Makita 40v XGT GSR01Z 7-1/4" vs. Skilsaw Mag 77 Circular Saw Review
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- Опубликовано: 6 сен 2024
- Cordless circular saws have come a long way. I was ready to be underwhelmed
but I am forced to admit that this thing rocks! You might not agree with my final
conclusion however. Circular Saw Basics here: • Circular Saw Basics
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As always, this is a masterclass in the explanation of nuanced differences and comparisons where there is no clear "best" answer.
Yes there is!
The corded skillsaw is the "best"!
I would choose the makita personally, but EC is absolutely correct, the corded saw is the best!
I thought clear awnser was as a tradesman have both. If you can only have one corded is better but seriously most carpenters are gonna have both I guess
I was just about to comment the same thing. He made it damn near impossible to pick a defined winner
What he said.
@@johnnydesousa5231 the cordless will make an operator more money if their jobs are large hard bid jobs so there really isn't a clear winner
I would say that this was the most coherent, logical and articulate tool review in the history of RUclips! Honestly, the "other guys" could learn a thing or two from this one video alone.
( I have the brushless Makita too, but now I realise why I have kept my old corded saw too!)
Couldn’t agree more. This man is truly a gem. So much knowledge given for free. It’s fantastic.
This gent flips saws left/right/downside up, in his sleep. I weld in my sleep. I call it "OLD". I'm sure he'll concur.
Was thinking the same thing, and saw it was the top comment. Thanks, EC!
Wholeheartedly agree with your statement the best review of any
As another senior citizen, I have seen the transition from 9.6 V cordless, to 12V, then 14.4V, 18V, and now 40V cordless tools. In the depths of my workshop, you can still find these relics, bought at some cost, but made redundant by the advances in technology, and lack of ongoing support by the manufacturers. A good quality corded power saw will serve the average home handyman for the best part of his life.
Don't forget, 9.6 volt was the 2nd, I still have a few 7 volt makita's. THey are sure worthless when compared to what we have now... And dealer cost on the bare tools in the mid 80s was about 70 bucks for a drill.....and that was a ton of money back then.
If u get the Metabo HPT/Hitachi 36V u can plug it in and use it cordless
Those 9.6 v Makita drills were the bomb then. I can’t believe the development arch of all these cordless tools. To have driven screws without impact drivers for 15 years and then to have used them…. Incredible.
I had the 7.2 with the reciprocating saw. Awesome little combo at the time. Just started collecting the xgt 40v and they are amazing. This afternoon co worker tried out the drill and was amazed at the power and smoothness. Makita isn't always the hardest hitting, but they last and are very good quality. The fact so many cordless 7.2 makita are still around and functional (battery issue aside) also speaks to durability of a 25+ year old hand drill.
One of the biggest eye openers for me has been combining corded tools with a large power bank. It's not quite the convenience of fully cordless, but the ability to put a power plug absolutely anywhere, at any time, and have it last you the full day of fairly heavy use, even on a site with no power is hard to understate.
Yep and using 20 amp circuits. A 10 awg wire for the whip/cord
As a Swede the only way to get a rear handle saw was going cordless or lugging around a 240-110V transformer, and they get really big and heavy if you're going to power a skilsaw with it.
So when my Hitachi started shooting arcs that light up the neighborhood, I went with a makita 2x18V, and I must say I love that saw, everybody that tried it thinks it's to heavy, but change their mind when they cut something with it. Few tools give me as much pleasure as that saw.
As an Englishman I have no experience with worm drive saws (they are available now). and have always used 9” sidewinders, and for outdoor work 110v (with transformer) to meet codes of practice. my main 9” is so old it does not have a deadman’s switch. I like the bit about losing the saw on site, never even thought of that ! Your conclusions are the same as mine about best work saw.
Two things about Circ saws, one is that those cast base plates break easily, I prefer steel. the other is that batteries are a constant tax on you and you’d best put replacements in your pricing. If anyone cares, I like Makita corded saws.
Intelligent opinion, thanks
I got the Metabo HPT as there was not a Hikoki variant of the rear handle sa here in Europe/Norway. Great saw at a low cost.
I have the Makita and I agree it's heavy but it's a beast not for using allday but when you need the power it's the tool!
@@rfauske Tror de har en Hikoki versjon i New Zealand /Australia. Hvor bestilte du saga?
I’ll pick the cordless makita. I have heavy use of the cordless for the last 4 years and I have used skill saws almost every day for the last 7 years. The framing company I’m with we mostly build apartment complexes and townhomes. My main job is layout, we cut the plates with a radial arm saw that are marked with layout and a lot of the double top plate I cut myself with the cordless. I have to do a lot of rips, mostly on 2x6 being ripped down to 2x4. A lot of the rips I do have to be 6ft plus. One thing I love about the cordless is when I have to do a plunge cut I don’t need to lift up the guard with my hand. I just line blade up where I need and just push down and forward and the guard will roll back. I can do that with the corded saw but I have to push a lot harder to get it to work.
The corded saw does have more power and it’s a lot easier to cut angles with. For some reason with the cordless when I cut angles, mostly 45 board cut, the saw binds up and I have to push it through the cut pretty hard and my cut won’t be as accurate, or it binds up so much the saw shuts off.
