Lookin for a smaller limb small diameter destroyer. Used to run 200t back wwhen i was landscaping. Tossing around the idea of an ms170/180/192 and the echo 355t. Would also be a small atv saw or a helpers saw. I know the limitations of the 170/180 and understand the added possible risks with a top handle but also know how handy they can be. Figured i would pick the hoarders brains and hear some input.
You may want to try to find a 025 or a MS 250. They are small but are great little saws also respond well to muffler mod. IMO .
I have a top handle 011 which is 40cc but its heavier than those other top handles like the 19 or 20 but still light to one hand if needed or two hand. And it has good power!!
I've never tried a 170 or 180, but I can tell you there's a significant performance difference between a 192 and a 200.
I love my 170! and it's very light also, kinda punchy for a little saw. I take mine for limbing when the tree is on the ground.
ive had a couple 170s and used them hard, for the price they are a great value i have used them for way more than they were made for,i got a 171 a while back and it seems just as good and it has flippy caps ( i know most of you hate those ) i also use a 192 for work in the brush and trimming it is very handy and comfortable to carry around they both have a place but the 170 is a deal in my opinion ,my neighbors abuse it i never do much to it and it goes and goes,good luck in your search.
And if you get the 170 you can always look into the piltz hot saw conversion kit or just buy one from him if you want to run a 25" bar with it
If I'm not mistaken piltz makes a MS 250 with a 36'' bar for those higher limbs. A bit pricey though.
"A combination that stihl never offered"!!!! I wonder if there was a reason for that??? Let's see a 36" bar on a 45cc saw??? Hmmm
I purchased a 192T this summer. I find that the brush pile left over is much smaller since I began taking it out during firewood cutting. It's super handy. I also added a Husky 353 to the line-up when firewood cutting. It's a pleasure to use also.
Piltz stuff is hilarious... Would you say your 192t or the 353 was a better addition for the small stuff?
I have a rear handle 192 and it is a very handy saw. I work mine. I limb up to 10" oak and hickory all the time. Sense I do not like top handle I will through out the echo 361p it is basically a 355t but rear handled. But to save some $ I have seen some 170 that put in some good work.