chain saw recommendations?

This came up in another thread, and I figured maybe I ought to ask the question straight up here.

I'm in the market for a new chainsaw. I've graduated from an electric 2hp craftsman to an electric 3.5hp craftsman to a gas Poulan 14" over the last 10 years. I liked the Poulan, but I came to learn it is considered to have a lifespan of about 5-6yrs and I have exceeded that. So I'm looking to upgrade to something tough, but still pretty light duty. The 14" size seems good for what I do (logs to about that size through, and lots of smaller stuff-mostly oak)

I'm down with the chain sharpening & maintenance, and well, I do love operating a good saw

 I'd prefer to get a product that will last. Husqevarnas (sp?)seem popular around here, but I figured I'd throw this out to the collective knowledge of NCKA.

thanks!
-Sean

I use them weekly, love the Husqevarnas too pricey, love my stihl . But for the price, power and longevity. Get an echo 400 18" bar.

The only way to go!

Andy, I think that's a tad overkill for me, but I appreciate the pics

Ok, WH thanks! I'll check out the Echo & Stihl

Stihl is the only one I will buy. I have a small limber 16" a rancher 26-30" and a back pack blower that is awesome.

I have also have the 26" Stihl Rancher. I use it up on the property for just about everything.

Stihl would be my first choice for quality, followed by the Husqvarna probably. My brother has a husqvarna with a 14 inch bar that's just a fantastic little saw. Lightweight, powerful, and long lasting so far. I have a 20 husky that's a beast. Overkill for small jobs though.

You can buy a 14 inch Husqvarna at Lowe's for $199.00
http://www.lowes.com/pd_49037-86886-952802233_4294859118+4294965511_4294937087_?productId=1245497&Ns=p_product_prd_lis_ord_nbr|0||p_product_quantity_sold|1&pl=1&currentURL=%2Fpl_Husqvarna_4294859118%2B4294965511_4294937087_%3FNs%3Dp_product_prd_lis_ord_nbr|0||p_product_quantity_sold|1&facetInfo=Husq

I'm not sure exactly what a 14 inch stihl will cost you.

Good luck!

I own a 20yr old Husqvarna that won't die (Knock on Wood)
Looks similar to the one Kristopher is holding but only a 24in. bar.
Tad
 

Since they are 2 stroke motors can't you just pop a new set of rings on em when they start running poor, like on a dirtbike?  The factory manual recommends rings every race!  And they never seem to die.

I have Husky 345 with an 18'' bar and LOVE it.
I used to go through 7 cords of wood a year and I cut it all myself.
I had a Stihl with a 28'' bar but it was somewhat tempermental.
Had various others too but none more reliable than the Husky.
It always starts right up no matter what the weather. From freezing temps to blistering temps it has never once given me any trouble.
It is also light enough it won't put the hurt on you after a long days use.

I have Husky 345 with an 18'' bar and LOVE it.
I used to go through 7 cords of wood a year and I cut it all myself.
I had a Stihl with a 28'' bar but it was somewhat tempermental.
Had various others too but none more reliable than the Husky.
It always starts right up no matter what the weather. From freezing temps to blistering temps it has never once given me any trouble.
It is also light enough it won't put the hurt on you after a long days use.

Thanks guys!

Eric, yeah I'm sure these things can be rebuilt, but it would cost more than the saw is worth.

Thanks  Tote!
Sounds like I may go with a "Husky'. I end up cutting only a couple cords a year normally (except for this year I'll probably do more), but I do some 'creative" cutting for totems, tikis & such too, so I like the lighter weight saws.

Whatever you go with just make sure you use a fuel stabilizer in the gas can every time you fill it. Most of the time I hear of problems it's that it won't start after sitting a while. Most of the time that's a fuel related problem caused by stale fuel.

The better Sears saws are supposedly made by Husqavarna. I bought one this spring on sale -- Craftsman Pro I think --  16(18?)" bar, starts on the fourth pull every time. Nice light saw. Cost something like $175 - $200 + another $70(?) for a three year maintenance contract (I'm lousy at maintaining/repairing these things).

Ben

Wheres Sledge??????  GETTIN SOME!!!   

Husky or Echo, can't go wrong.