And it’s not just me a 7 year production commercial framer that loves the cordless. It’s also the 20 year vets and we have a couple 30 year vets on the crew that have all switched to the cordless. And it’s mostly because of not having to worry about rolling out and rolling up power cords. We all work fast and efficiently and we are always trying to find more ways to be efficient and Having a whole bunch of cords mixed in with the air hoses making a rats nest in the hallways is one less thing to worry about.
It’s difficult to try and explain how our operation works without being able to show exactly what we do. And once you see what it’s like using a corded vs a cordless saw in a 400,000 square foot apartment complex you’ll know why 30 year journeymen framers switched saws.
Also my boss just got me a cordless makita chop saw for my work station and so far I’m impressed. I’ve only had it for about a month but I definitely prefer cordless for now.
Something i like about the cordless is, when you only got access to an 15 amp outlet and need the compressor and the saw. So many times i tripped that breaker because i was ripping something and the compressor started at the same time.
This. I don't do large new construction so I don't need the massive endurance of the cord. But I'll be working right on through the renovation when the electrician has the power shut off.
Yep. Damn code to have gfi plugs on power pole!!! 😂😂😂
Fair point. I were in your shoes, that'd definitely be a big factor.
Sort of keeps you on yer toes.
I'm working on a huge jobsite right now, cordless is king, often we have 300 meters of extension cords to run a corded tool, it's really hard on the tool, you can hear it, sometimes you can smell it.
Why should we only pick one? I have both corded and cordless tools.
Great review.
Cheers from Tokyo.
Props for having the integrity to be thoroughly and respectfully honest despite the incentives that come along with a sponsored or gifted review!
This seasoned craftsman has made enough during his career.
To not be bought by the sponsorship of anyone.
@@stevenroth5424I love how most of his preferences aren't so much Makita vs Skilsaw, but Cordless vs Corded. Just like he said corded provides consistent power, ability to pull it up onto a roof by the cord, and being able to backtrack to where you left your saw by the cord.
One thing you didn't mention and maybe haven't noticed yet is the effect of rain on the saws. That Makita can sit outside in a PNW rain all winter long and never have an issue because of it. Your corded saw is going to trip the GFI fairly often if left uncovered. I framed houses in SW Washington for 9 years and that one fact made the cordless saws worth every penny.
I didn't actually leave the saw out for an entire winter. My point is, it can get wet and it'll still function with zero problems. A corded saw will trip the GFI if it gets much water on it.
Makita is plenty durable and I think his baseless assertion doesn't fit.
@FortyFirst Millennial to test its durability and resistance to wet weather damage.
Two weeks into owning my makita, I accidentally left out overnight - hanging from the side of my trailer, in a hurricane..
Not only had I forgotten all about it the next morning, it hadn't been stolen & it hadn't blown away or even showed any sign of wear or rust whatsoever (except a little rusty color in the socket for the rafter-hook; cleaned right out with a little WD).
It runs like nothing ever happened, and I thanked my lucky stars for it. ✌️
Man. I've been in Costa Rica for 20 years and never looked at that angle....Interesting.BUT. I'm also a maintenance fanatic with my schtuff. You buy a pair of boots. Never put them on, leave them in the closet for 3 months, they grow a pizza topping. Like the PNW. It's a tough climate(minus coldness). YOU have better ferns in Olympic than what we have here tho. We run 50/50 on woods and CR kicks bootay on orchids---no elk
Um,,, your ground is hooked up wrong…
Been framing with the makita 36 volt worm drive for the last 4 or so years. The durability is there and it's so much nicer not dragging a cord around, especially in mud. My favorite saw by far
Makita doesn't make a worm-drive saw.
@@awsomater1991 rear handle, my bad
Hypoid drive .. I've been running the 36v for at least 4 years also. Best saw ever 🔥
We super glued the safety buttons on those Makitas. We drilled a tiny hole and put a brad nail through the safety switch on the Skill 48 volt. We also have the Metabo 36 volt (its safety is also pinned) , 3 of the Milwaukee Fuels, all rear handle type. My favorite is the Metabo. Its the lightest.
This is one of the most honest, objective and unbiased reviews I’ve ever seen. I hope the marketing teams at Skil and Makita are proud of their products and Scott who has represented them both perfectly well and fairly.
Personally as a production framer who has both of these saws I love them both and use them both. If I have a cutting station set up I’m going with the Skil. If I’m on a roof cutting sheets I’m going with the Makita. Both are awesome tools that are worth every penny.
Great review!!
I gotta tell ya. I was skilsaw hd77’s for years. Never thought anything would replace them. We’re now completely cordless using mostly makita saws for many of the reasons Scott mentioned. Two things I’ll mention. Yes it’s very inconvenient when a battery dies up in the air, but I can’t tell you the amount of times I’ve been up in the air with a corded saw and tripped a breaker and had to hike all the way down. That probably happened more then having to switch dead batteries. As for making money, cordless saws make more money hands down. Not having to drag around a cord and setup and tear down a cord every day is a huge time saver. We figure a 4 man crew saves 15 minutes in the morning and 15 minutes at night. Just my two cents
30 mins a day x an entire year adds up, hundreds in wages paid just for wrapping up leads
I just love the respectful and well balanced way of you reviewing equipment. It's not all black and white and you take in consideration that not everyone has the budget to have all the best equipment. I have a personal preference to corded equipment. It's just one thing less to go bad and if the cord goes I can replace it myself. But I do love my cordless drill when dealing with screws and such. Thanks and as you always say, keep up the good work!
