The Makita XSH04RB is an 18V LXT sub-compact brushless 6-1/2 in. circular saw kit built for contractors who need a compact, lightweight saw for framing, roofing, and formwork. At 10-5/8 in. long and 6.4 lbs. with battery, it is among the most compact 6-1/2 in. cordless saws available while still delivering 5,000 RPM and a 2-1/4 in. cutting depth at 90°. The kit includes two 2.0Ah compact batteries and a rapid charger.
What makes the XSH04RB 'sub-compact'?
Makita's sub-compact designation means the tool is engineered for a smaller footprint and lighter weight than the standard LXT form factor. At 10-5/8 in. long and 6.4 lbs. with the 2.0Ah battery, it is noticeably shorter and lighter than a standard 18V LXT 6-1/2 in. saw like the XSH03Z, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces and for overhead cuts.
Can I use larger 18V LXT batteries in the XSH04RB?
Yes. The XSH04RB accepts any 18V LXT battery with the Star symbol, including 3.0Ah, 4.0Ah, 5.0Ah, and 6.0Ah packs. Larger batteries will add some weight but provide significantly more cuts per charge.
Why does the kit come with 2.0Ah batteries instead of 5.0Ah?
The 2.0Ah compact batteries are matched to the sub-compact body — they keep the saw light and balanced for the applications it is designed for (framing, roofing, finish work). If production volume is high, adding 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah batteries is straightforward.
What is the difference between XSH04RB and XSH04ZB?
XSH04RB is the kit version including two 2.0Ah batteries and a charger. XSH04ZB is the bare tool (tool only). Both use the same saw body.
How does XSH04RB compare to XSH05ZB?
XSH05ZB is the AWS-capable version of the same sub-compact saw body, sold as tool only. AWS (Auto-Start Wireless System) lets the saw wirelessly trigger an AWS-equipped dust extractor. XSH04RB does not include AWS, but comes as a complete kit.
# Makita 18V LXT Sub-Compact Brushless 6-1/2 in. Circular Saw Kit (2.0Ah) **Model:** `XSH04RB` **Brand:** Makita **Category:** Circular Saw > The Makita XSH04RB is an 18V LXT sub-compact brushless 6-1/2 in. circular saw kit built for contractors who need a compact, lightweight saw for framing, roofing, and formwork. At 10-5/8 in. long and 6.4 lbs. with battery, it is among the most compact 6-1/2 in. cordless saws available while still delivering 5,000 RPM and a 2-1/4 in. cutting depth at 90°. The kit includes two 2.0Ah compact batteries and a rapid charger. ## Specifications | Attribute | Value | |---|---| | Product Type | Circular Saw | | Voltage | 18 | | Platform | LXT | | Blade Diameter (in.) | 6.5 | | No-Load Speed (RPM) | 5,000 | | Max Bevel Deg | 50 | | Max Depth At 90 In | 2.25 | | Brushless | Yes | | Tool Only | No | | Battery Included | Yes | | Battery Ah | 2 | | Charger Included | Yes | | Weight (lbs) | 6.4 | | Warranty | 3-year limited | ## What's Included - 18V LXT sub-compact brushless 6-1/2 in. circular saw (XSH04ZB) - 18V LXT compact 2.0Ah battery × 2 (BL1820B) - 18V LXT rapid charger (DC18SD) - 6-1/2 in. 24T carbide-tipped blade - hex wrench - tool bag Source: https://www.jaspecs.com/makita/circular-saw/xsh04rb-makita-18v-lxt-brushless-6-1-2-in-circular-saw-kit/