First Look: 12″ 36V Makita Top Handle Chainsaw

The work of the arborist is never really done, but with the 12″ 36V Makita top handle chainsaw, you can at least cool it with having to drag around a can of gas with you everywhere. Like the other tools in the 18V X2 LXT lineup, this 36V Makita top handle chainsaw runs off of two 18V LXT batteries. Taming the great outdoors will never feel as comfortable as with this saw’s light weight and instant startup. Plus, with a whole slew of other power and performance features, you might decide never to go back to gas power for your chainsawing needs.

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Why Is The Makita 36V Chainsaw The Arborist’s Dream?

Power

Let’s start with power. After all, a comfortable chainsaw that gets bogged down every time it touches wood might as well be a comfortable paperweight. Have no fear here. Two 18V batteries combine to blast 36V of tree-ripping power to the motor, which delivers 1,650 FPM to the 12″ chain.

Noise

The Makita 18V chainsaw also generates a whole lot less noise than its gas-powered counterparts. At 89 dB(A), you could get through a fair amount of work without making your eardrums bleed. Of course, OSHA will recommend that you always use hearing protection.

Hassle-Free

As with all battery-powered tools, the 36V Makita top handle chainsaw allows you to quit horsing around with gas, engine oil, spark plugs, and air filters. Basically, you’ll cut your maintenance time down dramatically. Of course, you’ll still need blade oil, as that just comes part and parcel with chainsaws. But, at least this saw comes with a large oil filling port that makes oiling the bar pretty simple.

Ergonomics

Ergonomically, the Makita top handle chainsaw seems pretty easy to manage. First of all, even with both batteries attached, this saw weighs in at a paltry 10.1 lbs. It also features rubber overmolding on the top handle, which Makita has engineered to better assist the user in applying even cutting pressure to the job.

Value

Sold as a kit (XCU02PT), the 12″ Makita 18V chainsaw comes with the saw, bar and chain, two 18V lithium-ion 5.0 Ah batteries, and a dual-port charger. The whole thing retails for $319, and comes with Makita’s limited 3-year warranty on the tool, batteries, and charger.

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36V Makita Top Handle Chainsaw Features

• Makita-built motor delivers 1,650 FPM chain speed for faster cutting
• “Tool-less” chain adjustment for convenient operation and maintenance
• Cordless for reduced maintenance; no need to change engine oil or spark plug, clean air filter or drain fuel for storage
• Front hand guard actuates chain brake when engaged
• 12″ guide bar for increased capacity
• Low noise level at only 89 dB(A) and zero emissions for operator comfort
• Weighs only 10.1 lbs. with batteries for reduced operator fatigue
• Features Extreme Protection Technology (XPT) which is engineered to provide increased dust and water resistance in harsh job site conditions
• Rubberized soft grip top handle is engineered for the user to more easily apply even cutting pressure
• Instant start-up: simply load two 18V LXT batteries and the saw is ready to use
• Electric brake for maximum productivity
• Adjustable automatic chain lubrication with large oil reservoir
• Large oil filling port with view window allows operator to easily add and check bar oil level

12″ Makita 18V X2 Chainsaw Specs

• Model Number: XCU02PT
• Guide Bar Length: 12″
• Speed: 1,650 FPM
• Chain Pitch: 3/8″
• Chain Gauge: 0.043″
• Overall Length: 24-5/8″
• Net Weight With Battery: 10.1 lbs
• Warranty: 3-Year Limited Warranty
• MSRP: $319