I’m a contractor and carpenter with 25 years under my belt. I got the dual 18v version years ago and never looked back. I’ve almost never missed the extra power and it feels better and smoother. Not having a cord is great. I like the foot plate and guide notches better. And it’s the only 7-1/4” that will cut 3x in a single pass. In earthquake country, we use a lot of it: mudsills, studs in a shearwall at plywood breaks, horizontal blocking for backing plywood seams in a shearwall. I was already heavy in to the Makita 18v system and had plenty of batteries so I got the bare tool and the cost difference was minimal.
All in all, I still have a Skil but rarely use it. On a job where two saws are helpful it will come out, like having it by the big stack of sticks for gang cutting while the cordless travels around. But the ability to cut a full 2x1/2” was a game changer and the main selling point for me. The first time a had to cut a 3x I used my trusty Skil and when the off-cut didn’t drop and was held on by like a 1/16” I just thought “WTF man, you gotta be kidding me.”
Now with the 40v, I they even have a 10-1/4” so you can cut 4x, gang cut 2x on edge in one pass and cut larger engineered joists. Pretty trick, though I have the corded Skil for that already and that’s where the extra power might be missed. That said, it would be great trimming post tops on a long fence far from power or in rural settings. I’m just waiting for the cordless version of the 16” beam saw! I have one from the 80’s. We call it the widowmaker.
Well done review. I have both. I turn 70 in about 45 days. I have "retired" the Mag. The days of climbing with my baby are over. Everything I cut now is with both feet on the ground and the Makita is it for me. If I was still "runnin and gunnin" the Mag would still be around. Yeah, I can't stomach selling it, hell what I would get for it would upset me too much. There probably still is going to be a time when I need to pull out the Mag and hang on because it will cut thru it, I just need to hang on.
I always enjoy your take on things, keep up the good work.
I can attest to the toughness of the Makita saws. I had my track saw 20'+ up on a roof and it slid off... it still works perfectly. I have 3 of the Makita hypoid saws (18V) and I use them all on the same job, one is always at hand that way. My 77 never gets off the shelf anymore. There's a tool store in Portland called Charles H Day and they routinely have a sale of this saw with four batteries and a dual charger for $259. Can't beat it.
With that said I absolutely love my Makita 10 1/4" cordless hypoid and prefer it for everyday use. Incredibly smooth, balanced, lightweight and powerful I can use it for 2x's and 3 1/2" I-joists. Two batteries and a charger from CHD for $389. My 10 1/4" Bigfoot never gets taken out off the tool shelf anymore.
I’m 22 and cordless saws have been the norm for me. I started watching this channel and I would see you use the corded skil and think “that’d be convenient to have a cord” now anytime i am framing I just cant do without one. Though for smaller projects and remodels, cordless is still my go to
Can't imagine lugging a corded saw again, use too always get all tangled in the hoses and it would be a big production to get it off the bench and into the rafters or out in the field when framing the floor ... Can't wait til someone produces a cordless framer that can really hold its own with an air gun. That'll be amazing to never have too untangle hoses or battle being a foot short and pulling and stretching that thing as hard as I can
@@The_Pennsylvanian I'm waiting for Makita to come out with a cordless framer with the XGT line. I honestly think they've been waiting for this new line to come out with one.
@@awsomater1991 the metabo hpt is good
I have five years on the previous 2x 18v model. It has taken a beating dropped off scaffolding etc it stakes a beating durability is awesome. The buttons on all the battery saws (safety ones) are all awful. I make a small wedge and drive it in to all my battery saws so the safety’s don’t cause that problem anymore. I grew up with corded saws and they never had safety’s and we never had a problem ! I like the cordless gear and i don’t run leads anymore battery for the last ten years. The makita saws are pretty water proof.
This kind of review, honest, self-critical, transparent and complete, is THE reason anyone cares about reviews in the first place. Thank you sir.
Dang, Scotty sure brought his game on this tool review! Definitely one of his very best offerings.
I used a makita corded circular saw for years. Around 07 I bought a dewalt 36v cordless because I had a job making long cuts on rafters in tight quarters and didn’t want the cord. The next day it was freezing and I had several layers of clothing on. The outermost layer got caught in the saw. Had it been my corded makita it would have gutted me like a pig. Instead it cut through all the clothes, scratched my stomach and stopped. I learned that day that powerful machines have more potential to hurt me. And to not wear loose fitting clothing under any circumstance.
I remember years ago driving screws with a corded Milwaukee drill. Makita made one of the first cordless drill/drivers. Todays cordless tools makes working onsite so convenient. Thanks for your review of the two saws. Always value your opinions...
