For the Stihl historians on the forum . . .
I know these questions of manufacture date usually get the response to check Acre's reference site, but our Internet filter here blocks Acres and won't allow me to view it.
My first question is, what's the total span of manufacture for the 028? Was it 1977 to 1993?
Secondly, if the 028 was and is the dependable workhorse that everyone claims, why did Stihl stop producing the saw? Thanks.
From Acres' site; start dates; 028AV 1977 43cc(42mm), 028AV Type 2 and Wood Boss 1979 47cc(44mm). No disconitued dates, but if memory serves 1993 or 4 sounds about right for when they disappeared from the catalog. The 028's big brother the 038 in the Mag II version continued on for several more years before succumbing to the 044. The 028 was replaced by the 026, which is basically an upgraded 024. The 026 is a very similar design to the 028 though lighter with the same power.
I've said it many times before, the 028 Super is my all time favorite Stihl model, stihl have two of 'em, and are my go to saws for middie work. They are not the fastest or lightest but their ability to just cut for years is unmatched. Though the 026 is every bit as good as the 028 it replaced I stihl prefer the rounded design of the original. Especially for pulling up through a canopy of a tree by the rear handle at the end of a rope while climbing. It has the best in-hand feel with a 16" bar of any saw I've ever used, something spec sheets just can't reflect. The 028's reputation for durability is well founded, I can attest to that, have more saw time on 028s than probably any other saw. I have never been let down on a job with one, ever. Only break downs I've experienced have been due to user neglect or poor maintenance. If Stihl decided to reproduce 028s tomorrow, I'd order two.
I'm not an insider, but my guess is that Stihl felt the need to increase the power to weight ratio in their middie line up due to the competition and thus the exit of the 028 and entrance of the 026. Many modern saw shoppers utilize spec sheets heavily in their decision making, just ask Saw Troll. Another reason(again from a layperson) is that companies feel the need every now and then to discontinue certain models to introduce new models to spark interest in their product line. Regardless of the popularity of said model, they sold every single 028 in the last years of production just like they did every ms440 in the last few years of it's production. I realize the 440 was sacrificed for EPA requirements as much as anything, but even without those requirements the 440 probably would have went away as well.
The new ms280 I'm sure is a product of trying to live off the 028's stellar reputation, though not exactly marketed to the same Pro market. It does share a few pro-like traits such as a mag case and it's profile does resemble the original somewhat. Just like Ford reintroducing the new/old Mustang, not exactly the same ole '68 fastback, but boy howdy she sure looks nice.....
Every serious sawyer needs to have at least one IMO.......
