The XPS01PTJ track saw kit from Makita is a highly regarded tool, and Makita occasionally offers promotions where you can receive a free guide rail, batteries, or a combination of both with the purchase of the kit. However, it’s important to note that there haven’t been any recent promotions of this kind.
Makita has recently launched a new XGT track saw, and the USA model has started to appear at online retailers under model GPS01M1J. This could be important for context.
This is where things get interesting…
It seems there is some confusion and speculation regarding the new Makita XPS01PMJ cordless track saw kit with 4.0Ah batteries. There are a couple of potential explanations for this new kit option:
A) Makita may have introduced the XGT track saw in the USA and simultaneously launched a new 18V X2 kit with lower capacity batteries, although the reasons behind this decision are unknown.
B) It’s possible that this new kit is a secret Makita Black Friday 2021 deal specifically for the track saw, bundled with 4.0Ah batteries to allow for lower pricing compared to the kit with 5.0Ah batteries.
Makita’s previous cordless track saw promotions typically included a free guide rail and batteries. However, this time they might be taking a different approach by offering a “special buy” kit at a lower price point.
The SubCompact cordless drill and impact driver kits from Makita are currently bundled with 1.5Ah batteries (which the website states as discontinued) for their Black Friday sale.
While it’s unclear whether this new track saw kit is part of Makita’s regular lineup or a Black Friday deal, it’s worth noting that the lower capacity 4.0Ah batteries have 25% less charge capacity compared to the 5.0Ah batteries. However, if the price is right, the battery downgrade may not be a significant concern.
When considering any claims of “savings” or “was pricing,” it’s important to be aware that the usual kit with 5.0Ah batteries is regularly priced at $499. The 4.0Ah kit was introduced at a higher price range of $499 to $519 (or higher at some retailers), but this pricing may not hold much significance if it was primarily introduced as a Black Friday deal.
If this is indeed a Black Friday deal, it would be unusual for a brand to downgrade the batteries in their cordless power tool kits. However, brands sometimes adjust the bundled contents or pricing to accommodate sales and promotions.
Ultimately, without official clarification from Makita USA, it’s difficult to determine the exact nature of this new SKU. It’s best to stay updated and consider the details carefully, especially if you have specific requirements regarding battery capacity and pricing.
Some retailers are reporting the 5Ah X2 kit as out of stock and with an extended ETA (e.g. April 2022). If the 4Ah kit is meant to replace the 5Ah kit, you might want to buy the 5Ah kit at comparable pricing if it’s still available.