Makita RJ01W 12V Max Recipro Saw Kit Preview

Earlier this week we spied out some of Makita’s new 12V tools that had made it to the UK market and wondered how quickly, if ever, they would make it to our shores. Turns out the first product didn’t take very long. Makita just released its new Makita 12V Max Lithium-Ion Recipro Saw Kit (model RJ01W). This is a new one-handed reciprocating saw that gives you power in a compact package to accomplish all sorts of tasks. What’s more, Makita is also offering the new saw as part of a 2-piece combo kit (model LCT212W) where it’s bundled with a 12V max Lithium-Ion 3/8″ Driver-Drill.

Makita 12V Max Lithium-Ion Recipro Saw Kit RJ01W Preview

Earlier this week we spied out some of Makita’s new 12V tools that had made it to the UK market and wondered how quickly, if ever, they would make it to our shores. Turns out the first product didn’t take very long. Makita just released its new Makita RJ01W 12V Max Recipro Saw Kit. This is a new one-handed reciprocating saw that gives you power in a compact package to accomplish all sorts of tasks. What’s more, Makita is also offering the new saw as part of a 2-piece combo kit (model LCT212W) where it’s bundled with a 12V max Lithium-Ion 3/8″ Driver-Drill.

Makita RJ01W 12V Max Recipro Saw Kit Features

The Makita RJ01W uses a variable speed motor with 0-3,300 strokes-per-minute with a 3/4″ length stroke to provide faster cutting. Makita tested it on both 1-1/2″ PVC pipe and 1″ EMT and found it to be at least as quick, if not quicker than the competition, presumably the Milwaukee 12V Reciprocating Saw and the mirror-image 12V Bosch Reciprocating Saw models. Makita’s tool-less blade change system allows for quick blade installation and removal and the dual-position on/off switch – which is exclusive to Makita – lets you use either the paddle switch or the trigger to easily operate the saw in both vertical and horizontal orientations. The tool seems fairly compact, measuring just 14″ long and weighing 2.6 lbs. with the battery inserted. The RJ01W is a full kit and includes the 12V max Recipro Saw, 2 recipro saw blades, battery charger, and two 12V max Lithium-Ion batteries.

“The Makita RJ01W 12 Volt max Lithium-Ion Cordless Recipro Saw is a powerful and compact solution for a range of cutting applications including PVC and ABS pipe, EMT, drywall, wood, and more. With the Makita-exclusive dual-position trigger, the end user can decide between a paddle switch or traditional trigger switch grip depending on the application for maximum control during the cut.”

– Ethan Haughawout, Makita product manager, cordless products

As we mentioned, Makita’s new 12V Reciprocating Saw is also Available in a 2-piece Combo Kit (model LCT212W) which includes the Makita RJ01W saw and the 12V max Lithium-Ion 3/8″ Driver-Drill (FD02W). The driver-drill has two speed settings (0-350, 0-1,300 RPM), and delivers 200 in.lbs. of Max Torque in an ultra-compact size of only 2.2 lbs. for a range of drilling and driving applications. The LCT212W kit includes the 12V max Recipro Saw, 12V max Driver-Drill, 2 ea. recipro saw blades, one ENERGY STAR qualified battery charger, two 12V max Lithium-Ion batteries, and Contractor Bag.

The new Makita RJ01W 12V max recipro saw is the latest addition to Makita’s growing line-up of Lithium-Ion cordless tool solutions. Makita 12V max Lithium-Ion cordless tools are ideal for service and maintenance professionals, repairmen, remodelers, woodworkers, cabinet installers, and any general contractor or “build-it-yourselfer” seeking compact cordless tools with pro power and pro speed.

Makita RJ01W Specifications

  • Length of Stroke: 3/4″
  • Max Cutting Depth: 2″
  • Strokes Per Minute: 0 – 3,300 SPM
  • Battery: 12V max Lithium-Ion
  • Overall length: 14″
  • Net Weight: 2.6 lbs. (with battery)
  • Includes: Tool, 2 ea. recipro saw blades, 2 ea.
  • 12V max Lithium-Ion Batteries, ENERGY STAR qualified Battery Charger

Makita includes a 3-year warranty on this tool which covers repair due to defective materials or workmanship up to three years from the purchase date.

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