I couldn't agree more, Scott. I'm a 55yr old super, but the nice kind. When i first saw battery ops show up on my frame crews, I was, well, let me just say I was mumbling words like "those darn kids and their rock 'n roll." In my parts, the Milwaukee 6477 worm drive WAS the tool, like your Mag77. Anything less was a learners permit. Then I listened to the boys, the modern ones. Then I bought the exact Makita you have. It took me almost a year to declare that this argument was apples and oranges
As a super, I cut the easy needed cuts to not burden my framer. Before, in trying to be kind to him, I would hunt for 110v power just to deliver the same with the 6477. The convenience of whipping out the cordless Makita is awesome, and I use it a lot. But there are moments when my duties are caught up, and the joy of plugging in my 6477 and grinding out cuts against the man at the other side is just worth the fun. Unlimited torque for days! Both are wonderful, in my view.
Long live blondes and brunettes it is! May you and your family be blessed, and, keep up the good work!
...mmm I bought a new Skilsaw way back in 1987 and it is a 50th Anniversary Edition Skilsaw that they sold in a Gold color ! I also have the Blue steel tool box it came in . Its one SWEET saw !
I bought that same saw but it's long gone. Had 2 worm drives prior and 2 since that I reserve for cutting concrete or ripping a lot of 2xs. 6-1/2" 20v Dewalt with 60 volt flexvolt batteries is my daily go to saw. Amazing power when using those batteries instead of the standard 20 volt.
I believe it really depends on the types of work you do. I don't set up for a project for days at a time, like a framer would. I move from place to place, so not having to find a place to plug in and run a cord is a huge advantage. Since I added a cordless saw to my tools, haven't used corded again...
Had the same thoughts as a mechanic while transitioning from pneumatic tools to cordless, no hose to tell me where I set my tool down. Also cordless tools get hot, pneumatic tools stay cool always, sometimes to a fault like cold weather conditions.
I bought my first mag77 after watching your very first reviews. I absolutely love that saw, I can’t explain it but it always makes me smile picking up that sweet worm drive
Me too love it
Lol I have both the 36v makita version of the drop saw and a corded 7 1/4 makita saw also. Wherever I go both are on the truck because each has a place. My only and biggest gripe is the safety button on the 36 volt. It has put me in a dangerous spot with that saw numerous times. But with that said it is still my go to first before a corded. It may just be me but i do find cords to be a pain in the butt sometimes.
What i found really impressive was the ripping ability of the cordless it would cut some very tough materials with relative ease.
I have been using my Dewalt Flexvolt 575 blade right for over 3 years and I must say it is revolutionary ,I love the soft start and blade brake and convenience, but I will never sell my 5 corded saws .
The brush-less motor and lack of inertia make the cordless so much safer in my opinion. If/when you get a kick back the blade is stopped completely by the time it can do any damage to your body. If you are in a production environment you will have enough battery power to get you through the most demanding day (I keep 10 batteries and 2 2x1 gang chargers) Cords suck! Generators are noisy. There is a lanyard loop on the makita if you want to lower it down from a second story with a rope etc. I don't miss my Skil saw ever. That is just my opinion and the cordless suits my remote and varied work environments. I love these videos and all of the great content on this Channel. Keep up the good work !
@@Elkadetodd I make substantially more than $25 an hour and I got 4 of those batteries(18v) for free through Makita promos which happen frequently. I also use other Makita tools all day hence 10 batteries. I'm saving at least $1000 by not needing a generator. Cords are expensive and heavy. I can jump on a plane with all of the power tools I will need for the work I do. For me it's a no brainer. When I bought my 36v saw I sold all of my corded tools and a couple hundred feet of cords. Obviously it depends on your individual circumstances. I paid $250 for the saw ,4 batteries and a gang charger during a HD promo sale. I bought a second set, kept the additional 4 batteries and charger and sold the brand new saw so I'm nowhere near $2500 into my setup. Unless I needed to cut concrete there is nothing this saw wont do well. In my case I'll stick with batteries.
@@Elkadetodd I'd say the financial argument is more fallacy than anything. Would it take years to make up the difference, maybe, but if that's the case then the money "lost" isn't that significant either. I'd say that it's more of an issue that people don't want to change, and they think their way is the best and only way. The only real difference is that someone has to modify their work flow to regain the effeciency they thought they had. A biggest part of that is making sure they don't show up to work with dead or half full batteries. I easily have had this exact saw last an entire day of framing on one battery, and multiple days of light use. The only sensible argument regarding corded vs cordless is that either way you still have to have something plugged in somewhere. I personally would rather take a break and get a new battery when i need it, than deal with a bunch of extension cords.
@@nickbonci7600
It doesn't have to be a resistance to change or _"you damn kids don't know squat"_ mentality. It can also be about making that hard dollar too. There is absolutely zero chance that cordless tools can keep up with corded tools in the hands of experienced carpenters. I have over 15 batteries and over 1,750' of cord give or take. I'm not going to give up either. There is a time and place for both still. While yes I can build everything with either, electrical power will eventually be run to the site and is needed for every tool but in the long run the corded tools will win the day. They are time tested and a proven durability that have a lot fewer points of failure.....but cordless tools have really changed the game and there is no going back to a "corded only" system either. Cordless tools currently can't keep up with a full crew of trained professionals "slamm'n and jamm'n" but I can get a lot done with the battery load I can carry into any given situation for a few days until the power shows up....or doesn't.
100 % agree
@@nickbonci7600 you should be careful with that conclusion. Assuming that those who disagree are just wrong is exactly what you’re accusing them of doing. You’re one step away from saying they are too stupid to realize cordless is better.
