A local guy who rebuilds and sells used chainsaws and other small engine
devices, told me that Poulan chainsaws are made by Husqvarna. While this
is possible, I never heard it before and wonder if this guy was just
"talking ****" to try and make a sale.

Stihl saws used to be considered the "top of the line", but it appears
that these days it's Husqvarna, so it's apparent that comparing any saw
to that brand is a way to make a sale.

I have not had much experience with Poulan, although I know a guy who
owns one and says he likes it, and it's reliable.

My best chainsaws have always been the old Stihl Farmboss. I have
several of them, but they are heavy and like to kickback on small twigs.
So, I was looking at a small Poulan this guy has for sale. That saw is
light and is is made for the branches and small stuff, with it's 14"
bar.

Actually my preferered saw for smaller branches is my electric chainsaw,
but sometimes I am too far from a power source.