Hydraulic Impact Driver – Should You Have One In Your Kit?

When you hear the term “Hydraulic Impact Driver “you either know exactly what I’m talking about or you wonder if it’s some weird industrial tool hooked up to hydraulic hoses like a giant concrete saw. Well, I can assure you that if you do any work indoors, you should take a closer look at this tool.

What Is a Hydraulic Impact Driver?

So what is a hydraulic impact and how is it different from a regular impact? First off, a regular impact has three main parts a hammer, anvil, and a spring. As the hammer portion turns, if there’s resistance on the anvil, the spring loads up until it releases and the hammer strikes the anvil in the direction of rotation delivering that impact force into the fastener. The hammer and anvil mechanism is all metal so it is pretty loud when activated in quick succession. Check out this video excerpt from ToolStop where a Bosch employee demonstrates the impact mechanism.

A Hydraulic Impact is different in that it uses oil to build up pressure, when the pressure is high enough, pawls get pushed out on the anvil mechanism so that the hammer grabs them as it rotates. Then the pressure decreases, and the pawls retract until the pressure builds again. This results in a much quieter operation.

Benefits of a Hydraulic Impact over a regular

The first and biggest benefit is that they are half as loud as a regular impact. The new Dewalt boasts a 57% decrease in sound over their regular impact when driving 3″ screws into a pressure treated 4×4. That is a significant number. I can guarantee that all of us tradespeople will have some hearing loss over our careers, using a quieter tool when possible only makes sense.

The second benefit is the hydraulic mechanism due to the way it’s constructed, has more sustained torque. A regular impact is like hitting the end of a wrench with a hammer, a hydraulic impact is like putting a cheater pipe over the wrench and giving it a bunch of half-second tugs. Both will tighten the fastener, but one has torque on the fastener for a longer duration.

Killer Applications for Hydraulic Drivers

The obvious applications are anything indoors. MEP Rough-ins, steel stud framing, accessories (mirrors, grab bars, soap, paper towel dispensers, etc), device-ing out, and even doors and hardware. It isn’t just new construction either. Remodeling of existing occupied spaces can always benefit from decreased sound and vibration.

I do a ton of healthcare remodeling, hospitals, clinics, etc. Places that have to stay open even during construction. They always appreciate reduced noise and vibration, especially considering many places have normal sound levels rivaling the local library.

The last killer application is casework (cabinetry). Any time your head is close to the fastener being driven, the quieter the tool, the better it is for you in the long run.

Limitations of Hydraulic Drivers

There are some applications where hydraulic drivers are not the best choice. Longer and larger diameter fasteners like concrete screw anchors (TitanHD) and timber screws are hard for hydraulic impacts (and regular impacts) but in these cases, I usually switch to an impact wrench anyway.

The other area that hydraulics suffer from is extreme cold. I’ve had two Milwaukee Surge hydraulic drivers over the 8 years they’ve been out. The first one only lasted like 3-4 months because I left it on the job in the double digits below zero and I think the oil was too viscous and leaked out when I started using it for the day. I’ve never got an official confirmation from the brands that cold is detrimental for these types of drivers but I’ve read other reports online of similar scenarios.

Who makes Hydraulic Impact Drivers?

Up until a few months ago, Makita and Milwaukee were the only brands that made hydraulics. The drawback to this was that there has been no updates to these tools in the 8 years since they’ve been out. Now Dewalt just released theirs and it boasts quieter operation, less vibration, and more power than the Makita and Milwaukee. I don’t know if this new release from Dewalt will trigger updates to the Makita and Milwaukee.

What I do know is that if you’re on Milwaukee M18 or M12, Makita 18V LXT, or Dewalt 20V a hydraulic impact driver should have a spot in your tool kit.

Where To Buy (ACME Tool)

Milwaukee M12 Surge Bare Tool

MilwaukeeM18 Surge Bare Tool

Makita 18V LXT Bare Tool

Dewalt 20V Quiet Hydraulic Impact Bare Tool

Hydraulic Impact Driver – Should you have one? is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Top Cordless 1″ SDS Plus Rotary Hammer | Head-To-Head

In our head-to-head comparison, we focused on 1″ SDS-Plus rotary hammers with drop motors, catering to the largest group of SDS-Plus users. These drills are widely utilized by mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and building trades for tasks such as installing 3″ drop anchors, wedge anchors, screw anchors and chipping concrete.

Why Drop Motors?

The 1-inch SDS-Plus drop motor hammers are among the most popular drills on the market due to their compact size and versatility. They offer versatility and efficiency for various applications, making them a preferred choice for many users across different industries. Despite the rise in popularity of drop motor designs, some users still prefer the traditional D-handle style for specific applications such working in concrete forms or for ceiling and floor work.

SDS stands for Slotted Drive System or Slotted Drive Shaft, it was invented by Bosch in 1975. SDS and SDS-Plus are interchangeable, SDS-Plus is a newer standard featuring 4 splines for a more secure chuck fitment.

Our Objective

For us at Tool Box Buzz, our goal is to empower you to make informed decisions when selecting the best SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Drill.

By providing comprehensive reviews and insights into the performance, features, and usability of each rotary hammer, we hope to assist you in finding the perfect tool for your projects. Whether you prioritize compactness, power, versatility, or ergonomics, we’re here to help you make the right choice.

Cordless SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Lineup

Eleven manufacturers have submitted 15 contenders for the 1-inch SDS-Plus category, all designed for use on their 18-volt to 60-volt cordless platforms. Not every manufacturer labels their SDS-Plus drills as precisely 1 inch, so the range of testing spans from ⅞ inch to 1-⅛ inch.

BOSCH 18v Bulldog

Model – GBH18v-24C
Voltage – 18v
Size – 1”
RPMs – 980
BPMs – 0-4,350
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 1.80
Weight – 8.7 Lbs
Price – $270.00

DEWALT XR

Model – DCH273
Voltage – 20V
Size – 1”
RPMs – 1,100
BPMs – 0-4,600
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 1.55
Weight – 7.1 Lbs
Price – $329.00

DEWALT Flexvolt

Model – DCH416
Voltage – 60V
Size – 1-¼”
RPMs – 540
BPMs – 0-4,200
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 4.5
Weight – 12.25 Lbs
Price – $499.00

FLEX

Model – FX15511A-Z
Voltage – 24V
Size – 1”
RPMs – 980
BPMs – 0-4,350
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 1.9
Weight – 9.45 Lbs
Price – $299.00

HILTI Nuron

Model – TE 6-22 DRS
Voltage – 22V
Size – 1”
RPMs – 1050
BPMs – 0-5100
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 1.9
Weight – 8.1 Lbs
Price – $434.00

KOBALT

Model – KRH 124B-03
Voltage – 24V
Size – ⅞”
RPMs – 1,400
BPMs – 0-4,500
Weight – 6.15 Lbs
Price – $99.00

MAKITA 18v LXT

Model – XRH01Z

Voltage – 18VSize – 1”
RPMs – 950
BPMs – 0-4,700
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 1.7
Weight – 7.55 Lbs
Price – $379.00

MAKITA 36v LXT

Model – XRH05Z
Voltage – 36V (18v X 2)
Size – 1”
RPMs – 1,250
BPMs – 0-5,000
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 2.2
Weight – 10.3 Lbs
Price – $519.00

MAKITA 40v XGT

Model – GRH01Z
Voltage – 40V
Size – 1-1/8”
RPMs – 980
BPMs – 0-5000
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 2.8
Weight – 9.44 Lbs
Price – $589.00

Metabo

Model – KH18LTXBL28Q

Voltage – 18v
Size – 1-⅛”
RPMs – 1,000
BPMs – 0-4,470
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 3.0
Weight – 9.8 Lbs
Price – $361

METABO HPT 18v

Model – DH1826DALQ4
Voltage – 18V
Size – 1”
RPMs – 1,050
BPMs – 0-3,950
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 1.9
Weight – 8.05 Lbs
Price – $209.00

METABO HPT 36v

Model – DH3628DAQ4
Voltage – 36V
Size – 1-⅛”
RPMs – 950
BPMs – 0-4,300
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 2.3
Weight – 9.4 Lbs
Price – $279.00

MILWAUKEE M18 FUEL

Model – 2912-20
Voltage – 18V
Size – 1”
RPMs – 1,330
BPMs – 0-4,800
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 2.0
Weight – 9.25 Lbs
Price – $349.00

RIDGID

Model – R86712B
Voltage – 18V
Size – 1”
RPMs – 1,400
BPMs – 0-5,000
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 1.5
Weight – 8.05 Lbs
Price – $269.00

RYOBI

Model – P223
Voltage – 18V
Size – 1”
RPMs – 1,380
BPMs – 0-5,000
Blow Energy [Ft-Lbs] – 1.5
Weight – 7.45 Lbs
Price – $189.00

Head-To-Head Testing Criteria

Our team meticulously evaluated these cordless SDS-Plus rotary hammers, across five categories and ranked them.

1. Performance Test – Speed at drilling various size holes in concrete.
2. Efficiency Test – Run-time test of recommended battery normalized for Watt-Hour capacity.
3. Size and Weight – Size matters and weight can get cumbersome. We measured the dimensions and weight of each concrete drill as tested with batteries. [not factored in overall ranking]
4. On-Board Dust Collection – we tested and ranked features.
5. User Experience- Combination of features, ergonomics and subjective user evaluations.
   Additionally we included price, and best value charts for your consideration.

Silica Dust

The Tool Box Buzz Team recognizes the significant dangers that exposure to silica dust can pose to workers. While we always strive to use any and all personal protective equipment, there are times when we may omit certain PPE during testing. We want to remind anyone that uses concrete cutting and drilling tools to use proper protective equipment to prevent silica dust exposure.

Performance Evaluation | Drilling Test

This test evaluated the speed in which the tools could drill 3-inch deep holes into concrete with 4 different bit sizes. The drilling substrate used was 3,500 psi concrete blocks, 12” x 24” x 4.5″ deep. These concrete blocks had cured for 6-months.

Performance Test Procedure

Drill Sizes Evaluated: ¼”, ⅜”, ½”, and 1″ SDS-Plus rotary drill bits.

1. Five holes drilled to a depth of 3” using a depth rod and blue tape for accuracy.
2. Each hole was timed, and an average recorded.
3. All drills equipped with new Milwaukee SDS-Plus rotary drill bits.
4. Operators instructed to maintain consistent pressure and let the drill do the work.
5. Dust extractors were not utilized.
6. Technique emphasized to ensure fair comparison.

Performance Test Winner – Milwaukee

Milwaukee dominated three out of the four speed tests, earning an impressive overall score of 5. DEWALT’S 60V FlexVolt secured second place with an overall score of 15, excelling particularly with the 1-inch bit test. Hilti and Ridgid claimed third place with an overall score of 18. Metabo followed with a score of 21. The Metabo was not a remarkable tool, but was a consistent “power-house performer.”

Individual Test Results | Top 3

¼” Rotary Bit Results

• Milwaukee: 4.19 seconds
• DEWALT 60V: 4.63 seconds
• Hilti: 5.49 seconds

⅜” Rotary Bit Results

• Milwaukee: 4.93 seconds
• Ridgid: 5.24 seconds
• DEWALT 20: 5.88 seconds

½” Rotary Bit Results

• Milwaukee: 4.36 seconds
• Ridgid: 5.43 seconds
• Hilti: 5.57 seconds

1” Rotary Bit Results

• DEWALT 60V: 14.52 seconds
• Milwaukee: 21.63 seconds
• Metabo: 24.04 seconds

Note on DEWALT FlexVolt 60V Rotary Hammer

The DEWALT Flexvolt was an extremely powerful and heavy tool allowing it to shine in the 1-inch drill bit test and subsequent chipping evaluation.

Efficiency Evaluation | Normalized Run-time

Although run-time becomes less critical with sufficient battery capacity, we acknowledge it’s importance in specific scenarios such as with commercial users, installing numerous drop anchors in a day. With so many tools, battery voltages and sizes, we normalized run-time and investigated the efficiency of the tools energy available. Obviously some battery packs contain much more potential energy so it’s important to try and compare them based on the “size of the fuel tank”.

Efficiency Testing Procedure

1. Vacuums removed for this test.
2. All tools equipped with fresh batteries.
3. 1/2″ Milwaukee drill bits drilled to 3″ depth.
4. Operators instructed to maintain consistent pressure and let the drill do the work.
5. The total number of drilled holes were counted and scored.

Holes Drilled Per Watt-Hour – Winner Makita 18V

The Makita 18V drill claimed the top spot, surprising us all with it’s performance. This drill managed to complete 66.5 holes with a single 4 Ah battery with a 0.92 holes drilled per watt-hour.

Interestingly, the Makita 36-volt model, despite having twice the available watt-hours, only completed 82 holes, representing just a 23% increase in hole count which equated to only drilling 0.57 holes per watt-hour. This unique comparison between the two Makita drills highlights a design prioritization of efficiency vs power.

The Metabo 18 volt came in second place with 0.85 holes per watt-hour. Third place went to the DEWALT 20 volt with 0.82 holes per watt-hour.

Size and Weight – Not Used In Final Rankings

In the realm of SDS-Plus rotary hammers, size matters to some users. We measured the dimensions and weight of each drill, as tested (with Batteries / handle), and ranked them accordingly.

We felt the two most important factors for these drills were the weight and head length. Having a lightweight tool coupled with a compact size can be an important factor for some users. While we didn’t include this ranking in the final scoring we did account for the size and weight in our user experience rankings below. It’s interesting to see that most of the smaller / lighter tools didn’t perform as well as the heavier tools in the speed testing. Likely this is due to the size of the gear boxes, motors and housings.

In this category, the Kobalt drill boasted the shortest and lightest stature among all drills tested, clinching the top spot. Following closely in second place was the DEWALT 20V, which also showcased a compact form factor and lightweight design. The Ryobi drill secured third place in this ranking.

On-Board Dust Extractor Evaluation

On-board dust extractors are designed to be used as a system. Eight of these tools were sent with compatible on-board dust extractors to evaluate.

Dust Extractor Procedure

We tested the on-board dust extractors, ranking eight criteria:

1. Capacity – We drilled ½” x 3” holes until we saw dust “ant-hills” form around the hole. At that point we consider the capacity of the dust extractor full.
2. Visual inspection of capacity.
3. Filter cleaning – Self cleaning or manual function
4. Filter replacement – ease of removal.
5. Depth of hole with attachment.
6. Depth guide – ease of adjustment.
7. Replaceable head.
8. Weight.

