new to chainsaws...what makes a good beginner chainsaw?

I can tell you that I started with a 290 and quickly found my way to a 441. I have a 16 inch bar on both, for smaller diameter, but I'd look for a 290 maybe used. Just remember that you will have an itch to upgrade with a basic saw. If your budget is limited and will remain so, I'd stick with a farm and ranch or homeowner from Husqvarna or Stihl.

 

The 290 is a fine saw for firewood and will cut many years if cared for.

One of its problems is that cause it says "farm boss" it costs $100 more than a comparable saw just for that!!!

 

LOL!!!

 

hmmmmmmm, never thought of that. How about bacon fat? Sure would smell real Purdy when running!!!

PS- prolly not recommended if your in bear country!

 

Have to be preheated to keep the bacon fat flow

 

Duh, that's why the tank is under the muffler.

 

To the OP.

A 4** series saw is a good place to start with a limited budget. I have a 455 with a 20" bar. I usually reach for m 576xp for felling and bucking, but the 455 still comes out for limbing work.