New Saw... help me decide

[KMatt]

So a coworker dropped a tree on my 346xp, R.I.P. Busted the case where the chain catch and AV spring mount. It’d been my small saw for 6 years, so I need a new small saw.

Only option is new, unused or I’d find another used 346. I’m looking at 550xp and 261. Only choosing between those two. Not brand loyal but I have husky bars already. Dealer support is not an issue.

So which saw fits these criteria BEST:
Fast revving
“Grunt”- wish the 346 had more
Compactness
Oiling- wish the 346 oiled more
Ease of starting and restarting.

Y’all help me decide. Thanks.

 

[procarbine2k1]

See if you can run both. It's kind of a personal preference thing, I've had both but I stuck with the 550xp. I don't think you'd be disappointed with either.

 

[1Alpha1]

I really, really, really like my MS-261 C-M.

Those that buy them, tend to feel the same.