buying a bare tool when you have no batteries is a common mistake. Ensure you have the correct voltage and capacity batteries ready.

Frequently asked questions

See also

• RYOBI vs makita reciprocating saw
• makita xrj08z 18v lxt lithium ion vs xrj05z 18v lxt lithium ion
• best makita reciprocating saws
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