Good saws in that price range would be:
JD CS56 or EFCO 956 (4.1Hp 12.6 lb)
Husqvarna 55 (3.4Hp 11.4lb), 350, 351 (3.1Hp 10.6lb)
Makita (Dolmar) DSC-540 (3.0 Hp 10.4lb)
The JD has the most power and best power/weight in the bunch, and a magnesium crankcase. Lacks some of the niftier features.
The Husky 55 and 350 are good saws with good parts availability/dealer support. The 351 is the same but with the magnesium crankcase. The 350, and especially the 351, have nice user conveniences. These saws are a little easier on fuel than the JD.
The Makita comes highly recommended, but I have no experience with them and parts avail may not be as good.
The Stihl 029 is in your price range, but I would take any of the others over it.
Email me and I can suggest some places to get good prices.