I have the article in front of me now. I am at a loss as to why FH rated the Makita “best overall”. Here is why: In their testing criteria, the big Milwaukee is at the very top in 4 of 6 testing categories. The big Makita is at the very top in 3 of 6 categories. According to my math, 4 is a higher number than 3. Thus, big Milwaukee wins more categories than big Makita. In FH’s own words: “If you’re going to be cutting through thick material for extended periods of time, this (big Mil) is the saw to choose. With little vibration, this is the smoothest-running saw we tested.” When you are talking about a sawzall, isnt that what it is all about?? I think so!! What does the Makita have that the Milwaukee doesn’t? FH makes a big deal about the auto ejecting blade change, user friendly rubber grip around the blade holder (huh? they all have that) and the best blade change that you can buy. The only other factor i see in the comparison is that the Makita is $25 dollars cheaper ($200 to $175). After reading this article, i realized there are quite a few details that really dont make sense. It is as though this test was rushed to the printer before being checked for accuracy. Another example: Hilti WSR 1250-PE; first line of article states: “This saw easily won our speed-control and trigger-action test”. In the corresponding table, the same saw is ranked near the bottom in the Speed/trigger category. HUH? Read it for yourself. Another: Second paragraph of article states: “For this review, we tested 14 different 9-amp to 13-amp saws priced from $90 to $270”. In big Makita’s defense, their tool is rated at 15 amps. HELLO!! Also, bare minimum on tool dimensions, amps, quality of construction and materials. I miss the good old days when FH would disassembel tests and evaluate (or have an expert do so) the quality of the components, bearings gears, etc. This is one of the more sloppy tools tests i have seen and not worthy of the magazine.
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I wouldn't buy a tool based on a magazine article. Just like I wouldn't try to build a custom hot rod based on magazine article. I would guess the reviews are done to appease the tool makers. They are the ones who buy advertising.
They are a good reference to see what is available, but they are based entirely on opinion of the writers/editors.
I don't remember the details - but, now that you bring it back up - I remember reading that article and trying to figure where they where coming from.
Certainly not one of the best reviews.
Tools of the trade is a better magazine for tol reviews.
I work the snot out of my Milwaukee on just about every material and I love it. Before buying it, I borrowed a friends Dewalt and it got so hot I could hardly stand to hold the thing. I think the reviews are pretty accurate compared to other magazines, but I wondered about that as well. Keep in mind, it's the author's opinion for best overall and we all have our preferences.
-D