Well...I was being a bit scarcastic on the 290...There would be several other Stihl models that would be a better choice...like a MS250, MS260 Pro or a MS280.
You will find Stihl commands slightly higher prices than other saws initially, but the resale value is generally higher.
I think the Husky 353 is the best saw out of the 455 Rancher, MS290 or Echo 440. I think the best 'bang for your buck' saw on the market is a Dolmar 5100S, but if you don't have a dealer near by, that can be a problem for some. I like Shindaiwa saws - the Shindaiwa 488 is a bulletproof saw, absolutely ideal for your use in my opinion. They are durable, strong runners, and very dependable. The MS260 is also a good saw with a proven track record.
You need to decide on 3 criteria.
1) Budget - decide how much you want to spend...this will be an occasional use tool for you, correct?
2) Dealer support - is this important to you?
3) Quality of build - check out the fit and finish of all the saws you are considering. Touch them, see how they feel. What features do you like, dislike. Does one seem really cheap and low quality compared to the other.
The major thing against the 290 is the fact that it is consumer grade saw...just like the 455 Husky. The 353 Husky is likely comparable in price, and a MUCH better choice than the 455. A 359 Husky is also a very good saw...but, again, the 5100 Dolmar has great power, a LOW price tag, and is favored by so many in the 50cc range that you should really at least read about it here, or on the Dolmar website.
Good luck, Josh