Husqvarna 450 vs 550 XP

I don't have experience with the 450, and I've only handled (but not run) a 550XP. There are certainly quality saws, including some smaller professional models, that have only one bar nut. I have heard of some problems with single-bar-nut homeowner saws, particularly if the user has a tendency to overtighten that single nut, but I don't think problems are widespread or common.

I don't know what you mean by "finicky." Modern saws fall broadly into 2 unofficial categories, popularly referred to as "homeowner" and "professional" saws, depending on the way they're built. Homeowner saws have entirely plastic chassis and use a particular type of motor that's cheap to make but relatively difficult to repair if it ever has a significant mechanical failure. "Professional" saws are built on a magnesium chassis and have motors that are easier to work on. In general, "homeowner" saws are comparatively heavy, slower-revving and less powerful for their size. That said, some saws marketed primarily to homeowners perform quite well. Many professionals use cheaper "homeowner" saws at least some of the time, and some homeowners splurge on higher-quality "professional" saws.

The dealer's concern about XP models being "burned up" by homeowners is too vague to address. Oiling problems usually aren't the fault of the oil pump; the passages in the bar get plugged with sawdust and need to be checked and picked clean frequently, which not everyone does. That said, 50cc seems to be right at the limit of where a single bar nut is feasible. Stihl's discontinued MS270, also 50cc, had a single nut but the MS271 which replaced it has two.

Autotune generally gets very good reviews, but there have been hiccups as with any other new technology.

Incidentally you might also consider the 545, which is sort of half-step down from a 550XP. It's the same displacement and weight as your 450 but slightly more powerful, has two bar studs and and is built like a pro saw with a magnesium case and easier-to-work-on motor, for about $100 less than the 550XP.

The xp models run at a higher rpm than homeowner models. 545/555 would be a very good choice in between the two tho

I bought a used 2014 550XP that was as close to new as possible for $400. Finicky no, but it had to perform its auto tune "calisthenics". Very aggravating initially, but now-awesome! I highly recommend it, you will not regret it.

The dealer was most likely trying to avoid over selling you something you don't really need. The Pro saws are nice, but not usually needed for the average "Firewood Bandit".

SonomaComa said:

What I meant by finicky is dors it have to run at full throtle all the time....

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ALL chainsaws should be run at full throttle. They're designed to do that. Can you finesse a delicate cut at less than full throttle to maintain control? Sure, but don't make a habit of it.

The 450 is a basic homeowners saw. Personally, I would not purchase it. I have the 346xp which is an older saw that is absolutely amazing. I am going to be purchasing a 372xp this coming season (it's a beast). I would definitely choose the 550xp over the 450. FYI, there are many side-by-side comparisons online. Go to the Husqvarna website and compare them.

I have a 450 e-series. It's a good little saw for general purpose use but I don't know how well it would hold up to heavy use over an extended period of time. It has the quick adjust bar tensioning system and I have found that the chain loosens quicker than normal and has to be tightened basically every tank of gas. But - it was a Christmas present from the wife. She definitely could have done worse.

SonomaComa, Welcome and congratulations on the new saw!

I use a 450 and I'm very happy with it. It does everything I need it to do and it never gives me a problem. Most all of my cutting is wind fallen oak and maple in the 8" to 15" range. The single nut bar mount has never been a problem for me. I clean my saw off after every use, keep the chain sharp and adjusted, and the bar nut tight. Ready for use the next time.

That being said, if I were the type to have a use for a pro level saw, because I was working in the woods 40 hours a week cutting for a living, or taking down bigger timber, the 450 would NOT have been my choice. I'm realistic about my saw needs.

450 = 3.2 hp 9000rpm = $ 370 msrp
550xp = 3.75 hp 10200rpm = $600 msrp and it's a lot more saw than the 450.


I really like my 450, it fulfills all MY needs.... Others may poo-poo my choice, but it works great for me! And I know it's not always about "need"..... "want" plays a large part in a person's chainsaw acquisition disorder. Heck, I have 3 motorcycles and 2 tractors in the garage... do I "need" all of them, no, but I "wanted" them.

Maybe some day I'll need/want a bigger saw. I've been eyeing the 562XP at the dealer, hummm.................

claydogg84 said:

The dealer was most likely trying to avoid over selling you something you don't really need. The Pro saws are nice, but not usually needed for the average "Firewood Bandit".

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Hey now, what is this about "Firewood Bandits"????????????

There is nothing average about me.

Hope your 450 works well for a long time and meets your needs. I bought a 372XPG in 2002, cut about 10 cords/yr of firewood, plus logs for about 5000 bdft/yr of lumber, and the saw has worked perfectly until a week ago when the fuel line cracked. Fairly easy to replace. Also then replaced the spark plug and the fuel filter. Nothing else done to the saw since I bought it.