9 Best Makita Reciprocating Saws (October 2026)
The best Makita reciprocating saws include the Makita XRJ05Z Brushless Recip Saw for all-around cordless cutting, the Makita XRJ08Z One-Handed Recip Saw for one-handed access, and the Makita XRJ06PT 36V Recip Saw Kit for a complete 36V kit.
On this page (4 sections)
The best Makita reciprocating saw for most users is the XRJ05Z, a cordless 18V LXT model with a brushless motor, 2 speed settings and a 1-1/4 in stroke. The XRJ08Z is a better fit for one-handed access, while the corded JR3070CT adds Anti-Vibration Technology for work near an outlet.
This roundup compares 9 Makita saws by power source, size, stroke length and included kit items. We checked the specs and features against common buying needs, including keeping an existing battery platform or starting with a complete kit.
Our picks at a glance
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Best for all-around cordless cuttingMakita XRJ05Z Brushless Recip Saw
8.9/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
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Check itMakita XRJ04Z 18V LXT Recip Saw
Best for a straightforward 18V saw - 5
Check itMakita JR3070CT 15 Amp Recip Saw
Best for corded vibration control - 6
Check itMakita JR3051T 12 Amp Recip Saw
Best for corded general cutting - 7
Check itMakita XRJ07ZB Sub-Compact Recip Saw
Best for tight work areas - 8
Check itMakita XRJ01Z Compact Recip Saw
Best for close-quarters cuts - 9
Check itMakita RJ03R1 12V Recip Saw Kit
Best for a compact kit with batteries
How we chose the best Makita reciprocating saw
The best Makita reciprocating saw depends on where you cut, how much access you have and whether you own compatible batteries. Our score weighs specs, features and buyer feedback against what you're shopping for.
We compared cordless and corded options, plus compact models for tight areas. We also noted whether batteries, chargers and blades come with each saw, since a tool-only model needs more planning if you're new to its platform.
Makita's 18V LXT saws can make sense if you already own compatible batteries. The 36V XRJ06PT kit uses two 18V batteries, while the JR3070CT and JR3051T use a cord.
For blade choice by material, see our guide to which reciprocating saw blade to use. If your main job is cutting branches, compare these picks with our reciprocating saws for pruning.
| Product | Best for | Power | Speed | Stroke length | Our score |
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| Makita XRJ05Z Brushless Recip Saw | all-around cordless cutting | 18V LXT battery, sold separately | 0–2,300 or 0–3,000 strokes per minute | 1-1/4 in | 8.9 |
| Makita XRJ08Z One-Handed Recip Saw | one-handed access | 18V LXT battery, sold separately | 0–3,100 strokes per minute | 7/8 in | 8.7 |
| Makita XRJ06PT 36V Recip Saw Kit | a complete 36V kit | Two 18V LXT batteries | 0–2,300 or 0–3,000 strokes per minute | 1-1/4 in | 8.6 |
| Makita XRJ04Z 18V LXT Recip Saw | a straightforward 18V saw | 18V LXT battery, sold separately | 0–2,800 strokes per minute | 1-1/4 in | 8.5 |
| Makita JR3070CT 15 Amp Recip Saw | corded vibration control | Corded, 15 amp motor | 0–2,800 strokes per minute | 1-1/4 in | 8.3 |
| Makita JR3051T 12 Amp Recip Saw | corded general cutting | Corded, 12 amp motor | Up to 3,000 strokes per minute | 1-3/16 in | 8.2 |
| Makita XRJ07ZB Sub-Compact Recip Saw | tight work areas | 18V LXT battery, sold separately | 0–3,000 strokes per minute | 13/16 in | 8.1 |
| Makita XRJ01Z Compact Recip Saw | close-quarters cuts | 18V LXT battery, sold separately | 0–3,000 strokes per minute | 1/2 in | 7.9 |
| Makita RJ03R1 12V Recip Saw Kit | a compact kit with batteries | 12V CXT batteries | 0–3,300 strokes per minute | 1/2 in | 7.6 |
The best Makita reciprocating saws by job
Makita's full-size cordless models suit broad cutting needs, while compact saws trade stroke length for access and the corded picks keep you near a power outlet. Match your choice to the work area and your battery setup.
Makita XRJ05Z Brushless Recip Saw: Best for all-around cordless cutting
- Brushless 2-speed motor
- 1-1/4 in stroke length
- Tool-less blade change
- Tool only
A brushless motor, 2-speed setting and long stroke suit general cutting and demolition. The battery and charger are sold separately.
