Husky 55 or 55 Rancher?

Six one way 1/2 dozen the other? Is one considered better? Figured I’d turn to the experts for advice. Thanks in advance.

The Suspect

 

Buy a Stihl instead!

Ive often wondered the same when mfrs have a couple similar models.

 

The 55 was offered in 3 different versions. Closed port decomp cylinder, closed port non decomp cylinder and open port non decomp cylinder. The open port was the Rancher version, it’s an identical chassis to your 51 with just the bore size being different. Oh and it’s way better than anything Stihl ever offered in this category or price range. The 55 while technically isn’t a pro saw, has all the features of a pro saw and was offered at a homeowner price.

I purchased mine new in 1996 (closed port decomp model) and have abused the chit right out of it for years before ever knowing anything about a chainsaw. A professional logger saw shop in Louisiana set it up for me with a 16” bar 3/8” full comp chain, (which everyone’s said it wouldn’t pull) and it has been (still is) a super reliable solid firewood saw. While it pales in comparison to the similar class size ported saws I own, it just keeps running and running.

 

Thank you sir for providing a knowledgeable insight to the 55. Much appreciated.