So I've been doing my homework and I've narrowed it down a few choices for a new saw. Echo cs550p vs Stihl ms290. Both weigh about the same and run 20" bars and .325 chain.
In the 3/8 category I'm stuck between the cs600p and the ms311. The Stihls run from $15-50 less. But echo's 5 year warranty is sweetening the deal. Anyone experience with these saws and care to weigh in?
P.s. New guy here...
Comparing the Echo & Stihl saws you mention, no question Echo. The Stihl 290-311 series are light years BEHIND the Echo CS 550P-600P, plus you can probably buy the Echo's for less. Stihl is and has been running on their name for the mid line saws and the quality has gone in the toilet.
As mentioned, fatten up the fuel delivery right from the get go and you will probably not need to worry about a 5 year warranty.
I have two Echo saws, a CS 530 and a CS 600P. The 600P runs right with my Stihl 360 Pro, and I MUCH prefer the 530 to my 290 Stihl.
I will not bash Stihl's pro line of saws, but my advice on their mid line saws is to avoid them.
PS: HP specs are nice to look at, but do not bank on them. My lower cc, supposed lower HP 530 Echo positively BURIES my higher cc, supposed higher HP 290 Stihl.
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