After nearly 4 years, Makita’s 18V brushless barrel-grip jig saw still isn’t available in the USA, at least from what I’ve seen. But, here’s a bit of good news – there are 2 new 12V Max CXT brushless jig saws coming soon.
Makita already has a 12V Max CXT top-handle jig saw, but these 2 jig saws are different, featuring brushless motors.
The new Makita jig saws are said to be ideal for “woodworkers, cabinet makers, remodelers, and general contractors.”
- 5-speed control dial
- 800-3000 SPM
- Variable speed trigger with lock-on button
- 3 orbital settings
- Tool-less blade change system
- Brushless motor provides for up to 50% longer runtime
- Weighs 4.1 lbs with battery
- Soft-start motor for more accurate starts
- 0-45° bevel base
- Aluminum base
- Dual LED worklights
- Built-in dust blower
- 9-3/8″ long
There will be a bare tool option, VJ06Z, and a kit, VJ06R1J, which comes with a charger, interlocking case, and (2) 2.0Ah battery packs.
Price: $130 for the bare tool, $210 for the kit
Buy Now(Bare Tool via Acme Tools)
Buy Now(Kit via Acme Tools
There will also be a barrel-gripped version, VJ05. The barrel grip jig saw is a little lighter, at 3.9 lbs with battery, and looks to have a power button instead of a trigger.
Barrel grip vs. top handle? Some users find that barrel grip jig saws are lower and closer to their work, allowing for greater control.
Both tools look to have a lock-out button, likely to prevent unintentional activation when the tool is riding around in a tool bag or box.
The brushless barrel grip jig saw will be available as a bare tool, VJ05Z, and a kit with (2) 2.0Ah battery packs, VJ05R1J.
Buy Now(Bare Tool via Acme Tools)
Buy Now(Kit via Acme Tools)
First Thoughts
A few months ago I posted about the clear absence of next-generation premium jig saws.
We still don’t have new premium brushless cordless jig saws from top brands, at least at the 18V-class level. There are many brushless tools of other kinds, but still no brushless jig saws by the typical mainstream pro cordless tool brands. (Are there any models that are eluding my attention?)
While I would have guessed we’d [finally] see brushless jig saws from Makita at the 18V level by now, I’m sure there will be plenty of users who will be glad to see these compact and lightweight 12V Max offerings.
When I know I’ll need a jig saw for serious project work, I’ll dig out my corded model. When I need some light use, or specific tasks, I might pull out a cordless model.
Side note – I’ve been pleased with Dewalt’s 20V Max jig saw, but their blade change mechanism leaves something to be desired.
I can see how these new 12V-class cordless jig saws can be handy.
Have you been waiting for something like this? My feeling is that many of you would rather see new brushless 18V cordless jig saws from Makita in place of these 12V Max ones. But hey, it’s at least good to see Makita active in the 12V-class space, and as mentioned, I’m sure there are lots of users who will benefit from either of the new jig saws.