Try steelmaning their argument rather than assuming the least generous thing you can come up with. Otherwise you just feed the unnecessary us vs them tribal mentality. You’re not going to learn anything or connect with anyone by doing that.
The soft start might be there to avoid massive power spikes at startup. Since it’s an electronic speed controller (ESC) the upslope is defined by software so they can put whatever they like. It’s likely a compromise between convenience and battery or mosfet life
I agree I have been a carpenter ( licensed since 1977 in California)
Skill saw 77 is my go to tool 😊
Said like a man that actually uses his tools!!!
I'm older than you, what a pleasure to listen to a
mechanic tell people the way things really are in our trade. Nice job man 😭🔨
That’s why I come here and always will. For the honesty.
Thanks, great stuff; my family just moved and I pass by a street called Wadsworth Place several times a week and I think if what a legend Scott is.
I love my modern cordless tools, and yes they are makita. However I think you nailed the inherit weakness that cordless still has and in many cases will always have. This was by far one of the most fair and reasonable assessments I've ever seen. I think the statement of if you have to pick only one, then going with the corded workhorse is always 100% the correct answer. Cordless is firmly believe is a luxury to have for the convenience if you can afford the extra cost. Most of my older corded tools I still keep around, because like you sometimes there is a job that they are simply better at although it is usually because I've been lazy and kept chucking my batteries in a bag instead of on a charger.
Great video as always. Regarding the trigger safety, everyone I know with a cordless saw ended up glueing it down
Always come to you for all things circular saw from years back. I have the Skil Mag that I love along with a bunch of others types of corded and a few cordless. It was good to hear and see someone else’s take on this rather than living inside my own head with my own thoughts which my wife tells me never works out well 😂
I totally agree about the Skill Saw!
I've used them for years and never regretted it. Being a framer I've run it in the ground, but it didn't fail.👍👍👍
This channel has awakened my love for circular saws. Unfortunately, in my country you can't buy the skill saw at a reasonable price, so I got the makita XGT. As much as I like the makita, I would want to buy the meg in parallel. Because I think both are a good team
Simply put, outstanding. The best part of this lecture is that it can, essentially, be used to compare any tried and true “old” tech to any new tech. Pen and paper to calculator, phone to text book, hand held screw driver to impact driver, the list goes on. Thank you.
I love this video. I own a top handle XGT makita and they use Polycarbonate GF15% plastic. I’ve dropped it off of roofs and it’s extremely tough. It’s also been rained on but it’s IP56 rated so no issues. If it gets too dirty I’ll just hose it off.
Great video. When I was looking for a new saw in 2014, I had fully intended on buying the Mag 77 but saw a tool breakdown video on AvE's channel of both the Mag 77 and the Makita (corded) hypoid gear saw and went to the store to check them both out. After holding both in my hand, I purchased the Makita and haven't looked back. Here's why: I'll never be in a situation where I need a cordless saw of any kind, Hypoid gear saws don't need to have the oil changed (worm drive do) and the Makita felt better in the hand. I bought the one with the magnesium housing (the top model) but it is still half the price of a cordless and has more power and torque. It's the best of all worlds, in my opinion.
As someone who does DIY projects and built a shed. The cordless Milwaukee is great. When building my shed the battery lasted all day. It likely doesn't have as much power but I don't need as much.
Recently I was involved in a discussion about cordless power. This is the first review that specs out the equality they have achieved. Thanks.
I bought a corded SkilSaw because of you Sr.! I love makita and have a lot of tools of the 24v platform, such as a tracksaw, but I don´t like the fact the batteries drain too fast with heavy cutting. So when it was time to buy a wormdrive saw I listened to you and I´m happy I did. Cheers from Chile. Keep up the good work!
Good info! Just got a cordless Milwaukee last year I’m happy with.
I still have a corded skilsaw classic that I bought in 1998 and it still hasn't let me down
Just bought a makita, it’s a piece of artwork. Being a painter and rarely needing the saw, I bet it’ll last me 20 years.
Scott- well done! As a general contractor in PA, worm drives were not something I had ever used- it was always a sidewinder. I am not a production builder and do a lot or remodeling, so cordless has been a big plus for me and I have no problem having enough batteries to get the work done. I have had Makita's 36 volt (2 x 18v) rear handle saw for a few years now and love it- even bought a second one so that I can have a framing blade and a metal blade so I don't need to change blades.
You did an excellent job exposing the nuance of how individuals use tools. A few years ago I bought a used worm drive because I thought that having the added power would be a benefit, but I used it once and it has never come back out. Thanks for being open and honest.
Thanks. I know this is only a theoretical idea: But I wonder how you would have decided if you would have used that Makita for the last 10 years and now someone would have introduced you to that Skilsaw with a cable. Somehow I am pretty sure you would argue that what you always used is better - because you are more familiar with it.
Maybe. Maybe?
Those of us picky about tools aren’t often fooled by mere familiarity. Your brain can adjust to almost anything with repetition but like with… say… nascar short track chassis nuances: every driver might have a bit of a different suspension loading, loose vs tight, etc., but the essential aero of the body and the basic frame orientation and construction for every team winds up remarkably the same.
So what you want in a saw or a hammer or even a hand plane is specific to the craftsman’s grip, joint and tendon injuries(or not), length of arm… Everything that’s lets you grab a tool and employ it without thinking about it.
