New member, rec's for saw?

[Big T]

Ms260/261. Job done.

[Hobbsurf]

261 on a 15 inch bar. Proper Forestry Pro Saw - BTW I lost tinterweb TWICE whilst trying to post that, and I have a very short fuse, so it must be worth it!

 

Russ

[Duncan R]

I like the look of that, this is the sort of saw I had in mind....more power/response than the 181 without going too mad!

 

 

However, afer reading up on here about these saws they are not without issues it seems?! (The 261CM that is......are there new/old versions of this saw)?

Edited February 3, 2015 by Duncan R

[Hobbsurf]

They had issues, but I've been on mine for 18 months & all good.

 

Russ

[Stubby]

I think it is very easy to get used to a more powerful saw so I would not " err on the side of caution " get the best you can afford for your requirements . You know the size of wood you have to cut . Big engine short bar = fast cutting small engine longer bar = struggle . 50cc , 60cc possibly 70cc .

[NFG]

However, afer reading up on here about these saws they are not without issues it seems?! (The 261CM that is......are there new/old versions of this saw)?

 

Hi, there were some issues with the clutch bearing a while ago, clearly those with first hand experience of problems are much more likely to post. Unfortunately, almost anything new seems to have a few wrinkles to be ironed out.

 

In one discussion a while ago, it was suggested to grease the clutch bearing periodically & consider replacing on an annual basis if used extensively as its only about 3 quid from L&S Engineers.

 

N

[Duncan R]

Thanks for the replies guys.....all much appreciated, I am taking notice. I do like the look of the 261

Edited February 3, 2015 by Duncan R

[maria warwick]

They had issues, but I've been on mine for 18 months & all good.

 

Russ

 

Have had mine only 6 months…….. but it cuts verrrrry nicely. Had no issues with it at all. Full chisel on a 16".

[Joe Newton]

The problem with asking a forum full of pro cutters is that we're blinkered. The majority of us use our saws every day so shelling out for the best tools makes sense to us. I'd be looking at a saw capable of pulling 18" with ease. The minimum I'd go for is 60cc, and my preference would be the 560xp, which carries a price tag of around £700. It's a belting saw, but is way over the top for what you need. Plus there's all the other stuff that goes with a pro saw: regular maintenance, high quality fuel and oil, and operator skill.

 

In your shoes a sensible choice would be a 60cc Makita, which would be significantly cheaper, more forgiving, and plenty for your needs.

 

If you must have a Stihl, their homeowner range is pretty much tailored for you. MS290 will pull an 18" bar, or a 390 will pull it faster. Many on here would snuff the idea, and I wouldn't buy one, but then we're in different categories of saw user.

[Duncan R]

The problem with asking a forum full of pro cutters is that we're blinkered. The majority of us use our saws every day so shelling out for the best tools makes sense to us.

 

In your shoes a sensible choice would be a 60cc Makita, which would be significantly cheaper, more forgiving, and plenty for your needs.

 

If you must have a Stihl, their homeowner range is pretty much tailored for you. MS290 will pull an 18" bar, or a 390 will pull it faster. Many on here would snuff the idea, and I wouldn't buy one, but then we're in different categories of saw user.

 

I appreciate that sentiment...not overly important to stick with Stihl, it was simply that this saw has been faultless. Will look into Makita...