Backup for MS362

[AmateurSawer]

I have an MS 362 with a a bar setup of 3/8,.050. Currently run a twenty inch bar. Does all my "big" cutting.
What would you recommend as a backup for it?
Something to limb and saw 18" and smaller diameter wood. Minimal weight a plus.
Looking at MS 261, Echo 4910 and 501p, and Husqvarna 545 or 550XP.
I like the prices of Echo compared to the others but I'm not wanting to give up too much real performance to save money.
My 362 will still be my main saw for bigger firewood and downed trees. Don't need anything bigger since I can borrow a friend's MS 462 in emergency.
A lot of my firewood could be cut with this size saw and save some weight and fuel. Likely would run an 18" bar.


Thanks.

 

[AmateurSawer]

Comments welcome

 

[tfp]

You could get the 261 set up with the same chain as your big saw then all your gear would be interchangeable, if that matters to you, it would just be a little less "nice" while limbing, but great for general purpose firewood. Don't file those rakers too low though!~ All the saws you listed are good options. If you haven't used much Husky gear the 550xp would be a very nice saw. If I had more $ or had a severe relapse into CAD i'd get one for sure.

Before I got my 261 I used a MS250 with 18" .325 bar and it has cut more dead Australian hardwood than all my saws combined.

 

[Lionsfan]

If you want minimal weight, exclude the 545/550 Husqvarna as they are a heavier than the Stihl and Echo offerings.

 

[Sierra_rider]

If I was in the market for a new 50cc saw, it would probably be a 261. Lighter weight than the Husky and more power than the Echo. I'm sure it's the most expensive option, but if you don't mind the price, they're a seriously nice little saw.

 

[JuiceBox Hero]

Couldn’t go wrong with a 261 or maybe you could track down a 241. An echo 501P might also fit the bill. I believe it’s like lightest of the 50cc pro saws.

 

[PV Hiker]

Enjoying my ms261cm. Light easy to pack on the trails. Easy on the hands can cut all day.

I have mine set up with either size chains. 325 and 3/8". Just switch over depending what is best for the job.

 

[sundance]

I got an Echo 4910 a few months ago and am quite happy with it. Only about 5 tanks through it so far but seems to run and cut very well.
Note that I've never run a Stihl 261 so can't offer a direct comparison.

 

[The Shooters Apprentice]

I'd look for a used 346XP

 

[Lightning Performance]

Comments welcome

Your actual budget? Be real
Top or rear handle?
Spring or rubber AV mounts?

First things first to know where your at

 

[AmateurSawer]

Around 600.00. Less would be welcome.
Rear Handle
Difference?

Western Va mtns.

 

[NoFair]

I have an MS 362 with a a bar setup of 3/8,.050. Currently run a twenty inch bar. Does all my "big" cutting.
What would you recommend as a backup for it?
Something to limb and saw 18" and smaller diameter wood. Minimal weight a plus.
Looking at MS 261, Echo 4910 and 501p, and Husqvarna 545 or 550XP.
I like the prices of Echo compared to the others but I'm not wanting to give up too much real performance to save money.
My 362 will still be my main saw for bigger firewood and downed trees. Don't need anything bigger since I can borrow a friend's MS 462 in emergency.
A lot of my firewood could be cut with this size saw and save some weight and fuel. Likely would run an 18" bar.


Thanks.

MS 201 if you want something really light for limbing (it is kind of expensive though). The 362 isn't that heavy so a slightly smaller saw doesn't make that much of a difference for me.

 

[Evan]

Back up to me means the back up does the same work and shares parts is the same size and same saw.

To me it sounds like your just trying to find an excuse to buy a saw.

Just buy a damn saw already

 

[Hickahollar]

Ms362 is a capable saw mine wears the 25 inch bar. Example...

 

[Hickahollar]

But any saw capable of wearing a 20 inch bar is capable of being a backup. Ms261 would be a great choice for limbing and a good back up for the 362.

 

[user 122190]

Buy quality. The 261 will be perfect for your needs.

 

[ElevatorGuy]

My backup to the 462 is a ported 261. If you buy either of those you’ll sell that 362.