Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw Review: Powerful and Portable

The Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw Review explores this exceptional tool designed for homeowners seeking to tackle medium to light chainsaw tasks such as felling small trees, limbing, pruning, and brush cutting.

We independently bought and tested the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw. We may earn a commission through affiliate programs if you click our links.

The Ultimate Lightweight and Portable Tool for Outdoor Cutting

As someone who values convenience and reliable performance, the Maki1ta XCU06Z 18V LXT Top Handle Chainsaw has become an essential tool in my outdoor cutting tasks, offering a perfect balance of power and portability. This comprehensive review will delve into its key features, such as its ease of transport, cutting capabilities, and maintenance requirements. Additionally, I will provide helpful tips on cleaning and sharpening the chainsaw. By the end of this review, you will have a clear understanding of the pros and cons of the Makita XCU06Z, enabling you to determine if it suits your specific needs.

Ease of Use and User Comfort

I love how the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw is designed for user comfort. The ergonomic handle ensures a comfortable grip, preventing strain on my hands and arms during long periods of use. Its compact and lightweight design allows me to easily maneuver it, even in tight spaces. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, this chainsaw’s simple controls and intuitive operation make it a breeze to use.

Portability

The Makita XCU06Z Battery Chainsaw is perfect for my outdoor adventures in the woods, whether doing trail maintenance on long hikes or skiing into areas to clear fallen trees in the winter. It’s impressively lightweight at just 6.6 pounds (with the battery), making it a breeze to carry in my backpack. The compact design, featuring a 10-inch bar and chain, ensures it takes up minimal space when stored. Being cordless, it runs on battery power, removing the need for fuel or gas canisters and enhancing portability, especially in remote areas. I love that it can be easily disassembled for efficient packing, adding to its convenience.

The Ultimate Efficiency

When I initially embarked on my large-scale project on our property, my toolkit consisted solely of manual hand tools. Equipped with pruners, loppers, and a pole saw, my goal was to trim and tidy up numerous dead branches and small trees. However, dealing with the infinite dead branches of countless pine trees proved daunting. The process involved using the pole saw to cut the branches, followed by further trimming with pruners and loppers to ready them for burning. Although the Fiskers PowerGear2 Pruners and Fiskars 32-Inch PowerGear Loppers were commendable tools that I still utilize today, the work was arduous, time-consuming, and physically demanding, often leaving me in discomfort when I went to bed each night.

Over time, I gradually expanded my arsenal by acquiring additional tools, including a Stihl MS 250 Chainsaw, which proved helpful in saving time during branch cutting. However, the true game-changers that significantly enhanced my efficiency and saved me countless hours for this kind of work were the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw and Makita XAU02PTB Telescoping Pole Saw. Tasks that previously required several hours of labor with hand tools can now be accomplished in less than half an hour with minimal exertion. Consequently, I no longer endure the soreness that plagued me after such endeavors. If you want to expedite your work, save time, and conserve energy, consider the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw and XAU02PTB Telescoping Pole Saw. They have revolutionized my experience and yielded remarkable results.

Cutting Capabilities

The XCU06Z delivers impressive cutting power despite its cordless nature. Its efficient brushless motor effortlessly tackles branches, logs, and small trees. While it excels in medium to light-duty cutting tasks, its 10″ bar size is best suited for trees with a diameter of up to 8 inches or less. If you have larger cutting tasks ahead, the Makita XCU07PT battery-powered chainsaw is an excellent option with its longer 14-inch bar and increased power for a greater cutting capacity. However, if you anticipate working with larger trees and more demanding jobs, a gas-powered chainsaw like the Husqvarna 440 gas-powered chainsaw with its 18-inch bar may be more suitable. However, the XCU06Z is versatile, can handle hardwood and softwood trees, and does the job it was designed for well.

Limitations

While the XCU06Z is a powerful chainsaw considering its size, it does have a few limitations to keep in mind. As previously mentioned, its 10-inch bar and chain size make it more suitable for cutting smaller trees and removing branches. Another consideration is the battery life, which may be limited during extensive cutting tasks. Depending on the battery capacity and workload, it’s advisable to have spare batteries on hand or plan for recharging breaks to ensure uninterrupted operation. I always carry two Makita 5.0 18V Batteries for every job, ensuring they are charged before I begin cutting.

Related: FELCO 2 Pruner Review

Overuse

One thing to be mindful of when using the Makita XCU06Z is the potential for overheating if it is overused. Like any power tool, prolonged and excessive usage can strain the motor, leading to overheating. To prevent this, it is important to give the chainsaw periodic breaks to allow it to cool down. Additionally, be mindful of the operating conditions, such as ambient temperature and workload, as they can contribute to heat buildup. By practicing responsible usage and giving the tool the necessary rest periods, you can help prevent overheating and prolong the lifespan of the Makita XCU06Z.