Pros
- 2-speed brushless motor
- Tool-less blade change
- LED light
Cons
- Battery and charger not included
- Longer than the compact options
The XRJ05Z is the most balanced pick here for users who want a full-size cordless saw on Makita's 18V LXT platform. Its brushless 2-speed motor runs up to 2,300 strokes per minute on low and 3,000 on high, with a 1-1/4 in stroke.
A variable-speed trigger gives you control as the blade meets the material. The tool-less blade change system also makes swaps straightforward when you move between wood and metal blades.
The saw measures 17-1/4 in long and weighs 8.2 lb with a battery. Its LED light can illuminate the cut line, and a retractable hook gives you a place to secure the tool when not in use.
This is a tool-only model, so add a compatible battery and charger if you don't already own them. Choose it for a mix of cutting and demolition where a longer stroke and cordless movement are useful.
Makita XRJ08Z One-Handed Recip Saw: Best for one-handed access
- 18V LXT brushless motor
- One-handed grip
- 7/8 in stroke length
- Tool only
Its one-handed grip and compact body suit cuts where a full-size saw is awkward. The shorter stroke favors access over the longer stroke of the top pick.
Pros
- One-handed grip
- Compact 14-3/8 in body
- Low-vibration design
Cons
- Battery and charger not included
- Shorter stroke than full-size picks
The XRJ08Z is the Makita pick for one-handed operation and tight access. Its 18V brushless motor reaches 3,100 strokes per minute, paired with a 7/8 in stroke and a loop-shaped handle guard.
Makita describes its design as low vibration and says it can cut up to 55% faster. Those are maker claims, so treat them as a comparison point rather than a promise for every material, blade or battery.
At 14-3/8 in long, its compact body can be easier to place overhead or in a cramped work area than a longer saw. The package is tool only, with battery and charger sold separately.
Pick it when your cuts call for a one-handed grip and controlled access. For pruning work where reach and blade choice matter, see our guide to the best reciprocating saws for pruning branches.
Makita XRJ06PT 36V Recip Saw Kit: Best for a complete 36V kit
- 18V X2 LXT brushless motor
- Two 18V batteries included
- 1-1/4 in stroke length
- Bag and charger included
This kit pairs the brushless saw with two 18V batteries, a charger and a bag. It suits buyers who want a cordless setup in one purchase.
Pros
- Two batteries and charger included
- 2-speed brushless motor
- LED light
Cons
- Heavier kit than a bare tool
- Requires two batteries for 36V operation
The XRJ06PT is the strongest option for buyers who want a 36V cordless kit with batteries and charger included. It runs on two 18V LXT batteries and pairs them with a brushless 2-speed motor.
Its low and high settings reach 2,300 and 3,000 strokes per minute, and the 1-1/4 in stroke matches the XRJ05Z. The kit also includes a bag, charger and reciprocating saw blade.
The added kit parts make it a practical starting point if you don't already have compatible batteries. Its two-battery setup is less simple to manage than a single-battery saw, so check what you own before choosing it.
The built-in LED light with preglow and afterglow helps light the work area. A retractable hook secures the saw when you're between cuts.
Makita XRJ04Z 18V LXT Recip Saw: Best for a straightforward 18V saw
- Variable-speed motor
- 1-1/4 in stroke length
- Tool-less blade change
- Tool only
A variable-speed motor and long stroke provide a direct cordless option for users already on Makita 18V LXT. Its battery and charger are separate.
Pros
- Long 1-1/4 in stroke
- Tool-less blade change
- Variable-speed trigger
Cons
- Battery and charger not included
- No brushless motor
The XRJ04Z suits users who want a straightforward 18V LXT saw with a long stroke. Its variable-speed motor reaches 2,800 strokes per minute, and the 1-1/4 in stroke length is suited to general cutting.
Like the XRJ05Z, it has tool-less blade changes and a variable-speed trigger. It is a tool-only option, and the battery and charger are sold separately.
The 19-1/8 in body is longer than the compact Makita models in this roundup. If your main need is narrow access, the XRJ07ZB or XRJ08Z is easier to consider.
Pick the XRJ04Z if you already have 18V LXT batteries and prefer a simple full-size cordless setup. It gives up the brushless motor and 2-speed selection of the top pick.
