I am well aware the the precautions when using a top handle saw, but I love the
balance and feel of the saw. I actually use it more than the big one.
Those who have never tried a tophandle saw are really missing out. It is true that these saws are intended for
pros, but so are the best small-to-midsized saws. Having ONLY a tophandle saw makes no sense, just like having
ONLY a large saw, IMO.
I have more treework to do than most "amateurs", but I am surely no logger or arborist. I have everything from
limbing to massive 135' firs to deal with, and the best tool for each job really applies. I use 5 sizes of saws
regularly: 40V electric polesaw (Greenworks 8"), 34cc tophandle saw (Tanaka 12"), 37cc small saw (Shindaiwa 18"), 55cc
large saw (455/24" Rancher), and 100cc mega-saw (Husky 2100 36"). I used to have an ancient Homelite tophandle
saw on my tractor at all times.
Tho the Rancher 455 does not really have the power for a 24" bar fully in the cut, the additional reach is a plus.
My 37cc pro saw gets the most use. The older I get, the more I want to use the right-sized saw. Ergonomics is even
more important in your old age.
Unlike some others on TBN, I have no problems with the occasional home user buying a cheap Poulan 3816 saw. These
entry-level saws can be fine if cared for, but note the missing vibration-absorbing feature. Using these saws for
extended use can cause nerve damage. I suspect the vibration-absorbing feature was a pro feature when it came out.