The Makita XVJ04Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Jig Saw is a compact D-handle cordless jig saw built for accurate curved cuts, straight cuts, and bevel cuts in wood, steel, and aluminum. This is a jig saw designed for precision cutting in woodworking, cabinetry, remodeling, and general construction. Model Number: XVJ04Z. As a bare tool, it is aimed at users already on the Makita 18V LXT platform who want cordless freedom without stepping down in cut quality.

On the job, the big story is the brushless motor and the control range around it. The saw delivers variable speed from 0 to 3,000 strokes per minute, giving you room to slow down for clean starts or push harder when you need faster stock removal. Makita also builds in three orbital settings plus straight cutting, so you can choose a more aggressive action for faster wood cutting or back it off when cleaner results matter more. That makes this a more useful cordless jig saw if you bounce between trim work, sheet goods, and lighter metal cutting.

Makita also paid attention to how the cut starts and how the saw behaves in your hands. The no-load speed reduction feature is there to help create a more accurate starting cut, which is especially helpful when you are following a layout line on finished material. A soft start helps the saw come up to speed smoothly, and the electric brake helps you stop quickly between cuts. Put together, those features make the tool feel more controlled rather than jumpy, which is exactly what you want from a jig saw that may be used for visible work.

From a design standpoint, this is one of Makita's more compact and lightweight LXT D-handle jig saws. The overall length is listed at about 10-1/4 inches, and the operating weight with battery is about 5.2 lbs. That smaller footprint helps when you are cutting inside cabinets, working overhead, or turning through tighter curves where balance matters. The large 2-finger trigger and lock-on button are practical touches for longer cuts, and the variable speed control dial lets you adjust speed to the material instead of being stuck with a one-speed approach.

For everyday usability, Makita includes the details that actually save time. The tool-less blade change lever makes swapping blades quick when you move from wood to metal or switch tooth counts for finish work. The built-in dust blower clears the line of cut so you can keep your eye on the mark without constantly stopping to brush debris away. Dual LED lights improve visibility at the front of the tool, and the base bevels from 0 to 45 degrees left or right for angled cuts. Those are not throwaway features on a jig saw. They are the things that keep cuts cleaner and setup time shorter.

The Makita XVJ04Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Jig Saw uses T-shank blades, which is the common blade format most users already want because blade selection is broad and changes are easy. Cutting capacity is substantial for a cordless model, with up to 5-5/16 inches in wood at 90 degrees, 3/8 inch in steel, and 25/32 inch in aluminum. That gives it enough range for cabinet panels, plywood, framing cuts that call for a jig saw, countertop scribing, and light metal work, as long as you match the blade to the material.

Platform matters too. This saw is part of the Makita 18V LXT system and is compatible with Makita 18V LXT lithium-ion batteries that have the Star symbol. That means users already invested in Makita batteries and chargers can add the saw as a bare tool without buying into another cordless line. It is also equipped with Star Protection Computer Controls, which monitor for overload, over-discharge, and overheating to help protect both tool and battery under harder use.

Who should buy it? If you are a cabinet installer, finish carpenter, remodeler, woodworker, or serious DIY user who wants a cordless jig saw that feels controlled and jobsite-ready, this one makes a lot of sense. It is especially strong for buyers who value cleaner starts, easy blade changes, and Makita LXT battery compatibility. If you need a bare tool jig saw that covers everyday wood cutting plus occasional aluminum or steel work without dragging around a cord, this is the kind of saw that earns its spot fast.

Makita XVJ04Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless Jig Saw Done Right

This is a smart pick for users who want a cordless jig saw that feels controlled, cuts clean, and plugs right into the Makita LXT system they already own.

• Who it's for: Woodworkers, cabinet installers, trim carpenters, remodelers, and serious DIY users who need a reliable cordless jig saw for accurate cutting and bevel work.
• Why it stands out: The brushless motor, no-load speed reduction, tool-less blade changes, and left/right bevel capability make it more useful than an entry-level saw.
• Worth knowing: The Makita XVJ04Z is sold as a bare tool, so plan on adding a battery and charger if you are not already on Makita 18V LXT.

• What type of blades does this jig saw use? It uses T-shank jig saw blades.
• Can it make bevel cuts? Yes. The base bevels and locks from 0 to 45 degrees left or right.
• What battery platform does it use? It is part of the Makita 18V LXT platform and is compatible with Makita 18V LXT lithium-ion batteries with the Star symbol.
• What materials can it cut? Makita lists cutting capacities at 90 degrees of 5-5/16 inches in wood, 3/8 inch in steel, and 25/32 inch in aluminum with the proper blade.