Makita XSH06Z vs Makita XSR01PT: X2 LXT Sidewinder or Rear Handle 7-1/4 Inch Saw

Where these two differ

Both are Makita X2 LXT saws that run on two 18V packs for 36V and corded-class power. The XSH06Z is a sidewinder with the blade on the right, 5,000 RPM, a 2-5/8 inch depth of cut and 56 degree bevel, sold bare. The XSR01PT is a rear-handle saw with the blade on the left, 5,100 RPM, 2-9/16 inch depth and 53 degree bevel, sold as a kit with two 5 Ah packs and a dual charger. Layout and kit contents are the decision.

This comparison is based on the published specifications and manuals for both saws and on recurring owner feedback. We have not run either saw ourselves.

Layout

A right-handed user sees the line on the XSR01PT without leaning. The rear handle gives push on a long rip through a 2×12. The XSH06Z is lighter and quicker for crosscuts and easier at arm’s length on a ladder.

Power

Both rip wet pressure-treated lumber without slowing on two 5 Ah packs. The XSH06Z Automatic Speed Change raises torque in a hard cut to hold speed. Neither leaves a deck builder wanting.

Cut capacity

The XSH06Z cuts 2-5/8 inch deep, among the deepest 7-1/4 inch saws made, and bevels to 56 degrees. The XSR01PT is a sixteenth less and bevels to 53. Neither cuts a 4×4 in one pass.

Batteries and runtime

Both need two LXT packs. Two 5 Ah packs last an afternoon of joists on either and run the Makita X2 mower, blower and chainsaw.

Blades and setup

Both take 7-1/4 inch blades with a 5/8 inch arbor. A 24-tooth framing blade for joists; a 40-tooth blade for deck board ends. Depth and bevel levers on both.

Yard jobs this decides

Fence pickets, rails, raised beds and deck boards favor the XSH06Z. Deck framing and a pergola in 4x lumber favor the XSR01PT. An LXT owner with packs buys the bare XSH06Z; a builder starting the system buys the kit.

Warranty and support

On the Makita XSH06Z, Makita covers LXT tools and batteries with a three-year limited warranty. On the Makita XSR01PT, Makita covers LXT tools and batteries with a three-year limited warranty. Both makers run service networks in the US and both honor the warranty only with proof of purchase, so keep the receipt with the manual. Registration takes a few minutes online and is worth doing the day the tool arrives.

Common owner complaints

XSH06Z owners mention blade-right visibility. XSR01PT owners mention length, weight and kit price. Both are reliable.

Which one should you buy

Buy the XSH06Z for an all-round X2 saw with packs already in the shed. Buy the XSR01PT kit for framing and for starting the X2 system with packs included.

Our verdict

The Makita XSH06Z takes this comparison for most homeowners on weight, depth and price. The XSR01PT is the better framing saw and the better kit.