Recommend me - an entry level Pro saw

[Johnnyboxer]

Hi, I'm an occasional user 3-4 times a month, for logging and firewood around home etc

 

Been using a MS180, with a 14" bar since 2008 and it's been great - but struggles on the some of the bigger rings/lumps

 

So been looking to get a bigger saw, heavier duty with metal casings, rather than the plastic ones

 

Ideally I'd like a saw which could handle a 18" bar/chain and a 13" one for smaller stuff

 

Initially fancied a MS261, but not keen on their mixed reliability - so may look for a good MS260

 

Huskies look good, but which one?

 

I know of a new Makita DCS5030 with a 15" bar for about £300, but worried about service/spares etc - my local dealers sell Stihl/Husqvarna

 

Let me know what you think

[Eddy_t]

Husky 545, 550xp or 555

[Gus McWilliam]

I prefer the 261. Its not as unreliable as people think, you only hear the horror stories.

[Cut4fun]

Or the older 346xp with carb you tune. The 550xp with autotune replaced it.

 

353 is a detuned version of the 346 with different topend. Still a good saw with carb you tune. 545 with autotune replaced it.

 

The newer Echo's are top notch in the 50cc 60cc class. Like a 500 550 600

 

Find a stihl 026 260 036 360 361. I've only heard about 261 eating clutch bearings.

 

Dolmar 5105 and put a 5100 muffler on it. Look at the Makita 510.

 

Just some ideas.

 

If you need dealers for work. Stay with a brand you can trust, that they can service correctly and get you parts quickly.

[tree monkey]

if its out of your budget for a ms 260 then opt for a ms250 cracking saw imo

[chopperpete]

I am very happy with my STIHL MS250 16", which replaced a 12" McCulloch. Use it as you do, for cutting fire wood. Also considered MS251, but I preferred manual adustment of chain, and standard start system ....

[swinny]

i could sell you a 261

[Johnnyboxer]

I am very happy with my STIHL MS250 16", which replaced a 12" McCulloch. Use it as you do, for cutting fire wood. Also considered MS251, but I preferred manual adustment of chain, and standard start system ....

 

Does the MS250 have metal casings?

[swinny]

Does the MS250 have metal casings?[/QUOT

 

no dont think so...

[difflock]

026 since 1997

A wee re-build 2? year ago due to a failed bearing.

Good for another 11 years or so

As long as I dinny drive over her wit der ould DB:blushing:

I always count to 4 before releasing the clutch.

Why?

(i) Saw, snugly sheathed on the side o the bonnet, in plain sight.

Check!

(ii) tool kit/bag across the top of the dash.

Check!

(iii) Safety helmet, hooked on the RHS door knob>

Check!

(iv) Fuel can behind the seat

Check !

safe to go

This routine established after several earlier embarrasing "fou pas"

A good job I work alone.