Track Saw Model: Makita 36v
Wittworks Track Saw Rating: 87 out of 100
Makita 36V Track Saw Review: Reliable Build and Power with Some Notable Limitations
The Makita 36V track saw brings durability, power, and flexibility to the table, making it an appealing option for many users. Although slightly more affordable than its 40V counterpart, this saw shares most of the same strengths and shortcomings. For those who don’t need precise depth control on every cut and aren’t concerned about advanced safety features, this tool could be an excellent fit. However, if accuracy and safety are top priorities, there may be other saws in this price range worth considering.
Fit & Finish: Excellent Construction for Long-Term Use
Score: 10/10
The Makita 36V track saw has a sturdy, well-engineered build that inspires confidence in its durability. The materials and craftsmanship are top-notch, making this tool feel dependable and ready for years of work, whether it’s on a job site or in a home workshop.
Blade: Functional but Could Be Easier to Change
Ease of Blade Change: 2/3
Changing the blade on the Makita track saw is relatively easy. The depth lock works well and you can easily lock the blade in place.
Stock Blade: 2/2
The included stock blade performs admirably across various tasks. It’s sharp, durable, and delivers clean cuts.
Blade Size & Arbor: Unique Dual Options
One standout feature of this Makita saw is the dual arbor system, which supports both a 6 ½” blade and a 20mm arbor. This flexibility allows users to choose from a broader selection of blades, including those from other manufacturers, making it a versatile option.
Safety: Missing Key Protective Features
Riving Knife/Anti-Kickback: 0/5
Disappointingly, the Makita 36V lacks a riving knife and anti-kickback protection—two features that are critical for user safety. Their absence may be a concern, particularly for those who prioritize safety in high-powered tools.
Off-Cut Splinter Guard: 0/1
The Makita 40V track saw lacks an off-cut splinter guard.
Scoring Function: 0/1
The scoring function is missing on this saw. While not essential, it can be helpful for achieving cleaner edges, especially on thicker materials. You can always make a 3mm pass and score without the preset depth option.
Depth Gauge: Challenging for Precision Work
Accuracy: 0/2
The depth gauge lacks precision, which can make it frustrating to achieve exact depth settings. For projects where accuracy is critical, this limitation might be a deal-breaker.
Fine Tune Adjustment: 0/2
There’s no fine-tune adjustment, limiting the saw’s ability to make micro-adjustments for exact depths. This absence may cause frustration for users needing precision, and prevents users from correcting any inaccuracies in the main depth gauge.
User Experience: 1/3
All in all, the depth gauge leaves a lot to be desired. With its lack of accuracy and fine-tuning options, the user experience can be frustrating, particularly for those who need precise cuts on a regular basis. If you’re expecting easy, repeatable depth adjustments, you might want to look at other options.
Dust Extraction: Effective and Well-Designed
Hose Compatibility: 3/3
The hose connector is compatible with popular brands like festool and Cen Tec, making it easy to connect a dust extractor.
Effectiveness: 3/3
This saw’s dust collection system is very effective, capturing sawdust and keeping visibility clear during cuts.
Bevel Cutting: Easy Adjustments and Accurate Angles
Readability/Detents for Common Angles: 4/4
The Makita 36V offers clear detents for common angles (-1°, 0°, 22.5°, 45°,and 47°), making it simple to set and adjust for bevel cuts.
Return to 90: 5/5
Returning to a perfect 90° is smooth and accurate, ensuring square cuts without any fuss. The saw is reliable when switching between angles.
Anti-Tip: 2/2
The anti-tip feature keeps the saw stable during angled cuts, preventing accidental tipping and adding to its ease of use.
Track Friction Adjustments: 3/3
The track friction adjustments are easy to use and allow you to get the perfect amount of tension for smooth, controlled cuts without slop in the base.
Motor: Powerful and Adjustable for Different Materials
Variable Speed: 2/2
The variable-speed motor offers control over cutting speed, an essential feature for cutting different materials cleanly and efficiently.
Sound & Feel: 5/5
With minimal noise and vibration, this saw is comfortable to use even on longer projects. It operates smoothly, reducing user fatigue.
2” Hard Maple Test: 5/5
The Makita 36V powers through 2” hard maple with ease, even with the stock cross cutting blade. Once equipped with a ripping blade, it flew through even easier.
Guide Rail / Track: Sturdy and Accessory-Friendly
Build Quality: 5/5
The track is solid and well-made, providing stable support for accurate, clean cuts. It feels reliable and capable of withstanding consistent use.
Design Profile: 4/4
The track design keeps the saw steady, minimizing wobble for smooth and precise cuts.
Size Options: 3/3
Makita makes a variety of track length options, including a 39”, 55” and 118”.
Rubber Splinter Guard Stickiness: 3/3
The rubber splinter guard provides a strong hold on the material, reducing splintering on the cut edge and ensuring clean results.
Anti-Slip Grips: 3/3
The anti-slip grips keep the saw firmly in place on the track, ensuring smooth, controlled cuts without unexpected movement.
Clamp Compatibility: 2/2
The Makita track is fully compatible with typical track saw clamps, ensuring a secure connection to your work surface.
Third-Party Accessory Compatibility: 4/4
The Makita track system is compatible with a wide range of third-party accessories, such as guide rail squares and parallel guides, adding versatility to your setup.
Warranty: Standard Coverage, but Limited
Score: 3/5
With a three-year warranty, the Makita 36V track saw provides reasonable coverage but falls short of the extended warranties offered by some competitors.
Price / Value: Solid for the Price, but Not Exceptional
Score: 7/10
The Makita 36V track saw offers good performance for its price, along with useful features like the dual arbor system and powerful motor. However, the lack of precise depth control and missing safety features may be a deal breaker for some, especially at this price point.
Who is This Saw For?
This saw is well-suited for users who need reliable power and don’t mind some limitations on precision. If you’re already invested in the Makita battery platform or prioritize versatility over exact depth adjustments, this saw can meet your needs for general-purpose cutting tasks.
Who Should NOT Buy This Saw?
For users requiring consistent, precise depth settings, the Makita 36V may not be ideal due to its less accurate depth gauge. Additionally, those who prioritize safety features, like a riving knife or anti-kickback, might find this saw lacking and would benefit from considering other options.
Final Verdict
The Makita 36V track saw delivers solid performance with a powerful motor and versatile design. Its build quality and track compatibility make it a capable tool, but the lack of depth gauge accuracy and essential safety features may be dealbreakers for those who need high precision and safety. It’s a strong choice for users focused on general use, but professionals and accuracy-oriented users may want to explore alternative models.