On-Board Dust Extractor – Winner Hilti

The Hilti came in first place in the on-board dust extractor category. It was feature rich with its replaceable head, depth guide, and filter cleaning options. Despite clinching the top position, the team collectively noted that the dust canister could be improved by being translucent for better visibility, and the filter could be easier to detach from the canister.

In terms of “capacity” performance, the Hilti canister maintained dust extraction efficiency for 14 holes. Milwaukee drilled 10.5 holes, and Makita 40V managed 15 holes.  Surprisingly, the Metabo HPT drilled 21.5 holes, and the DEWALT 20V drilled 22 holes, but didn’t excel  in other feature comparisons.

User Experience – [Tie] Winner Hilti and Makita 40V

User experience (UX) encompasses the overall satisfaction and ease of use that a tool provides to its users. In this category, our team of Pro users provided subjective rankings for the user experience while handling these rotary hammers. This ranking was based on various factors experienced, including grip, balance, vibration, line of sight, ease of use, fatigue factor, and overall comfort.

The team identified four drills as top performers during testing. The Hilti and Makita were tied for first place, closely followed by a tie between the DEWALT 20V and Milwaukee 18V. All four of these tools exhibited commendable performance in our testing and were noted for their user experience.

Rotational Force | Bind Test – Not Ranked

When a drill binds, it has the potential to violently spin the tool around potentially injuring the user.
To assess the performance in binding situations, we conducted a subjective test by drilling a 1-inch diameter, 8-inch, deep hole in concrete and side load force.

3 Types of Safety Shut-Offs in Rotary Hammers

1. Accelerometer – An electronic component integrated into the tool that detects sudden rotation and initiates an automatic shutdown.
2. Mechanical – Utilizes a straightforward mechanical clutch mechanism whereby the tool continues to run, but the bit stops spinning when the clutch is engaged.
3. Electronic Overload – An electronic overload function is activated either before the mechanical clutch or during specific binding scenarios. This electronic overload serves to safeguard the electronics, motor, and battery, while also acting as a safety feature in certain situations.

Rotational Force Findings

During our testing, all of these tools effectively shut off when the tool was bound up and the user had a firm grip on both the tool and the auxiliary handle.

Standout tools featured all three safety mechanisms, predominantly found in higher-end models such as those from Bosch, Hilti, Makita (40-volt) and Milwaukee. These tools successfully incorporated all three mechanisms that we were able to activate during field testing.

Chipping Test – Winner DEWALT 60V

Our chipping testing methodology was primarily subjective in nature. We employed our drill testing blocks to conduct the chipping tests.

TBB Crew users utilized the rotary hammers to break up the test blocks, after which they provided feedback via a form detailing their chipping experience.

The consensus from our testing suggests that there’s a “secret sauce” combination of impact energy and beats per minute (BPM) that yields optimal chipping power. This mix of factors seems to be instrumental in achieving productive chipping results.

The DEWALT 60V was the largest and heaviest tool in the group and with 4.5 FT-LBS of energy, it’s no surprise that it excelled at chipping, taking first place

The DEWALT Flexvolt was a “jack hammer disguised as a drill  ~ TBB Crew Wes Bartosik

The Makita 40V came in second. It has tons of power and minimal vibrations felt, due to its well throughout decoupling. The Milwaukee 18V came in third place. It delivers an incredible amount of energy on impact and was very controllable while cutting scribe lines.

SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer | Price – Not Included In Final Scoring

Most manufacturers offer these rotary hammers in kit form, bundling the tool with a battery optimized for performance while maintaining a manageable weight. Achieving the best user experience hinges on finding the right balance between weight, balance, and power to accomplish tasks efficiently.

For your reference, we have listed bare tool pricing below, although this wasn’t factored into our final scoring. As an illustration of the cost range, the Kobalt is available as a bare tool for $99.00, while the Makita 40-volt model is priced at $589.00. Please refer to the attached chart for further details.

Best Cordless 1-Inch SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer – Winner Milwaukee 18V

While impact energy undoubtedly influences a tool’s performance, it’s crucial to recognize that it’s not the sole determinant of effectiveness. Other factors, such as RPM and BPM, also play significant roles in achieving the desired outcome for the user. Harmonizing impact energy, RPM, and BPM is essential to optimize the tool’s overall efficiency and effectiveness.

Decisions should be based on considerations related to ergonomics, safety, and mechanical performance. Balancing these aspects ensures that the tool not only performs well but also prioritizes the safety and user experience of the user.

It’s noteworthy that when ranking our categories, we assigned double weight to performance scores, considering it the most valuable category.

Milwaukee claimed the top spot in performance, secured second place in dust extraction, and ranked third in both user experience (UX) and chipping. Its overall performance stood out as the clear winner.

Second Place honors go to the Makita 40V.  This Makita excelled in UX, chipping and dust extraction. The Makita 40V was a favorite among the crew, tying with Hilti for the top spot in UX.

Hilti rounded out the podium in 3rd place.  The Hili was also heavily sought after by the crew and ranking first in the UX category, boasting the best dust extraction, and coming in eighth in performance testing and fourth in chipping.

Tied for fourth place was Metabo and DEWALT 60V. Metabo stood out with it’s second place in efficiency and scored well in both user experience and chipping. The DEWALT 60V was impressive in the chipping tests and performance.

Best Value 1″  SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer – Winner Ridgid

This category winner often strikes a chord with users as it showcases an SDS-Plus drill that performs admirably while being more budget-friendly. In many respects, it’s a category of significant importance, sometimes overshadowing the top-ranked contender, crowned king of our 1″ SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer Head-to-Head Test.

The Ridgid 18V, priced at $269 as a bare tool, claimed victory in this category. Despite landing in seventh place overall, it delivered commendable performance, securing a solid fifth place rank in our performance testing. We often refer to Ridgid as the “hidden gem” of the tool industry.

Best 1″ SDS-Plus Rotary Hammer | Closing Comments

1″ SDS-Plus rotary hammers are essential tools for contractors seeking efficient, versatile, and reliable solutions for drilling and hammering tasks in concrete and masonry materials.

We often receive inquiries about our final rankings and understand that there are numerous ways to compare tools.

Our primary goal during testing is to attain repeatable and consistent results. We make sure to share all the data from our tests so that users can re-rank the tools according to their preferences. If there’s a specific aspect you don’t find relevant, feel free to remove it from the matrix above and re-evaluate the rankings accordingly.

We hope you find this Head-To-Head comparison useful when considering the purchase of a 1″ cordless SDS-Plus rotary hammer. Please take a moment to explore our other Head-to-Head tests at ToolBoxBuzz.com.

Thanks, “the TBBCrew.”

Best 1-inch SDS-PLUS Rotary Hammer Video Review

Best Cordless 1 Inch SDS Plus Rotary Hammer – 2024 is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Best Battery Powered 14″ Concrete Cutter (Cut-Off Saw) | Head-To-Head

A Concrete Cutter sometimes called a cut-off saw, masonry saw, road saw, “consaw,” or concrete saw is a hand-held tool designed to cut concrete, asphalt pavement, rebar, steel and plastic pipe. Typical uses include making openings in walls, floors, manhole structures, road surfaces, and curbs.

We all recognize that battery-powered saws require less maintenance, are easier to start, and forgo the need for the 50:1 fuel mixture.

Our industry is now experiencing an increased focus on the integration of battery-operated equipment across the job site, driving the discussion of gas tools vs. battery-powered tools. For us to even have this conversation we need to agree battery tools need to compete with gas in performance, power, and run-time.

We decided to perform a Head-to-Head test on four cordless concrete cutters (cut-off saws) to determine which one was the best saw and if these saws could compete with gas saws.

To give clarity to our testing we included the Husqvarna K770 gas saw, as a comparison standard.  Husqvarna has been making cut-off saws since 1958, and we chose the K 770 because it is a powerful, all-around concrete cutter with features that make it one of the best saws on the market.

Cordless Cut-Off Saw | Line-Up

Four manufacturers sent their cordless cut-off saws and saw blades.

NOTE – The Hilti cut-off saw is a 12″ saw but was allowed to participate in this test because it has a feature called OutCut, which allows it to cut at similar depths as the other three 14″ saws. To understand what OutCut is, the arm of the saw narrows to a smaller point compared to other saws and uses a smaller diameter flange-set for use with steel core diamond blades.

Hilti

• Model – DSH 700-22
• Max Cutting Depth – 4.75″
• Weight w/ battery provided – 31.0 LBS
• RPM – 5,080 RPMs
• Blade Size: 11-13/16
• Blade:  Hilti 12″ Equadist SPX 22-87947
• Battery Watt Hours – 255Wh x 2 batteries = 510 Wh

Husqvarna

• Model – K1 Pace 14″
• Max Cutting Depth – 5-5/8″
• Weight w/ battery provided – 30.8lbs
• RPM – 3,400 RPMs
• Blade Size: 14″
• Blade: S35S 14-inch Segmented Diamond Blade
• Battery Watt Hours – 749 Wh 
  

Makita

• Model – GEC01PL04
• Max Cutting Depth – 5″
• Weight w/ battery provided – 34.25 LBS
• RPM – 5,300 RPMs
• Blade Size” 14″
• Blade: 14″ Thin Kerf Diamond Blade Segmented General Purpose
• Battery Watt Hours – 288 Wh x 2 batteries = 576 Wh

Milwaukee

• XF315-2XC
• Max Cutting Depth – 5″
• Weight w/ battery provided – 33.35 LBS
• RPM –
• Blade Size: 14″
• Blade: Diamond Ultra 49-93-7540
• Battery Watt Hours – 576 Wh
  

Our Testing Criteria

Our team scored the cordless cut-off saws on eight criteria, each ranked independently, and the “Overall Best Cordless Cut-Off Saw” was determined using the combined test results.

We include but did not rank Watt-Hours Per Cut, and Best Value categories, but list them here for your own informational purposes. We did NOT include decibel testing since all of these saws are well over the OSHA rating for hearing protection.

Scoring Criteria – Cordless Cut-Off Saws

1. Concrete Cutting Test – Most lineal feet cut in concrete with embedded rebar [Ave. speed]
2. Rebar Cutting Test – Fastest cutter of five ganged #4 rebar. [Ave. speed]
3. Watt-hour per cut – we include this for your reference
4. Depth of Cut – Saws were ranks for cut capacity
5. Charging Time – We ranked the time it took to charge depleted batteries.
6. Ergonomics – Ergonomics is really important to users and an important category to consider when purchasing any power tool.
7. Features – We discuss stand-out features and team favorites
8. Size and Weight – Size matters and weight can get cumbersome. We measured the dimensions and scored weight of each concrete cutter as tested (with Batteries)
9. Best Value – Not ranked.
10. Price – The kit price at the time of publishing.

Concrete Test Blocks

We poured 3,500 psi concrete blocks, 12” x 24” x 4.5″ deep. We made the blocks deep enough for all cutter blades to be able to cut all the way through and allow ¼” for any blade wear.  Each concrete block also had two embedded # 4 rebar running along its length. 

Performance Testing  | Concrete with Embedded Rebar Cutting [Ave. Speed]

Each cordless concrete cutter was outfitted with a fresh battery and manufacturer specific blade. All of the manufacturers insisted on us using their branded blades with their saws, claiming that the blades were designed and optimized for the saw.

Run-time on cordless cut-off saws is important when discussing how battery and gas operate differently.  The number one question we are asked is,  “How do these saws compare to a gas concrete cutter? In order for us to address this question we included the  Husqvarna K770 gas saw as a comparison.

Run-time Test Procedure:

Without a test rig to eliminate these types of variables, it is very hard to have a controlled test. Technique is important and we recognize that we needed to let the tool do the work and not bog it down, which is why we designed our tests with the following criteria:

1. All 4 battery saws had two sets of fresh batteries and new Manufacturer blade.
2. The Husqvarna K770 had a full tank of gas and a fresh Milwaukee Diamond blade.
3. 4 operators per saw.
4. We used the 24″x12″x4.5″ concrete test blocks.
5. Each cut was timed and recorded.
6. Water was used on each cut.
7. Each operator made 3 cuts and swapped out to prevent fatigue. [Fatigued users tend to lean on the saw]
8. Every operator employed a “stepped” cutting method.
9. Every operator let the tool do the cutting, and listened to the motor for feedback. Operators applied pressure when the tool would allow it, and if the motor seemed like its bogging down they let up on the pressure.
10. The test ended when the saw battery died, and when the K770 ran out of gas.
11. The total slices [including partial cuts] were recorded for a total lineal foot measurement.

Note – The Husqvarna K770 gas saw has a fuel tank capacity of 0.95 qt.

Note on Step Cutting:

Step Cutting, also known as incremental cutting, involves making multiple incremental cuts with the saw until the overall desired depth of cut is reached. The number of cuts taken to reach the desired depth depends on the material being cut, the saw’s horsepower, and the operator’s experience.

• Step Cutting Increases Cutting Efficiency
• Step Cutting Increases Blade Life
• Step Cutting Results in Cleaner, Straighter Cuts

Note on Run-time Testing

With any cut-off saw you will experience varying results based on the material you’re cutting, you’re cutting style, operator experience, blade used, etc.  Ambient temperature also affects run-time. The more demand you put on the motor, for example leaning into the saw too much, the more Amps it will pull from the battery to keep the power output. The same effect can happen with a gas saw, except run-time is just not usually taken into consideration given the quicker refueling vs. recharging time.

Run-Time Testing | Winner –    Husqvarna

In all cases, it is necessary to supply two sets of batteries in order to compete with the expected run-time of a single tank of gas, on a gas saw. Manufacturers recognize this, and most are starting to sell these saws as a kit with two sets of batteries

The Husqvarna concrete cutter was able to complete 36 cuts, or 36 linear feet, in the concrete blocks, compared to the K770 gas saw which completed 30 cuts (30 linear feet). Second place was the Hilti cut-0ff saw with 29 cuts (29 linear feet), followed by the Makita with 24 cuts (24 linear feet) and Milwaukee with 23.5 cuts (linear feet).

One interesting fact was the average speed to complete these cuts.

The gas K770 saw completed 30 cuts  [30 lineal feet] with an average speed of 35.5 seconds.  The Milwaukee which brought up the rear with the least amount cut, was powerful enough to cut the concrete blocks even faster than the gas saw at 34.9 seconds.   The Husqvarna cut an average of 40.7 Seconds and both the Hilti and Makita tied with 45 seconds.

