Sorry to keep bugging guys, but this forum seems the highest number of experienced people. :greenchainsaw: I've been involved between echo/husky 350 for awhile now but now I want a saw that will last for a long time. I know the 346xp is a much faster and better built saw than the 350. Is it worth the extra $150 for the 346? Will it last 2x as long with proper care?
The 350 and 353 are similar in performance, but the 353 has magnesium cases rather than plastic:censored: . For the extra $$ the 353 would be my choice between those.
The 346xp is similar to the 353 but has different piston and cylinder, turns more revs, makes more power. This is another step up if you can justify the $$ for more performance.
Considering the price of the Echo 520, I think either the Husqvarna 353 or 346xp to be better deals. The Echo has magnesium cases as well, and seems to have a devoted following.
Another alternative to consider is the Makita DCS540. These can be bought on Ebay, "refurbished with 1 year guarantee" for $222 + $20 shipping. These are the Dolmar 540s in Makita blue. They have 54cc, compression release, magnesium cases, 3.4hp. I have the smaller DCS401(39cc) and love it! Its light, smooth, and well made.:spam:
Oh, yeah, I have a 346xp 50cc version with non catalytic muffler, and it runs and cuts great. Its smooth, and revs like crazy, and cuts like a larger displacement saw.:chainsawguy:
The Dolmar 5100s is the other "beast" in the 50cc class, and a little less $$ than the 346xp.
How much performance do YOU need? How big of wood, hardwood or softwood? How much do you want to spend? For longevity, I would suggest avoiding the plastic-cased saws.