Ok, you guys confirmed what I suspected, I was leaning towards the 346xp as it just seems to be an all around better tool.
I noticed the e-tech models, and thanks for mentioning that, Urbicide, as I can live without the catalytic environmental stuff...in fact it seems they charge a $40 premium to neuter the saw...hmmm...that doesn't seem like a good investment. I'm going to be doing my share for the environment by building with logs, less carbon footprint to manufacture/build.
If I was completely broke, I might think about the 445 more, but even though I'm not working at the moment, I am not broke either. Just trying to spend my severance wisely to try and get the home built.
I see the MSRP is $489, is it possible to get any discount off the MSRP? As I mentioned, the shop closest to me seems to add a premium on top of the MSRP. I will need to talk to them to see if they can at least do MSRP, I mean in this economy if they can't do MSRP for me, WTF...
Is it worthwhile to buy local, or should I look for the best deal online? The web has changed the way we buy...but I want to be able to get service on the saw also...
Regards,
TT