Customer Reviews

Makita Bare-Tool BJV180Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Jig Saw

5 star:		(19)
4 star:		(5)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I own a lot of tools using the Makita 18 Volt LXT platform. My experience with both the chargers and batteries is good. No electrical problems of any sort.

The Jig Saw...this saw reminds me of my corded Bosch 1590 jig saw. The cuts are good, the weight is similar (enough heft to stay steady and smooth) with easy control of the tool. The Makita uses T shank blades (like the corded Bosch) and I use Bosch blades in the Makita because I find them to be excellent.

The Makita has both a dust blower and a LED lighting system to help you make accurate cuts. I especially appreciate anything that makes the work easier to see...better vision = better results. Makita makes it easy to stay on your cut lines.

The Bosch 1590 is considered the "standard" to measure jig saws. While I generally prefer corded tools, this Makita is an excellent choice for the times I want to go cordless.

If you already own some Makita LXT tools, this bare version of the jig saw is an excellent addition to your bag. The tool is well built and a pleasure to use. I have used both Dewalt and Bosch cordless jigs and I prefer my Makita to either of them.

Perfect weight, comfortable, cuts smoothly and with easy control, lights area of cut and blows chips away. Even takes the 1.5 batteries. I really like this saw and feel it is the best I have used. Comes with 3 sets (6) of popular type tang blades.

Update 7-11-10: This saw could not be better. It works with a lot of power with the 1.5 amp batteries, though mine from my drill/hammer set fit very tightly and were difficult to remove; just tight electrical clips for good contact that will likely loosen in time. Cuts plywood like it is butter and scrolls nicely without a cord. Well balanced.

UPDATE 7-29-10: UPDATE: Still excellent! A note about the 1.5 amp (smaller) battery: it fits with a little force, and takes a little force to remove if the unit is unaltered. However, if you like the tool and will be keeping it, turn the tool over and note the small plastic bump on the left side of where the battery is inserted; inside the start of the slide. It blocks/resists the use of the 1.5 battery; just cut part or all of it off with a sharp knife and the battery fits and removes with ease. If you have a drill/driver that takes the smaller battery you will notice no little bump where the battery slides in. Simple modification, just don't expect the 1.5 to last as long as the 3.0, in usage time or lifetime of the battery.

Im a craftman but trade and i use a jig saw almost everyday this is a good jig saw to own,it is lite and it cuts as good as any corded saw that i have ever use,and even better no cord to drag around.the quality is excellent.

This is a saw that lives up to the Makita standard. It beats the majority of corded models in ways from trigger feel to motor to quick-change blade to light to base-angling and if I do need it, don't have it, and have to use someone else's I'm often disappointed. It's a truly great saw.

But what the #ell is with the case oversight? A precision tool like this needs a friggin case. Not a bag, a case. With blade storage built in and a place for the couple extra base parts.

I would buy a case separately and would be fine with that. But it's not for sale. I find this a nuisance.

Luckily I *CAN* take a day and design and make one, but I'll still be dreaming of that sweet green factory blowmolded case with little plastic storage windows...

Come on. Bump this up so they do it. CASE PLZ

I built the interior of a log cabin in Vermont this past summer. Did it all with just the 18 volt battery powered tools from Makita like this Jig saw. They all worked perfectly. They may not be the cheapest tools but they certainly are one of the best. This Jig Saw is solid and powerful and the battery last longer than it takes to charge one up.

I have always been happy with Makita tools, and once again they did not dissapoint. Ergonomically excellent, and able to stand up to the tough jobs!

I really appreciate having this tool around. It's funny how many times I find myself using this for odd jobs or DIY projects. I use it more than I thought I would. I've cut metal hollow core doors, luan, PVC, small tree limbs (I know, poor use for this fine tool), etc. It is a bit pricy, but when you consider working without the constraint of wires, it's worth it. I've used it in my attic where there was no easy access to power. The LED was also quite useful there. To me it seems to drain the battery quickest out of my Makita LXT tools. Better have a spare.

This is a very fine tool. The blade change is quick with no tools needed. There is a small led light and a blower to help you see the work. It is compact, even with the battery, and balances well. It comes with replaceable no-mar footplate and anti-splinter inserts. The only drawback is you still need an allan wrench to change the bevel angle of the sole plate.

I purchased this jig saw in june '10 and used it this summer when renovating two apartments. The cuts are very accurate, nice and clean, and with a fresh battery this saw can compete with most corded models when it comes to power. This is hands down the best jig saw I have ever used! You can switch blades within 5 seconds, the base is adjustable and firm, and you have several cutting modes and adjustable speed to fit you material and need.

A little tip to the beginners, regardless of jig saw brand: hold the saw upside down (cut the material from underneath) when cutting if you want the cut to be as clean as possible. This also makes it easier to follow the cutting line. This way you can cut pretty much anything without chewing up the surface.

I definately recommend this tool to anyone who does medium or larger projects and need a jig saw that is powerful and precise, with the convenience of being cordless.

This feels solid and well made and performs flawlessly. It is very similar to using a Bosch corded jigsaw, but for tight spaces, like cabinetry or in boat work it excels. The aggressive "jiggle"setting is just right for quick work, and full speed is faster than a Bosch. This is good for smooth cuts without chipping. Many battery tools are junk. You know the ones. This Makita series is really top notch. The battery life is incredible and powerful.