Makita 40V MAX XGT Brushless Reciprocating Saw Kit (GRJ01M1)

Worth it for contractors who need corded-level demolition power without the cord. The 35% faster cutting speed compared to prior models makes a real difference ripping through old framing, and the long 1-1/4” stroke means fewer passes through thick material. At 9.9 lbs with battery, it’s not a featherweight — but that heft comes from components built to last.

Skip it if you’re just cutting 2x4s occasionally. This saw targets demolition crews and remodelers who beat the hell out of their tools daily.

Power and Performance That Actually Matters

The 2-speed brushless motor delivers 0-2,300 SPM on low and 0-3,000 SPM on high. Those numbers translate to real jobsite performance — up to 10 inches of wood cutting capacity with a 12-inch blade and 5-1/8 inches through pipe. The variable speed isn’t just marketing fluff either. Low speed keeps control when cutting metal studs. High speed tears through dimensional lumber like it’s butter.

Specification	Value
Strokes Per Minute	0-2,300 (Low) / 0-3,000 (High)
Stroke Length	1-1/4 inch
Wood Cutting Capacity	Up to 10 inches
Pipe Cutting Capacity	Up to 5-1/8 inches
Weight with Battery	9.9 lbs
Overall Length	18-5/8 inches

The refined crank mechanism minimizes blade deflection — fancy talk for “the blade doesn’t wander when you’re cutting.” Combine that with the metal-reinforced gear shaft and self-lubricating slider, and you’ve got internals that won’t crap out after a season of abuse.

Built for Montana Job Sites

XPT (Extreme Protection Technology) provides dust and water resistance. That matters when you’re demo’ing a bathroom in February and the site heater’s barely keeping things above freezing. The electric brake stops the blade fast when you release the trigger — saves fingers and time.

The tool-less blade change lever works with gloves on. No fumbling with hex keys while your hands go numb. The LED light with preglow and afterglow illuminates dark crawlspaces and stays on after you release the trigger so you can see what you just cut.

Digital communication between tool and battery monitors for overload, over-discharge, and overheat protection. The tool talks to the battery to prevent both from frying themselves. Smart protection that extends tool life when you’re pushing hard.

XGT Battery Platform Reality

Compatible with BL4025, BL4040, BL4050F, and BL4080F batteries. The kit includes a 40V max XGT 4.0Ah battery (BL4040) and the DC40RA Rapid Optimum Charger. That 4.0Ah pack provides decent runtime for demolition work, though you’ll want extras for all-day teardowns.

The chargers include DC40RA, DC40RB, and DC40RC models. All charge fast enough to keep up with heavy use if you’ve got multiple batteries in rotation.

What Comes in the Box

The kit includes the GRJ01 saw, 40V max XGT 4.0Ah battery, Rapid Optimum Charger, a reciprocating saw blade, and a tool bag. Everything you need to start cutting except extra blades — and you’ll want carbide blades for demo work.

Comparisons That Matter

The GRJ01Z is the same tool sold without battery and charger — only makes sense if you’re already invested in XGT batteries. The GRJ02Z/GRJ02M1 adds AVT (Anti-Vibration Technology) and orbital action for faster wood cutting. More money for features that matter in all-day use but overkill for occasional demolition.

The warranty covers tool, battery, and charger for 3 years against defects in materials and workmanship. Standard Makita coverage — nothing special but nothing to complain about either.

The Bottom Line

Customer reviews rate it 4.7/5.0 across 25 reviews, praising high cutting speed, robust build quality, excellent battery life, and easy blade changes. The only consistent complaint? Heavier weight at 9.9 lbs — but that’s the trade-off for durability and power.

This saw makes sense for pros who need reliable demolition power daily. The XGT platform delivers the juice. The build quality handles jobsite abuse. The features work without getting in the way. Not cheap, but neither is downtime when a lesser saw gives up mid-job.

FAQ

What’s the real-world battery life on a 4.0Ah pack? Users report often completing jobs on a single battery, with the ability to cut through treated 4x4s with ease. Runtime depends on material and cutting speed, but the 4.0Ah pack provides solid performance for typical demolition tasks.

How does the 40V XGT compare to 18V tools for power? LXT 18V tools are lighter but have lower SPM (around 2,300 max) and less torque than the 40V XGT model. The XGT platform delivers noticeably more power for heavy-duty cutting.

Is the blade change really tool-less? Yes — the tool-less lever system works by rotating the lever, inserting the blade, then releasing the lever. No hex keys or extra tools needed.

Does the saw come with a case? The kit includes a tool bag, not a hard case. Adequate for transport but not crush-proof protection.

What blades work best for demolition? The saw accepts standard reciprocating saw blades. For demo work, carbide-tooth blades handle nails in wood better than bi-metal. The 1-1/4 inch stroke length works best with longer blades for maximum cutting efficiency.