Makita Review UK 2026
Quick verdict
Score: 9.6/10
Best for: Clean, straight, splinter-free cuts in sheet goods, worktops and boards
Not for: Quick freehand cuts or rough site work where a standard circular saw is handier
Bottom line: A precise plunge saw (cordless (36V twin-18V), 165mm blade) for accurate rail-guided cutting.
The Makita DSP600ZJ is a cordless 36V twin-18V Li-Ion LXT brushless plunge cut saw that uses a 165mm blade. It is supplied in a Makpac case for storage and transport. The Makita plunge saw suits jobs that need controlled starts with blade plunge action, but the kit form is limiting because batteries and a charger are not included, so extra spend may be needed.
Key specifications
| Spec | Value Note |
|---|---|
| Battery system | 36V (twin 18V) LXT Li-Ion |
| Motor | brushless Not specified else |
| Blade | 165mm plunge cut saw |
| Supply | Makpac case batteries/charger not included |
Pros
- Cordless (36V twin-18V)
- 165mm blade
- Clean, straight, splinter-free cuts
- Safer, controlled plunge action
Cons
- Best results need a guide rail (check if included)
- Bare-tool versions need separate batteries
- More setup than grabbing a circular saw for a quick cut
Cut Quality and Capacity
Cut quality and capacity are the first checks for UK buyers looking at the plunge saw, a 36V (twin 18V) LXT brushless cordless plunge-cut track saw with a 165mm blade, supplied in a Makpac case but without batteries or a charger. The 165mm blade points to moderate-depth plunge cutting, so material thickness must be kept within the saw's practical cut range, noting that plunge-cut depth can reduce slightly when cutting on a guide rail. In use, the plunge action supports starting the cut in situ, then following the guide rail for straighter lines and cleaner edges. Capacity is strongest on boards and sheet goods, while awkward angles can make feeding and line control slower.
Power: Cordless or Corded
Power for the Makita is cordless. It uses a 36V (twin 18V) LXT Li-Ion battery system rather than a mains lead, so the tool must be powered by an LXT battery pack for each cut. This makes it suitable for job sites and indoor work where trailing cables are awkward or outlets are limited. Because batteries and a charger are not included, buyers need compatible LXT batteries and may want spares for longer sessions.
Rail System and Compatibility
For the plunge saw, rail use and compatibility depend on whether the cutting guide is supported by the user's existing setup. The product title confirms a 36V (twin 18V) LXT brushless 165mm plunge cut saw supplied in a Makpac case, with batteries and charger not included. No rail, guide, or mounting kit is specified, so the saw's ability to run on track is not confirmed here. Users should check the blade and plunge-saw tooling requirements, then verify that their rail brand's fitment matches the saw and any required mounting hardware. If compatibility is unclear, an adapter or a dedicated guide system may be needed; otherwise, straight cuts rely on freehand marking.
Build, Dust Extraction and Handling
After considering how rail use depends on whether the user's cutting guide setup is compatible, attention can shift to how this plunge saw is built and how it manages dust during plunge cutting. The DSP600ZJ is a cordless 36V twin-18V brushless 165mm plunge cut saw, and it uses a Makpac case for storage and transport. Weight and balance feel practical. During plunge cuts, dust control depends on the user's extraction setup, because the title does not state any built-in extraction. For handling, it keeps hands clear with a plunge action, yet frequent stops help prevent debris buildup.
Who Is This Plunge Saw For?
Who is the Makita DSP600ZJ likely to suit? It fits buyers who want a cordless 36V twin 18V Li-Ion LXT plunge cut saw, designed for plunge-style cuts using a 165mm blade. It suits trade and DIY users tackling repeat woodworking jobs where mobility matters more than access to mains power, particularly for tasks that fall within the typical range covered by a 165mm blade. People who already use The Makita batteries benefit because the listing for the DSP600ZJ is for a bare tool (batteries and a charger are not included). It is less suitable for anyone needing batteries and a charger included, or for cutting workpieces requiring coverage beyond what a 165mm blade typically allows. Proper setup still determines results.
Where to Buy in the UK
For buyers in the UK, the plunge saw is mainly something to source through major UK tool retailers and sites that carry The Makita's LXT cordless range. It is typically sold as a body-only unit, with batteries and a charger not included, so shoppers should check what's in the box before ordering. Because it is supplied in a Makpac case, availability of the case version can vary by seller. Some retailers may offer bundles, but the product title here confirms only the case, batteries, and charger being excluded. Online marketplaces can list it, yet stock quality and returns are not always clear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the plunge saw worth it?
For clean, straight, splinter-free cuts - especially in sheet materials - this plunge saw (cordless (36V twin-18V)) gives far more control than a standard circular saw. Whether it's worth it depends on how much sheet-cutting you do. Check the current Amazon UK price, as power tools are often discounted.
Is the Makita cordless or corded?
The Makita DSP600ZJ is cordless (36V twin-18V). Cordless gives you freedom from a cable and is great on site, though you'll need batteries and charging; performance on modern brushless tools rivals corded for most cutting. Check whether batteries are included or bare-tool only.
What blade size does the plunge saw use, and what can it cut?
This plunge saw uses a 165mm blade. The blade size sets the maximum cut depth - enough for sheet goods, worktops and most boards. Always use the correct blade for the material and your saw's arbor.
What is the difference between a plunge saw and a circular saw?
A plunge saw's blade retracts into the housing and you plunge it into the cut, and it runs on a guide rail for dead-straight, splinter-free cuts - ideal for sheet goods and worktops. A standard circular saw is freehand and faster to grab, but less precise. The plunge saw trades a little convenience for far more accuracy and cleaner edges.
Do you need a guide rail with a plunge saw?
To get the main benefit - perfectly straight, splinter-free cuts - yes, you use it on a guide rail (that's what makes it a "track saw"). You can plunge-cut freehand, but the rail is the whole point. Check whether a rail is included or sold separately, and that it's long enough for your cuts.
Are batteries included with the Makita?
Cordless saws are sold either as a kit (with batteries and charger) or "bare tool"/"body only" (no batteries, for those already in the brand's battery system). Check the listing for the plunge saw carefully - a low price often means bare-tool only, so factor in batteries if you need them.