reliable chainsaw for around $300

[slicedtoad]

I have a decent 2 acre property that's about half forest, so i need a saw to cut down the occasional tree. It doesn't need to be incredibly powerful or big cause few of the trees are over 10" in diameter.

It does need to last a long time, be relatively low maintenance and easy to use. Also gas.

I have both Stihl and Husqvarna dealers close by. (probably others as well)

What would you guys recommend?

 

[Kenskip1]

$300

How about on of these? KenView attachment 190442

 

[Ambull]

This saw is in the classifieds right now. Perfect for the $300 price. I am totally not affiliated with the seller, but I would buy it in your situation.

http://www.arboristsite.com/classifieds.php?do=viewitem&itemid=862

 

[Roanoker494]

The possibilities are endless if you want to go for a used saw. Makita 6401, Sthil 029/MS290/039/MS390, Sthil 028, Husqvarna 51/55, Husqvarna 61/268/272, Husqvarna 346XP and you could probably find most of those for less than a $300 price tag. If you want to go new you are going to be limited to a homeowner grade Husqvarna, which will do the job but they are typically heavier and underpowered when compared to a pro grade saw.

 

[Work Saw Collector]

This saw is in the classifieds right now. Perfect for the $300 price. I am totally not affiliated with the seller, but I would buy it in your situation.

http://www.arboristsite.com/classifieds.php?do=viewitem&itemid=862

Yep on the 260, and I have bought parts from him before.

 

[Hedgerow]

This saw is in the classifieds right now. Perfect for the $300 price. I am totally not affiliated with the seller, but I would buy it in your situation.

http://www.arboristsite.com/classifieds.php?do=viewitem&itemid=862

That's a clean saw. Damn fine model for what you want too...

 

[nmurph]

Shameless plug

Or this..

http://www.arboristsite.com/classifieds.php?do=viewitem&itemid=826

A good bit stronger than the 260.

 

[slicedtoad]

Wow, you guys reply fast, thanks.

Do i really need a 20" bar? I suppose it couldn't hurt, just seems excessive.
Also, how long do these saws typically last?

 

[nmurph]

With the use you are talking about, literally a lifetime. They may need some minor maintenance such as fuel lines, spark plugs, and filters, but the rest will last for as long as you are upright and breathing.

 

[slicedtoad]

sweet, i think i'll get that one. (the stihl)

Thanks guys

 

[psuiewalsh]

I also agree with the 260. I have cut a lot with an 026 that actually fell off a truck and bounced down the road. But then in 6 months you will start looking at a 660 so you can cut more trees faster. SO buy, save, Buy.

 

[Mad Professor]

Haul around an extra pound and get a nice used 034S/036.

Won't beat you with weight in the small stuff but 10 more ccs will make bigger stuff much quicker.

P.S. I'm assuming a 1 saw plan here..............

 

[homelitejim]

Or this..

http://www.arboristsite.com/classifieds.php?do=viewitem&itemid=826

A good bit stronger than the 260.

You could easily change out the bar and chain to one of your liking.

 

[Hedgerow]

Or this..

http://www.arboristsite.com/classifieds.php?do=viewitem&itemid=826

A good bit stronger than the 260.

No cigar on that one Murph... But I can honestly say that's a saw I've never seen... Knew they existed, but never laid eyes on one... Nice saw...

 

[PLMCRZY]

I got an 026 pro for sale....

http://www.arboristsite.com/classifieds.php?do=viewitem&itemid=847

 

[Griner Bros.]

Look at the new Redmax on ebay ..... $299 + $20 shipping
Redmax G5000 .. These are under rated, 50cc saws that are very good runners .... modded they will run right with a 346XP ... very reliable saws ... Best priced saw at 50cc's ...

 

[nmurph]

No cigar on that one Murph... But I can honestly say that's a saw I've never seen... Knew they existed, but never laid eyes on one... Nice saw...

It's a nice saw. It really feels like a 359 in your hands. I haven't looked at porting it, but it is a very quiet saw, leaving me to believe there is a lot to be gained with a muffler mod.

 

[Hillbilly1]

Less than 10" mostly - my vote goes to one of the used 026/MS 260's. I love mine and it does well in this size class with 16" bar and full chisel chain. That being said I understand the Husky 346 is a great saw as well, just never used one so I can't vouch for it but many can.

I would prefer a used but not abused pro saw (one of the above) over the consumer saws in the $300 price range, personally. Normally a better power to weight ratio and more durable.