Rebelduckman
Minister of Fire
I have a 16" Stihl I got for small stuff. I paid 179 on sale. For big stuff I use a 460 rancher husqvarna. Both are great saws under 400
Chainsaw recommendation please
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I have an older Stihl 026 and I still think it's one of the better all around saws. I find myself using it a lot more that my 44. Unless your a good faller I wouldn't tackle anything over 16-20 with a saw that size. If it's on the ground I can get by with a 20" bar on the big stuff. The trick is a sharp chain and let the saw do the work. If you force it it will work you to death.
momof2nutlings
Member
I use an electric Worx saw, not just because of the lighter weight, but because I need to be able to keep an ear open for the sounds of short people causing mayhem. I don't know if you will have to mind kids at the same time, but for me this was the deciding factor.
Cuts well, done over 10 cord thus far, and the kiddos know that they can't sneak into trouble while I'm working.
Cuts well, done over 10 cord thus far, and the kiddos know that they can't sneak into trouble while I'm working.
jillybeansisme
Member
I love the idea of renting the chainsaw for when I go just for 4-5 days to my lot. Never even thought of it. I can bring my own safety gear (some of it I use for making soap).
lindnova
Feeling the Heat
For that size of logs you should have a 20" bar or longer on a Stihl MS362/441/460. You could get by with an 18" if you won't be cutting this large very much. My MS260 with 18" has cut thru big stuff like that, but it takes a while. I would recommend the MS260/261/262 with an 18" bar for you. It is light enough for trimming small stuff yet can do big stuff when needed. It will also last forever.
If you need to stay more in budget, a MS290 farm boss would work good also. I think a 250 would be a little light for that work, but eventually you would get it cut up.
Most importantly, I would buy a saw that can be serviced by a local dealer. Stihl and Husqvarna/Jonserud are most common, Dolmar and Echo are good if you have a dealer close. Unless you plan to buy, use and throw away (Poulon/Mcullugh/Homelite), a servicing dealer is worth it. I found parts for my Poulon online years ago, but you have to be able to service yourself. Another bonus of a quality saw is the possibility of resale in the future.
If you need to stay more in budget, a MS290 farm boss would work good also. I think a 250 would be a little light for that work, but eventually you would get it cut up.
Most importantly, I would buy a saw that can be serviced by a local dealer. Stihl and Husqvarna/Jonserud are most common, Dolmar and Echo are good if you have a dealer close. Unless you plan to buy, use and throw away (Poulon/Mcullugh/Homelite), a servicing dealer is worth it. I found parts for my Poulon online years ago, but you have to be able to service yourself. Another bonus of a quality saw is the possibility of resale in the future.
Thanks to everyone for your replies. I have found a Stihl dealer who is going to bring a few over and let me try them. So thankful for that because it is hard to get a good feel for them just standing in the store. It's probably going to be another week before he comes but very appreciative.
bigbarf48
Minister of Fire
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