Stihl BHP ratings vs Husky HP

86celtics · Nov 26, 2011

Hi,

New to the forum.

I'm in the market for a new chainsaw and I have it narrowed down to the Husky 460 Rancher and the Stihl 290 Farm Boss. I'd like to get the most power for my buck and I have a question about comparing the specs of the two models.

Husky lists the 460 as 2.7KW and 3.7 HP
Stihl lists the 290 as 2.8 KW and 3.8 BHP

Question 1 - Does the break in the break horse power make a difference here (as opposed to regular horse power)?

Question 2 - The 460 has a listed CC of 60.3 and the 290 lists 56.5. Which is a better indication of overall output power - KW/HP or CC's?

Also, any overall performance comments would be appreciated....
Thanks

xyz123 · Nov 26, 2011

JFYI the husky 455 and MS290 are comparable and the husky 460 and MS310 are more comparable.

MS310
# Displacement: 59 cc (3.6 cu in)
# Engine Power: 3 kW (4 bhp)
# Weight: 5.9 kg (13 lbs)
# Fuel Capacity: 560 cc (18.9 oz)

JD 4520 · Nov 26, 2011

I own several Stihl saws including the 290. They are great performers and would highly recommend them. New generation carb design and performance. That is my choice.

rilesdav · Nov 26, 2011

Agreed, have 2 larger Stihl and 1 smaller husky. Would only buy Stihl going forward.
Dave

creekbend · Nov 26, 2011

I currently own a Stihl chainsaw and a Stihl weed eater. I have never experienced any serious problems with Stihl products over the years. Just my experience.

jpm1 · Nov 26, 2011

I own 3 Stihl Saws, my uncle has 3 husky's. I like mine and have nothing bad to say for the use they have had. The 2 big saws have well over 10,000 cord under their belts with almost no down time. One of the saws ate a gear in the oiler. About 8 bucks and it was fixed.
The Husky seems to have a little faster chain speed, which to me means you cut into the rock a little faster and ruin a chain a bit quicker. Their a good saw, It's the Ford vs Chevy trick. What ever you get it will be good . . . John

xyz123 · Nov 26, 2011

If I had to buy 1 new saw in that size right now it would be a Husqvarna 555. Because it is small mount without rev-boost. In the $500 to $575 range with choice of bar length.

* Technical Specifications:
* Husqvarna 555 Husqvarna 562 XP
* Displacement, cc 59.8 Displacement, cc 59.8
* Power, kW/ hp 3.2/4.3 Power, kW/ hp 3.5/4.7
* Weight excl. bar and chain, lbs 11.8 Weight excl. bar and chain, lbs 12.3
* Bar length, inches 16?0 Bar length, inches 16?8

Features

* A World Leader in Chain Saws Just Got Better
*
* CHARLOTTE, N.C. October 28, 2010 - Husqvarna, a world leader in outdoor power equipment for forestry, lawn and garden care, has developed two new professional chain saws. The new 555 and 562 XP chain saws will change the way the industry classifies best-in-class.
* These powerful saws boast a sleek and slender product design. The slimmed-down height and width of the saw chassis makes them easier to handle in almost any application. The distance between the front and rear handles has been optimized for efficient, comfortable operation. The innovative design also incorporates a lowered front handle with an overmold grip. On the inside, the 555 and 562 XP take advantage of Husqvarnaç—´ revolutionary reduced gyro force technology. By reducing the weight of the saws key moving parts - fly wheel, crank shaft and piston there is less interior movement in the engine, which creates less gyration. These unique features, inside and out, provide for the ultimate in control.
* Not only do these saws look good, theyæ±*e also smart. Available on the 562 XP is the latest breakthrough feature from Husqvarna, Revboost. This feature allows for acceleration in chain speed over short periods to increase efficiency during cutting, specifically in de-limbing applications. Revboost is controlled by the ignition and enables users to increase to maximum RPMs for about two seconds. It is designed to provide an optimum ratio of power to RPMs without having the engine run wide open for extended periods of time. To make field maintenance easier, both new saws come with captive bar nuts that remain attached to the clutch cover. This clever feature reduces the possibility of losing parts and productivity while on the job.
* In addition to these new developments, the 555 and 562 XP also incorporate many proven elements of Husqvarnaç—´ existing professional-grade chain saws, such as:
* Husqvarnaç—´ X-Torq engine technology, which enables the saws to deliver rapid acceleration and high power over a wider RPM range, even under heavy loads. Additionally, X-Torq increases fuel efficiency by up to 20% while reducing exhaust emissions up to 75%, a twenty percent increase in emissions efficiency compared to previous models.
* Husqvarnaç—´ patented AutoTune technology to deliver maximum performance. Sensors check conditions such as outside temperature and internal airflow and automatically adjust the engineç—´ fuel-air mix to optimum levels.
* LowVib to dampen vibration and prevent operator fatigue.
* Smart Start for easy and fast starts.
* Air Injection to dramatically reduce debris in the engine resulting in smoother operation and reduced wear.
* Magnesium three-piece crankshaft for maximum durability.

* The 562 XP is also available with heated handles (562 XP G).

