🔧 Makita XVJ01Z 18V LXT Barrel Grip Jig Saw with Brushless Technology Review

I already have many other Makita 18 volt tools so this was a natural addition to my kit. Like everyone else, the battery is also very easy to use once you get used to the small additional weight. So far I've had the 2nd generation Bosch Barrel Grip and have been very happy with it, but it's getting harder and harder to hook up. Now I have both. I have now used this tool on plywood ranging from 3mm Okoume core teak to 1 inch thick solid teak, 2 x 10 Douglas fir and 1-5/8 inch thick and I have no

Every time I use this tool I regret it. The problem is, I've been using a Bosch jigsaw for years, and this Makita jigsaw just doesn't work for me. When I start hitting a piece of wood, it starts out slow and then builds up thanks to Makita's "intelligent technology." This means I can't move fast when I want to move fast (for a cleaner entry) or move slowly with any control because the "smart technology" acts like a damaged brain between my finger and the trigger. I'll ruin any great job that's…

This Makita replaced my last top of the line Bosch corded jigsaw which is definitely obsolete for the last time. It's certainly not cheap, but so far I'm satisfied. Smooth and precise cut like Bosch, but quieter and cordless. Of course, the soft start feature is different, but the user manual has instructions on how to disable this feature if you cannot tolerate it. The on/off switch at the push of a button takes some getting used to. It's not as simple as a trigger switch and until it becomes…

I'm a professional carpenter with shorter than average fingers who often uses a jigsaw. To be honest I have a hard time turning the damn thing on and off. It is well made and seems reliable as I would normally expect from a Makita product. I threw away the little piece of plastic that a lot of people complain about before I even used it once and disabled the soft start, which if you wanted rtfm you would know how to do it too. My electric jigsaw is an old Bosch handle. with a pretty standard…

Beautiful and durable, I must say a little. It's just easier to navigate to the controls from different angles. The soft start switch worked for me. Scroll to #6, then press Unlock Mode, then scroll to #1 and back to #6, the light will flash three (3) times. Okay, soft start isn't for me, I have to scroll to the desired speed, I think some people like this feature. I have to cut now, not when the tool tells me to. Expensive? what the hell is gone? I love a good blue Makita, even my old B&D…

I deducted a star for two reasons. First, the plastic scope/blade guard usually pops out of position. It's really annoying and very bad technique. It's hard to reconcile this lack of attention to detail in an expensive and otherwise high quality, advanced instrument. Secondly, the soft start function is unreliable for me. Sometimes he doesn't accelerate. I'm not sure why. In addition, the tool is powerful and cuts with precision. This design allows for easy handling and very precise cuts. For…

Unfortunately this unit stopped working after about 2.5 months. Looks like a short as the LED light just came on and wouldn't turn off and the saw wasn't working. Removed the battery for 24 hours just in case and replaced with another battery (both batteries worked when I tested them in my Makita impact wrench so I know they're good). It doesn't matter - the LED lights up and the saw does not turn on. Sent it back to Revain for a refund. I've never had a problem with Makita tools, so I'll write