Thoughts on Chain Saws? - Page 2

Yosemite Sam · #11 03-20-2015, 11:02 AM

Please be careful when buying a chain saw! I have discovered over the years, that if you buy a cheap chain saw, you will quickly learn a lot about chain saw mechanics.

I don't have vast knowledge of chain saws, but I do know that many brands have several "lines" or "grades" of saws and (if you are like me and don't know) one needs to really do their homework when choosing a saw.

I hope there are people here who cut trees for a living and can point you in the right direction.

I also know that it is possible to get a great saw for a decent price, you just need to do the research.

Also keep in mind that just because a saw has a "Pro" or "Professional" badge that DOES NOT mean it is a professional grade saw.

I would listen to the advice that you get here and probably try to talk to some tree trimmers and small engine mechanics about what would be the better saw to buy. I would also visit my local chain saw dealers and find out what they recommend. There also might be a chain saw forum or two on the net where you can find out more about saws.

I have a Stihl MS 362 with a 20" bar it's a pretty nice saw, a little heavy but it will cut anything that you put in front of it with ease. More importantly, it isn't one of those saws that needs to be worked on, every time you go to use it. For trimming and cutting small stuff I have an Echo CS 3000, with a very small bar (12" or 14") (someone gave it to me several years ago) it always starts and runs well, even after you shut it off and start it again.

jimbob200521 · #12 03-20-2015, 11:03 AM

Did a bit of Criagslist browsing for Stihl Chainsaws and ran across a guy up in Freeport (about a 45 minute drive) that has a Stihl shop. Ended up calling him and found out he also does trade ins and refurbs them to resell. He's been in the business for over 25 years and was a great guy to talk to, very knowledgable. I'm heading up there tomorrow afternoon and come hell or empty wallet, I'm going to walk out with a Stihl. I figure I'm young, I'll find reasons to use it again. Plus if I ever need a quick buck, Chainsaws seem to hold their value well around my area.

On a side note, I have noticed about myself that I tend to go into some jobs that I plan on only doing for a short period with the attitude "get a tool and get the job done" and end up coming out "if you're going to do something, do it right". Buying a cheapo chainsaw from Menards for a weekends work turned into driving almost an hour to buy a good Stihl. I guess what started with Cubs is branching out into other areas of my life

Yosemite Sam · #13 03-20-2015, 11:11 AM

I think you have probably made a very wise decision.

jkier · #14 03-20-2015, 11:42 AM

Another vote For sthil

Have an 028-038-048 all are ancient and eat wood like a starvin beaver

raytasch · #15 03-20-2015, 11:56 AM

After playing with various chainsaws over the years, I became friends with a guy who owned a small engine shop. His advice, one of three brands, Stihl, Husqvarna, or Echo. Iv'e since owned an Echo 310 till someone liked it more than I, and my current Echo 4300 with an 18" bar. Both the Echos have been flawless. I don't use a saw commercially but I do use one. I cut my own and supplimental heat with wood.

Steve149 · #16 03-20-2015, 12:18 PM

You won't go wrong with a Stihl...I have had a couple over the years and I must say they just keep on going...you get what you pay for!

Billy-O · #17 03-20-2015, 12:23 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Yosemite Sam

I think you have probably made a very wise decision.

Yes, Ryan just did make a very wise decision!

Buying a chainsaw from Menards is like buying a new Cub cadet from the big box stores. It's likely a POS. A throw away model!

On the other note, the efficiency of any chain saw really depends on how well you keep it maintained. Sharpen the chain often and when NEEDED. Keep the bar clean and make sure you are using chain saw oil (refilled every time you add fuel/oil mix).

cadzag72 · #18 03-20-2015, 02:50 PM

I'll throw in a vote for Stihl as well, I have a ms290 like Sam Mac and put it through a lot. I've never had to do anything but sharpen the chain. My father has stihl and husky saws, and he uses his husky more but if we're working together my saw clearly outperforms his. They are both good though. His is quieter.

gsomersjr · #19 03-20-2015, 04:15 PM

I know you've decided on Stihl but I have to give them my recommendation too. I have a Stihl MS260 with a 16" bar and it is bulletproof. It will take up to a 20" bar but I like it on the short side. Better power.

gsomersjr · #20 03-20-2015, 04:20 PM

Also, if this is your first chainsaw then pickup some ear plugs, safety glasses, and wear sensible clothes. Nothing that can get tangled in the chain. I'm not a huge safety fanatic but I don't take any chances when I'm using my saw.