Among the 40 new tools that Makita showed off at the STAFDA event last month, one stood out as a clear innovation to the world of metal fabrication. The Makita 18V X2 Chop Saw is the first cordless chop saw to come to market. It runs on two of Makita’s 18V batteries for a grand total of 36 metal chopping volts. In those instances where power at the jobsite is either inconsistent or unavailable, we’ve traditionally been beholden to bulky, loud, and fume-spouting generators. But, with the ability to make up to 100 cuts in 20 gauge stud on a charge, Makita’s battery-powered solution takes us one step closer to a totally cordless jobsite.

Editor’s Note: This article originally published on November 13, 2018.

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Makita 18V X2 Chop Saw Features

• Brushless motor
• Delivers 3,800 RPM
• Large spark guard captures and deflects debris away from the surrounding area
• Electric brake allows adjustments to be completed faster for maximum productivity
• Tool-less flange removal for quick and easy wheel changes
• Two-stage lock-off power button requires two actions to start the cut-off saw
• Large cutting capacity; cuts up to 5″ round and 4″ x 7-5/8″ rectangular material
• Tool-less fence and vise controls for quick and easy adjustments
• Soft start suppresses start-up reaction for smooth start-ups and longer gear life
• Integrated overload status indicator alerts of excessive battery power draw during heavy loads
• Integrated battery charge light indicator allows user to monitor both battery charge levels
• Locking pin secures cutting head in down position for easy transport and storage
• Stamped steel base provides added rigidity for increased durability
• Ergonomic handle with two-finger trigger for increased operator comfort

What’s The Big Deal?

Obviously, the cordlessness of this tool makes a pretty decent initial impression, but Makita’s not content to just churn out cordless tools just for the sake of it. The Makita 18V X2 Chop Saw maintains the same quality and power as their corded model. So, if you’re familiar with the LW1400, you’ll probably notice some similarities here.

The XWL01PT features a brushless motor that cranks out 3,800 RPM. It powers a 14″ abrasive cut-off wheel that can tackle light gauge metals like studs and struts, pipe, all thread, conduit, tubing, and rebar. It can cut up to 5″ round and 4″ x 7-5/8″ rectangular tubing.

The Makita 18V X2 Chop Saw also features tool-less adjustment features, which we really like. A tool-less flange allows for quick and easy blade changes, and a tool-less fence and vice controls.

For safety, the Makita 18V X2 Chop Saw comes with an electric brake, an oversized spark guard, and a two-stage lock-off power switch.

Makita will sell the new chop saw kitted with a couple 5.0Ah batteries and a charger for $499, or as a bare tool for $349. Expect this to hit stores by the end of this month or the beginning of next month.

Makita 18V X2 Chop Saw In Action

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Makita 18V X2 Chop Saw Specs

• Model Number: XWL01PT
• Blade Diameter: 14″
• No Load Speed: 3,800 RPM
• Max Cutting Capacity (at 90°): 5″
• Arbor: 1″
• Tool-less Blade Change: Yes
• Tool-less Fence Adjustment: Yes
• Lock-Off Switch: Yes
• Electric Brake: Yes
• Overall Length: 21-1/8″
• Net Weight: 35.9 lbs.
• Available: Late November/Early December
• Warranty: 3-Year
• MSRP: $499 (kit), $349 (bare tool)