help on new chain saw purchase

[TBAR]

After my 25 year old Stihl was stolen out of the back of my truck the wife and I went to look at new saws.

I was ready to buy the consumer version Farm Boss but the dealer said I might like the Professional 036 PRO better due to my recent shoulder surgery. It was lighter weight and had the easy start feature.

I agonized over spending the extra money but much to my suprise the wife turns to me and says "since this will be the last saw you buy in your life time, get a good one." /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

It was amazing how much a little weight reduction could make a difference and the aggressive chain made for much faster cutting.

My 036 earning its keep.


TBAR

 

[SkyPup]

We've got seven active chainsaws, all of them excellent.

We also keep the chains ultra sharp and have all the chain breaking and riviting presses and associated equipment. No trips for repairs on anything.

Stihl 026PRO with 20"bar & .325 chain.

Stihl 280C with 20" bar & .325 chain

Stihl 029 with 20" bar and .325 chain

Still 046Magnum with 32"bar and 3/8" chain

Husky 350 with 18" bar and .325 chain

Husky 359 with 20" bar and 3/8" chain

Husky 385 with 30" bar and 3/8" chain


Favorites on the low end are the Stihl 280C and Husky 350 for general all around back saving use.

On the high end it is touch to beat either the Husky 385 or the Stihl 046 for heavy duty work.

 

[eee]

Stihl does not allow internet sales or sales via UPS or US mail. You have to drive to the store,this is the way they protect the territories for there franchise dealers.

 

[eee]

Stihl makes an excellent product and there is always a Stihl store near you,parts and service should never be a problem. Stihl is an excellent company and will always be there when you need them.

 

[mygoatboy]

I currently have a Husqavarna (sp?) 350 chainsaw and am very very pleased with it. I also have two older ones I use at work and they have been incredibly reliable, one has been used every day for over 4 years with no problems what so ever. I would recomend a Husq. over any of the previously mentioned brands. Like any two cycle they can sometimes be difficult to start but only if it goes for more than 2 weeks without being used. Without adjusting the carb I can run it at 0 degrees F and 90 degrees F with no problems.

 

[dougzdog]

i have a small echo thats run great and is very light. great for limbing but if your going to be cutting logs over 8" in diameter it cant compete with my husky 55 rancher. it literally cuts twice as fast but is also alot heavier. my local lowes usually has huskys that have been returned for 25% off, some look never used.

 

[eee]

I am glad you like your Husk.
I have my 4th Stihl chainsaw and 1 FS 88 brush cutter and they are my preference,never had a starting or reliability issue regardless.
More Stihl chainsaws have been sold than any other brand and they are still the biggest seller of chainsaws.
The numbers speak.

 

[sherpa]

I live in an area where logging is the lively hood of many of my neighbors. They have tried all kinds of saws in the past. They all have Stihl chainsaws. I have a Stihl 026 and love it. I have used it every year for years with no problems. I have had people visit and help out with the chores, use my Stihl 026 and want one. I like to have the same saws as most of my neighbors have, that way if something breaks (which has not happen) or if you need a spark plug or chain you can go borrow it until you make that dreaded 1 hour trip to town.
Sherpa

 

[NIXON]

I run a Stihl 044 and a Husky 346XP . They both are reliable and powerful for their weight and size . The Stihl has a 24 inch bar and the Husqvarna has a 16 inch bar . I don't think You'd be disappointed with either make . I do ,however like the Husky's air filtration system better . It doesn't need as much attention in regards to removing wood chips ,etc.
On the other hand ,changing chains seem easier on the Stihl .
John

 

[1bush2hog]

I'm with you TBAR. I bought an 036 pro also and prefer the extra power. I like Stihl because they work when you are ready. I don't have time to spend tinkering with a saw to get it to run.

The speed chains make a big difference too.