Hello this my first post. I have been borrowing my dads 2054 turbo (1996/97) saw for cutting wood off my property. The saw runs well and is not too heavy, but it is a little slower than I would like. I got wood boiler hooked up last year and will be needing to 4-6 cords annually, so I figure its time to buy my own saw. I mainly cut trees 12-20" and in about five years I may need to buy grapple loads.
I have been reading alot this past week and looked at a few saws. I was hoping for a single saw solution. I was looking at a 359, 2159, Echo CS600P, MS362, MS391. I want a nicely sprung saw as the Jred 2054 has spoiled me with all metal springs.
The MS391 is too heavy at 14 lbs, but it is nicely sprung saw, very similar to the new MS362 but more plastic.
The 359 and 2159 are about same except for 0.2 more hp with the 2159 and ($40 more). Is this 0.2 Hp real and noticable? Both these are about 12 + lbs each and seem like they will be manageable for limbing. I'm not thrilled with the clutch arrangement, but maybe it is fine. (2-3 dealers)
The CS600P is 13 lbs and maybe more bulky than the husky/Jred. 5 year warranty and supposed easy starting and idling. The trip lever for the brake looks a little weak on the chain side pivot, but maybe fine. (only one dealer in my area 45 minutes away)
The MS362 is nicely put together, 1/4 turn captive fasteners for air cleaner, dual filter, metal side covers, and standard clutch design. This is the most expensive saw of the list is maybe overkill for what I need it is also 13 lbs. If it was 12lbs I just close my and pay the man. (3-4 dealers 2 close by) ($625)
There may be 2 MS361 left about 45 minutes from me, I tried to see one this weekend but the place was closed. I have never picked one up but there is lots of positive disscusion about them. If I try to go this route I need to act fast before they are gone, I may need to put hold on one over the phone if i want to see one. ($600/ 12.3 lbs)
The dolmar 5105/5100 is less displacement but 11 lbs/ 3.8 Hp - closest dealer is 1hr 10 minutes away. I will call him tomorrow.
What are peoples thoughts on 13lbs saws with 18" bars as a one saw solution, for someone of average physical build. Is this too much and should I go with the 359 lowest weight and price at $539. Or should I be looking at a 2 saw approach and go less than 12lbs ( not currently being discussed with my wife yet). What ever it is it must be a marked improvement over the 2054 as I can still borrow it when needed.
Thanks in advance for any guidance any can provide.
I have been reading alot this past week and looked at a few saws. I was hoping for a single saw solution. I was looking at a 359, 2159, Echo CS600P, MS362, MS391. I want a nicely sprung saw as the Jred 2054 has spoiled me with all metal springs.
The MS391 is too heavy at 14 lbs, but it is nicely sprung saw, very similar to the new MS362 but more plastic.
The 359 and 2159 are about same except for 0.2 more hp with the 2159 and ($40 more). Is this 0.2 Hp real and noticable? Both these are about 12 + lbs each and seem like they will be manageable for limbing. I'm not thrilled with the clutch arrangement, but maybe it is fine. (2-3 dealers)
The CS600P is 13 lbs and maybe more bulky than the husky/Jred. 5 year warranty and supposed easy starting and idling. The trip lever for the brake looks a little weak on the chain side pivot, but maybe fine. (only one dealer in my area 45 minutes away)
The MS362 is nicely put together, 1/4 turn captive fasteners for air cleaner, dual filter, metal side covers, and standard clutch design. This is the most expensive saw of the list is maybe overkill for what I need it is also 13 lbs. If it was 12lbs I just close my and pay the man. (3-4 dealers 2 close by) ($625)
There may be 2 MS361 left about 45 minutes from me, I tried to see one this weekend but the place was closed. I have never picked one up but there is lots of positive disscusion about them. If I try to go this route I need to act fast before they are gone, I may need to put hold on one over the phone if i want to see one. ($600/ 12.3 lbs)
The dolmar 5105/5100 is less displacement but 11 lbs/ 3.8 Hp - closest dealer is 1hr 10 minutes away. I will call him tomorrow.
What are peoples thoughts on 13lbs saws with 18" bars as a one saw solution, for someone of average physical build. Is this too much and should I go with the 359 lowest weight and price at $539. Or should I be looking at a 2 saw approach and go less than 12lbs ( not currently being discussed with my wife yet). What ever it is it must be a marked improvement over the 2054 as I can still borrow it when needed.
Thanks in advance for any guidance any can provide.
