Makita XRJ05Z Saw Review
Our verdict
The Makita XRJ05Z is an 18-volt battery reciprocating saw reaching 2,300 RPM with a 4-inch cutting capacity, backed by a strong 4.8-star rating from 1,100 reviews at $179.99.
Check price on AmazonBest for
Makita LXT battery platform users who need a reliable 18-volt cordless recip saw for framing, pipe, and general demo work
Skip if
You need cutting depth beyond 4 inches, do not own Makita 18V LXT batteries, or want a battery included in the purchase price
- Power Source Battery Powered
- Voltage 18 Volts
- Speed 2300
- Motor 72 watts
- Weight 7.8 Pounds
- Dimensions 24"L x 24"W x 8.38"H
- Priced 71% above the category median ($104.99 across 57 tracked models)
Our scorecard
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Owner rating4.8/5
4.8 average across 1,100 owner ratings
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Popularity3.8/5
1,100 owner reviews, more than most models here
The overall score is owner satisfaction weighted by how many reviews back it, so a high rating from few reviews counts for less. The bars below show where this model stands against the other power tools and workshop machinery we track in this category on price, popularity and size. Context, not marks against it, and our read of the data, not a lab test.
Overview
The Makita XRJ05Z runs on Makita's 18-volt battery platform and delivers 2,300 RPM through a high-speed-steel blade. The 72-watt motor figure is modest in print, but the 4.8-star average from 1,100 reviewers and 300 units bought last month indicate that owners find the actual cutting performance satisfactory for demo and remodeling work.
The 4-inch cutting capacity suits 2x4 framing lumber, copper and PVC pipe, and standard conduit. At 7.8 pounds, the XRJ05Z is a mid-weight tool in the cordless class. It ships as a tool-only unit, so buyers must factor in battery cost if they are not already in the Makita LXT ecosystem.
At $179.99 for a tool-only unit, the XRJ05Z is priced at the higher end of 18-volt competitors. The demand (300 bought last month) and rating (4.8 stars) both reflect a tool that rewards buyers already invested in the Makita platform.
Pros
- 4.8-star rating from 1,100 reviews demonstrates strong, consistent buyer approval
- 2,300 RPM output covers framing lumber, pipe, and standard demolition applications
- 18-volt battery platform integrates with Makita's broad LXT tool lineup
- 4-inch cutting capacity handles 2x4 lumber and common pipe diameters
- 300 units sold last month confirms ongoing market demand
Cons
- 4-inch cutting capacity restricts performance on thicker engineered lumber or large-diameter pipe
- Tool-only at $179.99, battery and charger add to total cost for buyers new to Makita 18V
- Published motor power of 72 watts is low on paper; corded alternatives deliver more raw wattage
Specifications
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 18 Volts |
| Speed | 2300 |
| Motor | 72 watts |
| Weight | 7.8 Pounds |
| Dimensions | 24"L x 24"W x 8.38"H |
| Material | High Speed Steel |
| Capacity | 4 Inches |
Performance notes
Runs on an 18-volt battery with a published 72-watt motor and 2,300 RPM blade speed. The 4-inch cutting capacity and high-speed-steel blade compatibility suit standard framing and pipe work. The 7.8-pound body measures 24 inches in listed length. No strokes-per-minute or stroke-length spec is published.
What buyers say
Owners in the Makita LXT ecosystem are consistently positive about the XRJ05Z, citing reliable cutting performance and good compatibility with existing batteries. The most common critique from critical reviewers is the tool-only packaging at a price that approaches battery-kit territory for some competing brands. Overall the 4.8-star average reflects genuine satisfaction.
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Frequently asked questions
Does the Makita XRJ05Z include a battery?
No. The Z suffix indicates a tool-only unit. Makita 18V LXT batteries are sold separately.
What is the cutting capacity of the Makita XRJ05Z?
The listed specs show a 4-inch cutting capacity, suitable for 2x4 lumber, copper pipe, and conduit up to that depth.
More questions about the Makita XRJ05Z?
Email the ToolGalaxy research team at hello@toolgalaxy.com.