In a pinch to cut some 6x6 posts down to 20 inch sections, I was able to borrow the landowner's saw to make the cuts. The saw was well used and I could not make out the model. Best I can say is it felt to be about a 60cc saw; maybe a 290?? It carried a 20 inch bar and felt like about 1.5 lbs heavier than my 346xp. Had to make 16 cuts so I got a chance to feel out the saw. Not making any claims to cutting ability here as the chain was likely not prime. 2 things I took note of; 1. The saw runs at a much lower rpm. Torque based tuning vs high speed horses? 2. The saw vibrates and/or runs with more more vibration than my Huskys. The torque issue would probably not mean a thing so long as she cuts right? The vibration would make me a Husky buyer though. I couldn't sit the running saw on top of the 6x6 without it running off the wood. So I am stihl a Husky guy. That's all folks!
Sounds like you're comparing a pro model of one brand to a non-pro model from another. Husky makes (or sells, anyhow) some not-awesome saws too.
Yep, hard to make a fair comparison unless you are comparing two saws of similar price point and size and age, and even then you won't be able to compare long term durability and dependability in a single use. That being said, I can attest to the durability and dependability of Husqvarna saws, as I have been using the same Husky saw for 35 years, it just won't die.
MyWay, that 1127 series saw that you were probably running is a design that was a mid-level, nothing groundbreaking, landowners saw 20-some years ago. I have two Stihls in my herd (MS261C-M, MS441C-M) that would be a much better pair to compare to your 346XP/576XP. You going to the G2g at Swags' place (central OH) in May? You could run 'em in something a helluva lot bigger than a 6x6" post too.
Ran both brands, like both brands. Have a 40 year old craftsman, like it too. But not gonna compare it to my 3 yr old husqy. Both top brands make improvements, develop new technology a good thing. I'd buy a MS362 or a 562xp now & have a well made , fun to run saw .
I'm a Dolmar/Husky guy too... That being said, those 290's sure were "and still are" a popular saw... On the performance level, I'd give the Husky 455 rancher a slight edge, but you sure can't argue the sheer durability of the 1127 series Stihl's... they have a clamshell style power head cradled in a plastic cradle / case... I think that made them even MORE durable!!! I've seen those poor things put through hell and come back swinging... I've worked on a ton of em'... Usually just a fuel line, a little re-tune, sharpen the chain, and off to more abuse... But I agree... I'd rather have a 346...
Some guys even like their own 2010 Chevy silverado better than their 1981 silverado. Crazy folks don't even know its the same truck!