Makita JR3070CT 15 Amp Recip Saw: Best for corded vibration control
- 15 amp corded motor
- Anti-Vibration Technology
- 1-1/4 in stroke length
- Variable-speed dial
The corded JR3070CT combines a 15 amp motor with Makita's Anti-Vibration Technology and a speed dial. It fits work near an outlet where reduced tool vibration matters.
Pros
- Anti-Vibration Technology
- Electronic speed control
- Variable-speed dial
Cons
- Needs a power outlet
- Less convenient to move around than cordless picks
The JR3070CT is the corded pick for buyers who want vibration control and a long stroke. Its 15 amp motor has electronic speed control to maintain speed under load, and Makita's Anti-Vibration Technology uses an internal counterbalance system.
A variable-speed dial lets you match the saw's speed to the job. It has a 1-1/4 in stroke and a large 2-finger trigger with a lock-on button.
Because it uses a cord, you'll need a nearby outlet and a safe way to route the cord away from the blade and work area. This can be a reasonable trade when you want to avoid battery changes during a longer job.
Choose it for corded work where vibration control is a priority. If portability matters more, consider the XRJ05Z or the battery-included XRJ06PT kit.
Makita JR3051T 12 Amp Recip Saw: Best for corded general cutting
- 12 amp motor
- Up to 3,000 strokes per minute
- 1-3/16 in stroke length
- Two blades included
This corded saw includes wood and metal blades and a tool hook. Its variable-speed trigger covers a range of home cutting and remodeling tasks.
Pros
- Two blades included
- Tool-less blade change
- Variable-speed trigger
Cons
- Needs a power outlet
- Stroke is shorter than the 1-1/4 in options
The JR3051T is a corded general-purpose saw with two blades included. Its 12 amp motor reaches up to 3,000 strokes per minute, and the 1-3/16 in stroke is close to the longer strokes in this group.
A variable-speed trigger helps you control the cut. The tool-less blade change system and tool hook are useful for switching blades and securing the saw between tasks.
The saw weighs 7.3 lb and comes with a 6 in wood blade and a 6 in metal blade. That gives you a starting pair for common material types, though blade condition and tooth design still matter for the cut.
Pick it if you want a corded saw without the JR3070CT's 15 amp motor and Anti-Vibration Technology. For metal work, our guide to reciprocating saws for cutting metal covers blade and job considerations.
Makita XRJ07ZB Sub-Compact Recip Saw: Best for tight work areas
- 12-1/2 in compact body
- Brushless motor
- 13/16 in stroke length
- Tool-less blade change
The short body suits cutting in tight spaces, with a brushless motor and tool-less blade change. Battery and charger are sold separately.
Pros
- Compact 12-1/2 in body
- Brushless motor
- Blade change without a tool
Cons
- Battery and charger not included
- Shorter stroke than full-size picks
The XRJ07ZB is Makita's sub-compact 18V option for tight spaces. It measures 12-1/2 in long and has a brushless motor that reaches 3,000 strokes per minute.
Its 13/16 in stroke is shorter than the full-size models, but the small body is easier to place around pipes, framing or other obstructions. It also has a tool-less blade change and a built-in LED light.
This model is tool only, so you'll need an 18V LXT battery and charger. Makita gives a weight of 5.7 lb with a battery, which can help you compare it with full-size saws when handling matters.
Choose it when compact reach matters more than a long stroke. If you need a small saw for narrow cuts but want one-handed operation, compare it with the XRJ08Z.
Makita XRJ01Z Compact Recip Saw: Best for close-quarters cuts
- Compact design
- Dual-position switch
- 1/2 in stroke length
- Tool only
A compact body and choice of paddle or trigger switch suit close-quarter cutting. Its short stroke makes it a more specialized pick than the full-size saws.
Pros
- Paddle or trigger operation
- Tool-less blade change
- Compact design
Cons
- Battery and charger not included
- 1/2 in stroke is the shortest here
The XRJ01Z is a compact choice for close-quarter cutting with a dual-position switch. You can operate it with either a paddle or trigger switch, and its variable-speed motor reaches 3,000 strokes per minute.
Its 1/2 in stroke is the shortest among these 18V options, making it a more specialized saw for compact work. The body is 15-5/8 in long, and the tool-less blade change system helps when changing blades.
It is sold as a bare tool, with the battery and charger separate. Choose it if you value the alternate switch positions and already have compatible 18V LXT batteries.