LD1 · Nov 27, 2011

gbomalley said:
I own several Stihl saws including the 290. They are great performers and would highly recommend them. New generation carb design and performance. That is my choice.

rilesdav said:
Agreed, have 2 larger Stihl and 1 smaller husky. Would only buy Stihl going forward.
Dave

I just hate posts like this^^^ XYZ123, I am suprised you didnt comment. First, IMO, the 290 is NOT a great performer. It is an underpowered, over weight, and overpriced homeowner grade saw.

Second comment to rilesdav, you are not comparing apples to apples. MOST of the time when someone says "smaller husky" they are refering to a TSC peice of junk. And you are most likely compairing that $200 TSC junker to a $800 PRO stihl like a 044/046. How can you make a comment like that. Ever run one of the smaller homeowner grade stihls comparable to that husky???? Or ever run an $800 husky comparable to those stihls??

Kinda like owning a cadallic and a ford tempo. And saying that you would never own a ford because the tempo is a POS compared to the caddy:confused2:

xyz123 said:
If I had to buy 1 new saw in that size right now it would be a Husqvarna 555. Because it is small mount without rev-boost. In the $500 to $575 range with choice of bar length.

I must disagree. If I had to buy only ONE saw in the $500-$575 range, AND wanted the most HP for my money, it would certainly be a.....
You guessed it....A........
Dolmar 6400:thumbsup:
64cc's
4.8HP
13.6lbs

And if over $500 is too much for the OP, and he is wanting someting more in the $400-$450 range like the MS290 and 460, my choice would be......
Dolmar 5105:thumbsup:
50cc's
3.8HP
11.2lbs

The 5105 will match or out-cut the 290 and 460 (even with less cc's), it IS a true PRO grade saw, It weighs MUCH less, AND costs about the same as the two you listed.

To the OP......If you have a dolmar dealer in your area, I would reccomend paying him a visit. Ask him if he has either of these as a demo that you could take out back and try it first. (most good dealers have a log out back). Then do the same with the 460 and MS290. I cannot speak to the 460, But I assure you the 5105 will blow away the 290:thumbsup:

xyz123 · Nov 27, 2011

I'm talking light weight 0-60cc saw that can run a 24" to 28" bar. The 555 is 11.8lbs. That is reason why I would go that route.

Reason I wouldnt get the 6400in the above case is the 13.6lb PHO is really 14lb and then put the clutch cover on it. The dolmar makita are weighed without the clutch cover on.

Oh I was just being kind to the horse blinder ones. LMAO. Hey man I got this woodsboss MS290 and it is a beast. Oh yeah compared tot that poulan 40cc 42cc wild thing you used to run that was out of tune.

Is that better LD1 LOL

Oh I ran a 5105 the other day with 5100 muffler to get that epa muffler off. 3/8 chain and was sweet.

LD1 · Nov 27, 2011

xyz123 said:
I'm talking light weight 0-60cc saw that can run a 24" to 28" bar. The 555 is 11.8lbs. That is reason why I would go that route.

Reason I wouldnt get the 6400in the above case is the 13.6lb PHO is really 14lb and then put the clutch cover on it. The dolmar makita are weighed without the clutch cover on.

Yea, I havent ran one of them huskys yet. No doubt it is pretty sweet. But you cannot deny the upgradeability of the 6400

13.6 IS pretty heavy for a 6400/4.8HP saw, but it is pretty light for a 84cc/6.5-7HP beast

But even @ 64cc/4.8HP, it is an impressive saw. It seems more like a 5.5HP saw in my hands. What is the 555's big brother?? How far can it be taken?

xyz123 said:
Oh I was just being kind to the horse blinder ones. LMAO. Hey man I got this woodsboss MS290 and it is a beast. Oh yeah compared tot that poulan 40cc 42cc wild thing you used to run that was out of tune.

Is that better LD1 LOL

I dont like being kind to those types. I will call them out every chance I can. Sure, we can all have our opinions on what we like, but the facts/specs speak for them selves. Nothing more I hate than an apples-to-oranges comparison. I will always try my best to steer a newbie in the right direction and advise them how to get the most for their money. And a 460 or MS290 CERTANLY aint the way to do that.

xyz123 said:
Oh I ran a 5105 the other day with 5100 muffler to get that epa muffler off. 3/8 chain and was sweet.

In your expert opinion, how do you think that little 51cc saw would compair to the larger 290 or 460. Or even a 310????

Any timed cuts with that saw for comparisons??

xyz123 · Nov 27, 2011

I'm not a expert by any means no way no how.

The 5105 with the 5100 muffler otherwise stock would eat a heavy stock MS290 lunch supper and breakfast next day.

Now I have never ran one with the epa 5105 muffler on it.

Never ran a 310, only 290 and 390. To me if someone is going to carry the weight of the pig they mise well get the 390 65cc. Then again there like you say I would go 6401 or it's replacement for same money and little more weight.

I still like the 7900 OEM top ends better. I have ran the BB7900 stock on 2 different saws and the OEM is just better to me. 7900 OEM ported wins IMO too. Now this is JMO.