Maintenance and Cleaning

Maintaining the XCU06Z is relatively straightforward. Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity. Here are a few essential maintenance tips:

Chain Tension: Keep the chain adequately tensioned to ensure efficient cutting. Check the tension regularly and adjust it as needed according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Battery Care: Ensure the battery is charged before each use. Follow the recommended charging and storage instructions provided by Makita to prolong the battery’s lifespan.
Chain Oil: The XCU06Z requires chain oil for lubrication. Monitor the oil level and refill it as needed during cutting sessions. Regularly inspect the oil reservoir and ensure it remains clean and debris-free.
Cleaning: After each use, clean the saw thoroughly to remove accumulated sawdust, dirt, or debris. Use a soft brush or compressed air to clean the chain, bar, and other parts. Avoid using water or harsh chemicals, as they can damage the tool.

Sharpening Tips

Properly sharpening the chainsaw chain is essential for optimal cutting performance. Here are a few tips for sharpening the chain:

Safety First: Always wear protective gloves and goggles when sharpening the chain. Ensure the chainsaw is turned off and the battery is removed.
Chain File: Use a round file of the appropriate size recommended by Makita to sharpen the chain. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the correct filing angle and technique.
File Direction: Maintain a consistent filing direction, usually from the inside of the teeth towards the outside. Ensure each tooth receives an equal number of file strokes to maintain balance.

Safety

The Makita XCU06Z features an integrated kickback brake, which immediately stops the chain if kickback occurs, keeping me safe and preventing accidents in specific scenarios. However, As someone who has experienced the potential dangers of chainsaws, I must emphasize the importance of safety when using the Makita XCU06Z chainsaw. Despite its small size and toy-like appearance, it is essential to understand that chainsaws can pose significant risks regardless of size. Accidents can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities. To ensure my safety, I wear a helmet, safety glasses, chainsaw gloves, and chaps to protect myself from potential hazards. Chainsaw safety should never be taken lightly.

Related: FELCO 6 Pruner Review

Pros	Cons
• Cordless convenience for freedom of movement • Impressive cutting power for medium to light-duty tasks • Low noise and vibration levels for a comfortable cutting experience • Hassle-free maintenance without the need for fuel or spark plugs	• Limited cutting capacity due to the 10-inch bar size • Battery life may be a limitation for extensive cutting tasks • Chain oil consumption may be higher during prolonged cutting sessions.

Conclusion

The Makita XCU06Z Battery Chainsaw perfectly blends portability, power, and easy maintenance. Thanks to its lightweight and compact design, it can be effortlessly transported in a backpack, making it a great companion for working in the woods during hikes or clearing trails in winter. Its compact size allows convenient use in dense areas, making branch removal a breeze. A notable advantage of this chainsaw is its quiet operation, which shows consideration for neighbors and provides privacy while working. While it excels in medium to light-duty tasks, it’s important to remember that it has limitations when it comes to larger trees. However, by following the recommended maintenance procedures, proper cleaning, and timely chain sharpening, you can maximize the performance of the XCU06Z and enjoy a smooth-cutting experience.

Price
Tool Only	$189.97 (Amazon)
Tool, 1x Battery, and Charger	$263.28 (Amazon)
Tool, 2x Battery, and Charger	$393.27 (Amazon)

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Recommended Accessories

To use the tool-only model of the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw, you must purchase 4.0 18V Makita batteries and a charger separately. I highly recommend the Makita 4.0 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Battery and Charger) as it includes a charger, bag, and two batteries for your convenience.
Having a spare Makita 199075-5 10″ Saw Chain ensures you can quickly replace a worn or damaged chain, minimizing downtime and keeping your cutting tasks on track.
Having Oregon Bar and Chain Oil for Chainsaws is essential for maintaining and optimizing the performance of your chainsaw. It reduces friction, extends the lifespan of your equipment, and ensures smooth and safe operation. With a one-quart bottle of Oregon Bar and Chain Oil (32 fl. oz / 946 ml), you’ll have an ample supply to keep your chainsaw well-lubricated for numerous cutting sessions.

FAQ

What tasks is the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw most suitable for?
Will the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw cut hardwoods like oak?
How much does the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw weigh?
What is the total (assembled) length of the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw?
What type of chain does the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw use?
Is this the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw, a one-handed saw only?
Does the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw tool-only version come with a chain?
Does the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw come with a bumper spike?
What size trees and branches will the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw cut?
Do you have to tap the throttle constantly on the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw to keep it from going to “sleep (safety)”?
I use Makita tools. Are my 18V LXT batteries interchangeable with the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw?
Does the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw work with 3.0 Ah batteries?
How long does it take to charge Makita 18V LXT batteries?
Why do I need to use bar oil in my chainsaw?
What type of oil goes inside the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw?
Does the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw come with a wrench for adjusting chain tension and removing the chain bar?

