If there is a tree that it won't cut, then I don't have the skill to cut it or the strength to lift the rounds.
That's a very good point, especially for a beginner.
If there is a tree that it won't cut, then I don't have the skill to cut it or the strength to lift the rounds.
Hello everyone!
So I'm looking for a gas chainsaw. My husband gave me the greenlight to seriously scrounge and/or process my own wood after he saw the price of (not even dry) wood and how fast we can burn through it. I have an electric Oregon CS1500 with 18 inch bar, that was my into to chainsaws this year. I really enjoy it but obviously not portable. I'm looking for something appropriate for my needs and skill level. I will be the primary user. I stopped by a Stihl dealer I like (they fixed our lawnmower) and they recommended the MS 251 C-BE, mainly for the easy start.
I need something that's easier to start (I'm not strong enough for the pull cord and my husband has shoulder injuries that could worsen as we age. We tried one gas a chainsaw a while back and starting it was a nightmare).
I also need something that doesn't weigh a lot. My current saw is probably around 10 lbs. I also want something can easily fit the back seat of my truck.
And I need something pretty user friendly for a beginner but still powerful enough to cut logs to a size I can lift them ( I know, I gotta hit the weight room to get stronger)
Right now, wood is not our primary heat source. But I am hoping to finish our basement in a couple years and add a free standing stove in addition to the insert we have. That will allow us to use the gas furnace as secondary (We just really like burning wood and I like the idea of having something that will work for heat and cooking no matter what). So I need a saw that can handle several cords a year as I'm building up our supply for when our wood usage increases (I don't want to have to buy a new saw every few years).
Does the Stihl MS 251 C-BE sound like the best fit? I knew it was gonna set me back a little but I don't want to spend $400 if I can get something just as good for less OR if it's not going to suit my needs. Can anyone recommend anything else?
Another thing that's good about purchasing from a local dealer is that they should do the following:
- Go over the features of the saw with you
- Show you how it works and how to make adjustments to the chain tension, etc.
- Fire up the saw, let it warm up and adjust the carburetor so it's tuned correctly for your elevation
- Sell you some files that are compatible with the chain you are using
- Sell you a spare chain so you always have a sharp one on hand
Also often if you buy some of the 2 stroke oil from the dealer they will increase the warranty. Irregardless of the saw I prefer the Stihl HP Ultra 2 stroke oil, it works well.
Awesome, I'm glad to hear that it cut great. I hope it continues to meet your expectations. It should be a great saw.I pulled the trigger and bought the saw Friday. Used it tonight (it was tricky getting it started, had to watch a video to refresh what the dealer taught me). It cut great! Also bought the oil to double the warranty.