Note – photos in this article show K1 Pace with a smaller battery. This saw was photographed, and tested with a smaller battery, and later that week, tested again with a larger battery. The stats in this article are from the larger battery.

Watt-Hours Per Cut

While many sectors of the power tool industry have transitioned to battery power and cut the cord, there remains some specific tools like cut-off saws (concrete cutters) where there is no cord to cut.  Instead the power source is a small engine that runs on gas.  In order for the cordless cut-off saws to compete with the gas power standards, they need to not only have similar cutting power but also carry enough potential energy on board to get the job done. 

With all the tools running at different voltages, the quickest way to get a snapshot of how big a “gas tank” the tool has is to see how many Watt-Hours the batteries on board have.  We ran our endurance test with one battery swap so Watt-Hours are doubled in the chart.  By calculating Watt-Hours per cut we can get a good idea of how efficient the tool is at transforming that battery potential capacity into concrete cut. 

The Husqvarna had the largest battery of the group which helped it achieve top rank of cuts.  But it was also the second most efficient at using its “gas tank.” The Hilti had the least amount of Watt-Hours but cut the second most amount and was a standout as the most efficient with 35.17 Wh/cut.

The Makita and Milwaukee have exactly the same Watt-Hours on board and cut almost an identical amount concrete.  The Makita edged out a half cut over the Milwaukee which translates to a lower Wh/Cut value of 48.00.

An interesting observation when comparing the efficiency ranking of the tools is to compare them to the following speed and power rankings.  It’s clear there are always design tradeoffs between power and efficiency and these tools are no exception.

Performance Testing  |  Rebar Cutting [Ave. Speed]

Each cordless cut-off saw was outfitted with a fresh battery and the same brand specific abrasive cutting disk. One operator was used to make three cuts in five ganged #4 rebar for an average time.

Speed Test Procedure:

1. The same operator and timer teamed up to make 3 through cuts in five #4 rebar.
2. Each cut was timed separately.
3. The operator pushed as hard as the saw would allow.
4. The three cuts were averaged and scored.

Fastest Rebar Cutting |  Winner – Milwaukee

The Milwaukee was able to cut through five #4 rebar in. 7.78 seconds. Second place was the Makita at 10.3 seconds, and third was Husqvarna at 16.4 seconds, Hilti fourth at 17.0 seconds.

The team felt that this test, with all of the saw using an identical blade, was a great indicator of the available cutting power.

Depth Of Cut | Winner – Husqvarna

The depth of cut on a saw is important to all users. Husqvarna had the deepest depth of cut with 5-5/8 inches. Second place was the Makita and Milwaukee both with 5 inches, followed by the smaller Hilti saw at 4-3/4″. Husqvarna’s unique design where the arbor is offset from the drive band allowed for this impressive cutting depth.

Power Cutter Ergonomics | Winner – Husqvarna

The ergonomics evaluation in this section is purely subjective and based on the opinions of the testing crew. After a full day of running performance tests, the team sat down and ranked each tool in several categories on a score of 1-4 [1 being the best]. For the ergonomics evaluation, the team evaluated the following criteria:

1. Grip
2. Balance
3. Line of Sight
4. Vibration
5. Blade change
6. Battery change

The Husqvarna was the clear winner and a team favorite with final ergonomic score of 9. It won three categories with top score for grip, balance and line of sight.

The team did not like that the Husqvarna does not have rollers but all agreed that it had excellent vibration damping, excellent balance, was the smoothest cutting and its streamlined design contributed to its excellent line of sight. It was very obvious to the team that Husqvarna has been making these cutters for a long time, and the form factor of their battery powered and gas powered saws is very similar.

Second in ergonomics was a tie between the Hilti and Milwaukee. Hilti took tops in vibration, and scored second in balance. Milwaukee came in second in grip, line of sight and blade change.

The team liked the Hilti grip and balance and felt it had a really good line of sight. All of us felt that it was a smooth cutting saw  and was one of the easiest saws to start and operate. The only criticism was that the batteries tucked under the tool and are not as easy to insert or remove compared to the others.

Milwaukee is a powerful cutting saw that you can lean on. It has a nice grip, excellent line of sight, great balance, good battery removal but is a bit bulky and heavy.  The Milwaukee saw has no visible decoupling  but had surprisingly low vibration. Milwaukee does isolate the drive systems gear box to minimize vibration.

Makita which scored tops in blade change and had very easy battery changes. However its bulky size, weight, and uneven balance hindered its ergonomics score. The Makita had the easiest blade change, was a super powerful saw, it was the only saw that you never had to back off on while cutting.

While cutting concrete the Makita seemed to vibrate quite a lot. However when more force was applied the vibration lessened considerably. Basically the user was forced to “preload” the decoupling spring to prevent blade chatter. This seemed to be a non-issue in rebar cutting and led us to wonder if it was due to the blade more than the saw itself.

Cordless Concrete Cutter Features | Winner – Hilti

We considered 8 features on these cut-off saws:

1. Tool Activation
2. Water connection
3. Decoupling [vibration]
4. Blade Brake
5. Wheels
6. Handles [Multiple Hand Placement]
7. Indicator Light
8. Arbor Lock
9. LED Light

Hilti took first place in features with a top score in tool activation, blade brake, had the best wheels, and second best water connection. Second place went to the Makita with a well designed arbor lock, water connection and the only saw to feature an LED light. Third place in features was a tie between Husqvarna and Milwaukee.

Husqvarna has an electronic brake called “X-Halt,” which  stops the blade in a fraction of a second if a kickback occurs. The function cannot fully prevent personal injury from a kickback, but it decreases the risk.

Husqvarna had the most informative user interface, great decoupling and tool activation.  It will also time out [turn off] after 3-minutes, a time period we feel is too short.

Makita had the best auxiliary handle in terms of the amount of usable space or hand positions. It is also the only tool in the test to feature a push-button arbor lock.

Makita is equipped with “Active Feedback-Sensing Technology,” which electronically turns off the motor if the rotation of the cutting wheel is suddenly forced to stop. It also features Extreme Protection Technology, which is engineered for improved dust and water resistance.

No one on the team liked how the Makita lock-off button is actuated. This single-sided safety switch  [set up for right-hand thumb] is difficult for left-handed users to activate. Instead of a safety switch integrated into the palm grip which naturally gets depressed when holding the tool the users must push this button with their thumb 90 degrees offset to the spine of the tool. It’s neither intuitive, nor comfortable to actuate, and we all fumbled with it.

Milwaukee had a fantastic blade brake, and incorporates their RAPID STOP technology to help prevent damage from kickbacks and unexpected handling behavior. It has a unique trigger activated water valve which turns on or shuts of the water with the trigger.  This initially received high praise from the review team but later in testing proved to be a hindrance due to erratic behavior likely due high water pressure.

The Milwaukee states in the manual that the MAX water pressure for the tool is rated for 60 psi. We measured 97 psi at our test site. Milwaukee needs to address this, as contractors do not want to add an additional accessory, like a pressure reducer, to their set up.

Bluetooth Functionality

Husqvarna has built-In connectivity for asset management, allowing you to monitor location, run-time, service intervals and receive wireless updates.

Milwaukee has One-Key connectivity which allows for fleet management, location tracking and lockout.

Power Cutter Weight | Winner – Husqvarna.

Weight can cause fatigue with cut-off saws. The lightest saw was the Husqvarna weighing in at 30.8 lbs. Second lightest saw was the Hilti at 30.1 lbs, third went to Milwaukee at 33.35 followed by Makita at 34.25 lbs.

Note – the Husqvarna K770 gas saw has a weight of  26.12 lbs. without gas.

Best Concrete Cutter Battery Charging Time | Winner – Milwaukee and Hilti

In order to achieve gas saw performance you will need two sets of batteries. The theory is to have a battery(s) on the charger while you are working. This reduces downtime and maximizes your productivity. That being said, will the battery reach a full charge before you need it? The answer to that depends on how much cutting you are doing at one time.

The fastest battery charging time was a tie between Hilti and Milwaukee MX battery, both with charging times of 45 minutes. Its important to note that the Hilti ran off of two B22-255 batteries and to achieve this time you will need two chargers. Otherwise you’ll have to double this time.

Husqvarna was third with a 55 minute time, thanks to its “express charge” feature on the charger. This feature allows the user to press a button on the front of the charger to activate. However, you don’t want to fast charge batteries on a regular basis because it’s hard on the cells. A standard charge time is about 75 minutes. The express charge is there for when you need it. We are based in the North East USA and our electrical system is based on a 110V AC standard.  Its important to note for European customers that the Husqvarna charger is able to perform slightly faster on the 220V AC standard and give a 45 minute express charge.

The Makita dual charger simultaneously charges both Makita 40V 8.0Ah batteries at the same time in 76 minutes.

Best Priced Power Cutter | Winner – Hilti

These four saws are unquestionably pricey tools. In order for these saws to achieve gas performance you will need two sets of batteries. Replacement blades on these machines runs approximately $150.

The Milwaukee and Makita saws are offered in a kit that includes two sets of batteries and a charger. The Milwaukee comes with two batteries, whereas the Makita comes with four (the saw requires two batteries to function).

Our conclusion is that these cut-off saws all require two batteries to match one tank of gas. For pricing we included the saw, two sets of batteries, and a charger for the Husqvarna and Hilti.

The winner of the best price is the Hilti DHS 700-22 priced in our kit form at $2,493.00

• Tool cost: $1,183.00
• 4 batteries:  $243.00 each
• 2 chargers: $169.00 each

Second place was the Makita Power Cutter Kit totaling $2,699.00 and third was Milwaukee, sold as a kit for $2,999.00.

The most expensive cut off saw was the Husqvarna which when added all together was $3,996.00. This extremely high price is due to the cost of the batteries. The B750X battery is $939.00 each and when adding in two of them it contributes 50% of the total price. At this cost users could almost purchase two competitor saws for the price of the Husqvarna.

Overall Best 14″ Cordless Cut-Off Saw (Concrete Cutter) | Winner – Husqvarna

Its important to note that ALL of these cut-off saws performed well and were extremely close. Two of the manufacturers Hilti and Makita also have huge power tool platforms that their batteries will interchange with.  The other two Husqvarna and Milwaukee, only have a few dozen tools currently that their batteries will power.

The overall Best Cordless Cut-Off Saw in our testing was the Husqvarna with a score of 21.  Hilti came in second with 23 and Milwaukee just one point behind with 24.

Note: Given the number of categories scored for our overall ranking we decided to double the value of our performance tests.  Both the Concrete Endurance and Rebar Speed scores were multiplied by a factor of 2 in the final chart.  We feel that the cutting endurance and cutting power of these tools carry the most weight and importance to the potential end user.

The Hilti saw is technically a 12″ power cutter, had the shallowest depth of cut, but clearly punched above its weight in this test with a great feature set, low weight, and impressive run-time and speed scores.

The Husqvarna K1 Pace power cutter was a team favorite and a clear winner with top scores in five out of nine categories. It is a lightweight, well balanced cut off saw with great runtime, functionality and line of sight.

The Makita saw was heavy and powerful. It was the only saw we NEVER had to let up on and you can actually lean into cuts with. It has excellent features and ergonomics, a generous depth of cut and was second fastest in our metal cutting test.

The Milwaukee MX saw is a Gen 2 saw and was a speed demon when cutting metal averaging almost 3-seconds faster than the next concrete cutter. It too was a powerful cutter with an excellent depth of cut, great price with good features and ergonomics. The water connection issue hurt the MX saw and kept it from standing alone in 2nd place.

Best Value Cordless Concrete Cutter | Winner – Hilti and Milwaukee

Best value is typically awarded to the saw that performed well and is lowest or low in price. The Hilti and Milwaukee were close in scores and $500 apart in cost. With regard to performance the Milwaukee power cutter performed slightly better than the Hilti. One tool did well in concrete endurance, and the other in cutting speed.

The Hilti cordless cut-off saw surprised us all in its performance and frankly price. Hilti has historically been at the top of the pricing charts in all of our head-2-Head tests. The bottom line is both concrete cutters have great feature set, good ergonomics, and excellent charging times which is important to keep you in the “cutting” game.

Either of these cutters are great! ~ Rob

Closing Thoughts

The biggest issue with cordless cut-off saws is charge time. It’s our opinion that contractors who cut concrete with 2 tanks of gas or less a day are in the “sweet-spot” to convert to a battery power cutter.  If you are cutting all day and using 5 to 7 tanks of gas you should stay with a gas cutter or invest in more batteries.

Speaking of batteries, the Hilti and Makita tools both use batteries that are compatible with a wide variety of smaller tools (Hilti’s Neuron line and Makita’s 40v XGT line). This could be a factor in purchasing decisions.

Lastly, charge time, and power to charge is a consideration.  Many of these batteries require 45 minutes to charge, and  you also need to consider how remote you are working. Do you have access to electricity or an inverter to charge your batteries?

We get lots of comments about how we make the final rankings. There are dozens of ways to compare tools, our goal when testing is to achieve repeatable, consistent results. We share ALL the data from our tests, so you can re-rank the tools however you want. If you don’t care about an item we ranked? No problem. Remove that from the matrix above and re-rank them.

Hopefully you’ll find this Head-To-Head useful when considering purchasing a larger cordless power cutter, or comparing them to gas models.

Please take some time and check out our other head-to-Head tests at ToolBoxBuzz.com.

Thanks, “the TBBCrew.”

Best Cordless 14″ Cut-Off Saw (Concrete Cutter) | Video Review

Best Cordless 14″ Cut-Off Saw (Concrete Cutter) | Head-To-Head is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Best Battery-Powered Top Handle Chainsaw Testing

This Head-2-Head will take a look at the best battery top-handle chainsaw for 2023.  Battery technology has evolved to become arguably the king of outdoor power equipment. But does it measure up to what dedicated Pros need? In 2020 the ToolBoxBuzz crew hosted our first Best Cordless Chainsaw Head-2-Head where we evaluated twelve traditional rear handle saws. During that testing it was clear that a battery saw was an excellent option for a homeowner or DIYer, but not for full-time use in the forestry and tree care industry.

Fast forward to 2023 and the battery tool industry has continued to evolve. Additionally, the pro arborist and landscaping trades have seen an increased demand for pro-grade battery offerings. Many communities and even some states, like California, are moving to ban gas-powered OPE altogether. Bearing all this in mind, the TBB Crew set out to find out who makes the best battery top-handle chainsaw.

