modern chain saws

[RussMan]

OK guys, I need your advice. I have a new chainsaw on my Christmas list. Realistically, my bride will say go find you a saw ( which is great - I can pick it out). So based on these threads, I am thinking either husky or Stihl. And if I buy Husky, I need the one w/ the metal tag (made in Sweden). Do I also need to watch out for "knockoff" Stihl models?

Also, someone said they like Echo - do they make a chainsaw?

 

[WTA]

I found my husky at tractor supply company if that helps any. I think it was 379.00. Honestly I wasn't even paying attention to the price though. I just wanted the biggest baddest on the shelf. I believe TC still does mail order too.

 

[Spiveyman]

I went out and bought a Craftsman saw last fall, about $250, it was the best one they had at the store. Worked great the first few times I used it. Then it died one time and I've had a heck of a time getting it to work since. I've replaced the spark plug, cleaned the air filter, done all the normal stuff I knew to do. I spent hours Monday trying to clear a fence row that is over grown. So frustrated I came home that night and called my cousin who opened a hardware store. I'm buying a Stihl. Incidentally, when the chainsaw gave out I switched to a Craftsman weedeater with a "gator blade" to clear our briars and such. About 30 min into the deal the whole blade assymbly went flying off (thankfully away from me). Freaked me out. Seems that weedeater wasn't ready for the heavy stuff, even though it was their 4 cycle, heavy duty one. I'm also getting a Stihl weedeater as soon as I can get to his store!

They are expensive, but when you need one and yours isn't working the money doesn't seem to be as big of a deal.

 

[AlanB]

I just handed my little, pretty well worn USA made Poulan over too a guy here at work that wanted a "cheap" chainsaw.

I was having second thoughts about selling it, it is fairly light, has the centered trigger for one hand operation, heck, it is not much different from the Echo I want.

That said, I went to start it,, and pulled, and fussed and fiddled and OH YEAH,,, I need a new one of these

Nothing like trying to work with a tool, and finding that you need to work ON the tool. Sometimes it is just worth the money to have the right stuff.

 

[Podunkadunk]

OK guys, I need your advice. I have a new chainsaw on my Christmas list. Realistically, my bride will say go find you a saw ( which is great - I can pick it out). So based on these threads, I am thinking either husky or Stihl. And if I buy Husky, I need the one w/ the metal tag (made in Sweden). Do I also need to watch out for "knockoff" Stihl models?

Also, someone said they like Echo - do they make a chainsaw?

You won't go wrong with Echo, Husqvarna(check the metal tag for made in Sweden), or Stihl . I wouldn't even attempt to rate them in any numerical order.

They are all great saws. Like tractors, go the biggest you can afford , you won't be disappointed.

 

[kenmac]

russman, Here's where I bought my husky saw

Outdoor Power Equipment Outdoor Power Equipment Lawn Mower Generator Outdoor Power Equipment

you can also buy them here

Lawn Mower Parts and Tractor Parts


better prices than I could find local

 

[SnowRidge]

Also, someone said they like Echo - do they make a chainsaw?

Yes, a full line. Some of the smaller Echo models are available in either Lowes or HD. I forget which it is. The Echo saws there are exactly the same as found anywhere else, but there is some discount. They still aren't cheap, because they aren't a cheap saw.

 

[dmccarty]

Do I also need to watch out for "knockoff" Stihl models?
/quote]

RussMan,

The best I can tell Stihl is not cheapening is brand. I see Stihl full page adds in the Wall Street Journal bragging about their equipment only being sold by deals. No big box stores.

I have a Stihl blower, brush cutter, and chain saw. No complaints. They simply WORK.

Later,
Dan

 

[hockeyhead]

Russman,
What will the primary use be for your new saw? firewood, puning/landscaping, felling trees? Will this be your only saw? price range?
A top of the line 55-60cc saw that will push a 20" bar very well, will run $600.
If I could only own 1 saw for all around use it would be a husky 357xp or a stihl ms361. Also the Dolmar 6400 at $500 is another great all around saw. find a local dealer. check them out online. enjoy searching for your new toy/tool.

 

[txdon]

Well, Sears refunded my second chainsaw (unused) and I used the 10% off coupon from TSC and got a nice little 16" Husqvarna (Swiss made). I noticed that Lowe's had a better price ($199) but Lowe's is a logistical problem for me.

For the last 12 years I have been getting a disposable craftsman every three years and I can tell the difference. It is smoother running and starts right up. It was too hot to cut wood today (90 degrees) but a cold front blew in and I'm ready to get it tomorrow.