What tasks is the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw most suitable for?

The Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw is perfect for homeowners with average-size yards, offering excellent performance for light tasks such as occasional limbing, pruning, and cutting brush. It is also suitable for cleaning up bigger trees up to 8 inches that may have fallen during a storm. However, if you have heavier work in mind, such as cutting firewood or clearing multiple trees, opting for the more powerful and slightly larger Makita XCU03PT 36V Chain Saw or a gas-powered Stihl MS250 Chain Saw would be a more suitable choice.

Will the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw cut hardwoods like oak?

The Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw effortlessly tackles hardwoods like oak and maple, cutting through them up to 8 inches thick. While sawing through hardwood may take more time, using 5.0 or 6.0 batteries, a sharp chain, and proper bar oil maintenance, this saw will handle any challenge you throw at it.

How much does the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw weigh?

The Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw weighs 6.6 pounds when the battery is attached and 5.2 pounds without it, making it lightweight and easy to handle.

What is the total assembled length of the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw?

The Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw has dimensions of 19 inches in length, 7.5 inches in width, and 7.5 inches in height. The cutting part of the blade measures 9 1/2 inches in length. When the blade is covered, the total length measures 20.5 inches.

What chain does the Makita XCU06Z chainsaw use?

The Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw uses a Makita 199075-5 10″ 3/8 “.043 Saw Chain.

Is the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw, a one-handed saw?

The Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw is equipped with a side handle that allows for comfortable two-handed operation. However, its compact design also enables single-handed use if necessary. Nevertheless, for your safety, operating the chainsaw with both hands is recommended.

Does the Makita XCU06Z chainsaw tool-only version come with a chain?

Yes, the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw does include a chain, but it requires assembly with the chain bar before use. Attaching the chain and chain bar is a straightforward process. However, it’s important to note that the batteries and charger are not included with the chainsaw.

Does the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw come with a bumper spike?

Yes, the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw includes a bumper spike. It comes in separate pieces and needs to be assembled and attached to the chainsaw. The assembly process is simple and easy to follow.

What size trees and branches will the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw cut?

The Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw can effortlessly cut limbs up to 8″ in thickness. While it is ideally suited for cutting conditions under 6″, it can handle thicker limbs when needed. With its 10″ bar, you can technically cut an 18″ log from two directions. Just make sure to keep the chain sharp for optimal performance.

Do you have to tap the throttle constantly on the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw to keep it from going to “sleep (safety)”?

No, the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw will stay on for approximately 30 seconds before requiring you to push the on button again. However, if the handle safety is depressed, it will not turn off.

I use Makita tools. Are my 18V LXT batteries interchangeable with the Makita XCU06Z Chain Saw?

The Makita XCU06Z Chain Saw is compatible with all Makita 18V batteries in their LXT line of cordless tools. However, it is important to note that the battery life will vary based on the amp rating of the batteries. For optimal performance, it is recommended to use 4.0, 5.0, and 6.0 batteries, as they provide more power and longer run time compared to the 3.0 batteries.

Does the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw work with 3.0 Ah batteries?

While Makita 18V 3.0 Ah batteries can be used with the XCU06Z chainsaw, it’s important to note that your runtime may not be as optimal compared to using 4.0, 5.0, or 6.0 Ah batteries. For the best performance, it is recommended to use higher-capacity batteries.

How long does it take to charge Makita 18V LXT batteries?

The charging time of your Makita XCU06Z chainsaw battery varies depending on its amp rating. A 6.0 amp battery typically takes around an hour to fully charge, while a 4.0 amp battery takes approximately 40 minutes. Generally, the lower the amp rating, the faster the charging time.

Why do I need to use bar oil in my chainsaw?

Bar oil is crucial in keeping your chainsaw’s chain and bar well-lubricated during operation. It serves two primary purposes: lubricating the chain to prevent friction and reducing heat buildup. By ensuring a proper supply of bar oil, you can effectively maintain the performance and longevity of your chainsaw.

What type of oil goes inside the Makita XCU06Z chainsaw?

When it comes to bar and chain oil, any reputable brand will do the job well. Just remember to fill the oil reservoir before operating the saw. You can conveniently find chainsaw oil in various sizes, such as quarts and gallons, at your local hardware stores.

Does the Makita XCU06Z Chainsaw come with a wrench for adjusting chain tension and removing the chain bar?

The Makita XCU06Z Chain Saw includes a handy wrench that allows you to adjust and remove the chain effortlessly. In addition to that, you can also utilize the wrench to modify the bar oil injection rate, providing you with greater control over the lubrication of the chain and bar.