For a broader look at compact and full-size designs, read types of reciprocating saws and multi-tools explained.
Makita RJ03R1 12V Recip Saw Kit: Best for a compact kit with batteries
- 12V CXT platform
- Two batteries and charger included
- Dual-position switch
- 1/2 in stroke length
The small 12V saw comes with two batteries and a charger. Its compact size fits lighter cutting jobs and tight spaces.
Pros
- Two batteries and charger included
- Paddle or trigger operation
- Compact 14-3/4 in body
Cons
- Short 1/2 in stroke
- 12V platform differs from Makita 18V LXT
The RJ03R1 is the smallest-platform kit in this roundup, using Makita's 12V CXT batteries. It includes two batteries and a charger, and the saw's compact 14-3/4 in body suits lighter cutting tasks or tighter spaces.
Its variable-speed motor reaches 3,300 strokes per minute, but the 1/2 in stroke is short. It also has a dual-position paddle or trigger switch and accepts both reciprocating saw and jigsaw blades.
Choose it if you want a compact saw kit and don't need the 18V LXT platform. The 12V CXT batteries are a separate system from the 18V tools elsewhere in this roundup.
How to choose a Makita reciprocating saw
Choose a Makita reciprocating saw by matching its power source, stroke length and body size to your cutting jobs. Then check whether you need a bare tool or a kit with batteries and a charger.
Is an 18V Makita reciprocating saw right for you?
An 18V LXT model is a practical fit if you already own Makita 18V LXT batteries. The XRJ05Z and XRJ04Z are full-size choices, while the XRJ07ZB and XRJ08Z are shorter for access or one-handed work.
The XRJ06PT kit uses two 18V batteries for 36V operation. If you need a compact kit and are comfortable with a different platform, the RJ03R1 uses 12V CXT batteries and includes two.
Does stroke length matter?
Stroke length affects how far the blade travels with each cycle, so it helps compare saws for general cutting. The 1-1/4 in strokes on the XRJ05Z, XRJ06PT, XRJ04Z and JR3070CT are longer than the 1/2 in strokes on the XRJ01Z and RJ03R1.
A longer stroke alone does not determine cutting speed or suitability. Choose a blade made for the material, keep it sharp and support the work so the blade can move freely.
Should you buy corded or cordless?
Cordless Makita saws are easier to move across a job site, but tool-only models require a compatible battery and charger. The XRJ06PT and RJ03R1 are the picks here that include batteries and a charger.
A corded saw keeps you near an outlet, but you don't need to plan around battery charge. Compare your options with our guide to corded versus cordless reciprocating saws.
Which Makita reciprocating saw should you choose?
Choose the XRJ05Z for an all-around cordless saw, the XRJ08Z for one-handed access, or the XRJ06PT if you want a 36V kit with batteries and a charger. For corded work, pick the JR3070CT when vibration control matters or the JR3051T for a simpler 12 amp option with two blades included.
If you're comparing brands, see our Milwaukee Sawzall and Hackzall picks. For blade selection and cut setup, use the reciprocating saw blade guide.
Our top 3 picks at a glance
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Best for all-around cordless cutting
Makita XRJ05Z Brushless Recip Saw
8.9/10 our score
See it on Amazon -
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Frequently asked questions
Which Makita reciprocating saw is best for most users?
The XRJ05Z is a strong general choice if you already use Makita 18V LXT batteries. Its brushless motor has 2 speed ranges, a 1-1/4 in stroke and tool-less blade changes.
Choose the XRJ06PT instead if you want two batteries and a charger in the kit.
Is the Makita XRJ05Z a kit?
No. The XRJ05Z is a tool-only model, so its battery and charger are sold separately.
If you need a cordless kit with batteries and a charger, the 36V XRJ06PT includes two 18V batteries, a charger and a bag.
Should you choose a compact or full-size Makita reciprocating saw?
Choose a compact saw when access and handling matter more than stroke length. The XRJ07ZB has a 12-1/2 in body and a 13/16 in stroke, while the XRJ05Z has a 1-1/4 in stroke for broader cutting work.
Match the saw and blade to the material and available space.
Is a corded Makita reciprocating saw better for demolition?
A corded saw can suit demolition near an outlet because you don't need to manage battery charge during the job. The JR3070CT has a 15 amp motor, a 1-1/4 in stroke and Anti-Vibration Technology.
A cordless model is easier to move when the work area is far from power.
