Makita has been steadily building its XGT 40V Max platform to prove that cordless tools can match – and even beat – their corded counterparts. The Makita HS013G circular saw might just be the one that seals the deal. It’s powerful, precise, and built like a tank. For anyone who spends their days cutting timber, this saw feels less like a battery-powered tool and more like a proper site workhorse.
Built for Tough Jobs
Pick it up and you immediately know it’s serious. The HS013G is no lightweight DIY model—it’s designed for site conditions where reliability matters. The saw runs a 260mm blade with a cutting depth of 95mm at 0°, giving it enough reach for framing, roofing, or any structural carpentry work. At around 7.6kg with the battery, it’s not featherweight, but the balance and solidity make it easy to guide through long cuts.
The brushless motor delivers a smooth, confident feel. It doesn’t stall or bog down, even when you’re pushing through wet timber or heavy joists. Makita’s Automatic Torque Drive system monitors resistance and automatically adjusts torque and speed to keep cuts steady and prevent burning. It’s one of those features you don’t notice until you use a saw without it.
Precision and Comfort
Makita has always been strong on build quality, and the Makita HS013G continues that tradition. The magnesium baseplate glides smoothly and stays true, and the bevel adjustment locks securely up to 60°, with a positive stop at 45°. The cutting line visibility is excellent, helped by twin LED work lights and a dust blower that clears the line as you go.
If you’re running a Makita AWS (Auto-Start Wireless System) extractor, this saw will pair via Bluetooth to automatically start the vacuum when you pull the trigger. It’s one of those time-saving touches that make cordless setups feel genuinely professional rather than a compromise.
Corded Power Without the Cord
This is where the HS013G really earns its reputation. It has the punch of a 2,000W corded saw but without the drag of an extension lead or generator. With a 5.0Ah XGT battery, you’ll comfortably get through a full day of cutting. The intelligent cooling and battery protection systems keep temperatures under control, even during demanding jobs.
The performance gap between battery and mains power has been shrinking for years, but this model makes it vanish entirely. There’s no lag, no soft start wobble, and no loss of torque under load—it just cuts, cleanly and confidently.
The Bottom Line
The Makita HS013G circular saw is aimed squarely at professionals who want serious cutting power without being tied to the mains. It’s tough, precise, and ready for real site work. If you already use the XGT system, this saw will slot straight in and likely become one of your most-used tools.
In short, it’s everything you’d expect from Makita—reliable, refined, and ruthlessly efficient.
The Bottom Line
• 260mm blade with 95mm maximum cutting depth
• 40V Max XGT battery system for corded-level power
• Automatic Torque Drive adjusts speed and torque under load
• Brushless motor for improved efficiency and longer life
• Bevel capacity up to 60° with positive stops
• Twin LED lights and dust blower for clear visibility
• AWS wireless connection for dust extraction
• Magnesium base and guard for strength and reduced weight
• Soft start and electric brake for safety and control
• Overload and thermal protection for battery and motor longevity
Find specs and more on the official Makita webpage.
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