Which Chainsaw?

[New Forest DEAN]

I suspect that this is one of the most common questions asked on here, but it's a busy forum, so I'm not sure I could trawl back through for the answer...

 

Anyway - I'm a first time chainsaw use and I need to cut up about 4-5 tonnes of wood a year, say, 12-18 inches in diameter (for splitting).

 

I don't think that's a lot of, compared to a tree surgeon.

 

Can I get away with a £100 chainsaw (KIAM?) instead of £450 (Husq' 346?), or an £80 electric.

 

I know which is better, but which is most cost effective, with servicing etc, even if it needs replacing occassionally?

 

Any help appreciated.

 

Cheers - DEAN.

[Yeti]

best saws for firewood i've ever used are the older 0 series stihls,mine is over 25 years old and owes me nothing never misses a beat,parts are always available.

usually plenty on ebay etc

[spikeymikey]

Ive Got an echo 420es and its by far the best small saw ive ever had, i paid £270 + Vat which i didnt think was too bad.

[Hoggin]

Your needs seem similar to mine. I use a Makita 4035 electric saw with a 14" bar most of the time but that is mainly because I don't want to annoy my neighbours.

[spudulike]

345 Husqvarna is a good choice. £150 - 175 for a decent secondhand one with a 15" bar, they are a poor mans 346XP but go very well.

 

I had one for a few years and it was always my weapon of choice when any firewood was in the offering.

[Northern Log Dog]

I really would avoid a cheap saw. A used Stihl or husky is your best bet. Your local dealer may have a trade in that they have serviced ready for sale.

However I have seen new makitas & dolmars at a very good price on eBay.

[broonie]

I had a Husky 350 for firewood did the job for 5 years no breakdowns, seen them on the bay for 100 - 200

[Rich D]

I've got a husky 345 with an 18inch bar cut all my firewood with it and some! It's a good machine starts everytime, cuts well and its nice a light. I do use a 365 which s good but much heavier.

 

Just keep the chain sharp and it'l do the job, got mine for £100 3 yrs ago.

[harvey b davison]

as said previously, dont discount the makita range, they make a decent range. you should be able to find one to suit your needs.

[Paul Cleaver]

get a stihl or husky - they will last you for years