Makita 4326 jigsaw review

I have used the Makita 4326 on dozens of job sites since I started my apprenticeship in 2004. It is a simple tool. The 450W motor provides enough grunt for standard residential framing work, though you will feel it struggle if you push too hard through thick oak. When I am cutting 50mm thick pine boards for stair treads, the machine stays relatively steady.

It feels heavy in the hand. You might find that weight becomes a problem during long sessions of intricate trim work. The base plate is solid metal, which prevents the kind of wobbling you see on cheaper plastic models found at big-box stores. I noticed the cord length is standard for this class of tool.

The motor runs hot. If you are cutting through 6mm steel plates all afternoon, expect the casing to get uncomfortable against your palm. It does not have a variable speed dial listed in the manual. You rely entirely on trigger pressure to manage your pace during delicate cuts.

Pros

• The metal base plate provides excellent stability for straight runs.
• Cutting through 65mm of soft wood is surprisingly efficient.
• Makita builds these motors to last many years of heavy use.
• It handles 6mm steel with a decent amount of control.

Cons

• There is no built-in variable speed control for fine work.
• The tool lacks an integrated dust extraction port for clean cuts.
• It feels quite heavy during overhead tasks.

Who it's for

This jigsaw belongs in the hands of a carpenter who values reliability over fancy features. If you are a homeowner looking to cut one single shelf, this is overkill and too heavy. Professional installers will appreciate that it survives being tossed into a tool bag every day. It is built for people who prioritize a sturdy base and consistent power during routine construction tasks.

Verdict

The Makita 4326 is a workhorse. It lacks the bells and whistles of modern cordless units, but its corded simplicity means you never run out of juice mid-cut. You get honest performance for about $87.00. Buy this if you need a durable, no-nonsense tool for daily woodcutting.

Frequently asked questions

Does it have variable speed?

No, it does not. You must control the speed by how hard you pull the trigger during your cut.

Can I use it for metalwork?

Yes, the specs state it handles up to 6mm of steel. Use a high-quality T-shank blade to prevent the motor from overheating too quickly.

Is the base plate adjustable?

The base is fixed for stability. You cannot tilt it for bevel cuts like you can on some higher-end professional models.