Top-handle chainsaws are often commonly referred to as climbing saws or bucket saws. They are designed for in-tree use by trained climbers or when working from a bucket truck in the air. These environments require the user to make cuts at adverse angles or from overhead or unsupported positions. They are often hung from the belt harnesses worn by arborists when climbing trees for takedown work. These unique demands require a saw to be compact and robust and move the handle location to the top of the saw to scale down the overall length.

Pro User Feedback

Scott Angelovic of Angelovic Tree Service, LLC.

Pro-user feedback is something we pride ourselves on at ToolBoxBuzz. In order to ensure that our testing protocols catered to tree care pros, we enlisted some local help. Our tests were conducted in Oxford, Connecticut by crew member Wes Bartosik. Additionally, Wes reached out to his friend Scott Angelovic of Angelovic Tree Sevice LLC. Scott is a long-time friend of Wes and a local business owner. Scott provided invaluable feedback on how each of our saws stacked up for pro use.

Jake Pollak better known as @DudeRanchDIY

ToolBoxBuzz was also fortunate enough to work with Jake Pollak of @DudeRanchDIY  for the first time on this project. Jake is an arborist by trade but also sells firewood and operates his own Youtube channel showcasing his firewood operation and equipment as well as arborist and chainsaw-related content. Jake is another Connecticut native and was able to provide us with some excellent feedback on the saws. Check out Jake’s YouTube, Facebook, and Instagram accounts where he cross-posted a lot of the content we worked on together.

Testing Criteria

In order to keep the sample pool as consistent as possible, we developed a set of selection criteria. First and foremost, the saw must be a purpose-built arborist saw designed for professional tree work. There are several saws on the market that happen to have a handle on top but are not tailored to professionals in any other way. Next, we limited the bar length to between 12″and 14″. Some models that were sent by manufacturers had their OEM bars swapped out to the proper length for testing. While we could not narrow down the pitch or gauge any further amongst samples, the bar lengths were kept consistent. Finally, we limited the battery pack Ah size to the kitted offerings from each manufacturer. Some of our manufacturers offer their saws as an a la carte system with multiple chargers and battery offerings (such as Husqvarna and Stihl). For these manufacturers, we selected the recommended battery offering for the tool.

The above-mentioned criteria provided us with a sample size of eight saws from six manufacturers. Makita and Stihl both had two models included in the testing. Makita with their legacy 36V 18V LXT X2 saw as well as the new 40V Max XGT and Stihl with their legacy pruning saw as well as their newest offering.

Saw Lineup

Echo

• Model: DCS-2500T
• Bare Tool Weight: 3.84 Lbs.
• Battery Platform: 56V eFORCE
• Battery Tested: 2.5 Ah
• Manual Adjustable Oiler
• Bar Length: 12″
• Chain Pitch: 3/8″ Low Profile
• Chain Gauge:  0.050″
• Tool Warranty: 5 Year Consumer / 2 Year Commercial
• Battery Warranty: 2 Year Consumer / 2 Year Commercial

Greenworks Commercial

• Model: 48TH12
• Bare Tool Weight: 6.10 Lbs.
• Battery Platform: 48V DualVolt
• Battery Tested: 4.0 Ah
• Automatic Oiler
• Bar Length: 12″
• Chain Pitch: 3/8″
• Chain Gauge: 0.050″
• Tool Warranty: 2 Year Limited
• Battery Warranty: 2 Year Limited

Husqvarna

• Model: T540i XP
• Bare Tool Weight: 5.66 Lbs.
• Battery Platform: 40V
• Battery Tested: Bi200X 5.2 Ah
• Manual Adjustable Oiler
• Bar Length: 12″, 14″,16″
• Chain Pitch: 0.325″ Mini
• Chain Gauge: 0.043″
• Tool Warranty: 3 Year Consumer / 2 Year Commercial
• Battery Warranty: 3 Year Consumer / 2 Year Commercial

Makita 36V LXT

• Model: XCU08
• Bare Tool Weight: 6.28 Lbs.
• Battery Platform: (2x) 18V LXT
• Battery Tested: (2X) 5.0 Ah
• Manual Adjustable Oiler
• Bar Length: 14″, 16″
• Chain Pitch: 3/8″ Low Profile
• Chain Gauge: 0.043″
• Tool Warranty: 3 Year Limited
• Battery Warranty: 3 Year Limited

Makita 40V XGT

• Model: GCU03Z
• Bare Tool Weight: 5.74 Lbs.
• Battery Platform: 40V Max XGT
• Battery Tested: 4.0 Ah
• Manual Adjustable Oiler
• Bar Length: 12″, 14″, 16″
• Chain Pitch: 3/8″ Low Profile
• Chain Gauge: 0.043″
• Tool Warranty: 3 Year Limited
• Battery Warranty: 3 Year Limited

Milwaukee M18 FUEL

• Model: 2826-22T
• Bare Tool Weight: 7.30 Lbs.
• Battery Platform: M18 FUEL
• Battery Tested: 8.0 Ah
• Manual Adjustable Oiler
• Bar Length: 12″, 14″
• Chain Pitch: 3/8″ Low Profile
• Chain Gauge: 0.043″
• Tool Warranty: 5 Year Limited
• Battery Warranty: 3 Year Limited

Stihl MSA 161T

• Model: MSA 161T
• Bare Tool Weight: 4.86 Lbs.
• Battery Platform: 36V AP Series
• Battery Tested: AP 300S 7.2 Ah
• Manual Adjustable Oiler
• Bar Length: 12″
• Chain Pitch: 1/4″ PICCO Micro 3
• Chain Gauge: 0.043″
• Tool Warranty: 3 Year Consumer / 2 Year Commercial
• Battery Warranty: 3 Year Consumer / 2 Year Commercial

Stihl MSA 220TC-O

• Model: MSA 220TC-O
• Bare Tool Weight: 6.10 Lbs.
• Battery Platform: 36V AP Series
• Battery Tested: AP 500S 9.4 Ah
• Manual Adjustable Oiler
• Bar Length: 14″
• Chain Pitch: 3/8″ PICCO
• Chain Gauge: 0.050″
• Tool Warranty: 2 Year Commercial Only
• Battery Warranty: 3 Year Consumer / 2 Year Commercial

Testing Criteria

Our saws were evaluated and ranked based on the following categories;

• Ability to Stall Out
• Small Diameter Speed Cut Testing
• Large Diameter Speed Cut Testing
• Weight
• Decibel Output
• Price
• Features
• Ergonomics

Based upon this information we named a best overall winner as well as a best value winner.

Safety Considerations

Chainsaws are an inherently dangerous tool by design. According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were 28,859 chainsaw-related accidents in 2020. The majority of those accidents (11,630) were to users’ legs. Bearing this in mind proper safety gear was mandatory for our testing crew. Each test cutter was required to wear safety toe boots, leg protection, as well as eye protection.

The ToolBoxBuzz crew strongly recommends any user interested in purchasing or working with a chainsaw invest in some quality protective gear. It is a simple initial investment that can save your life.

Ability to Stall Out

Before beginning our performance testing, we wanted to measure the ability of the user to stall out the saw during a cut. Traditionally a pro-grade gas saw can be “leaned into” when cutting to push through tough material, pinching forces of the wood,  or overcome a slightly dull chain. Battery-powered saws are far more temperamental and less forgiving of the user levering them during use. Many manufacturers include overload protections in their battery tools to shut the saw down if the motor or the battery is being overworked. While this is a great idea in theory to protect the tool, it can be problematic for pros in the field.

An arborist may be suspended in the air making an intricate hinge cut on a limb. At that moment, the user needs the saw to be able to power through and not bog down or stall out completely and need to be reset. Based upon this we set up a testing rig using a section of maple log. The test cutter was then instructed to make a crosscut while burying the saw to the nose and leaning into the cut. The test cutter was also instructed to apply the same amount of force each time in order to cause the saws to stall out.

The Two best performers in this test were the Milwaukee and the Stihl MSA220TC. Our test cutter described both as “Beastly” and was unable to stall them out in the test log. Both saws provided outstanding consistent power throughout the cut. In second place was the Greenworks saw, which slowed during the test but continued cutting while being pushed through the cut. All three of these saws demonstrated an excellent low-end torque band that is ideal for demanding cutting tasks.

The Husqvarna and smaller Stihl MSA161T were our next best performers, stalling out only once the bar was at a depth consistent with the full width of the bar. Both Makita saws stalled out once the saw bar reached approximately half the width of the bar into the cut. Once this occurred, both saws had to be lifted up and then re-engaged to begin cutting again. The Makita XGT then stalled a second time before completing the cut. It seemed to our test crew that the Makitas were stalling in order to preserve the electronics, but this additional stop/start represents wasted time and productivity for professional users.

The Echo struggled the most in this test. The saw stopped multiple times and struggled to perform when being leaned on by our cutter. The Echo is also the smallest saw we tested and appears to be ideally suited for cutting smaller-diameter limbs or pruning work. Our test crew all agreed that the saws with larger full-size chains were preferable for commercial work and that reset buttons belong in video games and not on chainsaws.

Speed Cut Testing

In order to determine our fastest cutter amongst the sample group, we designed two speed-cutting tests. The first was a smaller diameter cut to simulate a limbing or pruning job and the second was a larger diameter cut to simulate a full takedown job. For both tests, we used a green hardwood log from a tree species native to New England. We focused on green wood with this H2H in order to simulate the conditions that pros would encounter in the field. To keep it as green as possible, we dropped some trees on the day of testing!

Scott using a Stihl MS400 to drop our test log tree.

Both tests were performed on sugar maple logs. Maple was selected as a medium-grade hardwood to offer a compromise between some harder species like oak which is plentiful in the Northeast and some of the pine species that are common on the West Coast. The Janka scale, which is the industry standard for hardness, lists sugar maple at approximately 1,450 Lb./Ft. The smaller diameter piece had an average measured diameter of 4.87″ and the larger diameter piece averaged at 7.75″.

Moving our test log into position with a Vermeer mini-skid machine with a hydraulic grapple.

The test cut pieces were strapped securely to a log stand and the same test cutter performed the cuts with all eight saws. The instructions for the crew member were to guide the saw through the cut without leaning into it and allow gravity and the weight of the saw to do the work. For the smaller diameter test (T1), the cutter performed a down, up, and down cut to make a total of three cookies. The larger diameter test (T2) was limited to a down and up only in order to prevent stall out or thermal overload. This was the first test performed; all eight saws had fresh factory sharp chains.

Small Diameter Speed Cut T1

The winner of T1 was the Stihl MSA220 at 8.47 seconds, finishing almost three seconds faster than the runner-up. Milwaukee came in second at 11.10 seconds and Husqvarna in third at 11.56 seconds. The slowest cutter for T1 was the Echo at 23.35 seconds.

Larger Diameter Speed Cut T2

The Makita XGT saw powering through our larger diameter speed cut test.

The winner of T2 was the Stihl MSA 220 at 10.97 seconds. T2 showed the Makita XGT rising to second place at 11.59 seconds and Husqvarna beating out Milwaukee for the number three spot by 0.01 seconds. The slowest cutter for T2 was the Echo again at 39.29 seconds.

The Stihl was absolutely unstoppable. The saw’s heavier weight and powerful battery system allowed the saw to rip through both tests. This test also demonstrated the capabilities of the new Makita XGT platform compared to the legacy Makita 36V saw. The XGT platform provided constant speed and power throughout the trial.

The Echo was the smallest saw we tested and lagged behind in both tests by a substantial margin.

Weight

Weight is a huge factor to consider when selecting a top-handle saw. By design, these tools are meant to be used at adverse angles and uncomfortable positions. A tree care pro may use one of these saws at shoulder height or above for hours at a time. Therefore in order to paint the complete picture of what each of these saws weighs, we took two measurements.

The first was the bare power-head weight. We weighed each saw with an empty bar oil reservoir and removed the bar and battery. Then we attached the bar and chain, filled the oil reservoir, and inserted a battery. We ranked the tools based on the fully assembled weight but thought that the bare powerhead weight and subsequent increase in weight was a good data point to collect.

The lightest assembled saw was the Echo at 7.46 Lbs. Second place went to the Stihl MSA161T at 9.84 Lbs. and third place to Husqvarna at 10.16 Lbs. The heaviest assembled saw was the Stihl MSA220TC at 12.38 Lbs.

The Echo is an incredibly light saw in the hand at under four pounds as a powerhead. Even fully assembled the Echo is almost as light as the Milwaukee powerhead. On the opposite end of the spectrum, the Stihl MSA2210TC powerhead is about one pound heavier than its gas counterpart the MS201T.

Decibel Output

The level of received noise at the ear is a concern for the longevity of all professionals. According to OSHA standards, any exposure for eight hours of 85 decibels or higher requires hearing protection. In order to measure the noise output of each saw, we placed them on a jig with a decibel meter placed in a designated location to measure noise output. We then ran each saw for ten seconds at full speed, while not under load, and recorded the decibel range.

The quietest saw was the Stihl MSA161T at 80.8 decibels. This was the only saw that was under the 85-decibel threshold as well. Second place was Milwaukee at 91.3 decibels and third place went to Husqvarna at 92.4 decibels. The loudest saw tested was the Makita XGT at 100.9 decibels.

An interesting field note from our pro-user testers was that decibel ratings were really not a concern to them. They all wear helmets with built-in hearing protection and radio capabilities for communicating with their ground guys. However, the lower decibel output of all of our battery saws, compared to their gas counterparts, can be beneficial when working in areas with noise-based work hour restrictions, such as residential neighborhoods.

Price

For this H2H we chose to rank the tools based on a kit price. While carpenters, plumbers, and electricians, are likely loyal to a battery platform and heavily invested, the same cannot be said of most tree care pros. A tree care pro is likely buying a battery top handle saw for the first time and has no other tool that runs on that platform. Therefore we chose to select a kit option for the price ranking that includes the battery we used during testing.

The winner of the price rankings is a tie between Greenworks Commercial and Milwaukee. As of July of 2023, both companies are offering a kit with battery and charger for $499.99. In second place is Echo at $549.99 and third place is the Makita 36V at $579.00. Our most expensive saws are the Husqvarna at $1,049.00 and Stihl MSA220TC at $1,169.97 as kits.

While price is important to all users, we chose to not include it when determining our final rankings.

