The Makita XSH04ZB is the tool-only version of the 18V LXT sub-compact brushless 6-1/2 in. circular saw. At 10-5/8 in. long and 6.4 lbs. with battery, it delivers 5,000 RPM and a 2-1/4 in. cutting depth at 90° in a compact body suited to tight-space framing, roofing, and formwork. Automatic Speed Change technology adjusts cutting speed and torque under load for consistent performance.
What is the difference between XSH04ZB and XSH05ZB?
The XSH05ZB adds AWS (Auto-Start Wireless System) capability. When equipped with the optional AWS transmitter (No. 198901-5), the saw wirelessly powers on/off a compatible Makita dust extractor. Other specs — motor, RPM, blade size, cutting depth — are identical.
Does the XSH04ZB cut 2× lumber at 45°?
Yes. The maximum cutting depth at 45° is 1-5/8 in., which handles common rafter, fascia, and trim cuts in 2× dimensional lumber.
Is the XSH04ZB lighter than a standard 18V LXT circular saw?
Yes. At 6.4 lbs. with a 2.0Ah battery, it is about 0.9 lbs. lighter than the standard XSH03Z (7.3 lbs.) and nearly a pound lighter than competing 18V 6-1/2 in. saws. For roofers and framers making hundreds of cuts a day, the weight savings matter.
Can the XSH04ZB use BL1850B 5.0Ah batteries?
Yes, any 18V LXT battery with the Star symbol is compatible. The 5.0Ah packs add weight but deliver significantly more cuts per charge — useful for extended production work without battery swaps.
Does the sub-compact size reduce cutting capacity?
No — the 2-1/4 in. cutting depth at 90° and 0–50° bevel range match the standard XSH03Z exactly. The compact size comes from a shorter overall length and a lighter body design, not reduced blade diameter or cutting capacity.
# Makita 18V LXT Sub-Compact Brushless 6-1/2 in. Circular Saw (Tool Only) **Model:** `XSH04ZB` **Brand:** Makita **Category:** Circular Saw > The Makita XSH04ZB is the tool-only version of the 18V LXT sub-compact brushless 6-1/2 in. circular saw. At 10-5/8 in. long and 6.4 lbs. with battery, it delivers 5,000 RPM and a 2-1/4 in. cutting depth at 90° in a compact body suited to tight-space framing, roofing, and formwork. Automatic Speed Change technology adjusts cutting speed and torque under load for consistent performance. ## 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 | Yes | | Battery Included | No | | Charger Included | No | | Weight (lbs) | 6.4 | | Warranty | 3-year limited | ## What's Included - 18V LXT sub-compact brushless 6-1/2 in. circular saw - 6-1/2 in. 24T carbide-tipped blade - hex wrench Source: https://www.jaspecs.com/makita/circular-saw/xsh04zb-makita-18v-lxt-brushless-6-1-2-in-circular-saw-tool-only/