Makita JR3051T Reciprocating Saw Review

If you want a reciprocating saw that is really designed to give you the most in a small tool, Makita did a great job of creating a professional tool that anyone can depend on. It’s doesn’t have a ton of fancy features but it has speed, power, and control. For the price, it’s a pretty great value when you think of the capability.

Take a closer look at this tool in my Makita JR3051T review.

Makita JR3051T Reci Saw Review

This Makita JR3051 reciprocating saw is great for a variety of uses from the professional level to the DIY projects. It’s really easy to work with, which perhaps is another thing that makes it a desirable pick in the market. Makita has a classic reputation for making reliable tools that are just simple and reliable.

Every tool has a standard set of features. These are the identifying factors of the tool. It’s often what people look to first. Take a look at these key features that are defining factors for this great reciprocating saw.

• 12 amp motor
• Tool-less blade changes
• Speed can reach up to 3,000 SPM
• The stroke is slightly longer than the norm at 1-3/16 of an inch
• Works well for cutting wood, drywall, metal, plaster, plastic, and more
• Enhanced vibration control makes use much easier and more precise

Feature Highlights

Now, you see the primary specs of the reciprocating saw but what is it that really makes the Makita JR3051 stand out to us? There are several things that can make this a great saw. On that same note, there are several other great saws on the market. My goal is to determine what elements are the best on this saw that set it apart.

• Control: With a saw like this, being able to control the saw while you make your cut makes a significant difference. With this Makita reciprocating saw, the extended control that I appreciate comes from the technology that helps to reduce the vibration you experience while you work. The vibration control on this tool is probably one of the best possible features and it alone makes the saw a winner.
• Variable Speed: I appreciate the ability to choose your speed when using this reciprocating saw. The Makita JR0351T uses a speed trigger that is easy to adjust. You just use your trigger to adjust to the speed setting of your choice. Speed can range from 0-3,000 SPM, which gives you quite a range to work with. Your trigger makes the process very easy and it allows you to slow down or speed up as needed while you work.
• Power: Finally, I feel like the power really sets this tool apart as well. While it’s not uncommon to find 12-amp reciprocating saws, what is uncommon is the quality of this Makita compared to others in the same category. It has plenty of power but it also has plenty of capability that goes right along with that power. It wasn’t just built for power and then left to fend for itself on everything else.

Additional Feature Overview

Outside of the features that really are important to know and set this reciprocating saw apart, there are other features that are worthy of mention. You see this type of tool is made up of a multitude of parts. When you think about it, it’s the compilation of all of those parts that make it a great choice.

It’s pretty common for power tools to have a tool less blade change now. However, while almost all of Makita’s lines reflect this, there are many lines out there that still don’t offer it.

It’s something to take note of. When you need to change a blade, replace a blade, or even sharpen a blade, this makes your job so much easier. However, it also might lead to having to make adjustments because the blade likes to move in some cases.

The variable speed trigger is also something to draw attention to. Again, this is common for a reciprocating saw but it’s not a guarantee. Also, just because it’s there doesn’t mean it’s easy to use.

With the Makita, it is easy to use and it is effective. With that trigger, you have a good speed range that goes from 0-3,000 SPM.

One more little thing I want to mention is that this tool also has a cool hook on it. The hook just gives you a convenient way to hang it up and store it when you aren’t using it. It’s a neat feature.

Makita JR3051T Review Cutting Performance

Finally, the cutting performance is probably the real reason that you may or may not be interested in this reciprocating saw. After all, I’m guessing you are looking at it because you need to cut things. It has a unique disposition in terms of cutting performance.

The Makita tool actually offers a longer stroke than many of its counterparts. The stroke is 1-3/16 of an inch. Since it is longer and you have high speed and power, the combination makes for quick cutting so you can get the job done much more easily.

The Cons

So what are the imperfections? What I find is that Makita often focuses on delivering power and durability rather than some of the fancier features. The problem is, sometimes the fancy features are a must for people when they are ready to buy.

In this case, I don’t mind that it’s not fancy. However, I do find that the fact that there are no orbital settings on this reciprocating saw to be a little off-putting. That is the one major feature that this tool is missing.

Final Thoughts

In closing, the Makita JR3051T review shows me that Makita cares about quality. They designed a professional tool with a lot to offer. It’s versatile and can be used for DIY projects or professional jobs quite well.

This Makita tool is backed by power and control. That reduced vibration feature is probably one of the best things about the tool and that alone makes it a winner in my books.