I'd second the GREAT saw comments. I have two being used regularly. The 257 was replaced by the 261, as I understand, due to overall line emmissions. The 261 didn't stay in the line too long either, before being replaced. I have owned both 257 and 261, and think the 257 is the better performer. It also seems to have better mid-range power than the XPs, like the 357XP and older 262XP, just what you want for a 3 cube saw that does a lot of limbing. It's no slouch in the full cut either, just doesn't have the overall displacement. I don't think I've ever replaced anything except the usual chain catchers (one weak designed item, screwed direct into the case - replace with a through bolt and nut), hub bearings, side plates, etc. Though I'm a big believer in muffler mods, after doing a double-barrel mod to one of my 257s, the power gain didn't seem much better than stock. The stock muffler is already about 80% of the exhaust port with the screen removed (I didn't say that). You'll be happy and get lots of hours out of it. Just keep it clean and not "lean".