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Makita launched a new XGT cordless circular saw, model GSH05, featuring a brushless motor and 6-1/2″ blade size.
They boast that it delivers “up to 40% faster cutting speed.”
The saw has features you would expect at its premium price point, such as a magnesium baseplate, blade guard, and blade cover, and electric motor brake.
The new Makita XGT cordless saw has a 2-1/4″ max cutting capacity (at 90°) and no-load speed of 5200 RPM.
Additional features include an LED light with preglow and afterglow, and AWS wireless vacuum auto-start compatibility (requires a 198901-5 transmitter module, sold separately).
- 6-1/2″ blade size
- 5/8″ arbor
- 2-1/4″ max cutting capacity at 90°
- 1-5/8″ max cutting capacity at 45°
- Bevel stops at 22.5°, 45°, 50°
- Lock-off button
- 11-3/4″ length
- Weighs 7.8 lbs with 4Ah battery
- LED worklight
- Rafter hook
- COO: Made in China (according to retail listings)
Makita says that the saw can make up to 290 cuts in 2×10 SPF lumber per 4Ah battery charge.
The Makita GSH05 circular saw is available in-tool-only (GSH05Z) and kit (GSH05M1) options. The kit comes with a charger, tool bag, 4Ah battery, dust nozzle, and 24T saw blade.
Price: $269 for the tool-only, $469 for the kit
ETA: Available Now
Discussion
Everything about the saw seems straightforward, except for the “up to 40% faster cutting speed” claim. Is this compared to Makita’s 18V brushless 6-1/2″ circular saw, or other cordless circular saw models?
The XGT GSH05 is a little faster (5200 vs 5000 RPM) and heavier (7.8 lbs vs 7.3 lbs) than Makita’s 18V 6-1/2″ circular saw, model XSH03. The speed difference doesn’t seem like a big deal, and the difference in weight could be on account of the larger form factor Li-ion battery the GSH05’s spec is based on.
Makita’s 18V model was announced in late-2014. It doesn’t look like the XGT model is very different, which isn’t a bad thing, as I don’t recall hearing many complaints about the 18V saw over the years. There could be some under-the-hood differences given the developments in brushless motors and power tool tech over the years.
The XGT model is a little more expensive than the 18V LXT saw, which retails for $239 (tool-only).
It’s good to see Makita expanding their XGT cordless power tool lineup, although I wish they’d pick up the pace.
