Tool Review: The Makita 5090D Cordless Mini Circular Saw

I've lusted for this fine piece of machinery for years, longingly looking at it in the hardware aisle of Home Depot or Lowe's. My reasoning for not spending the ~$120 on it was that there was always a bigger, more general use tool that cost about the same or less, that I needed.

I finally bought one. And just like many of my other fine powertools—the DeWalt reciprocating saw, portable drill/driver, Porter-Cable 16 & 18 gauge brad nailers with air compressor, etc. etc. etc.—when I finally had it in my hand working on a project, I could not believe that I’d lived without it for so long.

The 5090D’s main talent is cutting trim, quickly, precisely, and in a small space. When you first rev the trigger and the small blade whirrs, you’re thinking “Yeah, this isn’t going to cut a pencil.” But it goes through pine trim like butter. It cuts composite, 1x boards, and even 2x boards without trouble, though cutting a 2x will use the battery pretty quickly.

It’s a versatile tool, too. It’s handy for cutting PVC pipe for plumbing.

Pros: Small, lightweight. Great for small and precise work.
Cons: Not unlimited battery power. As with all portable tools, get yourself an extra battery.