Makita GSH06 40V max XGT Circular Saw Review: The World’s Largest Cordless Circular Saw
Makita GSH06 40V max XGT circular saw is the world’s largest cordless circular saw, and it’s changing what’s possible on a battery-powered jobsite. I’ve researched what makes this 16-5/16” beast so impressive — from one-pass 6x cuts to a shockingly smooth plunge performance. If you thought cordless saws had limits, this article will make you think again. Here’s everything you need to know before putting this saw in your hands.
What Is the Makita GSH06 40V max XGT Circular Saw?
The Makita GSH06 is a cordless powerhouse built on Makita’s high-output XGT 40V platform. It features a massive 16-5/16” Max Efficiency Blade that delivers a full 6-1/4” cutting capacity at 90°, letting you slice through 6x6 in one pass. Even at 45°, it cuts over 4" deep.
Weighing 24.3 lbs with battery, it's lighter than the corded 5402NA and eliminates the need for dual-battery systems. If you're framing roofs, cutting beams, or gang-cutting joists, the GSH06 is a serious upgrade.
Why “World’s Largest Cordless Saw” Matters
This isn’t marketing fluff — Makita’s GSH06 is genuinely the biggest cordless circular saw available today. With a 16-5/16” blade and extreme depth capacity, it outperforms smaller 7-1/4” and 10-1/4” saws while freeing you from cords and generators.
Cordless saws used to be for trim work. This one? It’s for timber and framing pros who need depth, bevel range, and brute cutting force without being tethered to power.
Performance Breakdown: Cutting Capacity & Real-World Testing
- 6-1/4” capacity at 90°
- 4-3/4” capacity at 45°
- Clean, one-pass cuts through 6x6 lumber
- Surprisingly smooth plunge cuts
- Balanced handling and strong electric brake
- Runtime: Up to 75 cuts in 6x12 on a 5.0Ah battery
This is not a tool for casual cuts — it’s a production-grade workhorse.
Blade Design: The Max Efficiency Edge
Makita pairs this saw with its Max Efficiency Blade, featuring:
- A thinner kerf for less drag
- 60% faster cutting and 50% more cuts per charge
- Improved motor efficiency and smoother finish
You also get on-tool blade wrench storage and a built-in spindle lock, so swaps are quick and frustration-free.
Makita GSH06 vs Makita 5402NA: Cordless vs Corded Showdown
| Feature | GSH06 (Cordless) | 5402NA (Corded) |
|---|---|---|
| Blade Size | 16-5/16” | 16-5/16” |
| Weight | 24.3 lbs | 28.4 lbs |
| Speed | Up to 30% faster | Standard |
| Power Source | 1x 40V XGT battery | 120V cord |
| Portability | High | Low |
Corded power used to be mandatory for this kind of work. Not anymore.
Ergonomics and Balance: Does It Feel Like a Beast?
Despite its size, the GSH06 is shockingly balanced and comfortable to control:
- Blade-right for clear sight lines
- Front and rear grips designed for gloved hands
- Centered weight distribution prevents front-heaviness
- No awkward tipping, even during plunge or bevel cuts
It looks intimidating, but handles like a well-balanced framing saw.
Makita GSH06 Features You Shouldn’t Overlook
- ✅ AWS Bluetooth compatibility with Makita dust extractors
- ✅ Smooth, tool-free adjustments for bevel and depth
- ✅ Blade brake stops the blade fast after cuts
- ✅ Onboard blade wrench storage
- ✅ Jobsite-tough build quality with die-cast components
These features round out the saw, making it not just big — but smartly built.
How Many Cuts Can It Really Make on One Battery?
Makita rates this saw for up to 75 cuts in 6x12 material using a single 5.0Ah XGT battery.
- Real-world runtime depends on:
- Wood density
- Blade sharpness
- Cut speed
- Weather conditions
Still, that kind of runtime from one battery was unthinkable just a few years ago. This saw proves how far cordless tech has come.
Best Use Cases for the GSH06
✅ Perfect For:
- Framing crews
- Roofers and truss cutters
- Timber framers and heavy remodelers
- Contractors cutting large treated lumber
- Pro builders who want to go cordless
❌ Not Ideal For:
- Weekend DIYers
- Lightweight renovation work
- Occasional users
This saw is made for serious users with serious cutting needs.
Pricing and Availability
You’ll find the Makita GSH06 priced between $699–$799 (bare tool), with kits available at higher price points.
👉 Check the YouTube Shopping button below our video for up-to-date pricing.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is the Makita GSH06 the most powerful cordless circular saw?
- It’s the largest, with deep-cutting capabilities unmatched in the cordless market.
Q: What battery does it use?
- A single 40V max XGT battery — no dual-battery setups needed.
Q: Can it replace a worm drive or 16” corded saw?
- Yes, especially for mobile jobs or framers working in tough-to-reach areas.
Q: How many cuts per charge?
- Up to 75 cuts in 6x12 lumber on a 5.0Ah XGT battery.
Q: Why is the blade on the right?
- Makita has a legacy of blade-right saws, and pro users continue to prefer this layout for visibility and comfort.
Conclusion: A Game-Changing Circular Saw for Serious Pros
The Makita GSH06 40V max XGT circular saw doesn’t just match corded performance — it often beats it. With deep cuts, balanced handling, smart features, and cordless freedom, it’s built for tradespeople who demand more from their tools.
It’s not cheap, and it’s not for weekend warriors — but if you’re serious about speed, power, and precision, this saw delivers.