First chainsaw

[Plwm]

Hi folks, new here and first post... looking for some (constructive!) advice...

 

Recently moved to a new property with approx 1/2 acre of woodland, mainly 10-15 yr old Ash which could do with a bit of thinning. There are also some pre cut logs lying around of circa 6-18" diameter, ~4' long or so that I'd like to turn into usable firewood.

I'm sure the odd log or two will get picked up on dog walks that will need cutting into suitable lengths too.

 

So looking for my first saw that'll cope with producing firewood as well as some grounds maintenance on regular basis. Budget I guess around £250.

 

I have PPE, use a Stihl brushcutter and have a reasonable amount of common sense!, though no chainsaw experience.

 

Have 2 local Stihl dealers pointing me towards MS181 - one says 12" bar the other 14". I do have a Husky dealer as well but not as convenient. Will the 12" cope with larger diameter logs?

 

Would welcome any thoughts on models/bar lengths to suit my needs/experience.

 

Thanks in advance...

Neil

[Eddy_t]

Yes, a smaller guide bar will cope, but you'll have to cut from both sides. If you go with Stihl, you'll need an ms211 or larger, likewise with a husky, I'd recommend a 135 or larger, as you want a 35+cc engine.

[Stoatally]

I was looking for a small saw and got the Husky 135. It's a cracking little bit of kit.

 

Ended up getting it online,. delivered fully PDI'd, tank of fuel and oil and had been ruin to check it over. Stihl you have to go to the dealer as far as I can tell

[aesmith]

Depends on how often you'll be cutting bigger stuff. I use an MS180 with 14" bar, and found it quite a business dealing with a log that was well over twice the working bar length. However that's not something I'm likely to have to deal with again so was better to just bash on and get that done slowly, rather than buy a bigger saw that I may not need again for a while.

[Woodcrafter]

Put your hand in your pocket go for a ms261 or the like. More robust professional saw that if looked after will last a lifetime with light use.

I'd recommend getting your self on the 30/31 Nptc. Course. This will teach you the basics and show you how to maintain the saw.

It maybe more expense but you will enjoy it and appreciate your own skills whilst working.

[Joe Newton]

My first saw was a ms211. It's a good light weight saw. It's fine on a 14" bar. No need for you to spend double the amount on a pro saw unless you'll be cutting 20" logs regularly.

 

Learn to sharpen a chain well. If you don't, it doesn't matter what saw you buy!

[cornish wood burner]

My first saw was a ms211. It's a good light weight saw. It's fine on a 14" bar. No need for you to spend double the amount on a pro saw unless you'll be cutting 20" logs regularly.

 

Learn to sharpen a chain well. If you don't, it doesn't matter what saw you buy!

 

Good advice I would say especially sharpening.

211 on a 14" cuts well with a sharp chain.

[TurtleWoods72]

My first saw was a ms211. It's a good light weight saw. It's fine on a 14" bar. No need for you to spend double the amount on a pro saw unless you'll be cutting 20" logs regularly.

 

Learn to sharpen a chain well. If you don't, it doesn't matter what saw you buy!

 

Did I read that correctly?

 

Joe Newton bought and used a Stihl?..?.?

 

Back on topic..

 

 

Neil where are you located, I have a number of saws you are welcome to try. I'd even consider selling one if you're local.

 

P.S. Joe, no the MS391 isn't for sale.

[NFG]

Hi & welcome

 

Take a look at a Dolmar 420sc.

 

It has a 42cc engine so a bit more power.

It comes with a 15" bar & has adjustable oil pump & no gimicks

 

It can be had for about £260 if you look in this forum you will see a thread on it.

 

It also ports rather well.

 

N

[TurtleWoods72]

Hi & welcome

 

Take a look at a Dolmar 420sc.

 

It has a 42cc engine so a bit more power.

It comes with a 15" bar & has adjustable oil pump & no gimicks

 

It can be had for about £260 if you look in this forum you will see a thread on it.

 

It also ports rather well.

 

N

 

Got to agree with this advice.

 

I own the Makita DCS4301. Magnesium crankcase, hard as nails, rips through wood.

 

If the Orange One is the same ? It's a bargain. I paid a lot more than that for mine many many years ago...