Milwaukee vs Makita: Reciprocating Saws Compared by Specs
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This comparison focuses on the milwaukee vs makita reciprocating saw options for one-handed cutting tasks. Both tools are compact, brushless, and designed for single-hand operation. They share a 7/8-inch stroke length. The main difference lies in their weight and speed. The Milwaukee model weighs nearly four pounds. The Makita unit is significantly lighter at one pound. You also get different stroke rates and balance in each design.
Key differences
| Aspect | Milwaukee M18 FUEL One-Handed Hackzall | Makita 18V Brushless One-Handed Reciprocating Saw |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 3.97 pounds | 1 pounds |
| Stroke Rate | Not listed | 0-3,100 SPM |
| Tool Length | 14.8 inches | 14.4 inches |
| Motor Type | Brushless | Brushless |
| Battery Included | Bare tool | Tool Only |
Which one should you choose?
Choose Milwaukee M18 FUEL One-Handed Hackzall if
- You want a tool with a pivoting shoe for smoother cuts and less vibration.
- You prefer a heavier tool that may offer more stability during tough cuts.
- You are already invested in the M18 battery ecosystem.
Choose Makita 18V Brushless One-Handed Reciprocating Saw if
- You need a very lightweight saw for overhead or extended use.
- You want to know the exact maximum stroke rate for faster cutting.
- You prioritize low vibration and a loop-shaped handle guard for rigidity.
Verdict: Choose the Milwaukee if you value the pivoting shoe design and a heavier, more stable feel. Pick the Makita if you need a significantly lighter tool with a known high stroke rate. Both are capable one-handed brushless options.
Milwaukee vs Makita Recip Specs
Motor Technology
Both the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall and the Makita 18V LXT reciprocating saw feature brushless motors. This design choice eliminates carbon brushes, which reduces friction and wear inside the motor. For you, this means the tools can run cooler and more efficiently. Brushless motors also typically offer longer lifespan and better power management compared to brushed alternatives. Since both manufacturers have equipped their one-handed saws with this technology, neither holds a technical advantage here. You get the benefits of modern motor efficiency from either brand.
Cutting Speed
Speed matters when you are cutting through tough materials quickly. The Makita XRJ08Z delivers a stroke rate of 0 to 3,100 strokes per minute. This high speed allows for faster material removal. The Milwaukee 2719-20 listing does not specify a strokes per minute value. It highlights a POWERSTATE brushless motor for increased power and speed in tough applications, but lacks the specific numerical rating. Without a published SPM figure for the Milwaukee tool, you cannot directly compare the raw cutting velocity. Makita provides the clear data point for speed here.
Tool Weight
Weight significantly impacts fatigue during extended one-handed use. The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall weighs 3.97 pounds. This is a substantial mass for a handheld tool. The Makita 18V LXT saw weighs only 1 pound. This drastic difference makes the Makita tool much easier to maneuver and hold steady for long periods. Lighter tools reduce hand strain, allowing you to maintain better control and precision. If you are working overhead or in awkward positions, the lighter Makita is the more practical choice for reducing physical fatigue.
Stroke Length
Stroke length determines how much material is removed with each blade movement. Both the Milwaukee 2719-20 and the Makita XRJ08Z share an identical stroke length of 7/8 inch. This specification is consistent across both models, meaning they remove the same volume of material per stroke. A 7/8-inch stroke is standard for this class of compact saws, balancing speed and power. Since the mechanical action of the blade is identical in terms of travel distance, neither tool offers an advantage in this specific mechanical specification.
Physical Dimensions
The physical footprint of the tool affects how easily you can fit it into tight spaces. The Milwaukee Hackzall measures 14.8 inches in length and 4.4 inches in width. The Makita reciprocating saw is slightly shorter at 14.4 inches in length and narrower at 4 inches in width. While the differences are small, the Makita model is more compact in both length and width. This slight reduction in size may help in extremely confined areas where every inch of clearance counts. The Milwaukee tool is marginally larger in its overall dimensions.
Which Reciprocating Saw Fits Your Job
Users needing maximum cutting speed
The Makita model offers a variable speed range up to 3,100 strokes per minute. This higher RPM allows for faster material removal during aggressive cuts. You get up to 55% faster cutting performance compared to standard models. The brushless motor supports this high-speed operation efficiently, making it ideal for quick demolition or trimming tasks where speed matters most.
Professionals prioritizing durability and protection
Milwaukee includes REDLINK Plus Intelligence, which monitors tool, battery, and charger communication. This system provides optimized performance and overload protection to prevent damage. The POWERSTATE brushless motor combines with this electronics suite to deliver up to 3x longer tool life than competitive one-handed reciprocating saws. You get robust internal protection for demanding job site conditions.
Operators seeking reduced hand fatigue
Makita designs this saw with a low vibration feature that reduces vibration by up to 40%. Less vibration means less strain on your hands and arms during extended use. The loop-shaped handle guard also adds rigidity for better control. You benefit from a smoother cutting experience that helps maintain comfort and precision over long periods of one-handed operation.
The products compared
Milwaukee M18 FUEL One-Handed Hackzall
Best for: users with M18 batteries needing pivoting stability
- Power Source
- M18
- Stroke Length
- 7/8 in.
