Boogedy_Man
ArboristSite Operative
Folks, I know this has been kicked around a few times....but I am finally going to up my cut capacity to a full 60+".
I have a newish 661 and 461...both under 6 months old. I find the 661 to have ZERO problems in 36" hardwood, and I think the 461 would probably do it also, though I haven't tried. I long considered pairing them up on a larger mill, but I've simply fallen in love with the 461 for limbing and bucking for my bandmill. I'd like to leave it dedicated to that purpose.
I'll need a 72" rail set and 84" double end bar to meet my capacity goals. I don't like the idea of jumping to .404, but I'm thinking I won't have a choice. I'll probably end trying the Oregon "superskip" made for the Lucas slabber.
I'll be buying powerhead(s) new from the local Stihl dealer. Not much other option...they treat me great and I have a business account with them.
Considering the above, I've narrowed it down the following three choices.
a) A pair of 661s (I already have one, this option saves me substantial cash).
b) One 880 (Doable, but more expensive than option a. Not sure if its better than (2) 661s).
c) I'm absolutely crazy and need two 880s (I am a little nutty, so this might be true, but this will push my plans back as it's just too much $$ right now).
Please let me know your thoughts on the powerheads, and if it's a an absolute requirement to go to .404 with a bar this long?
I have a newish 661 and 461...both under 6 months old. I find the 661 to have ZERO problems in 36" hardwood, and I think the 461 would probably do it also, though I haven't tried. I long considered pairing them up on a larger mill, but I've simply fallen in love with the 461 for limbing and bucking for my bandmill. I'd like to leave it dedicated to that purpose.
I'll need a 72" rail set and 84" double end bar to meet my capacity goals. I don't like the idea of jumping to .404, but I'm thinking I won't have a choice. I'll probably end trying the Oregon "superskip" made for the Lucas slabber.
I'll be buying powerhead(s) new from the local Stihl dealer. Not much other option...they treat me great and I have a business account with them.
Considering the above, I've narrowed it down the following three choices.
a) A pair of 661s (I already have one, this option saves me substantial cash).
b) One 880 (Doable, but more expensive than option a. Not sure if its better than (2) 661s).
c) I'm absolutely crazy and need two 880s (I am a little nutty, so this might be true, but this will push my plans back as it's just too much $$ right now).
Please let me know your thoughts on the powerheads, and if it's a an absolute requirement to go to .404 with a bar this long?