Makita 40V XGT Platform Kicks Off Miter Saw Line With A Compact Model
Makita designed the XGT system to deliver higher power for demanding applications, letting you more effectively cut the cord for the toughest applications. Taking a closer look at the line, the Makita 40V XGT 8 1/2-inch cordless miter saw is one tool we’ve been looking forward to.
With its brushless motor and user-friendly design, the Makita GSL02 XGT cordless miter saw offers Pro tradesmen and women a compact solution that remains fully capable of tackling larger work materials. It joins a battery platform that’s already over 50 tools deep.
Editor’s Note: Check out our best miter saw article for our top recommendations.
Makita 40V Max XGT Miter Saw Performance
For the Makita XGT cordless miter saw, its brushless motor is capable of 4,800 RPM on the top end. Sticking with a direct drive instead of a belt drive certainly helps keep the smooth, confident cutting we’re used to from Makita miter saws. Additionally, Makita tells us this saw provides up to 2x longer sustained power under heavy loads.
The Makita GSL02 uses an 8 1/2-inch blade to max out the cut capacity at 2 3/4 inches x 12 1/4 inches when cutting at 90º. Setting the miter angle at 45º, the sliding action gets you to 8 5/8 inches. You get positive stops at typical angles in both directions: 0°, 15°, 22.5°, 31.6°, 45°, and 60°
It can also tackle bevel cuts up to 48º in both left and right directions. At a 45° bevel, you’re looking at a max cut of 1 3/16 inches deep.
Makita GSL02 Miter Saw Design Notes
AWS Compatibility
For those of you planning to use this saw in conjunction with your Makita dust extractor, you’ll be pleased to know that the GSL02 is compatible with the AWS system. The Bluetooth transmitter is sold separately, but you do have the option for convenient dust collection using either their AWS-enabled vac or adding the wireless auto-start adapter to an extractor with an outlet.
Riding the Rails
One of the highlights of the Makita XGT cordless miter saw design revolves around the rail-forward design. This lets you place the back of the saw close to a wall without having to account for the rails pushing into it. The dust collection bag or hose may still force you to move forward a touch, but the rails won’t.
Adjustments
We also really like that the Makita engineering team designed the saw so that all of your bevel and miter adjustments are on the front. We’ve seen a few manufacturers go this way, and it’s super convenient.
Cutline Indicator
The Makita GSL02 also features an LED light to cast a shadow for your cutline. Not only does this add some light to your work area, but it also accurately reflects where your blade will land without ever needing to align it the way you do with laser systems. Plus, the cutline is easier to see in brighter conditions.
Weight
Saving weight is one of the great reasons to go with a smaller miter saw. With a battery, this saw weighs 37.6 pounds. Combined with its compact size, it’s a highly portable way to cut accurately on site.
Additional Features
- Automatic Speed Change technology adjusts cutting speed and torque under load
- Dust reduction with dual dust collection ports and blade case design
- Extension wings for cutting longer material; retractable for more compact storage
- Electric brake
- Soft start suppresses start-up reaction
- Convenient onboard hex wrench storage
- XGT chargers need 30 minutes for a 2.5Ah pack and 45 minutes for a 4.0Ah battery
Makita 40V Max XGT 8 1/2-Inch Miter Saw Price
As of the time we’re writing, you can pre-order the saw for $699 as a bare tool for shipping in September. Expect a kit that includes one 4.0Ah battery and charger to show up as well. Makita backs the tool, battery, and charger with a 3-year warranty.
Makita 40V Max XGT Cordless Miter Saw Specifications
- Model: Makita GSL02
- No-Load RPM: 4,800 RPM
- Blade Diameter: 8-1/2 in.
- Arbor: 5/8 in.
- Cutting Capacity at 90º: 2-3/4 x 12-1/4 in.
- Miter Cutting Capacity at 45º (L/R): 2-3/4 x 8-5/8 in.
- Automatic-Start Wireless System (AWS): Capable (transmitter sold separately)
- Weight: 37.6 pounds
- Warranty: 3 years
- Price: $699 bare
