help with saw purchase.

[jbarker855]

I used a Poulan 18 inch saw for years, and used it very heavily (15 cord/yr) in its last 2 years. Very reliable, but weak and slow. Last year, I upgraded to a Stihl ms390. I was absolutely dumbfounded with the power and quality of it. You couldn't wipe the smile off my face. I have nothing but good stuff to say about it. Wish I bought it years earlier. I didn't know what I was missing all that time. I think it was about $450, give or take a bit.
-Jay

 

[jon dirt]

Hay, You may want to check this saw, nothing but good reviews. If I needed a new saw this is the one.
Bailey's - Makita Model DCS 6401 Chainsaw with 20" Bar & Chain

 

[crusty 1]

one vote for the stihl 260 pro,cuts like a beaver on sterroids and light.About 500 bucks:thumbsup:

 

[Nitro-Fish]

one vote for the stihl 260 pro,cuts like a beaver on sterroids and light.About 500 bucks:thumbsup:

If you think the 260 "cuts like a beaver on sterroids", don't dare pick up a NE346XP Husky, you'll be a husqvarna lover then! Can't say anything bad about the 260, its just that the New Edition 346XP is that good and right at the same price 3.7hp and right at 11lbs.
I still think for 15-20 cords per year, the 372XP is the way to go; 5.6hp and right around 13.5lbs; you don't have to be cutting very long to get your 15 cords that way!
BTW jbarker855; the step from your current ms390 to a 372 would be like going from your old puolan to the ms390 all over again and you wouldn't even notice additional weight because they're both (the ms390 & the 372) about the same.

 

[crusty 1]

If you think the 260 "cuts like a beaver on sterroids", don't dare pick up a NE346XP Husky, you'll be a husqvarna lover then! Can't say anything bad about the 260, its just that the New Edition 346XP is that good and right at the same price 3.7hp and right at 11lbs.
I still think for 15-20 cords per year, the 372XP is the way to go; 5.6hp and right around 13.5lbs; you don't have to be cutting very long to get your 15 cords that way!
BTW jbarker855; the step from your current ms390 to a 372 would be like going from your old puolan to the ms390 all over again and you wouldn't even notice additional weight because they're both (the ms390 & the 372) about the same.

I have dealer friend swap the safety wheel chain for the pro use and that helps.used a husky rancher for years they are good saws no dought.

 

[peterc38]

one vote for the stihl 260 pro,cuts like a beaver on sterroids and light.About 500 bucks:thumbsup:

I have a 260 Pro and it is a nice saw but IMO too small for 15-20 cords of firewood a year. I use mine for small stuff and limbing.

For the amount of firewood the OP is cutting, I'd go with a 60-70 cc saw or a 2 saw plan 50 and 70 cc

 

[RobertN]

I would do the two saw route too. For a newer saw, I would get a MS260(I really like the 024/026/260 series), and a larger Stihl.

I have had good luck with both Stihl and Husky, but I like Stihl ergonomics and feel the best.

I might check out the Dolmars too though...

one vote for the stihl 260 pro,cuts like a beaver on sterroids and light.About 500 bucks:thumbsup:

 

[3rdgenorange]

Pulled the plug tonight. I went to the local Husky dealer and they had a 372 XP for 670.00. So I bought the last one they had. Looking forward to doing some cutting.

 

[beenthere]

I am looking to buy a saw and would appreciate any information and help that you can provide. I will be cutting around 15-20 cord a year. Currently using a Husky 240e, good saw but I don't feel it was made to cut that much wood. Looking for something 60-70cc and an 18" bar. Strongly considering the Stihl Ms 362. Not looking for any brandwar conversation just thoughts and any other suggestions. Open to other types in town their is a Husky and Stihl shop. I will be cutting firewood and rarely anything bigger than 15-18 inches. Thanks in advance.

I have the Stihl MS 361, and it is a super saw. Have a 20" bar (don't have to bend over so far ) and wouldn't run less. The MS 362 is the next model replacing the MS 361 (CA EPA standards kicking in, I guess). The Stihl would be my recommendation.

But too late for that.

 

[NIXON]

Pulled the plug tonight. I went to the local Husky dealer and they had a 372 XP for 670.00. So I bought the last one they had. Looking forward to doing some cutting.

Congrats !
That's one heck of a good price !!!! I'm sure You'll enjoy You new saw for a long time to come .