Dolmar 6400 vs Stihl MS 391

[Soggy Bottom Outdoors]

How would ya'll compare Dolmar 6400 and Stihl MS 391? They appear to be close in price and spec out similiar. Im not familiar with Dolmar but have heard good things. My Stihl dealers are closer and more numerous. A couple of Dolmar dealers within 40 miles. How do the saws compare in performance, reliability, build quality, warrenty issues. I'd like to hear from folks who have ran both. I can read the online stuff myself.

 

[motownbrowne]

How would ya'll compare Dolmar 6400 and Stihl MS 391? They appear to be close in price and spec out similiar. Im not familiar with Dolmar but have heard good things. My Stihl dealers are closer and more numerous. A couple of Dolmar dealers within 40 miles. How do the saws compare in performance, reliability, build quality, warrenty issues. I'd like to hear from folks who have ran both. I can read the online stuff myself.

The Dolmar is a pro-grade saw. As far as build quality and performance, you should compare it to a stihl MS361. The 391 is a large mid-grade saw, not professional quality.

 

[gladehound]

I have not owned a 391, but I did have a MS290. I also don't have a 6400, but I do have a Dolmar 7900, which is the same saw with a larger displacement head.

The MS391 is a homeowner or farm saw, not a pro saw. As such, Stihl doesn't use the highest quality internals on that level saw. The metals used are softer, cheaper and less durable.

The Dolmar 6400 is a pro level saw even every bit as good as the pro level saws from Stihl and Husquivarna. The engine head is designed with harder materials to hold up to longer hours and harder use. Also, if you get the 6400 you always have the option to upgrade the head to a 7900 which is a lot of pro saw in a handy sized package. In fact, I do believe that when the Dolmar 7900 came out, it had the best power to weight ratio of any saw. So it's no slouch.

Get the Dolmar. It's a lot more saw for the money.

 

[Will_C]

I would agree with the previous 2 posters-the Dolmar is a "pro" constructed saw, the Stihl is a clamshell design. I am a Stihl fan, but if they were my choices, I pick the Dolmar.

Will

 

[xyz123]

I know dealers selling the 6400 for around $515 right now. IMO this isnt even a choice. pro grade saw all the way.

 

[TSO]

Really happy with my Dolmar PS-5105... I've had it two years so far, best saw I've owned.

Dolmar PS-5105 Chainsaw 20" Bar 50 cc 0.325 in. Chain Pitch - SLE Equipment
Dolmar PS-5105 Chainsaw 20" Bar 50 cc 0.325 in. Chain Pitch - SLE Equipment