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Is there much of a difference in quality on bars?

Discussion in 'Chainsaws and Power Equipment' started by Gasifier, Feb 24, 2019.

  1. Gasifier

    Gasifier

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    I need a new 20” bar for my Echo CS680. Getting ready to order one and would like a good price but most importantly a quality bar.

    Is there much of a difference in quality on bars?

    Suggestions appreciated. Seeing these on flea-bay.....

    Tsumura?
    Oregon?
    Archer?

    Some come with a chain, some don’t.
    What’s a decent price?
     
    Last edited: Feb 24, 2019
  2. T.Jeff Veal

    T.Jeff Veal

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    I just bought a 20" sprocket tip Stihl bar from dealer, I think it was $44...heard good things on Tsumura bars, never ran one. I've got a 25" Stihl bar, had it for several years, no problems.
     
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  3. papadave

    papadave

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    Right where I want to be.
    Just bought a Woodland Pro TimberMAX B&C combo.
    Still not on the saw or out of the cover.
    I'll need a new sprocket too, but I can get that local.
     
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  4. Locust Post

    Locust Post

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    I have had good luck with Oregon products.
     
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  5. moparnut88

    moparnut88

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    If you want the best sugi hara are imho the best and most durable. But not cheap. Tsumura right there with them. I've had good luck with the oregon bars as well but there isnt a comparison to the sugi bars I've got.

    Sent from my SM-N950U using Tapatalk
     
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  6. hoghunter

    hoghunter

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    Yes, there is a quality difference in bars. However, for the average cutter, it probably doesn't matter much as very few people actually wear out a bar. Used but good condition bars are often available if shipping doesn't make it non worthwhile. The Sugi, Tsumara and Stihl brand bars are all good choices. Cannon bars are top notch but very spendy. I've used all different kinds of bars and the bar brand is pretty low on my list of things I'm concerned about.
     
  7. Breechlock1

    Breechlock1

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    sugihara fan here
     
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  8. Warped5

    Warped5

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    Ooooooooooooooo .... brain cramp and fogginess setting in ....

    @Spike60 (is he even a member here?) did a youtube (afleetcommand?) video on bar quality. Longer bars used by loggers. Guys that trash the bars after 1 week of use. The results were mildly surprising.
     
  9. Gasifier

    Gasifier

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    I’m kinda rough on my bars. :emb: I’m trying to remember how long I’ve had the saw now. The original bar that came with my Echo 680 lasted about 3-4 years I guess.
     
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  10. Screwloose

    Screwloose

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    I pretty much use Oregon power match bars. Always seemed good to me and they have a replacable nose.
     
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  11. tamarack

    tamarack

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    In my experience alot of chainsaw bars get bent, pinched or otherwise destroyed before they ever wear out. Been cutting firewood since my teenage years and I don't believe I have ever worn out a bar that I bought new. I have ruined at least 3 that I can remember.
     
  12. mike bayerl

    mike bayerl

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    I wholly agree with thee two posts. Yes, there is a difference in the quality of the machining and steel used in different bars. However, most non-professional users will not notice the difference. As much as I am not a fan of Bailey;s, I have to admit, that their Woodland Pro line of bars and chains are a very solid middle of the road value. If you want the very best, then go for Stihl, Tsumura and Sugihara bars.
     
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  13. huskihl

    huskihl

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    Redbull on ope can get you archer or tsumura. MG2186 can get you Oregon
     
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  14. bear 1998

    bear 1998

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    I guess you can say im biased for sugi hara....
    0818181049.jpg
     
  15. Born2Burn

    Born2Burn

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    I've ways liked bars that have the grease able front sprocket.
     
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  16. Gasifier

    Gasifier

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    I take full responsibility for damaging the bar.:emb: :D
     
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  17. DBH

    DBH Banned

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    BIG difference if the saws are used hard: Stihl, Sugi; machined specs, harder metal, more durable.
    No need for greasable sprockets IF the bar is quality. Oiling is plenty for sealed sprockets.
    JMNSHO
     
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  18. Gasifier

    Gasifier

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    Thanks for the information. I ordered a bar from Amazon on Monday. Went with a Tsumura. Should be here soon on free shipping.
     
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  19. Rope

    Rope

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    I run Stihl Light bars. They help with balance the saws when running longer bars. When I started using them 3-4 years back the word was they are not as good as the regular weight Stihl bars. I cut 20-30 cords of firewood for me and what ever I get roped into for buddies. I have not found that they are less durable than standard weight bars. While they are spendy, for me the 1/3 less weight than standard bar and the balance are monies well spent.

    I have had my eyes on the light weight Tsumura, however my local Stihl shop has the Stihl Lights. Evan though I can buy online, I have chose to buy local and support my Stihl dealer (he's a good one).
     
  20. Hatchetdancer

    Hatchetdancer

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    I put a Stens on my Dolmar after my dipchit cousin bent the Dolmar bar. It is wore out. The bar is wore down before the sprocket at least a 1/4” on both sides.
     
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