Features

Our entire saw lineup featured outstanding professional-grade features. For instance, all eight saws included manual chain tension adjustment systems. This traditional, tooled, style of adjustment is our preferred method due to its robustness. In order to determine which saw had the best set of features, we outlined nine total evaluation criteria. We then ranked each saw’s feature on a scale of one to three, with three being the best. The saw’s total overall score was used to determine rank. Our evaluation criteria are as follows;

1. Felling Spikes
2. Chain Brake Contour/Response
3. Lanyard Ring(s)
4. Electronic Chain Brake
5. Automatic Oiler
6. Manual Chain Tensioner
7. Additional Modes
8. Standout Features
9. Safety Auto Shut-Off

The saw with the best features is the Milwaukee. The M18 saw has outstanding aggressive felling spikes as well as a large manual chain brake lever that is responsive and has a very positive click action. The steel lanyard ring is in a great position and locks in the open position. It has a very responsive electric chain brake and the chain tensioner features an extra bar stud to lock the mechanism in securely. Our crew agreed that an automatic oiler system is their preferred option, but Milwaukee’s manual adjusting oiler performed well in the highest output setting. The Milwaukee is also the only saw with an onboard saw wrench or “scrench”. While not an absolutely mandatory feature, it is a nice bonus.

Second place went to the Stihl MSA22oTC-O, which has an outstanding billet of professional-grade features. In fact, the “O” designation in the Stihl’s name refers to their electronic bar oil monitoring system. The saw will monitor the flow of bar oil via an internal laser. The system also monitors for dirt and contaminants. When the oil is low or full of debris, a light will activate on the saw’s main control panel to alert the user. This feature was unlike anything our testing crew had seen before.

Where Milwaukee excelled over the Stihl to our crew was with the different safety auto shut-off systems. The Stihl has a push-button activation switch to turn the saw on and off. There is also a warning light to alert the user when the chain brake is turned off as well as a tang safety in the top of the grip that must be depressed. Once the user releases that tang safety, with the chain brake off, the saw shuts off in about five seconds. This was a real annoyance to our crew during testing and our pro users agreed that this was too fast. Conversely, the Milwaukee uses a spring-loaded tang safety in the grip with no additional on/off switches. It is intuitive to use and ruggedly simple. Our pro-user crew agreed that Milwaukee’s system would be more user-friendly and productive for them.

Third place resulted in a tie between the Echo and Husqvarna saws. The Echo is an extremely lean-built saw and doesn’t have many extra bells and whistles. It lost points due to the shorter felling spikes but has a simple and excellent push-button activation switch. The Husqvarna features an excellent digital battery display at the activation switch to show power consumption in real time as well as an Eco mode for battery conservation. However, the Husqvarna chain tensioning mechanism makes it difficult to get seated properly when removing the clutch cover and changing bars and chains. Twice the Husqvarna saw chain completely slacked out during our test cutting. We experienced the same issues in our 2020 Head-2-Head testing.

Rounding out the category, the Makita 36V saw has an impressive feature set, including a high-performance “Turbo” cutting mode. But the mode is difficult to switch back and forth from. The Makita XGT lacks some of the additional features of the legacy 36V saw, but both offerings have excellent felling spikes and chain brake designs. The Greenworks Commercial and Stihl MSA-161T had very basic features compared to the rest of the test sample. The Greenworks saw lost points due to having rounded felling spikes that did not grab into our cutting materials during testing as well as a confusing power activation button.

Ergonomics

Ergonomics is one of our most subjective categories, but is one of our favorite and most discussed evaluations. If a tool is not comfortable or works against the user in any way, it is almost worthless. Similar to our Features section, we chose a total of six evaluation criteria to rank our battery top-handle chainsaws. The ergonomics of a top-handle saw are critical to a pro user in the field when working in the air, wearing gloves, or working in inclement weather. That is why we selected the following categories for evaluation;

1. Grip Comfort
2. Grip Contour
3. Forward Handlebar Angle
4. Bar Oil Fillcaps
5. Weight and Balance
6. Ease of Battery Change

The winner of this section is a three-way tie between Echo, Makita XGT, and the Stihl MSA-220TC. All three saws featured well-contoured and comfortable grips. The texture on all of them is excellent and all of the controls are easy to reach with one hand. The forward handlebars are also out of the way but easy to reach with an off-hand. Weight and balance were interesting with these models because they represent the best of our small, medium, and large offerings. The Echo is lighter and more compact, but both the Makita XGT and Stihl are compact in their overall design with no wasted space.

Although all three saws received the same overall score, the Echo had the best and most comfortable grip of the three as well as the nicest bar oil reservoir caps. However, the Makita XGT and Stihl have superior battery-changing mechanisms. The Stihl is the easiest to change batteries thanks to the battery being spring-loaded and inserted from the top of the saw.

Husqvarna took second place in ergonomics for battery top-handle chainsaws with excellent weight and balance as well as very comfortable grip material and handlebar angles. The criticisms of the Husqvarna were that the chain brake lever is too close and can be cramped on the user’s hands. Additionally, the sliding tang safety on the top of the grip was awkward to all of our test cutters. The Milwaukee came in third place with excellent grip materials as well as the most room for your hands of all of the saws test. The Milwaukee is a very big saw though. It sacrificed compact size for more room and feels bulky compared to most of the other saws. The side handlebar of the Milwaukee also bows out further than any other saw and gives it a Beachcomber bicycle feel.

Finally the Makita 36V saw was bulky and more off-balance than its counterparts due to the two-battery system. While they are easy to change, managing two batteries was not something our test crew viewed as desirable. The triple manual grip safeties of the Stihl MSA-161T were our least favorite and seemed almost impossible to use, safely, for lefties. The Greenworks saw felt off-balance and the controls were cramped and on top of each other.

Best Value Battery Top-Handle Chainsaw

One of our favorite categories to name is the Best Value, especially when we are talking about a battery top-handle chainsaw. These are expensive tools and present pro-users with a large financial investment. So which saw gives the best performance while still remaining reasonably priced? It is hands down the Milwaukee M18 Fuel.

The Milwaukee battery top-handle chainsaw finished in the top three of every category except for weight. Additionally, it achieved a first-place finish in the features category while tying for first place in the Stall Out test. Furthermore, Milwaukee also tied the Greenworks saw as our most affordable saw tested.

Overall Best Battery Top-Handle Chainsaw

At the completion of our testing, all of the data we gathered on the saws was compiled. When then used this to create rank structures for every category and finally used those ranks to create an overall final rank structure. The saw with the lowest number of points in this final ranking structure was our overall winner.

With a final overall score of nineteen points, our best battery top-handle chainsaw is the Milwaukee M18 Fuel. The Milwaukee is ergonomic and powerful with well-thought-out features. The safety system on the M18 saw was also one of the most preferred designs by our test crew due to its simplicity and similarity to their traditional gas-powered saws. The Milwaukee is a large saw though and is heavy. Because of that, our pro users weren’t sure if it would be suitable for full-time climbing work. The fact that the Milwaukee battery platform is so widespread and commercially available is a nice bonus but was not a determining factor for our tree care pros.

Second place was a tie between the Stihl MSA-22TCO and the Husqvarna. The two biggest names in the chainsaw world and both companies make an incredible battery-powered top-handle chainsaw. The Husqvarna has been on the market for several years now and has remained mostly unchanged. After testing it we realized that this is because Husqvarna got it right with the first generation. It is a fast, light, powerful, and nimble saw. The Stihl is brand new to the market and focuses more on raw power. We described the saw as “Beastly” earlier and that really is the best word for it. The Stihl is hands-down our top choice for demanding take-down work. Our test crew all greed that the Husqvarna and Stihl would be their top choices as tree care professionals and likely the only choices that would earn a coveted spot in their tree trucks due to the commercial warranties, dealer support networks, and overall reputation of both brands in the industry.

Third place went to the Stihl MSA-161T which shares many of the same perks as its younger, but bigger, brother. However, the MSA-161T has a proprietary bar design and uncommon chain size that make it less desirable. Stihl also does not do online sales, even for parts, making it more difficult to source these bars and chains.

All smiles!

The Makita XGT took fourth place overall. Showing that it is a product-improved version of the legacy Makita 36V saw. The improved battery technology and electronics of the XGT platform make for a saw that is really enjoyable to cut with. The legacy Makita and Echo tied for fifth place. The Echo struggled in our performance cutting tests but was a crew favorite thanks to its lightweight, great ergonomics, and professional-grade features. For smaller-diameter cutting tasks, the Echo is definitely worth a look. The Greenworks Commercial came in sixth place overall. While powerful, our crew agreed that it lacked some of the features and ergonomics they want in a saw.

Final Thoughts

Overall our test crew was impressed by the evolution and capabilities of all of the battery top-handle chainsaws tested. The saws discussed above are true professional-grade tools and are capable of performing a variety of tasks common with the Arborist and tree care industries. We would strongly encourage any user out there considering a battery-powered option to give it a chance. The ease of battery-powered electric motors versus traditional gas-powered engines is well discussed and documented. They make for an exceptional user experience and will only get better with time.

If you are interested in purchasing any of the saws mentioned in this article, please check out our Buy Now links listed below. These links will bring you to some of our preferred industry partners such as ACME Tools. Additionally, you can find Echo, Husqvarna, and Stihl battery-powered OPE at your local outdoor power equipment dealerships.

Best Battery Top Handle Chainsaw Head-To-Head Video

Best Top Handle Chainsaw | Head-to-Head | 2023 is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Best Cordless Blower | Head-To-Head

What would the perfect cordless leaf blower be? Wait…can we even call them leaf blowers? I certainly don’t use mine for leaves, I use them to blow sawdust on my job sites, my tools, out of my van and tool shed, or to clean off my patio and porch. They’re just blowers!

Comparing 15 Blowers

Fifteen manufacturers sent us their best handheld cordless blower. The majority of these blowers can be found in kit configuration and are sold at most common and online retailers. In past testings, we’ve received comments that we should include Harbor freight tools, so in this head-to-head test, we’re happy to welcome Harbor Freight’s Atlas blower to this test.

ATLAS

Model – 56994
Voltage – 80V
Battery Watt Hour – 288 Wh
Max Air Speed (MPH) – 150
CFM’s – 605 CFM’s
Length – 35-⅜”
Weight – 4lbs, 6oz
Price – 274.99 (when added kit components)

CRAFTSMAN

Model – CMCBL730P1
Voltage – 20V
Battery Watt Hour – 100 Wh
Max Air Speed (MPH) – 110
CFM’s – 410 CFM’s
Length – 33-½”
Weight – 5lbs, 7oz
Price – $149.00

DEWALT

Model – DCBL772X1
Voltage – 60V
Battery Watt Hour – 180 Wh
Max Air Speed (MPH) – 125
CFM’s – 600 CFM
Length – 36-¾”
Weight – 6lbs, 2oz
Price – $299.00

ECHO

Model – DPB-2500
Voltage – 56V
Battery Watt Hour – 252 Wh
Max Air Speed (MPH) – 158
CFM’s – 549 CFM’s
Length – 36-¼”
Weight – 5lbs, 6oz
Price – $199.99

EGO

Model – LB7654
Voltage 56V
Battery Watt Hour – 280 Wh
Max Air Speed (MPH) – 200
CFM’s – 765 CFM’s
Length – 36-½
Weight – 4lbs, 11oz
Price – $329.00

GREENWORKS

Model – BLB489
Voltage: 80V
Battery Watt Hour – 180 Wh
Max Air Speed (MPH) – 170
CFM’s – 730 CFM’s
Length – 37-1/8
Weight – 5lbs, 8ozs
Price – $342.99

HART

Model – HLB07VNM
Voltage: 40V
Battery Watt Hour – 180 Wh
Max Air Speed (MPH) – 155
CFM’s – 600 CFMs
Length – 37-⅜”
Weight – 6lbs, 12ozs
Price – $138.00

KOBALT

Model – KLB 1040A-03
Voltage 40V
Battery Watt Hour – 160 Wh
Max Air Speed (MPH) – 120
CFM’s – 520 CFM’s
Length -33-¾”
Weight – 5lbs, 4ozs
Price – $169.00

MAKITA

Model – GBU01M1
Voltage 40V
Battery Watt Hour – 160 Wh
Max Air Speed (MPH) – 143
CFM’s – 565 CFM’s
Length – 33-1/2″, 35-1/2″, 37-1/2″ (ADJUSTABLE)
Weight – 5lbs, 5ozs
Price – $439.00

MILWAUKEE

Model – 2824-20
Voltage 18V
Battery Combined Watt Hour – 288 Wh
Max Air Speed (MPH) – 145
CFM’s – 600 CFM
Length – 37-⅜”
Weight – 6lbs, 1oz
Price – $707.00 (not kit)

RIDGID

Model – R01601K
Voltage – 18V
Max Air Speed (MPH) – 130
Battery Watt Hour – 288 Wh
CFM’s – 510 CFM’s
Noise dB – 83.1
Length – 34-¼”
Weight – 5lbs, 7ozs
Price – $241.53

RYOBI

Model – RY404100
Voltage – 40V
Max Air Speed (MPH) – 190
CFM’s – 730 CFM’s
*Battery Watt Hour – 144 Wh
Noise dB – 84.6
Length – 37-⅞”
Weight – 6lbs, 4ozs
Price – $269.00
*Wh based on one battery

SKIL

Model – BL4713-c-11
Voltage 40V
Battery Watt Hour – 100 Wh
Max Air Speed (MPH) – 193
CFM’s – 500 CFM’s
Length – 36”
Weight – 4lbs, 3ozs
Price – $159.00

STIHL

Model – BGA 86
Voltage: 36V
Max Air Speed (MPH) – 154
Battery Watt Hour – 337 Wh
CFM’s – 459 CFMs
Length – 38-½” (ADJUSTABLE)
Weight – 6lbs, 5ozs
Price – $839.97 (not kit)

TORO

Model – 51822
Voltage – 60v
Battery Watt Hour – 216 Wh
Max Air Speed (MPH) – 157
CFM’s – 605 CFMs
Length – 37-½”
Weight – 5lbs, 8oz
Price – $290.03

Cordless Blower Testing | 7 Criteria

Our goal was NOT to verify marketing claims, instead, we used ANSI testing standards as a guide, to create consistent, repeatable, and measurable data that you can make intelligent decisions on.

Our team scored the blowers on seven criteria, each ranked independently, and the “Overall Best Cordless Blower” was determined using the combined test results.

We include but did not rank price and best value categories, but list them here for your own informational purposes.

