Makita XSL02Z review will equip you with comprehensive information about the machine in question. First launched in 2015, the miter saw receives a massive amount of positive feedback from users, owing to its incredible cut quality and portability.
However, in spite of many productive reviews, XSL02Z is still subject to certain flaws that need careful examination.
Before jumping into the in-depth analysis section, it is essential to go over its basic specifications.
Contents
Who Fits Makita XSL02Z The Most?
The following section of this Makita XSL02Z review will concentrate on explaining why it is a must-have gadget for carpenters dealing with light applications, based on the detailed analysis of four distinct aspects.
Convenient Ease-Of-Use
The first notable ease-of-use feature of Makita XSL02Z lies in its extremely lightweight structure. Furthermore, the miter saw is cordless, which completely removes any hassle relating to moving it around your workplace.
The convenience is also attributed to the two 18-volt lithium-ion batteries that power the saw. It also features the Rapid Optimum Charger, giving XSL02Z the fastest charging time in its whole category.
The magic of battery-powered option does not stop there. Makita further equips this model with the built-in Star Protection Computer Controls to ensure top-notch safety during charging time via the regulation of current, temperature, and voltage.
The comfort in operating the XSL02Z also stems from the smart design featuring the rubberized soft grip handle. Despite its small working angle on the right side, the cutting apparatus is capable of effortless cuts, owing to the many positive miter stops in both directions.
Unmatched Durability
You are looking at a tough gadget, with little demand for replacement or maintenance. This durability is possible because of the direct drive gearbox that is able to pull off up to 5,700 RPM. This powerful source is more than enough to deliver clean and dead-on precise cuts.
Moreover, you will find the iconic Soft Start technology in this model, which supplies users with “smooth-as-silk” operations from start to end.
Incredible Cutting Quality
With the unique 4-steel rail sliding system, Makita XSL02Z is augmented with impressive cutting quality, allowing users to perform quick cuts with little adjustments. It is great that Makita can pack such an incredible power inside a very neat and compact design.
The high quality cuts are further improved by the Automatic Speed Change technology that supports operators with blade speed and torque adjustments, ensuring reliable performance.
Moreover, do not worry about the relatively small 7.5-inch diameter. The machine actually possesses significant cutting power. At 90 degrees, it can chop through 2 x 12-inch lumber easily. The figure is 2 x 8 inches at 45 degrees.
Pinpoint Accuracy
Not only having great portability and high quality cuts, the miter saw can also pull off extremely accurate cuts, owing to the linear ball bearing system equipped in the model.
What Needs Improvements?
Makita XSL02Z features unmatched performance. However, the miter saw still has some flaws that need to be addressed.
Major Errors
One great pity of this miter saw is that it is not completely dual-bevel. Because of the single-direction tilting option, you have to adjust the wood piece constantly if you are handling with hardwood trimming. All in all, this design is improvable.
Another drawback lies in the small blade size, which cannot give you the massive woodwork capacity when compared to the 10-inch or 12-inch models.
Minor Error
You may find it annoying due to the limited timespan of the saw’s batteries. This feature will not let you have a long operation time like corded machines. Thus, the machine is only ideal for people dealing with casual home projects.
Makita XSL02Z Alternatives
Dewalt 716XPS and Bosch GCM18V-12GDCN are two ideal substitutions for the Makita machine, thanks to its exceptional precision level and equivalent cutting power.
Makita XSL05Z is slightly more expensive. However, this alternative can perform hardwood trimming effortlessly, which solves the XSL02Z’s problem.
If large working angle is what you are looking for, Hitachi C10FSBS is a great option to try out. The Hitachi machine is reputable for both its flexibility and versatility.