Built for big and tough jobs such as handling plywood, dimensional lumber, and the like, hypoid saws demand a lot of power and stability. The Makita 5377MG 7-1/4-inch magnesium hypoid saw proves to have both of these sought-after qualities.
To help you decide whether to purchase this tool or not, I’ve listed down its features, pros, and cons down below.
Makita 5377MG 7-1/4-Inch Magnesium Hypoid Saw
As a hypoid saw, this model is built for durability, thanks to the magnesium shoe and other sturdy components. It has convenient features and good cutting capacity to help you finish any on-site job.
Specifications
With a 7-1/4-inch blade diameter and an arbor size of 5/8 inches, this hypoid saw has a maximum cutting capacity of 2-3/8 inches and a speed of 4,500 RPM. This corded tool has a 15-amp motor with 2,300 watts. Weighing 13.2 pounds, which is still within the normal range for hypoid saws (given they are built for heavy-duty tasks), this tool has positive stops at 22.5, 45, and 51.5 degrees for cutting.
Quality
A 1-year warranty is assured by Makita for this hypoid saw. You can take advantage of this warranty through any of Makita’s Factories or Authorized Service Centers worldwide, which covers defects from workmanship and materials. They also have a 30-day satisfaction guarantee program, in case you aren’t happy with the results.
As mentioned above, what makes this tool durable is the magnesium component in the shoe and other parts. Magnesium improves the stability and longevity of the tool without adding too much weight.
Aside from that, it has a built-in fan and a sealed gear housing for minimal hassle and maintenance. Another feature that adds durability is the heat-treating process of the hypoid steel gears. These steel gears are better than the usual bronze-alloy gears that you see in similar power tools.
Usability
The Makita 5377MG sports ergonomic features such as a rubber grip on the handle. It also has rubberized levers that are large enough to be operated with just one hand. Your accuracy will be perfected using the oversized number and ruler markings to also aid the adjustment.
To make it easier to read the measurement scale, the blade and the housing are spaced farther away from each other. There’s also a retractable hook to keep the tool tidy when not in use.
Should You Buy the Makita 5377MG?
I think that the Makita 5377MG will suit your needs if you prefer a magnesium shoe and other components that make it durable and stable for long-term use. A magnesium build is a plus point if you are working in a construction site and want a hypoid saw that will last for a long time, while enduring tough demands.
Along with this, it has fantastic usability features, such as oversized ruler markings, a rubberized grip for easy handling (even with gloves), and a retractable hook for storage. These large ruler markings eliminate the need to lean closer just to see the measurement or bevel setting. All in all, these features will make the hypoid saw a solid workhorse for the job site.
If you are still unsure about your decision, go through the below list of the pros and cons of the tool.
Pros of the Makita 5377MG
Let’s start with the pros.
It features magnesium components.
Magnesium parts on the saw’s body and more particularly on its shoe/footplate makes this hypoid saw durable for long-term use. As compared to those that only have aluminum or alloy parts, improves sturdiness considerably.
Most of us know that hypoid saws focus on power. Due to being a heavy-duty tool for big projects, they are therefore likely to be heavy. However, the magnesium components keep the whole tool balanced when it comes to both stability and ease of handling it.
The handle is ergonomic and comfortable.
By having a rubberized and ergonomic handle, the tool will keep you comfortable, even when the machine vibrates like crazy (which is common with hypoid saws, anyway, due to their power). This makes the tool easier to control as compared to those that lack an ergonomic handle.
Ergonomic handles are a huge plus point, especially for a heavy-duty tool like a hypoid saw, which is more likely to vibrate than regular power saws.
It has a sealed gear housing for reduced maintenance.
The sealed gear housing will save you time when it comes to maintaining the tool. Due to its oil bath technology, the inner workings, gears, and motor are all well-protected against debris from the outside environment, allowing the tool to operate at its best.
Aside from that, it has heat-treated hypoid steel gears, which are also low-maintenance. Moreover, the unit has a built-in fan to ensure that it stays cool even during intense loads.
There is a hook for easy storage.
No one wants a bulky hypoid saw (or any power tool, for that matter) lying around. A convenient storage hook simplifies organization and helps your workspace stay tidy.
Cons of the Makita 5377MG
On the other hand, while it has good points, the product has some minor drawbacks.
It doesn’t have dust management features.
Unfortunately, the tool doesn’t have a chute to keep the dust away, so you’d have to be careful when it comes to keeping your workplace clean from debris.
The blade visibility is lacking.
When compared to other hypoid saws and worm drive circular saws, this model has a blade and body design that makes it a little trickier to see what you’re doing. Nonetheless, it is still workable, but maybe not as comfortable as with other brands.
What Are the Alternatives to the Makita 5377MG?
If you think that the Makita 5377MG isn’t the hypoid saw for you, there are alternatives. For instance, the Makita 5477NB (read my review) is a similar saw from the same brand. The specs are mostly the same except that this one doesn’t have magnesium components. Though it does have the same oil bath technology and heat-treated hypoid gears.
While not exactly hypoid saws, some worm drive circular saws also match their power and speed. A good example would be the Skilsaw SPT70WM-01, which is made with magnesium construction for durability. With a 15-amp motor, this tool has a larger capacity of 10-1/4 inches, so it is built for heavy-duty tasks. It has a speed of 4,600 RPM and a 51-degree bevel for different kinds of cuts.
Another worm drive I’d like to suggest as an alternative to hypoid saws is the DeWalt DWS535B. This one has a cord protection system to avoid accidental pull-outs and it has a magnesium shoe as well. It’s parts are made from a combination of magnesium and aluminum for extended durability and corrosion resistance. With a 4,800 RPM speed and a 53-degree bevel capacity, it brings decent power while also sporting an electric brake for repetitive cuts.
Summary
Overall, the Makita 5377MG is a powerful hypoid saw that’s not just all about speed, cutting capacity, and comfort features, because of its magnesium build. This adds to the tool’s durability throughout many years of usage. Although it lacks prime blade visibility and dust management, if you’re looking for power, durability, and convenience, then this hypoid saw is a good buy.