Best bar length on a MS200T

**Joe Wise** · 02-09-2006, 01:39 PM

What is your favorite bar length on a MS200T climbing saw for balance
and ease of use.

Thanks,

Joe

**skwerl** · 02-09-2006, 02:20 PM

Hey Joe, welcome.
Most people seem to like the 16" bar on the 200T simply because it has the power to pull it. I found it caused extensive pain in my wrist after extensive use. I found a lightweight bar that Stihl makes with a polymer insert in the middle but it is only available in 14", so that is what I use. The bar weighs all of about 4 ounces and is very durable. Only thing is that it sells for about $45 each. Well worth it for my primary weapon though.

**BostonBull** · 02-09-2006, 02:52 PM

We sue all 14" 50 dl bars. I too have got all 4 of our companies we own to switch to the lighter bars. I am phasing them in as the old ones wear out. they really balance out the saw!

**Eagle1** · 02-09-2006, 03:12 PM

16" is the way to go !!

**Del_** · 02-09-2006, 03:13 PM

I've got a 16" on my 200.

When it wears I'll be looking for that lighter bar too.

**tshanefreeman** · 02-09-2006, 03:26 PM

I personally like the 14".

I've found that it is far easier to climb through branch crotches with the shorter bar. I know that 2" doesn't sound like much, but it can become frustrating in certain situations. I also like the balance that a 14" bar provides.

**Eagle1** · 02-09-2006, 03:34 PM

I do not understand how a 14" bar will work. Unless all you do is prune or deadwood. The weight of the 200T with a 16" suits me fine.

**tshanefreeman** · 02-09-2006, 03:48 PM

What do you do when you get over 16 inches.

I prefer the 14" bar due to personal preference. When the diameter gets to be too much for this bar a upgrade to a larger saw/bar combo to get the job done. Typically, start with the 14" - MS200T, then go to 18" - MS260, then 28" - MS460Mag and if need be, bigger!

Personal experience has shown that every saw serves a purpose and you'll never be able to do every job with only one saw!

**Eagle1** · 02-09-2006, 04:10 PM

Yes. I understand. Alot is personal preference also. For me the 16 is all I need in the tree. Comming down a big stick, near the bottom I 'll go to a regular handle saw 18"

**TimberMcPherson** · 02-10-2006, 11:26 AM

For the most part I use a 12inch, but if Im doing bigger tree I have an 020 which has some light mods and a 15 inch bar.

**TreeJunkie** · 02-10-2006, 11:35 AM

14" bar always....once in a while i'll set them up w/ the ultra light bar but have found them to be easily bent and a bit too pricey...

**Treeblitzer** · 02-10-2006, 04:41 PM

I got both 14& 16 I beleive that I use the 16 more,good balance

**treeguy020** · 02-10-2006, 04:46 PM

All 3 ms200T's have 16" bars on them. It is just the way to go. I roll up in the tree cutting anything over 3" with the saw but just use the handsaw for everything else.