Yeah, I saw the earlier post. Maybe I just got a dud. Other issues with it too. Doesn't shut off easily, really have to put down pressure on the switch not just flick it forward with your thumb. Once warm it stays revving after a big cut, pretty dangerous for climbing. I only use it in the bucket on account of that issue though it's not a good quality anywhere. And not loud enough ( like you pointed out ) even after the muffler mod. Makes it harder for the groundies to hear you cutting, also dangerous.