Makita GSH01M1 40V max XGT Brushless Cordless 7-1/4" Circular Saw Kit, AWS Capable (4.0Ah) is built for contractors who need cordless cutting power without stepping down in capacity. This is a circular saw designed for framing, roof work, forming, and general jobsite cutting. Model Number GSH01M1. If you want a rear-handle style cordless platform saw that can handle thick stock and keep moving under load, this kit is aimed right at that kind of work.

The big story here is usable cutting performance. Makita's brushless motor delivers 6,000 RPM, and the saw has a 2-5/8 inch cut capacity at 90 degrees, which lets it cut 3x material in a single pass. That matters on framing and structural work where a smaller cordless saw can come up short. At 45 degrees it cuts 1-13/16 inches, and at 56 degrees it cuts 1-5/16 inches, so you still have real depth available when you're working bevel cuts.

Makita also gave this saw a bevel range that makes sense on the job. It goes from 0 to 56 degrees with positive stops at 22.5, 45, and 56 degrees. Those are the angles users actually reach for in framing and roof work, so setup is quicker and repeat cuts are easier to trust. Add in the electric brake, and the saw stops the blade faster between cuts, which helps productivity when you're moving from cut to cut all day.

From a build standpoint, this one is clearly made for real use, not light trim duty. The die-cast magnesium base, blade guard, and blade cover keep weight down while holding up better to jobsite handling. Makita lists the saw at 9.7 lbs. with battery, which is reasonable for a 40V class 7-1/4 inch cordless circular saw with this kind of capacity. The compact body is another plus, with an overall length of 13 inches and a design called out as compact and ergonomic.

In actual cutting, the saw uses Automatic Torque Drive Technology to adjust speed under load for optimum cutting performance. That is the kind of feature you notice when you move from easier sheet goods into denser framing lumber or heavier rip cuts. Instead of feeling like the tool is bogging down the moment the material gets tougher, the saw is designed to respond to load and keep cutting efficiently.

Makita also put real thought into jobsite durability and day-to-day usability. Extreme Protection Technology is built in to improve resistance to dust and water in harsh conditions, and dual LED lights help keep the cut line visible. The saw is also AWS capable, so with the optional Auto-Start Wireless Transmitter, it can communicate with a compatible dust extractor using Bluetooth for automatic power on and off. That is especially useful when you're working indoors or doing repeated cuts where constant extractor noise gets old fast.

As part of the Makita 40V max XGT platform, this kit fits into Makita's higher-demand cordless system. XGT tools and batteries are built around digital communication that monitors load, overheating, and over-discharge, and the included 4.0Ah battery and Rapid Optimum Charger are part of that same system. If you're already in XGT, this is an easy fit. If you're building into XGT for heavier cordless saw work, this is one of the tools that shows what the platform is for.

Who should buy it? Framers, builders, roofers, and remodelers who want a cordless 7-1/4 inch circular saw with full-depth capacity and solid bevel capability. Serious DIY users working on decks, additions, sheds, or structural repairs will also appreciate it, but this is not really a light-duty occasional-use saw. It is better suited to users who need speed, deeper cutting capacity, and a platform that is meant for high-demand applications.

Makita GSH01M1 Circular Saw Kit Means Business

This is a legit cordless framing saw kit for users who want deep cut capacity, strong speed, and a cleaner path into Makita's 40V max XGT platform.

• Who it's for: Framers, roofers, builders, and serious remodelers who need a cordless circular saw that can handle structural cutting without feeling undersized.
• Why it stands out: The mix of 6,000 RPM speed, 2-5/8 inch cut depth at 90 degrees, magnesium build, and AWS capability gives it more real jobsite value than a basic cordless sidewinder.
• Worth knowing: If you want wireless extractor control, the AWS transmitter is sold separately. The included 4.0Ah battery gets you started, but high-volume crews may want extra XGT packs.

• What battery platform does this saw use? It uses the Makita 40V max XGT Lithium-Ion battery platform.
• What is the maximum cutting depth at 90 degrees? The saw cuts up to 2-5/8 inches at 90 degrees.
• Does it have bevel capability? Yes. It has a 0 to 56 degree bevel range with positive stops at 22.5, 45, and 56 degrees.
• Is this saw AWS ready out of the box? It is AWS capable, but the Auto-start Wireless Transmitter part no. 198901-5 is sold separately.