86celtics · Nov 27, 2011

Uh... I guess I didn't phrase the original question right. I wasn't asking for a Husky to Stihl comparison, but thanks anyway.

I simply wanted to know how the two company's listed specs stack up in terms of CC's and HP/BHP.

Question 1: Do Break Horse Power and Horse Power differ enough to make a difference, and;

Question 2: What is a better overall measure of power - CC's or BHP/HP?

It seems Husky sets prices according to CC's while Stihl sets prices based on features.

Reading the responses, I'm assuming that BHP and HP don't differ enough to comment on... so I guess I'm left with the question of what's a better indicator of power - CC's or BHP/HP....

Both questions are asked so that I can compare apples to apples on my own.

rilesdav · Nov 27, 2011

Hey LD1,
FYI my smaller husky is a 336 xpt , it is my understanding that is a professional grade saw used when climbing? It was a gift and my first saw "wife wanted me to start small". As you can see I am no expert but little things such as breaking the pull cord and not liking the fuel/bar oil caps steer me in the direction of Stihl. Point being I think I am comparing apples to apples.
Dave

xyz123 · Nov 27, 2011

I dont consider a 336 a real saw = POS IMO, Should have got you the stihl 200 for a small saw.

rilesdav · Nov 27, 2011

Probably for what she paid for it, it does serve a purpose and I did not cut my leg off while learning
Dave

LD1 · Nov 27, 2011

mwbrewster said:
Uh... I guess I didn't phrase the original question right. I wasn't asking for a Husky to Stihl comparison, but thanks anyway.

I simply wanted to know how the two company's listed specs stack up in terms of CC's and HP/BHP.

Question 1: Do Break Horse Power and Horse Power differ enough to make a difference, and;No difference at all. They are the same thing in regards to this comparison.

Question 2: What is a better overall measure of power - CC's or BHP/HP?HP. I think we clearly illustrated saws of different cc and how they effect HP. Horsepower is what you really want to look for. It will determin how fast the saw will cut. (assuming same style/size chain). Example of the 5105 being LESS cc's than the two you are looking @, but the same or more power. And the 6400 and 555 being MORE power with similar cc's.

It seems Husky sets prices according to CC's while Stihl sets prices based on features.
Not true. You get what you pay for. A 555 or 562xp is going to be more money than the 460, even though they are similar cc. It has to do with the quality of the saw. And the things that make a "pro" saw better, cost more.
Reading the responses, I'm assuming that BHP and HP don't differ enough to comment on... so I guess I'm left with the question of what's a better indicator of power - CC's or BHP/HP....HP. Dont worry too much about cc's. I am sure you have a budget. For sake of argument, lets say $450. Now see how much HP you can get for that $450 regardless of cc's. For example: you are looking at two saws that both cost $450. One is 55cc/4HP, the other 60cc/3.5HP, I would certainly choose the 55cc/4.0HP saw, because it is going to be a faster cutting saw.

Both questions are asked so that I can compare apples to apples on my own.

rilesdav said:
Hey LD1,
FYI my smaller husky is a 336 xpt , it is my understanding that is a professional grade saw used when climbing? It was a gift and my first saw "wife wanted me to start small". As you can see I am no expert but little things such as breaking the pull cord and not liking the fuel/bar oil caps steer me in the direction of Stihl. Point being I think I am comparing apples to apples.
Dave

I certainly dont consider comparing a 36cc top handle saw to a 60-70cc?????stihl an apples to apples comparison.:confused2: For starters, they are designed to do totally different things, and as XYZ said, the 336xp was a POS. But that certainly doesnt mean all their saws are.

What is the stihls you have BTW. Try comparing them to a comparable husky. If you ave an 044/046 (441/460), put that up against the 372xp or 576xp:thumbsup:

rilesdav · Nov 27, 2011

Larger saw is a 460, which I am quite happy with, father in law has a 372 which he had lots of carb troubles with, who knows could have been running crappy gas, but after his troubles I went Stihl.
Dave

xyz123 · Nov 27, 2011

460 good saw in 76cc range. But a cheaper, lighter and better saw is the 7900 79cc. JMO. The 372 71cc is more like the 440 not 460.

372 is one of the easest saws to work on. Carb work $20 at most. Kits $11 easy fix if you know what you are doing.

Had to put a new OEM crank in this one

LD1 · Nov 27, 2011

Yep, pound for pound, in the under 80cc class, the 7900 reighns king. It will eat all other competitors. (stock of course).

And it really gives the 385XP and 650 stihl a good run for their money. Anything under 20" wood and it is too close to call IMO. But the much lighter 7900 in the hands certainly gives it the edge IMO.

But if you are so used to your MS460 (which is an excellent saw BTW), you should really try some smaller stihls. Like the 290 in question, or even the smaller saws like the 170 or 250. If those had been your first real experiences with stihl, you would probabally be calling them junk. But my point is, that isnt fair to stihl. Just like IMO your comment wasnt fair to husky.

They all make great saws. And they all make crap homeowner saws to appeal to the $200 crowd. And when you are used to running an $800 beast, those $200 saws (doesnt matter what brand) feel like junk.