Makita SH02R1 vs. Rockwell RK3441K
Thinking about a new circular saw? Compare the features of the Makita SH02R1 and Rockwell RK3441K and make an informed purchase!
Let’s take a look at these two circular saws: the Makita SH02R1 and the Rockwell RK3441K.
Features & Benefits
You can read our roundup of the best compact circular saws.
Power & Motor
The RK3441K is corded, runs on 120 V, and draws 5 amps. Standard U.S. residential circuits are 120 V, 15 A, which will support the.
The SH02R1 is cordless and runs on 12 V batteries.
The SH02R1 motor spins at 1500 rpm and the RK3441K motor spins at 3500 rpm. Don’t get too caught up in these numbers, since the manufacturers measure them under ideal conditions, so they don’t have a meaningful impact on the saw’s real-world capability to handle different material.
Both circular 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
The SH02R1 accepts 3 3/8” diameter blades and has a 15 mm (0.591”) arbor. The RK3441K takes 4 1/2” diameter blades and has a 3/8” arbor.
Both saws can bevel their blades up to 45°. The SH02R1 is able to cut up to 1” deep at a 90° angle and will cut up to 5/8” at 45°. The RK3441K can cut up to 1 11/16” deep at an angle of 90° and is able to cut up to 1 1/8” at a 45° angle.
The Makita has the blade on the right side of the saw. The Rockwell has the blade on the left side of the body. 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
For the Rockwell:
Pros
- Left-mounted blade improves visibility of cut line
- Easy-to-operate trigger and safety
Cons
- Some users report that the bolt holding the blade can snap off
Comparison Chart
Here is a full side-by-side comparison of these products’ specs. You can view comparisons of the Makita SH02R1 with other products
| Makita SH02R1 | Rockwell RK3441K | |
|---|---|---|
| | |
| Brand | Makita | Rockwell |
| Power Type | cordless | corded |
| Power - Voltage | 12 V | 120 V |
| Power - Amps | n/a | 5 A |
| No-load RPM | 1500 rpm | 3500 rpm |
| Blade Diameter | 3 3/8” | 4 1/2” |
| Maximum Bevel | 45° | 45° |
| Depth of Cut (at 90°) | 1” | 1 11/16” |
| Depth of Cut (at 45°) | 5/8” | 1 1/8” |
| Arbor Size | 15 mm (0.591”) | 3/8” |
| Weight | 3.5 lbs | 5 lbs |
| Blade - Side | right | left |
| Drive Mechanism | direct-drive | direct-drive |
| Warranty | 3 years | |
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