359/956/290 Help Deciding

[branman]

Hello All,
I am in the market for a good firewood and general cleanup saw. It wouldn't see a whole lot of use year over year, but I would like it to last a long time. I am deciding between the Husky 359, Stihl 290 or similar and the Efco 956 (or John Deere/Cub Cadet equivilant). Probably an 18-20" bar length. I would love to gain from anyones knowledge and experience with these saws. I am also open to other suggestions. Thank You!!

 

[WoodTick007]

359

Well,

Of those choices I would recommend the Husky 359.

G

 

[Tony Snyder]

359 - 956 In that order. The 962 is built on the same size platform as the 956, thus better power to weight.

I have no experience with the 290.

 

[Jumper]

I bought a 290 last year and have been very happy with it. Not a "Pro" level saw, Stihl calls it semi-pro, but for what I use it for, and the price paid ($US300) good value. Has an 18" bar. If you want to spend a lot more there are better saws out there, but if $$$ or the amount you will be using it enter into the equation, give it consideration.

 

[eyolf]

My opinion of the Stihl 290 is a bit lower than the other two; based on a bro- in-laws (kinda heavy and not-too-powerful) 039.

But I would base my decision on dealer support in your situation. If you don't plan on using it really hard, any of them will last a long time. Indeed, the most likely problem will be a yearly tune up to clean out the cobwebs from long storage. Go with the shop that gives you the best vibe, even if there's a slightly better deal across the street.

 

[Van]

HELL, your in ORLANDO, you need a PRO saw for lots of use.
Van

 

[stihltech]

290

You want light and powerful, go pro. You want to spend less and not as concerned about weght, buy consumer.
The 029/290 is proving very durable for the weekend warrior type user. Still all running around here, must have sold 150+.

 

[pbtree]

359!

 

[branman]

Thank you so much for everyones valuable opinions. I have it narrowed down to a 359/2159 or a John Deere CS 62 (Efco 962). I can get either saw locally for the same price. The JD has much more power but I am not sure if it compares quality wise? Also, why is the 359 rated at 3.9hp whereas the 2159 is rated at 4.1hp?
Thanks!

 

[Marky Mark]

Contact the Big Dutchman he has 5 029's that are priced right and ready for shipping. If you are not going full bore then the 029 would be enough for your usage in Fla.

Here's his info. http://arboristsite.com/member.php?s=&action=getinfo&userid=4848

 

[pallis]

Given what you've narrowed it down to, I'd go with the CS 62 in a heartbeat. Olympyks (John Deeres and Efcos) are as reliable and tough as you can get. I have an old 355 Olympyk that still runs like new, and a 951 that is my favorite saw when cutting trees 14" and under. Dealer service is another question. I enjoy working on my saws.

Pat

 

[Marky Mark]

Who says an 029 can't run. Here's a clip of one built by Tom Fales. This saw smokes, let's say one of the best chain filers did the chain but maybe these 029's are under rated.

 

[glens]

Mark, a quick flip through that video clip reveals that the saw has its fuel tank separate from the engine case, hence no 029.

Glen

 

[glens]

Oh, branman, of the two you're pondering, I'd rather see you get the <a href="http://www2.emak.it/" target="_blank">Emak</a> than the Elux.

Glen

 

[ratman36]

efco 962/956

i just bought a friend of mine a cs56 john deere new on ebay for 250.00us dollars/shipping included.i was amazed how well this saw is put together.it is just as well built as my husky 357xp and close to it on power.cant beat the price.

 

[2000ssm6]

290 all the way.

Where is that 029 video Mark?

 

[aandabooks]

I haven't personally run any of the saws listed but it should be noted that if you are looking at a 359 at a local dealer that puts you in ms390 price range. That is 10cc more than the ms290 at the same weight.

Matt

 

[Wood Cutter]

go with the efco, i have run one for years and never had a problem. 5 year warranty too by the way.
Ryan

 

[SawTroll]

290 all the way.

Where is that 029 video Mark?

No 290 with those options, that's for sure.....

...and this tread is old......

 

[2000ssm6]

No 290 with those options, that's for sure.....

...and this thread is old......

Lowes isn't going to give a newbie a demo on the 359, gimme the Stihl please sir. Not that the 359 is a bad saw.....

btw I fixed your spelling.