Hychika MS-85C vs. Makita SH02R1
Considering a new circular saw? Compare the features of the Hychika MS-85C and Makita SH02R1 in order to make an informed purchase!
We’ll take a look at these two circular saws: the Hychika MS-85C and the Makita SH02R1.
Features & Benefits
You can read more in our roundup of the best compact circular saws.
Power & Motor
The MS-85C is corded, runs on 120 V, and draws 4 amps. Standard U.S. residential circuits are 120 V, 15 A, which will support the.
The SH02R1 is cordless and requires 12 V batteries.
The MS-85C motor produces 4500 rpm and the SH02R1 motor produces 1500 rpm. Don’t pay too much attention to these numbers, because the manufacturers measure them under no-load conditions, and they don’t have a strong impact on the saw’s real-world ability to handle different material.
Both saws have a direct-drive motor. Direct-drive motors are usually lighter than other styles, but their side mounting makes the saw a little harder to control.
Blades & Capacity
Both products accept 3 3/8” diameter saw blades. The MS-85C has a 3/8” arbor. The SH02R1 has a 15 mm (0.591”) arbor.
Both circular saws can cut up to 1” at a 90° angle. The MS-85C can bevel the blade up to 0°. The SH02R1 can bevel up to 45° and can cut up to 5/8” deep at a 45° angle.
When beveling the saw, most circular saws will have positive stops at common angles such as 45° and 90°. This ensures you are making precise cuts. Some saws have additional stops at other angles.
The Hychika has the blade on the left side of the unit. The Makita has the blade on the right side of the unit. Right-handers sometimes find it easier to see and control blades mounted to the left, while left-handers might find the same true for right-mounted blades.
Pros & Cons
Let’s take a look at some of the pluses and minuses of these products.
For the Makita:
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Good battery life
Cons
- Non-standard blade/arbor size can mean limited selection of blades
Comparison Chart
Below is a full side-by-side look at these products’ specs. You can view comparisons of the Hychika MS-85C with other products
| Hychika MS-85C | Makita SH02R1 | |
|---|---|---|
| | |
| Brand | Hychika | Makita |
| Power Type | corded | cordless |
| Power - Voltage | 120 V | 12 V |
| Power - Amps | 4 A | n/a |
| No-load RPM | 4500 rpm | 1500 rpm |
| Blade Diameter | 3 3/8” | 3 3/8” |
| Maximum Bevel | 0° | 45° |
| Depth of Cut (at 90°) | 1” | 1” |
| Depth of Cut (at 45°) | n/a | 5/8” |
| Arbor Size | 3/8” | 15 mm (0.591”) |
| Weight | 7 lbs | 3.5 lbs |
| Blade - Side | left | right |
| Drive Mechanism | direct-drive | direct-drive |
| Stops | n/a | |
| Warranty | 3 years | |
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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