Makita SH02R1 vs. Skilsaw SPT77WML-01

Let’s take a look at these two circular saws: the Makita SH02R1 and the Skilsaw SPT77WML-01.

Features & Benefits

You can read more in our roundup of the best compact circular saws and the best full-size circular saws.

Power & Motor

The SPT77WML-01 is corded, runs on 120 V, and draws 15 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 SPT77WML-01 motor spins at 5300 rpm. Don’t get too caught up in these numbers, since the manufacturers measure them under ideal conditions, and they don’t have a direct impact on the saw’s real-world ability to handle different material.

The SH02R1 has a direct-drive motor. The SPT77WML-01 has a worm-drive motor. Direct-drive motors are usually lighter than other styles, but their side mounting makes the saw a little harder to control. Worm-drive motors are longer and heavier, but often more powerful and easier to control due to the weight being more centered.

Blades & Capacity

The SH02R1 accepts 3 3/8” diameter blades and has a 15 mm (0.591”) arbor. The SPT77WML-01 takes 7 1/4” diameter blades and has a 5/8” arbor. Most 8-to-10” blades have a 5/8” arbor hole, so this size arbor maximizes blade compatibility.

The SH02R1 can bevel the blade up to 45°, can cut up to 1” deep at a 90° angle, and can cut up to 5/8” at a 45° angle. The SPT77WML-01 can bevel its blade up to 53°, can cut up to 2 3/8” deep at a 90° angle, and can cut up to 1 15/16” 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 Skilsaw has stops at 45°.

The Makita has the blade on the right side of the unit. The Skilsaw has the blade on the left 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:

For the Skilsaw:

Comparison Chart

Below is a full side-by-side comparison of these products’ specs. You can view comparisons of the Makita SH02R1 with other products

	Makita SH02R1	Skilsaw SPT77WML-01
Brand	Makita	Skilsaw
Power Type	cordless	corded
Power - Voltage	12 V	120 V
Power - Amps	n/a	15 A
No-load RPM	1500 rpm	5300 rpm
Blade Diameter	3 3/8”	7 1/4”
Maximum Bevel	45°	53°
Depth of Cut (at 90°)	1”	2 3/8”
Depth of Cut (at 45°)	5/8”	1 15/16”
Arbor Size	15 mm (0.591”)	5/8”
Dimensions		19 1/2” L × 7” H
Weight	3.5 lbs	11.5 lbs
Blade - Side	right	left
Drive Mechanism	direct-drive	worm-drive
Stops		45°
Warranty	3 years	1 year
Pros	Lightweight and easy to handle Good battery life	Lots of torque for cutting difficult material Good build quality Blade-left design provides good visibility Easy to track straight cut lines
Cons	Non-standard blade/arbor size can mean limited selection of blades	Heavier than most direct-drive saws
	Check Price	Check Price