7 Scoring Criteria

1. Pitot Tube Run-time Testing – Directly measure air speed with a pitot tube and calculate MPH and CFM during a runtime performance test
2. Weighted Sled Test – tested the thrust performance with a sled rig on rails.
3. Ergonomics and Features – Ergonomics is really important to users and an important category to consider when purchasing any power tool.
4. Balance – Measured the balance and resulting rotation in the off and full throttle states.
5. Noise -Measured Decibels at full throttle
6. Best Value – Not ranked.
7. Price – The kit price at the time of publishing. Not ranked.

Anemometer | Pitot Tube Air Test

I’ll be honest, I had to ask Jeff what a Pitot tube was. Jeff, also a helicopter pilot, explained that a pitot tube probe measures the pressure difference of an air stream and can calculate fluid flow velocity. The Pitot Tube was invented by a French engineer, Henri Pitot, in the early 18th century.

Pitot tubes are widely used to determine the airspeed of aircraft, the water speed of boats, and the flow velocity of liquids, air, and gasses in various industries.

When manufacturers test their blowers to come up with the MPH and CFM values they follow an American National Standard (ANSI) procedure to measure the force or thrust. This is effectively an electronic scale that measures the force in Newton’s 5 inches from the blower nozzle.

Using fluid dynamics theory and measured environmental parameters like temperature, pressure, and humidity, the average and peak MPH and CFM values can be calculated.

We replicated this ANSI procedure to validate the measured MPH values gathered from our pitot tube instrument. Both measurements aligned. Here’s a summary of that procedure:

1. We used a 13.8 in ± aluminum plate as a force plate for our electronic scale.
2. We vertically mounted and centered the blowers in our rig and off the force plate 5”.
3. The blower was operated for 10 seconds, and the result was recorded.
4. Three tests were performed for an average measurement.
5. Barometric pressure, temperature, and humidity were recorded
6. Used ANSI blower performance equations to calculate theoretical peak and average blower speed

Anemometer and Pitot Tube | Testing

The Pitot Tube was set up 5 inches from each blower in the center of the air stream. Batteries were fully charged and measurements were taken at full throttle. The data was collected at 1 Hz sample rate or once per second until the battery was drained.

An ExTech HD350 Pitot Tube Anemometer was used to perform this test. The chart below shows data for all 15 blowers.

Using this data we were able to determine and calculate 4 important metrics for each blower, ranked them separately, and also combined them for an “Airflow Performance” winner.

1. Run-time in minutes
2. Average Speed
3. Average CFM
4. Total air moved

Run-time | Sustained Performance Winner | Stihl

You can see from the chart that the Stihl ran the longest, at 25.4 minutes. Second place was ECHO with 19.4 minutes, followed in third place by Milwaukee at 16.7 minutes.

This is a good time to talk about open and closed-loop battery control and how it relates to sustained performance. One of the biggest complaints with cordless blowers is their poor run-time and tendency to suffer a drop in sustained performance over time, as the battery discharges.

Three blowers Makita, Milwaukee, and Stihl all have closed-loop control on the battery output enabling them to run at a consistent [not peak] speed, for the life of the battery. While these blower batteries may have more power that could be drawn from them, these closed loop controls limit the output so an expected level of sustained performance can be delivered over a longer period of time. This is a feature that appeals to Pro users.

In contrast, most of the blowers, we tested, showed open-loop control.  Their peak performance was delivered within the first few moments of battery discharge, and then a variable level of declining performance results, as the battery discharges.  For example, the Ryobi blower showed a 22% drop in performance when comparing a fully charged battery to one that is half “empty”.

The three closed-loop control blowers we tested, all handle the dwindling voltage of their batteries a bit differently:

• Makita ran at a consistent speed until it quit.
• Milwaukee ran at a consistent speed for over 90% of the battery life before rapidly fading.
• Stihl ran consistently for over 80% and then when the voltage began to drop, it forced a reduction to 75% peak power to continue on for an additional 5 minutes.

As pro tool users, we feel that having a blowers power stay consistent, and maintain its performance over the entire battery charge is really important.

Average Speed Winner | Stihl

Speed is measured in miles per hour and measures air velocity, or more specifically, the rate at which air passes through the blower’s nozzle.

A higher mph rating, results in the ability to push more dense or sticky debris like gravel or wet leaves. One interesting fact is that many tool companies market their blower’s performances by their PEAK measurement. We used average recordings to give you the MOST realistic and honest measurement.

The Stihl performed the best with an average speed of 124.5 mph. Second place was Milwaukee at 119.8 mph and closely followed in third place was Makita at 119.5 mph.

Note – The chart shows the EGO with the highest initial peak speed, but its average performance over time dropped, resulting in a fourth placement.

CFM Winner | EGO

Cubic feet per minute or CFM was calculated by taking the measured speed data and combining it with the area of the nozzle opening, to calculate the volume of air moved per minute.

The EGO came in first with 659 CFM. Second place was Makita with 643 CFM, and third was HART with 628 CFM.

The higher the CFM value, the more air your blower produces, resulting in a wider area cleaned in a shorter time.

Total Air Moved Winner | Stihl

The winner of this category is a combination of run-time and average CFM. This is an indication of the total amount of work performed on a battery charge.

The Stihl performed the best, coming in at 11,550 cubic feet, followed by ECHO with 11,126 cubic feet. Third place was Milwaukee with 10,032 cubic feet.

Overall Airflow Performance Winner | Milwaukee

It’s important to note that two of the above categories are power performance values, and the other two are indications of battery size and runtime. In order to level the playing field between tortoises and hares we combined all four categories to see how the blowers performed in totality.

The winner was Milwaukee, followed closely by EGO and Stihl.

Weighted Sled Test | Power Test Winner | EGO

Who doesn’t like a strong-man contest?  We’ve touched on the importance of MPH and CFM, but the importance of where these two values intersect is the overall “force or thrust” that a blower can produce.

Manufacturers measure this force in Newtons in their development and testing. We developed a test rig to indirectly measure thrust and provide a good visual understanding.

We built a weighted sled that rides on low-friction wheels attached to inclined rails.

Sled Procedure

Prior to each blower test the rails and wheels were cleaned and lubricated with silicone. To perform this test we placed each blower’s tube onto a v-shaped rest, mounted to the sled. We placed the blower body onto a tool rest setting the blower in the same plane as the sled rails. Once set, we ran each blower for a 10-second count and recorded the sled movement on a measuring tape mounted to the sled. Three tests were completed for an average measurement. All blowers were tested with a 5.5 weight placed on the sled rig.

Two blowers maxed this test out, they were the EGO and Ryobi. We then added a second 5.5. lb plate and retested both blowers. The Ryobi was able to move the sled approximately halfway, while the EGO maxed out the rig a second time!

The sled topped out at 70 inches. Our chart below does not account for the additional weighted tests for EGO or Ryobi. EGO was the clear winner, Ryobi was second followed by Harbor Freight’s Atlas blower which was able to move the sled 66 inches.

Blower Nozzle or No Nozzle | What’s Best?

We wanted to see the direct impact of the nozzles on our weighted sled rig. The nozzles are designed to narrow the opening of the chute and increase the speed of air coming out.

Many people don’t realize that manufacturers will often use a nozzle to measure higher peak MPH values and will use the wider chute opening without the nozzle to list their peak CFM number. The same blower, but tested with different configurations.

Most manufacturers supply a nozzle because many users feel it increases performance, and they ask for it. The reality is that adding a nozzle may increase the localized air stream speed, but the added friction and constriction reduce the overall performance.  [E.g Milwaukee reduces from 17.5 to 17 Newtons, but increases from 145 to 155 mph]

Our sled test results showed that adding a nozzle to the blower drastically reduced the blower’s performance on the sled test. For example, the Ryobi which was able to max out the test sled at 70-inches without a nozzle, was only able to achieve 58-inches with a nozzle. Similar results were observed with EGO and Milwaukee nozzles.

Ergonomics and Features Winner | EGO

This category is compiled from the combined opinions of the TBB crew after using the tools. Grip, throttle, battery removal, intake placement, and adjustable chute length were evaluated.

The EGO eked out a win with 10 points, followed closely by Makita and Milwaukee which tied for second place each with 11 points.

Grip

While all blowers had relatively comfortable grips, both the EGO and Milwaukee stood out. They have base stands that can double as a two-handed hold for overhead use or off-balance use.

Throttle | Trigger | Power On

When it came to evaluating the blower’s throttle, the TBB crew favored blowers with a single point of activation. Unfortunately, most blowers employ a boost button, which we feel is an unnecessary hassle and a marketing gimmick.  Some of the blowers, like the Craftsman, have boost features that can be locked on – we preferred that to having to hold the button down. Pro users definitely do not want to have to engage a second button.

The Milwaukee throttle stood out with ambidextrous use and had a very responsive throttle control and no boost button.

Lastly, some blowers have a power-on switch, or safety feature, in order to power on the trigger. Most of the crew found these features frustrating.

Battery Insertion and Removal

When considering the battery removal and installation, the crew really liked those blowers, like the Kobalt, that offer a spring-loaded ejection.

Milwaukee lost points in this category by being the only blower to employ dual batteries.

Adjustable Chutes

Makita, along with Stihl offers an adjustable chute, with several configurations. We felt this may appeal to users who might want to adjust their blower chute to their height.

Air Intake Location

Intakes were also evaluated. The team favored rear-mounted over side-mounted intakes due to side-mounted intakes sucking in the user’s pant legs when held close to the body.

Balance and Rotational Force Winner | ECHO

Too much rotational force can result in a blower that you’re constantly fighting to control, or worse results in a wrist injury like tendonitis. Wrist tendonitis is frequently caused by activities requiring sideways motion of the wrist while gripping. Activities such as using a blower in a side to side motion can lead to Dequervain’s tendonitis.

Rotational Force Rig

We built a rig to hold each blower’s handle to simulate a neutral grip position. The rig allowed the blower to rotate freely on this axis.

We used some image analysis to capture the angle of the blower chute relative to the horizon. The angle at rest with the blower powered off was measured, followed by the blower in the full throttle state.

We considered two values to be the most important when analyzing this data and used their individual rankings to determine the blower with the best balance.

1. Angle under load
2. Difference between no-load and full load

The first was the angle under load relative to the horizon. We found the most strain on the wrist was felt when the blower wanted to pitch down directly at the ground, forcing the user to pull the blower back up to a useful working angle.

The blowers we tested pitched down between a comfortable 40 degrees, to a very uncomfortable near vertical 89 degrees.

The second value we considered important was the change or Delta between the blower at rest and under load. A well-balanced blower should have minimal change in pitch when the throttle is activated. A bower that swings a large amount is likely to be harder to control. The smallest delta observed was 15 degrees and the highest was 57 degrees.

The ECHO took the best Balance category. The Echo had a no-load balance of 19 degrees and deflected to 40 degrees down under full throttle. This comfortable 40 degrees nose-down attitude coupled with the relatively small change of just 19 degrees scored it top marks.

Craftsman came in second with a  no-load measurement of 31 degrees and a full load of 46 degrees. Stihl followed in third place with 19 and 41 degrees.

Cordless Blower Noise Winner | Stihl

OSHA sets legal limits on noise exposure based on a worker’s 8-hour work day. For noise, OSHA’s permissible exposure limit is 90 dB.

To measure relative decibels mounted the blowers. back into our rotational rig, and mounted a decibel meter 24” away from the blower to simulate the distance between a user’s ear and wrist. Three readings were captured and an average was recorded.

The blower that was the quietest was the Stihl coming in at 81.5 dB. The second quietest was the RIDGID averaging 83.1 dB followed by the RYOBI averaging at 84.2 dB.

The blowers that were the loudest were the DEWALT and ECHO averaging 97.9 db.

Best Price Winner | Hart

When purchasing tools, price is unquestionably a crucial factor, particularly for those of you who are just beginning out in the trades or are DIY/Homeowners just starting out.

We ranked pricing as *kits and with blowers that weren’t sold in kit form, we included a battery(s) and charger to even the playing field.

* Ryobi kit comes with 2 batteries.

At the time of testing, the best-priced blower kit was the Hart coming in at $138.00. The second lowest price was the Craftsman at $149.00 and the third was the Skil at $159.00.

The most expensive blower we tested was the Stihl BGA 86, coming in at $839.97.  The majority of these blowers can be purchased at ACME Tool or your local big box store.

Best Value Blower Winner | Hart

Price and quality will continue to be the top deciding factors for consumers. In today’s economy, consumers are looking for ways to stretch their dollars further, and tool companies need a solution to deliver a well-made, powerful tool at a competitive price, without sacrificing quality.

As we have indicated, we do not include pricing in our overall scoring, but we include it and always suggest our pick for best value.

The Hart was an easy decision for us, it performed exceptionally well in our testing, and is priced the lowest, guaranteeing a seat at the “best value” table. Hart scored in the fourth place in noise, and mid-pack on pretty much all the other categories scored, finishing in 6^th place.

Best Cordless Blower Winner | Milwaukee

Milwaukee 36-volt cordless blower came in first place scoring a total of 20 points. It scored tops in airflow performance, second in features and ergonomics, and fourth in balance.

The Milwaukee operates easily in either user’s hand and has a responsive trigger. Its sturdy base plate doubles as a secondhand grip, and the heads-up battery display is a nice touch. The crew appreciated that there was no boost or turbo button to engage, everything you need comes from the trigger. Milwaukee did suffer in the ergonomic battery scoring category due to the fact that it was the only blower in the lineup with two batteries.  That second battery, while inconvenient, clearly helped push the power and runtime up where it needs to be.

The formidable EGO came in second place with 22 points. EGO scored tops in both ergonomics, features, and the sled thrust test. The EGO was clearly the most powerful of the blowers out of the gate.  The open loop battery control and resulting performance drop over time coupled with the mediocre balance numbers pulled the EGO down from walking away with the top spot.

The EGO is a powerful blower but some users will find that they have to fight to hold it in position, it has a recessed throttle control which the team appreciated. Like Milwaukee, the EGO has a base stand that allows the user to place a two-handed hold for overhead use. Ego also has a nice spring-assisted battery removal feature, which one would not appreciate unless you were testing 15 blowers!

Stihl took third place with 25 points. Stihl took tops in noise and third place in both balance and airflow performance. The Stihl is a robust tool with a nicely designed spring-assist battery removal setup. The team liked that it has an adjustable-length chute, but did not like having to manipulate the awkward safety lever to power it on.

