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Old 02-08-2018, 08:19 PM   #3
KenM
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Default Chainsaw Thoughts

Some (random) Chainsaw Thoughts

I took a look at some of the choices from major brands: Stihl, Echo, Husqvarna.

It would be easier to pick out a saw for myself than to get one for another person to use. And then it's for an unconventional use... standing in water/mud or hanging out of a canoe.

WEIGHT__I would have to go with the lightest saw possible. Standing on dry ground is one thing. Awkward position is another. Reaching out with a 9-10 pound saw for trimming is very tiring. Note: weights listed for saws are deceiving. They are for power head ONLY. Add another 1.8# for bar and chain.

BAR LENGTH__The smallest (lightest) saws may only be 12". Some have 14" (which I think is good for trimming). 16" bar is an option for some. Over 16" bar is generally a much bigger machine. Is 16" or more needed?

TOP or REAR HANDLE__I have one of each. Cutting trees/firewood/big stuff...rear handle. For trimming branches, small jobs, awkward stuff, a top handle is great. Better balanced. All of the top handle saws are made for use up in trees (for arborists). They are generally lighter and more expensive. Cutting from a boat? For myself, I would pick a top handle.

COST__Whoa... For S, E or H brand saw (top handle) roughly $320 to $380. Smaller rear handles could be $200 to $300+. Then add an extra chain/oil. My thoughts... If I had a better, more expensive saw I would NOT use it in any situation where I might have to drop it in the river. Safety first!! No logjam is worth getting hurt/killed. Saw choice, Plan "B"... Buy a cheap saw and expect to replace it in a few years. ref: Poulan/Harbor Freight.

DEALER__Brand choice might be just depend on who the nearest/best dealer is for parts, repair, supplies.
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Some choices, top handle unless noted, weight w/bar,chain, price from web unless noted= needs verified

Stihl MS 193T 14" 8.6# $330 per dealer
Stihl has other home owner grade saws possibly less $ ? Stihl's are expensive!

Echo CS-2511T 12/14" 6.8# $380 (12")
Echo CS-303T 14" 9.3# $330
Echo CS-355T 14/16" 9.8# $360 (16")
Echo CS-310 14" 10.4# $200 rear handle
Echo CS-352 14" 10.4# $260 rear handle
Echo seems to have a good reputation but I am not familiar with them.

Husqvarna T435 14" 9.1# $320
Husqvarna seems to have a good reputation. Several rear handle homeowner grade saws under $300. May be worth checking out.

ref: the suggested Stihl MS-150T ? $529.95 !!

-Ken
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