The Makita XAG11Z is an 18V LXT brushless 4-1/2 in. / 5 in. cut-off/angle grinder with a paddle switch and electric brake that stops the wheel in 2 seconds or less upon release for maximum operator safety. The paddle switch has no lock-on, requiring continuous grip pressure to keep the tool running — a preferred choice for OSHA-sensitive jobsites. The Makita-built brushless motor delivers 8,500 no-load RPM with Automatic Speed Change technology for consistent performance.
Why choose the XAG11Z paddle switch over the XAG09Z slide switch?
Paddle switches require constant grip pressure and have no lock-on, which means the tool stops immediately when you let go. This is the safer configuration for disc grinding — it prevents the wheel from continuing to spin if the tool is dropped or set down. Many jobsite safety policies and OSHA guidelines recommend or require paddle-switch grinders for this reason.
Does the electric brake work with the paddle switch?
Yes. When you release the paddle, both the power cutoff (paddle switch) and the electric brake act simultaneously. The result is wheel stop in 2 seconds or less — faster and more controlled than a natural coast-down.
What is the difference between the XAG11Z and XAG21ZU?
Both are 18V LXT brushless paddle-switch grinders with electric brakes. The XAG21ZU adds AWS (Auto-Start Wireless System), which uses Bluetooth to automatically start a compatible Makita dust extractor when the grinder is triggered. If dust control is a priority on your site, the XAG21ZU is worth the upgrade.
Is the XAG11Z compatible with 5 in. discs?
Yes, the XAG11Z accepts both 4-1/2 in. and 5 in. discs with a 5/8 in.-11 arbor. Larger 5 in. discs cover more surface area per pass, which can speed up material removal on flat surfaces.
Does the XAG11T kit use the same grinder body as the XAG11Z?
Yes, the XAG11T kit includes the same XAG11Z grinder, plus two 18V LXT 5.0Ah batteries, a rapid charger, and a contractor bag. Purchasing the kit is typically more economical if you need batteries and a charger.
# Makita 18V LXT Brushless 4-1/2 in. / 5 in. Paddle Switch Cut-Off/Angle Grinder with Electric Brake (Tool Only) **Model:** `XAG11Z` **Brand:** Makita **Category:** Angle Grinder > The Makita XAG11Z is an 18V LXT brushless 4-1/2 in. / 5 in. cut-off/angle grinder with a paddle switch and electric brake that stops the wheel in 2 seconds or less upon release for maximum operator safety. The paddle switch has no lock-on, requiring continuous grip pressure to keep the tool running — a preferred choice for OSHA-sensitive jobsites. The Makita-built brushless motor delivers 8,500 no-load RPM with Automatic Speed Change technology for consistent performance. ## Specifications | Attribute | Value | |---|---| | Product Type | Angle Grinder | | Voltage | 18 | | Platform | LXT | | Disc Diameter In | 4.5 | | No Load Rpm | 8,500 | | Spindle Thread | 5/8 in.-11 | | Brushless | Yes | | Tool Only | Yes | | Battery Included | No | | Charger Included | No | | Weight (lbs) | 5.8 | | Warranty | 3-year limited | ## What's Included - angle grinder - wheel guard - side handle Source: https://www.jaspecs.com/makita/angle-grinder/xag11z-makita-18v-lxt-brushless-4-1-2-in-angle-grinder-tool-only/