Closing Thoughts

If you’re considering purchasing a blower you should first think about the application, you’re using it for, and then performance. A lot of these blower measurements we shared result in a compromise, so if you want our advice, we feel you should choose a blower that is “stronger for longer.”

Our Head-to-Head tests take time to complete and we are ultimately limited in scope as we’re not a professional testing company. We cannot do long-term testing that would shed light on longevity or durability, and we can’t possibly test every application that you might use a blower for.

We receive a lot of comments about how we arrive at our winner.  We’ve openly shared ALL the data from our tests, and you can rank the tools however you want. In this article, if you hover over the line or column in our graphs, you’ll be able to see the actual values. Hopefully, you’ll find this Head-To-Head useful when comparing compact cordless blowers.

If you have a moment, please check out our other Head-to-Head Tests.

Best Cordless Blower | Head-2-Head Video | 2023

Best Cordless Blower 2023 | Head-To-Head is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Upfitting a work Van With Makita 40V Cordless Tools

I started my carpentry career of with Makita tools – back then the miter saws were called “chop” saws and they were corded. At that time Makita was the go-to company for woodworkers and carpenters. Many of my first tools of the trade were Makita brand. 25+ years later I’m still using Makita.  This past year I added a new work van to my company, and I wanted to stock it with Makita XGT 40 Volt Tools. XGT stands for Next Generation Technology.

Before I show you my XGT tools let’s talk about why I think they’re  a good choice:

Launched in 2019, the XGT was designed to deliver more power, for more demanding applications, without sacrificing run time. They’ve also been able to make the XGT tools as compact as their 18-volt line – compact tools are a must-have for me.

Additionally, I’ve noticed that the 40V tool line has been performing extremely well, top score or top 3, in our ToolBoxBuzz Head-2-Head tests such as the reciprocating saw, impact drivers, track saw, and compact miter saw testing.

To be clear the XGT line is a premium Pro-grade line of power tools, and performs and is priced accordingly. These tools are designed to be used daily and withstand the harsh job site environment that is tough on tools.

Makita XGT 40 Volt Tools In Van

To get my van stocked and be able to work effectively I focused on the following Makita XGT 40 Volt Tools:

• Track saw and track, model GPS01.
• Circular saw, model GSH01
• Planer, model GPK01
• Reciprocating saw, model GRJ02
• Grinder, model GAG13
• 2 Impact drivers, model GDT01
• Hammer drill driver, model GPH01
• Hammer Drill, model GRH07
• Compound miter saw, model GSL02.
• Miter saw stand, model WST06.
• Router, model GTR01

Battery Charging

I permanently installed 1 double, and two single battery chargers to the rear racking in my van. These chargers plug into a commercial-grade power strip and are fed by a shoreline that I plug in at night or on a job site.

I use StealthMount battery clips to store the batteries so I can reach them without entering the am. I have a 40v to 18v converter for charging my 18-volt drywall cutter – a must-have tool in remodeling.

The Makita XGT 40 Volt Tools and batteries come with a built-in program, providing digital communication between the battery and tool while attached to the charger.

The XGT batteries are designed to include impact-absorbing padding and robust outer casing built to a IPX4 level of splashing or spraying water from any angle protection.

I’ve been impressed with the tough XGT construction and water-resistant design. To me that equates a durable and built-to-perform tool platform!

bottSmartvan Racks | Tool Storage System

I feel that tool storage systems and being organized save time and are as important as the tools that are used to get the job done. A lot of contractors don’t consider the time saved from being organized.

I installed a bott Smartvan shelf rack system which is a fully customizable storage system that comes with vehicle-specific mounting brackets. It is designed to be installed as a DIY project and doesn’t require drilling into the vehicle frame.

I have the bott Smartvan racking system in 2 vans now and love it. I’ve enjoyed the flexibility of the system as it allows me to easily switch things around as I determine my workflow in the van.

Growing My Makita XGT 40 Volt Tools

There are 125 Makita XGT 40 Volt tools but they still don’t have everything I need as a carpenter. There’s no table saw yet, multitool, right angle impact or a complete line of finish nailers.

They do have a pin nailer and vacuum, two tools that I don’t have yet. Regarding the vacuum, most of the XGT dust-creating tools I have are Auto-Start Wireless System (AWS) compatible so, once I pick up a vacuum, I can connect and use it with my miter saw, track saw, grinder, and router.

The Auto-Start Wireless System utilizes Bluetooth technology for wireless power-on/off communication between tool and dust extractor. To operate the AWS, you need to add an AWS transmitter in the tool.

After pairing the tool to the vacuum via Bluetooth, the vac turns on and off whenever the saw or tool is turned on. I’ve tested this AWS system several times and am impressed. An AWS-equipped vacuum will be my next purchase.

Final Thoughts

Alright, let’s circle back to my choice for stocking 40V XGT tools in my van. I’ve been a big fan of the Makita LXT 18/36-volt tools.

Jumping from the LXT line to the XGT made sense to me since I was starting from scratch, and I can get the same or better power with just one battery.

Makita also is building out its XGTx2 [80cv] line of tools. This configuration is going after high-output power and gas tools, such as:

• 14” cordless power cutter
• Brushcutter
• Vacuums
• Demo and Rotary Hammers

I’m sure we’ll see Makita use the XGTx2 configuration on any high-output tool that needs extra power and runtime.For me, the XGT line will give me and my business a pro-grade, powerful, full-featured tool with better runtimes.The way I look at it I just upgraded my Chevy to a Mercedes.

Makita XGT Toiols | Van Upfitting Video

Makita XGT 40 Volt Tools is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Makita 40V Max XGT 18″ Chainsaw Review

40V Max XGT 18" Chainsaw

4/5

Manufacturer: Makita
Model number: GCU04Z
Price: $459.00
Power source: 40V Max XGT Battery
Weight: 14.6 Lbs.

In September 2020, ToolBoxBuzz published our first Best Cordless Chainsaw Head-2-Head. Makita’s 36V (18V X2) saw was a crew favorite and a top performer during our testing. The XGT saw builds upon that legacy as a high-performance tool for demanding homeowners and professionals alike.

Makita GCU04Z Specs

• Chain Pitch: 3/8″ Low-Profile (LP)
• Bar Gauge: 0.050″
• Chain Speed: 5,020 FPM
• Bare Tool Weight: 11.7 Lbs.
• Weight W/ 5.0 Ah Battery: 14.6 Lbs.
• Oiler Type: Adjustable
• OEM Bar Type: Fixed Sprocket Nose

Professional Grade Features

Makita’s battery chainsaws have always catered to professional users and the GCU04Z continues this tradition with well-thought-out and replaceable safety features. One of the main differences between a professional and consumer-grade chainsaw is the use of replaceable and user-serviceable components. Sometimes things get broken when working in the field. The ability to easily replace key parts is an absolute plus for demanding users.

The Makita XGT saw features a replaceable aluminum chain catch as well as an easy-to-remove forward handlebar. The sprocket assembly is also easy to access. The felling spikes are single-sided, but made of steel and easy to remove and replace. Although no dual spikes are available from Makita, the aftermarket may take care of this for us.

One of my favorite features of the XGT chainsaw is the two stout bar mount studs and mechanical chain tensioner. The two studs provide a rock-solid mounting platform for the bar. The steel conical chain tensioner is also an improvement from previous Makita saws like the XCU08Z.

Power and Performance

The XGT chainsaw offers powerful performance for a variety of cutting tasks. I criticized its 36v predecessor for bouncing and skipping while cutting due to a high chain speed and less low-end torque. The 40V XGT chainsaw resolves those issues with a superior torque band that bites into wood. The XGT feels like it has far more “grunt”.

The new Makita 40v XGT battery platform is likely the cause for this substantial increase in cutting performance. The XGT batteries offer more available power that is produced more efficiently. The uninterrupted power means that the XGT saw is fully capable of felling smaller trees. That is a task that I ordinarily would prefer not to do with a battery saw because of the safety risks of not having enough power during the cut. I dropped some approximately 10-12 inch diameter trees without issue using the XGT.

The 5.0 Ah XGT battery that is included with the saw provides enough runtime to limb and buck a smaller-diameter tree. The 5.0 Ah will provide excellent run-time for making horizontal cross-cuts for firewood rounds. However, the large battery port is sized to accommodate an 8.0 Ah battery and in my opinion, should be included with this saw. The larger battery pack would increase the run-time and performance capabilities of an already impressive saw.

Overall Impressions

Makita has always impressed me with their saws. Whether it’s a circular, reciprocating, or in this case chainsaw, you can expect a smooth and powerful tool when using a Makita product. The new 40v Max XGT chainsaw upholds this lineage. The GCU04 is powerful and robustly constructed. The XGT batteries offer outstanding power and performance, although an 8.0 Ah would be the best pairing for this saw. A larger heavier battery would be a concern for a top-handle style saw, but not with a traditional rear handle.

Additionally, I would like to see the auto-shutoff feature timed differently. Currently, if the user releases the tang safety on the handle with the chain -brake off, the saw will shut off within five seconds. It will stay on as long as the tang safety is depressed. While this is obviously designed to protect the user, a longer window before the shut-off would make the saw more user-friendly.

The Makita 40V XGT chainsaw is currently available as a bare tool for $459.00. This is a good value for anyone currently on the XGT platform because it is priced lower than other professional arborist brands while still providing comparable power and performance. The kitted option currently retails for $639.00 and is an excellent option for anyone interested in getting on the XGT platform. Follow the Buy Now link below to purchase either the bare tool or the kit from our friends at ACME Tool.

Makita 40V XGT Chainsaw Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Makita 40V 8-1/2″ Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw – Model GSL02Z

Makita 40V XGT Cordless Miter Saw 8 1/2"

5/5

Manufacturer: Makita
Model number: GSL02Z
Price: $749.00
Power source: 40v XGT
Weight: 48.5 LBs

The 40v XGT line of cordless power tools from Makita continues to impress! They provide solutions to totally make your job site cordless with more than 125 tools. The optimum power needed for heavy load applications without compromising run time is accomplished by the XGT technology.

We took this saw through the paces and here is our review!

First Impressions

When I first picked up this saw, I thought, “This saw is a Trim Carpenter’s dream!” It is compact, For all the trimming we do,  I am always looking for ways to be come more efficient and looking to make my daily work easier. This saw helps me achieve this with longer run time and better dust extraction.

Manufacturer’s Specifications

• 4,800 RPM
• 2-3/4″ x 12-1/4″ cutting capacity at 90°
• Miters 0-60° left and right; bevels 0-48° left and right
• L.E.D. light
• Dual dust collection ports a
• Rail-forward design to maximize workspace against a wall and compact storage
• Auto-start Wireless System
• Extension wings for cutting longer material
• Bevel angle lock and release dial at the front of the tool
• Electric brake for maximum productivity

Size Matters

The majority of the time, I’d say about 85-90%, for me that is, there is no need for a larger miter saw than this 8-1/2″. Lessons have been learned that smaller is better, as long as it can get the job done. Larger miter saws take up a ton of room in my truck bed, which does not have a cap on it. That means in the rain, I can not transport the larger saw. The small compact size of this miter saw allows me to transport it inside the truck and keep it out of the elements.

If we are doing interior trim, building a deck, cutting flooring, or cutting anything under a 2×10, I am going for the smaller saw.  The Makita GSL02Z Miter has a single top carry handle making this saw a breeze to carry and set up. The saw is well-balanced and was super easy to carry one-handed.

Motor

The Makita GSL02Z brushless motor spins at 4800 RPMs. For longer tool life, the powerful brushless motor operates cooler and more efficiently. The GSL02Z comes equipped with Automatic Speed Change technology, which adjusts cutting speed and torque under load for optimum performance, as well as a soft start, which reduces start-up reaction for smooth start-ups and increased gear life. This digital communication within XGT actively monitors and protects against overload, over-discharge and overheating. An electric brake safety feature also stops the blade quickly.

Vertical Handle | Controls

In contrast to the typical horizontal handle, the Makita GSL02Z has a vertical operating handle. On top of the handle and the trigger is a push button safety. This handle position, in our opinion, is excellent because it allows for ambidextrous use.

On top of the handle, there are also 2 buttons. One of them is the LED light button and the other is to turn on the AWS-paired dust extractor. The vacuum button allows for the extractor to be started without pulling the trigger. When the trigger is pressed, the extractor will also turn on.

LED Shadow vs Laser

The Makita 8-1/2″ Miter Saw uses an LED light rather than a laser, as we see in an increasing number of saws. Blade diameter may have an impact on lasers and they can frequently wander out of calibration. The work surface is illuminated by the powerful LED light, which also forms a shadow line across and down both sides of the saw blade. This shadow line is bright enough to be seen in most daylight situations.

Cut Capacity | Bevel Settings

The cut capacity for this 8-1/2″ miter saw is similar to the previous 7-1/4″ model.  When cutting at 90° you can cut a depth 2-3/4″ x 12-1/4″. When mitered at a 45° the cut capacity is 2-3/4″ x 8-5/8″. You get 1/4″ more at 90° and 5/8″ at 45° when comparing it to the 7-1/4″, model XSL02Z.

The 1/4″ additional cut capacity is not much of a difference. You can still cut 2×12 at 90° and 2×8 at 45°.

The saw will miter left and right from 0°-60° and will bevel again both left and right from 0°-48°.

Makita |Locks and Levers

There are several locks and levers to discuss on this Makita 8-1/2″ miter saw.

Handle Lock

The handle is locked in the lowered position with the stopper pin. To unlock the handle, pull the stopper pin and rotate it 90° while lowering the handle slightly. The handle will release for use.

Slide Lock

Pull the stopper pin and turn it 90° in an unlocked position to allow free movement on the rails. To lock the sliding movement of the saw, push the carriage toward the arm until it stops, and then return the stopper pin to a locked position.

Miter Releasing Lever

Turn the base to the proper angle while depressing the releasing lever to unlock it. Release the lever, move to the correct angle, and it will automatically lock into place if you are stopping at one of the positive detents. When you reach a point where there isn’t a positive detent, release the lever while still holding it down; at that point, the lever will lock.

Positive Stops Both Left and Right

• 0°
• 15°
• 22.5°
• 31.6°
• 45°
• 60°

The miter angle scale is silver in color with black writing that is really easy to read. Over the course of this review, there have been no imperfections noted and the scale still remains in an “out of the box” condition.

Bevel Grip Dial

Rotate the grip dial counterclockwise, hold the handle, and tilt the saw to either the left or the right. Align the pointer to the desired bevel angle. Once you have achieved that, you tighten the turn knob clockwise to secure the saw.

