I'm getting a desire for a somewhat more modern 242 Husky . The 543 looks to be the ticket me as long as it's available with heated handles and carb.
543XPG is definitely available in Europe. Not sure about North America. I have two 545 project saws waiting to be looked at. Haven't got them running yet, so can't comment on how they cut.
The 543 doesn't turn up as fast as the 242 . At least factory specs. But maybe with some messaging it would . With a little 16" bar. And a chisel ground chain it should be fun. As long as it has heat handles !
I have the Jonsered version of the 545, and it is a nice saw to run, but it won't run the rpm of the 242. It will be a little heavier, but a stronger saw. I have only seen one 543 saw in action. As far as I know, the 543 is actually a redmax saw. I have seen some before and after video of a ported 543 and it was a nice runner.
Husqvarna 550 XP® G Mark II Chainsaw Looks like the 550XP G Mark II is the smallest/ least expensive Husqvarna with heated grips. I have a (unheated) 545 Mark II, and I love it. Easy to start, well balanced, plenty of power. She’s just enough lighter than my Echo 620p that I reach for her more often.
It's not a popular opinion but I'm actually a fan of the 543xp, I had a few years ago when they came out, I really liked them. They really come alive with a muffler mod.
For lots of bucking or falling bigger than 12" stump diameter trees . The small fast saws aren't the greatest. I used my 242s for pre commercial tree thinning in S.E. Ak. . Cutting conifers that ranged from whip size to 8 , 9 " on the stump. And some firewood bucking . But mostly 8 tanks a day in 6 -6.5 hours. With a Windsor 20" 3/8 running Oregon 76 LP . Chisel ground chisle bit chain. They were like light sabers.
You should be able to find a youtube video of before and after porting of the 543. The one I watched showed a teardown also.
