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Makita DPB184Z Portable Band Saw Review: Compact, portable cutting for site work

Makita DPB184Z 18V Li-ion LXT Brushless Portable Band Saw - Batteries and Charger Not Included
4.8
[Compact & Lightweight]  Portable design reduces user fatigue and improves maneuverability on tight job sites.
[Brushless Motor]  Durable brushless motor delivers efficient power, longer runtime, and reduced maintenance.
[Electric Brake & Lock-off]  Electric brake and lock-off button ensure fast stopping and enhanced operator safety.
[Easy Blade Adjustment]  Blade track adjustment and adjustable stopper plate enable precise, stable cutting control.
[High Capacity Cutting]  Handles round and square pipes up to 51mm; uses 730mm x 13mm blades, 0.5mm thick.
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Handheld metal-cutting power tool designed to deliver portable, stable cuts for on-site jobs. Tradespeople and fabricators gain faster, cleaner pipe and section cuts with less setup when using Makita DPB184Z Portable Band Saw. Will the combination of compact size and jobsite features suit mobile workshops and tight-access tasks?

⚡ At a Glance
  • Cutting Quality: Stable, accurate cuts on round and square pipe up to 51mm capacity, supported by blade track adjustment and adjustable stopper plate
  • Best for: Tradespeople and fabricators who need a compact, portable metal-cutting tool for site work
  • Not ideal for: Users who expect batteries and a charger included or require G-Series battery compatibility

Brushless motor and variable speed control deliver consistent cutting performance. Blade specifications and 51mm capacity make it suitable for common on-site metalwork tasks.


True portability – with compact, lightweight design

Compact and lightweight construction reduces bulk and ease of handling in confined spaces. The design allows access to tight areas where larger saws cannot reach.

Easier transport between vans and around sites, reducing setup time for short, frequent jobs. Fits better in confined working positions and tight installations.

Consistent cutting performance – thanks to brushless motor

Brushless motor eliminates brushes and associated wear, offering steadier power delivery under load compared with brushed alternatives. Variable speed controlled by the trigger plus constant speed control helps maintain cutting rate.

Faster, more predictable cuts on metal sections and pipe, helping to save time on repetitive tasks. Control over speed improves finish quality on different materials.

Safer operation – with electric brake and lock-off button

Electric brake rapidly stops the blade when the trigger is released, and a lock-off button prevents accidental starts during handling or blade changes. Blade track adjustment and stopper plate support stable, guided cutting.

Reduced downtime and lower risk when finishing a cut or changing blades. Safer handling on busy sites and during transport between jobs.

✨ The 4 Key Reasons for Makita DPB184Z Portable Band Saw
  1. Compact, lightweight design – Fits into vans and tight storage for easy transport
  2. Brushless motor – Faster, more consistent cuts on metal sections and pipe
  3. Quick blade installation and removal – Keeps downtime short during blade changes
  4. 51mm cutting capacity – Handles common round and square pipes without extra setup
📋 Technical Details at a Glance
  • Category: Home Improvement - Portable band saw
  • Power: 18V Li-ion LXT (batteries and charger not included)
  • Motor: Brushless motor
  • Speed control: Variable speed controlled by trigger with constant speed control
  • Safety: Electric brake and lock-off button
❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are batteries and a charger included?

A: Batteries and charger are not included, so a compatible 18V Li-ion LXT battery and charger must be purchased separately.

Q: What is the maximum cutting capacity?

A: Maximum capacity is round pipe 51mm and square pipe 51mm x 51mm.

Q: Is it compatible with G-Series batteries?

A: The tool is not compatible with G-Series batteries.

🏆 Our Verdict

The Makita DPB184Z Portable Band Saw is well suited to tradespeople and fabricators who need a compact, jobsite-ready metal cutter. Brushless motor, variable speed control and practical safety features make it valuable for frequent on-site cutting tasks. For regular users, the time saved and robust feature set deliver strong long-term value despite needing separate batteries and a charger.