Makita GSL02Z On the Job

We have had this miter saw on several jobs over the past couple of months. From framing to finish it has produced quality cuts, no matter the materials.

We have used this saw on a deck railing job cutting down white PVC railings. Minus the annoying white PVC shavings that are created this saw cut the materials with ease. It was small enough to set up right on the tailgate of my F150 and used a folding glide top stand as out-feed support.

The Makita GSL02Z lived on-site for the duration of a large addition. From start to finish we trimmed out windows, doors, baseboard, and crown molding.

Due to the constant use while trimming out this big addition, we paired the saw up with the 5.0Ah XGT battery. When we were charging the 5.0Ah we used a 4.0Ah battery. We did not notice any reduction of power but did note the decline in run-time on the smaller amp-hour battery.

Front Slide Design

The rail forward design of the Makita GSL02Z is yet another fantastic feature. When the miter saw is flush against a wall, the rail-forward design maximizes the workspace. This works exceptionally well in small shops where space is constricted. Additionally having the rails forward will allow for better storage inside a van or trailer on a shelf because there are no rear rails to prevent it from sitting further back.

Dust Extraction

When you wish to perform, clean cutting operation, connect a Makita vacuum cleaner or dust extractor to the dust nozzle port located at the top of the saw. Be sure to have an AWS chip to insert into the saw, as it does not come with one.  Check out the review on the Makita XGT Dust Extractor for me information on the Auto-Start Wireless system: Makita 40v XGT cordless dust extractor – Model GCV04PMUX 

There are dual extraction points on the saw. One located at the base and one on the top. These ports are connected to draw the dust from both areas into the extractor.

There are 2 large rubber-flapped ports at the bottom that provide a larger area to collect the dust.

The miter saw also comes with a small dust bag that we noticed fills up rather quickly. The bag has a large slide-style securing clip for easy emptying.

Cost

The Makita GSL02Z is the bare tool model. It is also sold as a kit which is model GSL02M1. The kit contains the saw, (1) a 4.0Ah 40v XGT battery, and a single charger. The bare tool sells for $749.00 and the kit goes for $939.00. Both can be found at ACME Tools.

Overall Impression

TBB Member Rob Robillard put it like this to me a couple of years back:

As we age more and the longer we do this, we are starting to realize that we can perform most of our work with lighter, more portable cordless power tools. Work smarter, not harder!

While there is still a need for larger diameter miter saws when cutting 4×6 posts or other bulky materials, the downside is they are so bulky and heavy and do not transport efficiently. This smaller-size saw that still packs a mean punch is totally recommended!

Makita 40V 8-1/2″ Dual-Bevel Sliding Compound Miter Saw Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

 Makita 40V XGT  Cordless Dust Extractor – Model GCV04PMUX

Makita 40V XGT 4 Gallon HEPA Dry Dust Extractor Kit

4.5/5

Manufacturer: Makita
Model number: GCV04PMUX
Price: $1,229.99
Power source: 40V
Weight: 23 LBs

A Cordless vacuum/dust extractor is very portable and maneuverable. Being cordless means you could use your dust extractor both indoors and outdoors and take it to places where corded dust extractors can’t reach or are inconvenient to use. No searching for an outlet or dragging out heavy, invasive extension cords.  Many cordless dust extractors are designed to be lightweight which makes them even easier to move around.

Makita’s 40v XGT is gaining traction in the construction world.  Makita now has over 125 products related to their 40v XGT platform. The increased power and performance allow XGT cordless equipment and tools to rival corded tools and gas equipment. These high-powered products are the one-battery solution to handle the most demanding jobs and environments.

Having cleanliness issues can compromise the safety of your employees as well as the customer experience. Capturing dust at the source is something we take seriously. Keeping a safe and healthy work environment is important for all trades and DIYers. Let’s take a closer look at the Makita GCV04PMUX – 40V HEPA Dust Extractor Kit.

Dust Extraction On the Job

Dust is one of the worst evils in our industry, and construction is a messy process. It can be harmful to our health as well as to our customer’s property. Collecting dust at the source keeps clients very happy. That being said it is sometimes difficult to capture it all.

Makita’s GCV04PMUX has a three-stage HEPA filtration system with technology that collects 99.97% of particles. In order to maintain optimal suction and extend the life of the filter, an automatic self-cleaning filter system compresses and expands the damper, which shakes dust from the pre-filter. Only 67 dB(A) of noise is produced by the motor chamber thanks to sound-absorbing materials used in its construction.

In the Shop

For me, working in my shop, the Makita Dust Extractor paired up with the GPS01Z 40V XGT Brushless Cordless 6‑1/2″ Plunge Circular Saw is the perfect dust collection solution when trimming down interior doors.

Renovations

Working on a basement bathroom remodel where the space outside the bathroom was completely finished was a contractor’s nightmare. I was really worried about the dust I was about to make.  The client opted to have us install a barn style door which offers more gaps and spaces for dust to escape. The Makita Dust Extractor was the perfect solution to my situation.  Having to cut the cement board makes a ton of dust. Typically we cut outside because this process if so messy, but in this instance we needed to cut back some Durarock that was already installed. The ability to bring this cordless extractor to the source, even in this small confined bathroom eliminated the need to locate a power source and its compact size was perfect for the tiny workspace I had to work in.

New Addition

Where we feel this cordless vac really shines is on our trim jobs. Doing a very large addition, this vac was set up from day one and continuously used along with the Makita 8-1/2″ miter saw. Having this vacuum capturing dust at the source kept our work area clean, limited the amount of time required to clean up, and stored easily under our cut table

All Types of Applications

The Makita GCV04PMUX has been used on several job sites extracting several different types of materials. From wood dust using the track saw, to cement dust cutting Durarock, to PVC railing shavings while cutting down Veranda railings, the suction that comes from the brushless motor leaves the work area clean. It should be mentioned that if you were doing heavy demo, this vacuum might not be the best option for you.  We would recommend a corded vacuum and avoid the hassle of batteries and charging them.

For a great selection of corded dust extractors, check out our Best Dust Extractor Head To Head

Features

• AWS Bluetooth for wireless power-on/off communication between tool and dust extractor
• 148 CFM
• 92″ water lift
• 2X more run time with 2 bay 40v XGT battery system
• Three stage HEPA filtration system captures 99.97% of particulates
• Large rubber bumper to protect from damaging work area

Kit Components

Auto-Start Wireless System

The Makita GCV04PMUX comes with the AWS (Auto-Start Wireless System) which utilizes Bluetooth connectivity between the vacuum and selected Makita tools. An AWS transmitter comes with the vacuum and needs to be installed. Once installed, pairing is pretty easy. You need to make sure you have a tool that is AWS capable and that there is a wireless transmitter installed into this tool. Pairing is as simple as holding down the transmitter buttons until they flash green.  Once connected via AWS, the AWS-equipped dust extractor will automatically power on or off when the AWS-equipped cordless tool starts or stops, running only when the tool is in use, thus collecting dust at the source!

Ways AWS is Beneficial

• Eliminates Additional Cords – Since there is no need to re-plug the cord or deal with grounding issues when using our cordless AWS equipped dust extractor with a cordless AWS tool, there are less trip hazards.
• Increases Productivity – Intelligent Bluetooth connectivity increases the dust extractor’s battery life while the tool is in operation, improving productivity on a single charge. Additionally, by using up to 10 AWS tools at once, you may switch between power tools by just reconnecting the dust hose, saving time from manually turning on and off numerous equipment.
• Reduces Excessive Noise – The AWS dust extractor runs only while the AWS power tool is in use, reducing continuous noise at the job or work site.

Makita GCV04PMUX Control Panel

The control panel on this dust extractor features an oversized on-off switch a the top of the tool. There are three settings; auto (AWS Starting), Off, and On. There is a variable speed control dial. The variable power setting allows the user to select the level of suction depending on the type of surface being vacuumed. For delicate surfaces like rugs, a lower level of power and suction would be used. Wood surfaces, or connecting to a tool directly call for full suction.

Dual L.E.D. battery indicators are also located on the control panel which is convenient and direct. No searching for or lifting a cover to see the remaining battery life.

There is also a protective cover that batteries are housed in. This keeps them secure and free from dust and debris from the job site. This 4oV vacuum has two battery slots but only requires one 40v battery to operate. The vacuum will automatically switch to the second stored battery if you have it in the spare slot.

Mobility

The Makita Dust Extractor has 4 casters, 2 of which (rear casters) feature a locking lever to prevent unwanted movement. The 4 wheels offer a full 360° mobility and roll noticeably smooth. Makita also does a nice job installing a large rubber bumper around the dust extractor to prevent damage from incidental contact with objects in the work area. This dust extractor is 23 lb and has a sturdy, folding, top-carrying handle.

Storage

The GCV04PMUX has good wrap-around storage for the provided 11′ hose. You are able to wrap around the body of the extractor twice and then tuck the nozzle into the wraps for very secure hose storage

Bag and Filter Components

Changing the bag on the Makita dust extractor is really straightforward. Release the locking latches and lift the head unit up off the tank. Shake off the dust from the powder filter before lifting the filter away from the tank.

The Powder filter is your Hepa filter

There is also a damper located under your powder filter

Your pre-filter sits just above your bag inside the tank.

In our vac, we are using Makita plastic disposable bags. With a polyethylene bag installed in the tank, you can easily empty the tank without getting your hands dirty. The bag will slide up underneath the nozzle and can be easily removed once full. Makita also offers dust filter bags, fleece bags, and many other accessories.

Final Thoughts

Pulling out a corded vacuum for a fast clean-up and finding an outlet to plug it in can be quite cumbersome, especially in busy areas. With the help of a cordless vacuum, the problem may be solved swiftly and without causing any fuss or interruption to the flow of traffic. Collecting dust at the source maintains a healthier, safer environment for your staff, clients, and yourself. This Makita 40V XGT Brushless Cordless 4 Gallon HEPA Filter Dry Dust Extractor Kit is very expensive and if you are on the Makita 40V XGT platform it is highly recommended!

Makita 40V XGT Cordless Dust Extractor Review is a post from Tool Box Buzz

Best Cordless Impact Driver

There’s no doubt that Impact Drivers have completely changed the construction industry and drastically improved both productivity and quality. Impact drivers allow users to install screws, structural fasteners and small bolts more efficiently than a drill. Impact drivers drastically reduce broken fasteners, stripped screw heads and costly delays. An impact driver relies on a hammer and anvil mechanism to deploy rotational force when fastener resistance is encountered.   

In our Best Cordless Impact Driver Head-To-Head test, we’ve selected 19 full-size impact drivers from a wide range of manufacturers. We invited all of the major manufacturers to participate, with some brands sending multiple impact drivers.

 

Features Qualitative Scoring Results
MFG	Score	Rank
Bosch	1	1
Makita 18v	2	2
Makita 40v	2	2
Skil	2	2
Festool	3	5
FLEX	3	5
Kobalt	3	5
Metabo HPT 18DC	3	5
Metabo HPT 18DBD	3	5
Metabo HPT 36v	3	5
Milwaukee	3	5
Ridgid	3	5
Ryobi	3	5
DEWALT	4	14
Hilti	4	14
Metabo 18 LT	4	14
Metabo 18LTX	4	14
FEIN	5	18
Hart	5	18

WP DataTables

Best Size and Weight | Winner DEWALT

Size matters to users, in this case, they want a smaller, compact impact driver that still has the power for the applications they need to deploy it in. Compact also means that the tool can be used in more situations, think of tight spot applications like sistering floor joists with a 5 or 6-inch fastener,  in between joist bays. We felt the two most important factors for an impact driver were the weight and head length.  Having a lightweight tool when working overhead, coupled with a compact size that can fit into small openings is a huge win.

To determine a final ranking for size and weight, each driver was weighed without the battery and the head length, from bit holder/collet to back was measured.  Each of these values were ranked separately and then combined into a single factor to determine the winner.   The DEWALT was the most compact impact driver of the bunch. It measures 3.9″ and weighs 2.1 lbs and is 1/2″ smaller than the 2nd place Metabo HPT 18DC  which measures 4.51 inches and measures 2.0 lbs.  Third place was the Makita 18V measures 4.53  inches and weighs 1.9 lbs.

An interesting fact is that all of the tools weigh from 1.9 lbs. to 3.3 lbs.

MFG	Length (in)	Weight (lb)	Rank
DEWALT	3.94	2.10	1
Metabo HPT DC	4.51	2.00	2
Makita 18v	4.53	1.90	3
Milwaukee	4.48	2.20	4
Makita 40v	4.77	2.20	5
Metabo 18V LTX	5.10	2.10	6
Ridgid	5.02	2.20	7
Festool	5.17	2.12	8
Metabo HPT 36v	4.52	2.50	8
Hilti	5.44	2.20	10
Skil	4.92	2.47	10
FLEX	4.68	2.70	12
Kobalt	5.27	2.40	12
FEIN	6.00	2.20	14
Metabo HPT DBD	5.04	2.90	15
Hart	5.82	2.50	16
Ryobi	5.60	2.55	16
Metabo 18 LT	5.64	2.60	18
Bosch	5.82	2.60	19

WP DataTables

Best Cordless Impact Price  | Winner Skil

Price is undoubtedly an important consideration when buying tools, especially for those of you who are just starting out in the trades. We can certainly agree on that and also agree that the majority of contractors have strong brand loyalty and would rather continue with their current battery platform than venture out and create a new line of cordless power tools.

We did not include the price in our scoring criteria but included bare tool pricing for you to use as needed.

The best-priced impact driver was the  Skil coming in at $69.99 bare tool. The second lowest price was the Hart at $77.85 and the third was the Bosch at $99.00. The team all agrees that the Skil and Hart impact drivers fall into the DIY category for users.

There are several pro-grade impact drivers in this test, I’ll use the Festool as an example. In their research and testing Festool found that the most frequent failure point on impact drivers was the anvil mechanism, so they adjusted the shape and material hardness of their anvil to increase the lifespan of the tool. They also decreased the internal strike speed (BPM) so it was less likely to break.

Festool also incorporated a longer trigger which allows for finer control of the variable speed trigger making it easier to manually control slow speed on hardware attachment. The moral of the story here is that pro-grade tools are designed to last longer, for us PROs a tool is an investment that is needed for our livelihood – invest wisely!

Best Cordless Impact Driver Head-To-Head | 2023 is a post from Tool Box Buzz