When it comes to cutting metal on the job site or in the workshop, reliability and raw power are non-negotiable. The Makita LW1401 Cut-Off Saw has earned a reputation as one of the most dependable 14-inch metal chop saws for tradespeople who need clean, accurate cuts through steel pipe, conduit, angle iron, and tubing—without the premium price tag of industrial-grade cold saws.
But with so many cut-off saws on the market, is the Makita LW1401 14″ chop saw the right investment for your metal fabrication, plumbing, or construction work? In this detailed review, we break down the LW1401’s specifications, real-world performance, pricing, and how it compares to competitors in 2026.
Makita LW1401: At a Glance
Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Model | Makita LW1401 |
| Motor | 15 AMP (2200W @ 220-240V / 1650W @ 110V) |
| No-Load Speed | 3,800 RPM |
| Blade Diameter | 355mm (14″) |
| Arbor / Bore | 25.4mm (1″) |
| Max Cutting Capacity (Round) | 127mm (5″) |
| Max Cutting Capacity (Rectangular) | 102mm x 194mm (4″ x 7-5/8″) |
| Max Cutting Capacity (Square Tube) | 119mm (4-11/16″) |
| Weight | 16.8 kg / 37 lbs |
| Base Material | Cast aluminum |
| Safety Features | Two-stage lock-off power button, adjustable spark guard |
| Handle | Large ergonomic D-handle |
| Voltage Options | 110V and 220-240V variants available |
What Is the Makita LW1401 Cut-Off Saw?
The Makita LW1401 is a 14-inch portable cut-off saw (also called a chop saw or abrasive saw) engineered specifically for metal-cutting applications. Unlike woodworking miter saws, the LW1401 is built to handle steel, iron, aluminum, and other ferrous and non-ferrous metals using abrasive discs or specialized metal-cutting blades.
Makita designed this model for professional tradespeople—electricians, plumbers, metal fabricators, and construction crews—who need a lightweight yet powerful saw that can be transported between job sites without sacrificing cutting capacity. At just 37 pounds, the LW1401 is notably lighter than many competing 14-inch chop saws, making it one of the more portable options in its class.
Key Features of the Makita LW1401 14″ Cut-Off Saw
1. Powerful 15-Amp Motor (2200W)
The heart of the LW1401 is its high-torque 15-amp universal motor, delivering 3,800 RPM under no-load conditions. In 220-240V markets, this translates to 2,200 watts of input power—enough to slice through 5-inch round stock and thick-walled square tubing without stalling or overheating. The motor is designed for continuous operation on demanding job sites.
2. 14-Inch (355mm) Blade Capacity
The 355mm blade diameter is the industry standard for portable cut-off saws. The LW1401 accepts abrasive cut-off wheels and carbide-tipped metal-cutting blades with a 25.4mm (1-inch) arbor. This gives you flexibility: use inexpensive abrasive discs for rough cuts, or upgrade to a specialty blade for cleaner, cooler cuts with less burr.
3. Impressive Cutting Capacity
Despite its compact footprint, the LW1401 handles serious material:
Table
| Material Profile | Max Cutting Capacity |
|---|---|
| Round Stock | 127mm (5″) diameter |
| Square Tube | 119mm (4-11/16″) |
| Rectangular Stock | 102mm x 194mm (4″ x 7-5/8″) |
This capacity covers the vast majority of structural steel, conduit, threaded rod, and Unistrut encountered on commercial and residential job sites.
4. Lightweight and Portable Design
At 37 lbs (16.8 kg), the LW1401 is one of the lighter 14-inch cut-off saws in its category. The cast aluminum base keeps weight down while maintaining rigidity. Makita also offers the LW1401S variant, which emphasizes portability for contractors who frequently move between locations.
5. Safety-First Engineering
Makita included a two-stage lock-off power button to prevent accidental startups—a critical feature on high-RPM metal saws. The adjustable spark guard directs debris away from the operator, and the large ergonomic D-handle provides a secure grip during repetitive cutting tasks.
Makita LW1401 Price and Where to Buy
The Makita LW1401 is widely distributed across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. Pricing varies by region and whether the tool is sold as a bare unit or in a kit:
| Region / Retailer | Price (Approximate) | Currency |
|---|---|---|
| USA (Walmart) | $338 – $355 | USD |
| USA (Home Depot) | ~$339 | USD |
| Philippines (SeptFour Industrial) | ₱14,650 | PHP |
| India (IndustryBuying) | ₹20,999 + GST | INR |
| Qatar (Makita Qatar) | QAR 957 | QAR |
| Middle East (AP Tools) | ~960 SAR | SAR |
The saw is available through authorized Makita dealers, major hardware retailers like Home Depot, e-commerce platforms like Walmart, Amazon, eBay, and regional industrial supply houses.
lso see: Making Tough Cuts with INGCO Cut Off Saws
Makita LW1401 vs. Competitors: How Does It Compare?
| Specification | Makita LW1401 | DeWalt D28715 | Evolution Power Tools RAGE2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motor Power | 15A / 2200W | 15A / 1800W | 15A / 1800W |
| Blade Size | 14″ (355mm) | 14″ (355mm) | 14″ (355mm) |
| No-Load Speed | 3,800 RPM | 4,000 RPM | 1,450 RPM |
| Max Round Cut | 5″ (127mm) | 5″ (127mm) | 5″ (127mm) |
| Weight | 37 lbs | 39 lbs | 47 lbs |
| Quick-Change Blade | Standard wrench | Quick-change | Standard wrench |
| Price Range | $330–$360 | $350–$400 | $280–$320 |
Verdict: The Makita LW1401 sits in the sweet spot between premium and budget. It matches DeWalt on power and capacity while undercutting the price, and it’s significantly lighter than the Evolution RAGE2. If you need a portable, no-nonsense metal chop saw from a brand with a century of engineering pedigree, the LW1401 is difficult to beat.