- Motor Type
- Brushless
- Battery Included
- Bare Tool
- Tool Weight
- 3.97 pounds
- Tool Length
- 14.8 inches
View on Amazon: Milwaukee M18 FUEL One-Handed Hackzall Affiliate link
This one-handed reciprocating saw uses a brushless motor and M18 power source. It features a 7/8-inch stroke length for faster material removal and a pivoting shoe to reduce vibration. Weighing 3.97 pounds and measuring 14.8 inches long, it offers compact control. It suits users needing a versatile, single-handed tool for tight spaces or detailed cutting tasks.
Pros
- POWERSTATE brushless motor delivers increased cutting speed
- 7/8-inch stroke length removes more material per stroke
- Pivoting shoe provides constant contact for smoother cuts
- REDLINK Plus Intelligence offers overload protection
Cons
- Sold as a bare tool with no battery included
- Heavier than the competing compact one-handed saw
- Larger footprint than dedicated compact reciprocating saws
Good fit if
- You need a one-handed saw for tight spaces
- You already own M18 batteries
- You want a pivoting shoe for stability
Skip if
- You need a complete kit with a battery
- You prefer a lighter tool under 3 pounds
- You require a dedicated compact one-handed design
Verdict: Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall is a powerful one-handed option for users who already have M18 batteries and need a pivoting shoe for stability. It fits professionals who prioritize stroke length and motor protection over minimal weight.
Makita 18V Brushless One-Handed Reciprocating Saw
Best for: One-handed precision cutting in tight spaces
- 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
The Makita XRJ08Z is a one-handed reciprocating saw designed for precision work. It features a brushless motor delivering up to 3,100 strokes per minute with a 7/8-inch stroke length. The compact 14.4-inch length and 1-pound weight make it easy to manage in tight spaces. It offers low vibration for better control. This tool is ideal for users who need a lightweight, efficient option for detailed cutting tasks.
Pros
- Brushless motor provides up to 3,100 strokes per minute
- Compact 14.4-inch length fits in tight spaces
- Lightweight 1-pound design reduces user fatigue
- Low vibration design improves control
Cons
- Sold as a bare tool without a battery
- Limited to one-handed operation
- No variable speed trigger mentioned in specs
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight tool for tight spaces
- You already own Makita 18V LXT batteries
- You prioritize low vibration for precision cuts
Skip if
- You need a full-sized saw for heavy demolition
- You do not own compatible Makita batteries
- You require a two-handed grip for maximum stability
Verdict: Makita XRJ08Z Compact Recip Saw is a specialized tool for users who need a lightweight, one-handed saw for detailed work in tight spaces. It is best for those who already have Makita 18V LXT batteries and value precision over raw power.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Milwaukee M18 FUEL One-Handed Hackzall | Makita 18V Brushless One-Handed Reciprocating Saw |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | M18 | 18V LXT |
| Stroke Length | 7/8 in. | 7/8 in. |
| Strokes Per Minute | not stated | 0-3,100 SPM |
| Motor Type | Brushless | Brushless |
| Battery Included | Bare Tool | Tool Only |
| Tool Weight | 3.97 pounds | not stated |
| Tool Length | 14.8 inches | 14.4 inches |
| Voltage | not stated | 18V |
| Dimensions | 14.8 × 4.4 × 6.8 inches | 14.4 × 4 × 6 inches |
| Weight | 3.97 pounds | 1 pounds |
| Size | Large | not stated |
| Color | Red, Black | Teal |
| Model | 2719-20 | XRJ08Z |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Milwaukee M18 FUEL Hackzall heavy for one-handed use?
It weighs 3.97 pounds. This is substantial for a one-handed tool. The design includes a pivoting shoe to help manage this weight. You get stability when cutting. The balance helps reduce fatigue during longer tasks. It is not the lightest option available.
How compact is the Makita XRJ08Z reciprocating saw?
The Makita model measures 14.4 inches in length. Its width is only 4 inches. This compact form factor fits into tight spaces. The tool is also very light at just 1 pound. This makes it ideal for precision work where maneuverability matters most.
Do these reciprocating saws come with batteries included?
No, both tools are sold as bare tools. You must provide your own compatible battery packs. The Milwaukee unit requires M18 batteries. The Makita saw uses 18V LXT batteries. This allows you to use existing power sources from your current tool ecosystem.
What is the physical size difference between the two models?
The Milwaukee model is larger in all dimensions. It is 14.8 inches long and 4.4 inches wide. The Makita is smaller, at 14.4 inches long and 4 inches wide. The height also differs, with the Milwaukee being slightly taller. These differences affect how they fit in your hands.
Which saw is better for tight space cutting?
The Makita XRJ08Z is better for tight spaces. Its smaller width and lighter weight improve maneuverability. It weighs only 1 pound, making it easy to control one-handed. The Milwaukee is heavier and wider, which can hinder access in confined areas.
Are both saws cordless and brushless?
Yes, both are cordless and feature brushless motors. The Makita data confirms its brushless motor and cordless power source. The Milwaukee M18 FUEL line also uses brushless technology. This provides efficient power delivery and longer runtime for both tools.
What is the weight difference between the Milwaukee and Makita?
The Milwaukee weighs 3.97 pounds. The Makita weighs 1 pound. This is a significant difference of nearly three pounds. The lighter Makita reduces hand fatigue. The heavier Milwaukee offers more mass, which can help with cutting through denser materials.