I’ve watched plenty of framers over the years and they don’t even think about most of their tools, the just want certain things to just work.
But a pickier workman- as many finishmen and trim people are, perhaps most- will want the tool to float and act by thought because they care about grip, or cut entry, etc. They want it to be just so while in hand.
I still mourn Porter Cable discontinuing their 8-1/4” drop-foot/top handle saw. It was always too heavy for my elbow tendon problems, but it is one of the few saws that floats seamlessly from my hand to the workpiece. My elbow appreciated the small, lightweight Porter Cable Sawboss and its 19.2V batteries. Loved it.
I have both the skil and the Milwaukee fuel cordless. I find the convenience is overwhelming 70% of the time. For the other 30%, I’m very glad I have a corded worm drive. I’m a single guy and both are too valuable to leave behind. Love your stuff
Great review and thoughts. I think it is different horses for different courses. I like that you said you would carry both and use the battery 80 percent of the time. That is fair and balanced. As a home diyer I vote for half the cost and opting out of the battery upgrade/tech wars. I bet all of my corded tools outlive me, but again I always work in a shop or in my yard with readily available 110. Thank you.
Great analysis. Before the video started I said to myself, "I enjoy/ 'need' both of them... but if I could only have one I'd take my corded saw". I'm happy to see you agree, and even though you were given a free saw it didn't comprise your opinion...
The new Milwaukee "One" series links to your cell phone. It not only sends text to you when something is amiss, there is a locator function. Accurate within a few feet or the rest of the country that has cell service. Very helpful if someone tries to steal your tool too. But no cord to follow... no problem.
Great work man! Love your videos!
Most of the wise & fair answer i ever heard
I have the Makita cordless and corded rear- handle saws, and I love them both.
What a great review. Very detailed and there were some things I hadn't considered (having not been a master carpenter in my life).
I do think though, that in some situations that you touched on, it's about developing a different mindset/habit of how things are done. Don't get up on a roof w/o charging all the batteries first. That's a pattern/habit change that's completely different than what you've known in your working life when you're accustomed to grabbing the 50ft extension cord and finding an outlet. It would be very interesting to get a similar review from a younger person coming from the opposite direction........never having used a corded saw, only cordless. That day, I think, may be sooner than later.
I've been using cordless drills (some in a work environment) since the late 80's (I think...that was a while ago), and don't like a corded drill. At all. Too much power isn't always the best choice. Oh, and that first cordless drill was a 9.6 volt Sears dealio. Laughable nowadays, but it did what was needed...mostly.
Anyway, keep up the good work and the good reviews. Always a pleasure to get your almost immeasurable insights into things.
It's as simple as taking an extra battery with you every time you get up on the roof or a difficult access situation. For me it's just a habit and really not that hard🤷♂
Sounds like the Metabo HPT 36v rear handle would be your perfect saw. i own all three of these saws and the metabo definitely gets the most use with it's flexibility of cordless/corded and it's lightweight.
metabo is so light if it only had a little bit more power it'll be perfect
My DeWalt 60v Cordless skill saw is going 6 Year's custom Carpentery..far exceeded my mag 77 from decades ago when I First bought it. The Makita battery HATES cold weather so in Arizona mountains during winter may not always snow but the Frost will kill them same as rigid batteries most of my Crew has figured this out.the only thing we use for corded tools is ripping Beam cutting etc..
Also disabled the Safety switch LONG ago...the Trigger IS the safety, the Magnetic brake however saved my thumb
Ķ7y
I’ve used makitas battery saw for years the first thing done to my saw is sanding the coat off the table ( so that it feels like an older saw) and gluing the safety button down really changes the saw imo
Totally fair comparison. Never thought about the "where's my saw?" angle though. Again, makes perfect sense. TY
I started carpentry in 1976. I am 70 now. I learned from a California framer construction. I had a skillsaw that I added a 50’ cord to because I didn’t want to use an extension cord all the time. I now have a Makita cordless saw now but I still have my corded Skillsaw.
Your comment about the power cord as a visual aid to help track down your saw is hilarious - can totally imagine this scenario for myself!
There is one thing that you did not consider. It takes much more time to get out, run out and plug in the cord. This takes considerable time. Time that could be used to get the job done.
You are correct! But as a construction super, so many battery ops I find left behind by the boys. Scott points out about seeing the cord, then following it to the tool. It is with painstaking gum shoe work I go through trying to find the man who that battery op belongs to. The financial loss is real as I see it. I cannot recall how many times guys have called me asking if I saw their battery charger with $300 of battery's are. I go hunting, sometimes I find, sometimes not. As a construction super, I see financial loss more on battery ops than corded.
Usually I like his videos but this video I feel like he's full of it. Everything went in the favor of the Makita the 2 and 9/16 in, the safety, the convenience, the ergonomics, the power. The cost of the tool is not smart to focus on if you use it frequently. As for the battery running out, have a back up battery sheesh.
He mentioned this at the 8 minute mark.
Minute 13 as well.
