Which saw to replace my 041?

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nitro330

nitro330

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Mar 25, 2013
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14
Location
Wisconsin
Hey folks!

I am debating what my next saw should be and would appreciate some input. I live on 10 acres of red oaks which are suffering from oak wilt. I am not a heavy user, but I need a saw that can cut 30"+ red oaks when one dies or goes down. I used a 50cc Poulan for the first two years here (that was a waste of money) and have been using a pair of Stihl 041 saws since then. They do the job, but it would be nice to have something that vibrates less.

I have been reading threads and talked with guys at the local dealer. It looks like a MS261, MS362, or MS391 are the prime candidates. The dealer is pushign the 391 hard over the 261 based on power, though I don't know that I would need more power than what the 261 puts out. I'm thinking the 362 is overkill for my needs. Prices are as follows:
261: $570
391: $570
362: $750

What say you all? Thanks in advance.
 
Biigg50

Biigg50

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Dec 14, 2016
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9,291
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Redding
My 362 does a good job but I can’t imagine cutting 30” oak with it all day. It will do it but just doesn’t have the torque that a bigger saw has. I still use my 041 Super for bigger trees.
Definitely not a 261.


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JustinSL

JustinSL

ArboristSite Operative
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Jun 19, 2018
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183
Location
Wv
Get the 362 and run a 20 inch bar. It’s light enough to do a lot. If you need the bigger saws you have them but I think you will be able to cut more than you will realize with a 20 inch bar. I would pick either of the pro saws over the 391 it’s heavy and has less power than the 362.
 
nitro330

nitro330

ArboristSite Lurker
Joined
Mar 25, 2013
Messages
14
Location
Wisconsin
Thanks for the replies, everybody. If I don't find something in the classifieds (looking now!), I'll likely go the 362 route.

Another question: I was look at bhp levels recently and see my 041 FB listed at 3.75 bhp. Consensus seems to be that the MS261 is under-powered for red oaks despite being rated at 4 bhp. What's the difference there? Does the 041 make more torque? Is there something I'm missing?
 

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