I still don't know the difference between a 390 and a 361. Why 200 bucks more? I have heard it has better bearings, better pistons and different metals for the block. I heard it from the dealer but they can stretch the truth. It seems this could make it a better saw, more reliable, less chance of the heads warping under heavy loads. Maybe it has a better oil pump. I am sure the 361 is the stronger motor. I bought an 034, a pro saw, then an 026, supposedly a pro saw (but half the torque of the 034) I have found that buying the best ussually ends up cheaper in the long run if the tool is used on a regular basis. So I bought the pro saw. My dad might buy a 261 and I told him a 290 might die before he does but a 261 will go to one of his grandsons for sure. We can argue weather the 361 is worth the extra money, but until we get solid answer what the difference is between the saws we are talking in circles. So, what are the differences between the 390 and the 361? Call the dealers and maybe they know. Maybe we can all call and write in what they said and come to a conclusion.