You're right, it does take time out of the day to run out the chord or extension and plug it in and get going as well as when it comes time to wrap it up. I personally live my corded and battery powered saws and will always carry both on a job site. The only thing I could say to contrast you, is when you're on the job and you run out of juice with a battery powered saw. Unless you have spare batteries with you, you will have to run down and get another one, assuming that you have them on you, carrying all those batteries can be cumbersome, especially if you're off solid ground, having all those expensive shiny batteries can be a liability, and much like he mentioned several times, the cost of buying the tool plus the batteries will add up. I for one, do not regret the investment but it still took a great chunk of change to be supplied with enough batteries to get through an 8 hour day on a site framing a house. Contrast to that, if you're not running a saw for that long like you're doing a remodeling gig, you can't deny that a decent corded saw is all you really need. It's all about situation and what's best when you have a task to do.
Extraordinary presentation and use of the English language! No shouting, screaming, in your face like some caffeine saturated snake oil salesman; just a well thought out conversation with an intelligent human being, thank you sir!
I do residential framing in Australia and I’m completely cordless except for my coil gun. I’ve found the power from my Makita/Milwaukee to be more than enough and any of its short comings are negated by the fact it doesn’t have a cord. Like you mentioned convenience is a huge thing especially when all about efficiency. Fantastic review.
THANK YOU for your channel! I greatly enjoy your content and the superb oration. I've been a dedicated watcher for over 5 years. I'm a self employed carpenter, been in the trade almost 30 yrs. I made the switch to a battery framing saw almost 5 yrs ago (dewalt 60v). I've owned and used both the rear handle and the right side blade models. I will not go back to a corded saw, but my mag 77 sits in the garage as a backup. I highly suggest you try the dewalt saw. I have also used the makita 36v and 40v rear handle saws. The makita is a fine saw. The 36v saw had awesome run time on a pair of 5ah batteries. The dewalt has more power than the makita, hands down (IMHO). The dewalt also has more power then my mag77 (IMHO). If a cord, used as a tether, is one of the comparison factors, simply attach a rope tether to the battery saw. Lithium battery tools have completely revolutionized the jobsite for me and all of my fellow craftsmen. The only corded tool in my job trailer is a table saw. I even keep battery operated nailers in my trailer along side my pneumatic nailers. All the way from framing guns to 23ga pinners.
All that to say, I'm stubborn and dont like change, but the battery powered framing saw is/was a complete no brainer for me. Even my makita track saw is battery powered.
For what it's worth, I do a very even split of rough and finish carpentry.
Scott, thank you again for your channel, even my wife enjoys your content! .
I'm with you all the way Scott. I have a lot of respect for corded and pneumatic tools that run on corded power. I work alone most times and having a tool that works (all the time) is important to me. I own a lot of battery-operated tools also and they have their specific uses as well, but when it comes to the real bull work being done, corded all the way.
MHPT' 36V does cordless and AC adapter
Best of both worlds
I agree with your choice for site work and understand that it is the setting for your assessment. I would put forth, however, that in a shop setting, the Makita is the hands down winner.
In Ontario we all use direct drive saws. I bought a cordless when I started building my hunting cabin, thinking it might come in handy for small jobs rather than running the generator. I built the whole cabin with it, having a spare battery always on charge. Now I never use my corded saw except to rip green lumber when I need that raw power. I agree though that if I had to have only one saw it would be the corded one.
Been using skill & Bosch worm drives for 35 years now. I've probably gone through 6 of them, aside an accational trigger needing to be replaced the reason for a new saw has always been from theft or a bad drop, never did one just quit. The ones that got dropped still got used for demo & concrete. I do like the break on the cordless, grew up learning to use a saw with a pinned guard, that being said you have to be VERY mindful which one your useing!
Cordless are great! I use one most of the time but sometimes they just dont cut the mustard 🤔
Super explication and conclusion. I love cordless tools, but when it comes to longevity, my 50 year old Metabo and my corded 10 year old Fein grinders and my 20 year old corded makita saw still do the job! My cordless tools even the best brands out here have a longevity of 10years max...
Great conclusion I agree the ease of use of the cordless will always be great but sometimes you need that cord.
Rarely in my experience...especially with Makita 40v platform
In being a third generation craftsman and having the previous one coming from hand to power tools and working for going into 4 decades and seeing the massive changes in battery tools, I like the time we live in as far as allowing work to become so much easier over time. I thought batteries were going to be the future back in I want to say the 80s when I got my first battery tool, a 9.6V Makita drill/driver, and have been enjoying the power tool improvements ever since. I haven’t used a plug in circular saw in probably just over 5-6 years as the tools have just come so far. Heck I even run a battery table saw which has extremely usurped my old contractors saw.
I have a farm and don't have outlets everywhere. So batteries are a great advantage for that kind of thing.
I think battery convenience is exagerated because framing is piece work, and it has been worked out to a series of efficient actions where the weight of the saw is functional, and the use of a cord is not a hindrance. I thing weekend guys are going to love batteries (and I know pros do also), because the weekend guys don't have a process, or forget something, and running the saw without a cord is so much more convenient when you don't know what you are doing. Renovators etc... same thing. Hard to get up to super speed when the job is patchy.
The safeties are necessary on battery tools because they are never unplugged. You can take the battery out, but there isn't any ethic, like not leaving a rifle loaded in the hunt camp, with battery tools, and sometimes they switch themselves on in bags if they don't have safeties. But for me, on the saws, it really ruins the flow.
