I'd like your opinion/suggestion on buying a saw.

My mind is not made up yet. But. I have considered buying a larger saw in the 64-74cc range in order to go with a 22-25" bar for some of the larger trees I will take down. However, the price range for a larger pro saw is high and for almost all of the trees that I cut my Stihl MS290 has been and is adequate.

So. I have decided that at this time I will not buy a larger saw. I actually think it makes sense, because of all the cutting in my future, to buy a smaller, lighter weight saw. And this saw will be in a price range that I (or my wife ) can afford. In fact, my wife has not bought my Christmas present(s) yet.

I am currently looking around at the different size smaller saws. I do not want to buy a saw that is sooooo cheap/inexpensive it turns out to be junk. I do not want the hassle of that. I have owned a Husqvarna, and then traded that in on the current Stihl MS290 Farm Boss. I was/am happy with them both. I also own a small Stihl 009, which I may consider trading in on the new small saw.

I have a LOT of tree thinning to do in my woods. So this saw will be getting plenty of work. Most of the trees I will be taking out will be 22" and under. I want a saw that will hold up. I am currently thinking of Stihl, Jonsered, Makita (or its twin) so far. I am also open to others.

A 14"-16" bar will be enough for many, many trees on my property. I want good power and low weight so I can work a longer time before getting tired.

You and I have about 2 days to decide because she will prolly be shopping for me this weekend!

Price range. The lower the better, while still having a good saw.

Let the games begin.

Thanks in advance.

 

241c

 

The 241cm I have found at about $550. Too expensive. How much is the 241c? I am still thinking it will be to expensive. Can a decent saw of this size be found for under $300? Should I try to find a used one. I would rather buy new from local dealer who will back it.

 

How about a 550xp or the slightly cheaper version of that? I forgot the model number? I REALLY like mine.
Edit-was thinking of the 545. It can be had for 450 ish otd.

 

450 Husky
That would be in your price range..

Dolmar 510 would be close

Or a Echo CS450

 

Redmax gz4000/4500. This is a smoking deal. These saws run great after a muffler mod. They do need one to run good though. I have a gz4000. It's way stronger than I expected.
http://www.ebay.com/itm/RedMax-Comm...535?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item46242cffaf

 

I have an Echo, an older one, but it has been through more that I ever expected without a single hiccup - ever !! ............. I second Hedges' plug for the CS450. MM it, adjust the carb, and never worry about anything except mixing gas, adding oil, sharpening your chains, and clearing the air filter.

 

A little more than I was hoping to spend.

 

The CS400 is supposed to be even better power to weight... And they're well built too!

 

Not a bad price on Echo CS450. Who makes them?

Who makes the Redmax?

 

Good price range on that saw. I've never owned or known anyone who has owned one.

 

I have a Lowe's, a Tractor Supply, and a local Stihl/Husqvarna dealer who I like to deal with. (thewoodlands, do you remember if The Wood Chop Shop sells any other saws?) I'd like to buy local so if I have any problems I can bring it back so they will fix it or if problem at the beginning the two big box places will just take it back and give you another one.

 

Echo makes the Echo saws..
Good, solid Japanese product..
I have their big brother the CS600...

 

Zenoah(Japan) They are owned by husky. They are responsible for the strato charged stuff we have now. I think husky bought them for that technology. They are very light weight and well made.

 

Here is a gz4000 in comparison to a 346xp. It's very much a smaller lighter saw.

 

If I had to do it all over, I'd have a top handle Echo, and a 80cc 24"

 

What's the deal with top handle? I have also seen the wrap around handles (expensive).

 

I'm with this option. If you try a 545/2252 you'll forget about the farm boss. However, I would skip the 421. It's strong for its size but may as well be a 50cc saw. It's big and heavy compared to the redmax gz4000. I'm sure it's stronger and tougher though.