In this Tool Tech video, host Patrick McCombe checks out Makita’s rear-handle, blade-left cordless circular saw by burying its blade in a pressure-treated 4×4. This saw is different than most because it has a rear handle rather than a top handle, and the blade is on the left. I like this arrangement (rear handle, front handle, and left blade), which allows it to operate like a worm drive. But this is not quite a worm-drive saw; it has a motor that’s perpendicular to the blade. The saw bevels all the way to 53°, the 7-1/4-in. blade allows for a deep cut, it has a battery gauge that displays whether the battery is charged, and it has a rafter hook that allows you to hang the saw rather than setting it down on the ground. The saw also has a stop/start motor, which keeps it from picking up when you start the motor. The only issue with the tool is it’s price: the bare tool is $200, and batteries cost over $200.

Makita 36v Brushless Cordless Rear Handle 7-1/4-in. Circular Saw
Product number: XSR01PT (kit); XSR01Z (tool only)
Price: $359 (kit); $199 (tool only)

Senior editor Patrick McCombe has been testing power tools on behalf of national publications for more than 15 years, and he regularly meets with product manufacturers to try out new introductions. In the Tool Tech series, Patrick reviews the latest tools and materials, discusses building technology, and shows time-tested techniques for better, more-efficient home building. Consider becoming an online member to watch other Tool Tech videos.more-efficient home building.