When I was younger and literally living out of my truck making a living with my tools. I got a corded skilsaw , that was 18 years ago. I've bought a new one since, but I still have that skilsaw and I used it yesterday. Im building a house on a lot without power in a wilderness area right now. Almost every other power tool I have is Makita, they're my favorite. But for a Circular Saw, I bought a small generator and I run my cords off that. I need a battery charging station anyway, so its not like I wouldn't have a generator for far-flung jobs. Corded Skilsaw takes it for this "young fella" (37).
Makita is the only main stream brand I trust anymore - but nobody beats Skil on their circs. Hell, I hear people call them Skilsaws (and I do too) more often than not. That's when you know you're the GOAT.
The best thing is you got a honest review on a primary secondary tool. I have found that when you purchase a battery tool set is best to buy on the idea of what else does this tool line offer that I would need. My conclusion is that this is one of the top choices for a battery tool brand to go with if this tool is useful to you.
If u get the Metabo HPT/Hitachi 36V rear handle u can plug it in with the AC adapter and go both ways
I hear what you are saying. I am 54 and my background is residential construction. I used a DeWalt framing saw and my forman used a saw just like yours. The job sites that we worked on were almost always away from town and power. So we had to have a generator. Listening to that run all day long to power the tools is a reminder to look for a quieter option if there is one. I have a ringing in my ears all day and all night. My DeWalt flexvolt saw now will do almost anything and no generator noise.
I agree with your assessment of both saws. I own a cordless Makita circular saw and a Makita corded saw. We only disagree on how often we will use the different saws. The corded saw is my go to 80% of the time simply because of the power advantage when having to correct during a cut. But, I am not a professional. I've learned a lot watching your videos. Thanks for sharing your knowledge.
I started my career in the trades early. My first cordless drill was the old black and decker that had a fixed internal battery cord and plugged directly into an outlet to charge. It had a 3/8" keyed chuck and had horriblelife span compared to today's cordless stuff. Today I'm a cordless tool fan. I'm currently running a gen 2 ridgid cordless circular saw that I have ran to hell and back for almost 16 years. It's an old 18v 6 1/2" saw. I've ran this saw since I was 24 years old. I'm now 42. This saw certainly has its limits but with a new blade and a fresh battery I wouldnt hesitate to rip 2x lumber. I usually do picture framed deck jobs using this saw only. However I dont do major framing with it. I love my old cordless ridgid saw. I trust it doing damn near anything. I always keep my biggger saws in my truck but for what I do my cordless will always have a place in my tool box. 😊
Yes, my experience also. My corded saw has been with me 30+ years. I will admit that a battery is also in the shop.
That was by far the best review I've seen on a saw. I bought the same Makita that you just reviewed and love it.. But you will saw more lumber in a week then I will in a year. When I open the box on my Makita, I was thinking there's no way It will saw. Boy I was wrong, I couldn't believe the power it had. So since I'm a weekend woodworker, my vote goes to Makita!!!
I'm in the market for a circular saw and knew just where to go. As a hobbiest I'll go cordless. But I do enjoy listening to EC and completely concur with his experienced analysis. I only wish I were 50 years younger and could be his apprentice. Good stuff, EC. Thanks.
I think there are some situations where one is going to be more correct for the job than the other. We don't have a lot of corded tools here at work but a couple of mine at home are corded. There have been times, at either location, where I've wished for the other tool to be available.
Keeping one of each is spendy, but smart.
I have corded and cordless of the same tool. They both have their purpose. Since I rarely do home construction, I use the cordless most of the time. But it's sure nice to get my corded Makita drill when my batteries are dead.
Absolutely brilliant comparison. I couldn’t find any faults.
Nice honest comparison. Good stating of the facts and identifying the personal preference reasons. Well done. I have the DeWalt version and am happy with it but, in my whole working life in construction, i have never had the opportunity to use or own a Skillsaw. In Australia, we almost exclusively used the standard 9 1/4 inch right sided blade circular saw.
I’ve been a builder for 30 yrs and agree with you💯
This was a fantastic review. I like the realistic approach to the review.not just about rpm and torque.
Everything you said was true.Makita is convenient for sure works great. My old skil will blast through concrete without stalling, Makita can’t do that. It’s not like I’m using it for that application but no doubt I’m grabbing the Skil. Another point is w Makita it will die mid cut.
as someone with similar grey/age, at least you admitted the potential of the short term memory not being what it used to be as part of liking the cord as an aid to finding the saw...... Like you I will grab the cordless first most of the time, but refuse to give up the corded for the times I feel necessary
One thing I will say about the skilsaw is it's a jack of all trades slap a diamond blade on it, it turns into a concrete cutter, slap a chainsaw attachment you can cut 16 inch timbers, throw a metal cutting wheel you can do it all with the skilsaw, but any cordless saw will do it all with anything dealing with wood,it's not a bad idea to keep a good corded saw in your tool box in case the batteries stop working or you kill all the batteries regardless great video I enjoyed watching .
Great vid. What you really want is the makita corded worm drive. Most powerful saw and gear oil never needs changing.
Probably the greatest tool comparison I've ever seen!
Agreed
I don't know why this stood out to me but I love the term "discretionary capacity in your arms"😁😁
Good call on this one. I've been looking to make a change. Thank you!