Pro Tool Reviews ranked the Makita GRJ02 (40V max XGT) first among 11 cordless reciprocating saws with 100 points, one point ahead of the Metabo HPT CR36DA, while the Milwaukee 2722 M18 FUEL SUPER SAWZALL finished at 78 despite the fastest wood cuts. The scores come from the outlet’s own head-to-head test, not from Torque Digest, and the Canadian prices for these saws were not shown on the maker pages we checked.
Which cordless reciprocating saw scored highest?
The Makita GRJ02 took the overall win with 100 points, the Metabo HPT CR36DA (36V) scored 99 and the Milwaukee 2722 (18V) scored 78, according to Pro Tool Reviews.
Pro Tool Reviews overall scores, left to right: Makita GRJ02 at 100, Metabo HPT CR36DA at 99, Milwaukee 2722 at 78.
Here are the cut times in seconds that the outlet recorded, with a lower number meaning a faster cut:
| Saw | 4-inch PVC | Clean wood | Wall sandwich | 3-inch cast iron |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Makita GRJ02 | 2.79 | 8.29 | 18.58 | 41.24 |
| Metabo HPT CR36DA | 2.85 | 8.23 | 18.11 | 54.54 |
| Milwaukee 2722 | 2.96 | 8.18 | 18.05 | 41.54 |
Why did the Milwaukee score lower if it cut wood fastest?
Pro Tool Reviews rated the Milwaukee 2722 at 5 out of 5 for vibration, where 1 is best, and listed it at 11.8 lbs as tested with an 8.0Ah battery. The Makita GRJ02 and the Metabo HPT CR36DA both earned a 1 for vibration, at 10.9 lbs and 10.8 lbs as tested.
What do the makers say about these saws?
Makita lists the GRJ02Z as a 40V max XGT saw with a 1-1/4” stroke, 0 to 3,000 strokes per minute, up to 40% faster cutting and up to 50% less vibration through its AVT counterbalance. It claims power comparable to a 15-amp corded saw, with a 10” wood capacity using a 12” blade and a 3-year limited warranty.
Milwaukee lists the 2722-20 with the same 1-1/4 in. stroke, 3,000 SPM, a POWERSTATE brushless motor and 15A corded-equivalent power. Its Canadian page shows the 2722-21HD kit with an M18 REDLITHIUM HIGH OUTPUT HD12.0 battery and a Rapid Charger. Both makers agree with the outlet on stroke length and top speed.
How much do they cost in Canada and the US?
Neither maker page we read shows a price, so Canadian pricing is not confirmed here. For the US, Pro Tool Reviews listed the Makita at $279 bare and $479 as a kit with a 4.0Ah battery, while Acme Tool listed the GRJ02Z tool only at $324.00 USD. The two US figures differ, so check the current price before you buy.
Who it suits
- Plumbers and demolition crews: the Makita GRJ02 combined the fastest PVC and cast iron cuts with a vibration score of 1, but you need XGT batteries, and the 10.9 lbs as tested is not light.
- Renovators cutting wood and nails: the Milwaukee 2722 was quickest on clean wood and the wall sandwich, but check the vibration rating if you cut all day.
- Owners of a Milwaukee M18 or Makita XGT system: buying within your platform saves on batteries, so the Milwaukee or the Makita may be the practical pick whatever the score.
- Budget DIYers: the Ryobi PBLRS02 was lighter at 8.1 lbs as tested, but it needed 101.25 seconds for cast iron, so it suits occasional wood and PVC jobs.
What should you do next?
Compare Canadian retailer prices for the GRJ02Z and the 2722-20 kit this week, and read the full Pro Tool Reviews test tables on blade and battery choices before you commit.
