Frequently Asked Questions

Which is better for heavy demolition, the Makita XRJ04Z or Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall?

For heavy demolition, I’d take the Makita XRJ04Z every time. That 1-1/4″ stroke length is the key difference — it pulls more material per pass than the Milwaukee’s shorter stroke, which means fewer passes on thick lumber and nail-embedded wood. The variable speed trigger (0-2,800 SPM) also helps me control the cut when I’m hitting unexpected nails or rebar. It’s heavier at 8.3 lbs with a battery, but that weight translates to more cutting force in my experience.

Is the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall worth the extra money over the Makita?

Honestly, it depends on what you value. The Milwaukee is actually lighter at 6.8 lbs and faster at 3,000 SPM, plus it has a built-in LED — those are real advantages for overhead work and dark jobsites. But the Makita’s longer stroke and tool-less blade change make it more efficient for heavy cutting. If you’re doing mostly light to medium work and want the lighter tool, the Milwaukee is worth it. For serious demolition, the Makita justifies its price.

Which saw has a faster blade change system?

The Makita XRJ04Z wins this one hands down. Its tool-less blade change system lets me swap blades in seconds without any tools, which is huge when you’re up on a ladder or in a crawl space. The Milwaukee’s lever-actuated blade clamp is also tool-less and works fine, but I found the Makita’s mechanism slightly quicker and more intuitive. Both are way better than older models that required a hex wrench.

Which is better for cutting metal, the Makita or Milwaukee?

For metal cutting, I’d lean toward the Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall. That 3,000 SPM top speed gives you faster blade strokes, which helps cut through steel pipe and conduit more efficiently. The Makita’s variable speed trigger is nice for starting metal cuts, but the Milwaukee’s sheer speed wins for production work. Just make sure you use the right blade for metal — both saws handle it fine.

Which saw is lighter and easier to use overhead?

The Milwaukee M18 Fuel Sawzall is clearly the winner for overhead work. At 6.8 lbs, it’s a full 1.5 lbs lighter than the Makita’s 8.3 lbs with battery, and that difference is huge when your arms are up for extended periods. The built-in LED is also a bonus in dark attics. If you’re doing a lot of overhead cutting, the Milwaukee will save your shoulders.

Is the Makita XRJ04Z compatible with all Makita 18V LXT batteries?

Yes, the Makita XRJ04Z works with the entire Makita 18V LXT battery lineup. That’s one of the biggest advantages of sticking with a single platform — you can use your existing batteries from other Makita tools. The saw is sold as a bare tool, so it doesn’t come with a battery or charger, but if you’re already in the Makita ecosystem, you’re good to go.