Makita Bare-Tool BJV180Z 18-Volt LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Jig Saw

If you do a lot of working with wood, such as renovating homes or apartments, then a good jig saw can be a valuable part of your tool arsenal. Jig saws can be purchases in corded and cordless varieties, but I am partial to the Makita Bare-Tool BJV180Z 18-volt LXT lithium-ion cordless jig saw.

Like all Makita products, the Bare-Tool BJV180Z cordless jig saw comes with a three year warranty. But the batteries and charges do only have a one year warranty.

The often heard argument against a cordless jig saw is that you have to stop to charge the battery once it runs out of juice. With the Makita BJV180Z cordless jig saw, it only takes 30 minutes to get a full charge on the lithium-ion battery. This type of battery is better than other batteries not just because it charges quickly, but because one charge lasts longer with an average of 2.5 times more cycles. The big benefit of this cordless jig saw is that you can go anywhere with it since you are not limited by the length of the power cord.

With an ergonomic grip, the Makita Bare-Tool BJV180Z fits comfortably in your hand. It also weighs just 6.1 pounds, this jig saw is just heavy enough to keep steady when in use but light enough so that your arm does not tire of holding it quickly. The tool also feels solid and well made when you use it.

This Makita 18-volt cordless jig saw is incredibly easy to use. The variable speed trigger switch is large and conveniently placed on the tool. You can even access it easily with a gloved hand. An LED light is built into the tool, which great when you are working in a house with no lights in the room, which often happens with new construction. Changing the blades is practically effortless since no tools are required to do so. Instead, the device has a push and lock system to hold the blades in place.

If you want fast and efficient, then the Makita BJV180 fits the bill. With a motor that is high-torque, you can quickly make the cuts you need using one of the four position settings. The cut positions settings are one straight and three orbital. For people with experience using other jig saws, you will immediately notice the Makita BJV180 does not vibrate as much as other jig saws when in use. And it is also noticeably quieter than other jig saws. The lower vibration makes it easier to control than other jig saws.

The big disadvantage of the Makita BJV180Z jig saw is that you do not get a battery or charger with the tool. So, you can’t use it immediately unless you purchase the battery and charger at the same time. This is where a corded jig saw has an advantage.