Real-World Performance: What to Expect
Cutting Power
The 3,800 RPM motor combined with a fresh 14-inch abrasive wheel makes short work of mild steel pipe, rebar, angle iron, and aluminum tubing. Users report that the LW1401 maintains a consistent speed even when burying the blade into 4-inch square stock. For best results, let the saw reach full RPM before engaging the workpiece.
Cut Quality
Like all abrasive chop saws, the LW1401 produces a rough cut with some burr, this level of performance is expected and acceptable for framing, fencing, and structural work. If you need machine-shop precision, pair the saw with a high-quality thin-kerf carbide metal-cutting blade rather than a standard abrasive disc.
Portability
At 37 pounds, the LW1401 is genuinely portable. It fits comfortably in the bed of a truck or on a rolling cart. The LW1401S variant is even more travel-friendly if you need a saw that moves between job sites daily.
Durability
Makita’s reputation for longevity holds up here. The cast aluminum base resists warping, the motor bearings are sealed against dust, and the trigger assembly is robust enough to survive years of job-site abuse. Replacement parts and 14-inch abrasive wheels are widely available.
Pros and Cons of the Makita LW1401 Cut-Off Saw
✅ Pros
- Powerful 15-amp / 2200W motor handles heavy metal stock with ease
- Lightweight (37 lbs)—one of the most portable 14″ chop saws available
- Large cutting capacity—up to 5″ round and 4″ x 7-5/8″ rectangular
- Safety features including two-stage lock-off and spark guard
- Makita brand reliability with widespread parts and service availability
- Competitively priced compared to DeWalt and Milwaukee equivalents
❌ Cons
- Single bevel / fixed base—no miter or compound angle adjustments
- Abrasive cut quality requires deburring for finished work
- No quick-change blade system—requires a wrench to swap discs
- No included blade in some bare-tool packages (check before buying)
- 110V vs 220V confusion—ensure you order the correct voltage for your region
Who Should Buy the Makita LW1401?
The Makita LW1401 14″ cut-off saw is ideal for:
- Plumbers and electricians cutting conduit, threaded rod, and Unistrut
- Metal fabricators working with steel tubing and angle iron
- Fence and railing contractors cutting metal posts and rails
- DIY enthusiasts and farmers who need a reliable metal chop saw for occasional heavy-duty use
- Construction crews needing a lightweight, portable saw for rough-in work
If you need mitering capability or precision finish cuts, a cold saw or a band saw may be a better investment. But for quick, powerful, straight metal cutting at a reasonable price, the LW1401 is a proven workhorse.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What size blade does the Makita LW1401 use?
The LW1401 uses a 14-inch (355mm) blade with a 1-inch (25.4mm) arbor. It accepts standard abrasive cut-off wheels and 14-inch carbide-tipped metal-cutting blades.
What is the difference between the Makita LW1401 and LW1401S?
The LW1401S is the portable variant of the same saw. Both share the same 14″ blade and motor specs, but the S model is optimized for enhanced portability with design tweaks for easier transport between job sites.
Can the Makita LW1401 cut stainless steel?
Yes, with the correct abrasive disc or carbide-tipped blade rated for stainless steel. Always use appropriate cutting fluid or technique to prevent overheating and extend blade life.
What is the cutting depth of the Makita LW1401?
The maximum cutting depth is approximately 137mm (5.4 inches) when using a 14-inch blade, allowing it to cut through 5-inch round stock.
Is the Makita LW1401 available in 110V and 220V?
Yes. Makita produces the LW1401 in both 110-120V (1650W motor) and 220-240V (2200W motor) variants. Always verify voltage compatibility before purchasing, especially when ordering online.
Does the Makita LW1401 come with a blade?
This depends on the retailer and package. Some sellers include an abrasive wheel; others sell the tool only. Check the product listing carefully.
What is the warranty on the Makita LW1401?
Makita typically offers a 1-year standard warranty on corded power tools, which can often be extended to 3 years if registered through Makita’s official warranty program (varies by region).
Final Verdict: Should You Buy the Makita LW1401 Cut-Off Saw?
Yes—if you need a powerful, portable, and reliable 14-inch metal chop saw from a trusted brand.
The Makita LW1401 doesn’t try to reinvent the cut-off saw; it perfects the formula. With a 15-amp motor, 5-inch cutting capacity, and a 37-pound frame, it delivers the performance pros demand at a price that undercuts many competitors. While it lacks the quick-change features of higher-end models and won’t replace a cold saw for precision work, it excels at what 90% of tradespeople actually need: fast, straight, powerful metal cutting.
At roughly $330–$360 USD (or regional equivalent), the LW1401 represents excellent value in the 14-inch chop saw category. For electricians, plumbers, fabricators, and construction crews, it’s a tool that earns its keep on day one.
Ready to buy? Check prices at Home Depot, Walmart, Amazon, or your local authorized Makita dealer. Stock and pricing fluctuate, so compare retailers to find the best deal on the Makita LW1401 Cut-Off Saw.
Also, check out the INGCO COS35568 Cut-off saw.
