SteveB wrote:

I cut about 12 cords a year. My pardner just bought the Husky 460
with a 24" bar. I have a Husky 435 with a 16" bar. I will be
getting the identical Husky, or a Stihl, (I think 391) with the 24"
bar.
Point is, buy quality and cry only once. Stihl or Husky will do the
work. Both are serviceable, with parts easily available.

Main things are basics: Drain gas when not in use. Keep adjusted.
Learn how to sharpen with simply a file, no fancy devices, and that
includes electric sharpeners. Get a stump clamp, learn how to use it,
and you will be able to keep it sharp quickly.

If you want a saw that will start right up, Stihl or Husky is your
ticket, and take those precautions. Nothing like going out there,
adding a little fresh gas, and getting the job done, and not jacking
with it every time you want to use it. My 345 came in a package deal
for around $250. The $460 will be about $400, but we will be doing
heavier work. We fell trees up to 18" diameter, and may cut four
cords a day.

You get what you pay for. Buy a good one, and take care of it right.

Ignore all the tales of Poulans and Macs that have lasted decades. I'm
sure there are some Pintos and Vegas still on the road, too. But
if you want something reliable that just runs, and you don't spend a
lot of time cussing at, Stihl or Husky.

Get an air gun, and clean it good after a good use so the pitch
doesn't harden in the working parts. Put it away clean, and it's
ready to go next time you need it. Put it away gummy, and the gum
will set, or the gas will turn to varnish, and you will have fun
getting it going properly next time.

Just MHO from ten years of jacking with these things.

You get what you pay for, and anything less than Stihl or Husky is
junk. The cost difference between them is not that great when you are
talking of a quality tool.


Well spoken sir! In particular, your closing comment. Nothing more to say.
(Except that real men buy Stihl...)

--

-Mike-