Saw recommendations need nimble

I have a 441c already - I know not the same as a ported 462, but it’s a good runner only a muffler mod completed by its previous owner cnice_37

Honestly starting to lean towards a top handle
Anyone want to chime in on the echo 355?

 

Not familiar with the Echo saw but own a Stihl 194 and 201CM and very pleased with both saws. Also own a 201CM rear handle and am happy with it as well.

 

I know a who had a couple Husky top handles for sale if you are interested. PA Dan ?

 

No experience with the 355 but I own 2 echos now and the most recent last year was a 400. Just gave it a good workout on Sat. and I love that little saw more all the time.

 

I must be missing something. You will be falling pine ? For logging ?
Even @ 16" dbh that's a lot more of a job than top handle saw are made for. Even a 261 isn't all that big for that job.
If you already have a 441 I'de say you were in good shape for it.
Imho . best saw for that job would be an 044 Stihl.
I've had 4, 026 + 260s.
They are nice.
Not overly exciting , but they work. And are dependable . I've never run a 261 so I can't comment on the difference.
I ran all mine with chisel ground chisel chain.

 

All the main felling and bucking will be with the 441. I’m looking for something better than the ms170 (free) I have for top clean up

 

Stihl MS194 rear handle. Perfect for limbing and bucking smalls. I have the RH in the MS201 and its great. It replaced my 170. I needed nimble too. I cut in tangles and rougher terrain frequently where a bigger saw is too clumsy/awkward. 14" bar, but can take a 16"

 

201 rear handle. The 194 is about half the price of a 201

 

I’ve used 201 rear handle and top handle and recommended either, but it’s pushing $700 now, unless you can find used.
I recently used the Echo 2511t with an 8” bar and liked it more than the Stihl 150t.
The echo is $400 and runs 3/8 pm chain

 

Haven’t run a echo 355, but my Echo 271t is a very capable saw. Pretty sure the 355 is a bit bigger so it should do what your asking without a problem.
Running a different brand does take some getting used to. I find the on/off/chock switch is kind of in an odd location and the clutch cover/chain brake combination is wired.

 

basod i cut these large limbs at a job i did last week with 201 rear handle. 14" bar was able to cut the larger rounds but had 261 for that. Ran a full tank of gas through it. Top handle finished the job.
Let us know what you end up with?