Shagbark
ArboristSite Guru
The MS 180 is outstanding to learn with. I had my son who is the same size start with it and once he was proficient we moved him to the MS 270.
Saw for the boy
- Thread starter Shanster
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jughead500
Sasquatch
Redmax gz4000 or echo cs400 or under.the echos are pretty good saws but I like the redmax.they wake up pretty good with a muffler mod.that could come in handy later when he gets used to it.
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fearofpavement
Trying them all
I concur with those that recommend the Stihl 018/MS180. They are light, easy to start and with a sharp chain will go through the wood well. I have one as my "small" saw. I have a full line of saws up to over 100cc but the 018C I have is a keeper. (an 017/MS170 would be fine too.)
This size saw would look similar to your Stihl and if he has something he can handle well, maybe in a few months you'll be running the small saw for a bit while he tries the larger one.
This size saw would look similar to your Stihl and if he has something he can handle well, maybe in a few months you'll be running the small saw for a bit while he tries the larger one.
Get him a ECHO CS400 and muff modd and tune it , when he's not using it you will be. Built way better than any lower end Stihl. Or a Dolmar would work also . Steve
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HuskStihl
Chairin'em for the sound
The little huskies are cheap, very simple to start, light and have been durable at our place
Sebago Guide
ArboristSite Member
I have an ms170 and husky 142 and believe either would be fine for your son. Have not had a bit of problems with either clearing three acres in Maine.
I'll echo the Echo & Redmax suggestions and raise you a Tanaka. Great little saws for young and old alike. Something like the TCS33EB14 would be perfect.
http://www.tanakapowerequipment.com/main-navigation/products?d=335&p=904
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http://www.tanakapowerequipment.com/main-navigation/products?d=335&p=904
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I bought mine a cheaply newer homelite. That way if be messed it up I wasn't out much.
Not sure a top handle is a good idea. They are a little more hazardous; but, a 201 rear handle by Brad is an excellent idea if money is not an issue.
My son (age 9) has an Oregon Earthquake by default. He won it at a Charity Cut in September. Nice little starter saw.
440 husky with a 14 or 16 inch bar, pm me if you are interested I have a brand new, not refurbished one for sale. Very light weight, good power, tool less chain adjusted, I think they are a great all around light weight saw. They hold up to some serious abuse as well.
I considered that when I wrote it, but then thought back to when I first learned to run a saw. I was 11-12 and all my pops had was a big old homelite that I swear weighed 800 lbs.
I have taught my kids with my 026.
I understand. I don't climb but I have a top handle I use once in awhile. I haven't had any injuries or close calls with one. My statement about them being hazardous is only based on what I have read on here. FWIW, I would rather teach my son with a top handle than one of those big Homelites
Have a good one.....
B440
ArboristSite Operative
Something with a short bar, chain brake, and low kickback chain. If he can pick it up and start it, you have a winner.
I recommend the Earthquake 3814. Great starter, and throw away later if you upgrade.
I recommend the Earthquake 3814. Great starter, and throw away later if you upgrade.
My vote is for a Husqvarna because it's well built and simple to maintain/repair. I can get Husqy parts just about anywhere and the saw is logically put together. The saw I reach for is the lightest and smallest that will still do the job which means it's either the T435 or the 346XP.
Your son will learn technique a lot better if he isn't having to fight with the weight of the saw and he needs to be the one maintaining the saw. Quality Pro saws will last a lifetime and can be handed down to your grandson with the use you're planning.
Good on ya Dad for spending time with your son!
Your son will learn technique a lot better if he isn't having to fight with the weight of the saw and he needs to be the one maintaining the saw. Quality Pro saws will last a lifetime and can be handed down to your grandson with the use you're planning.
Good on ya Dad for spending time with your son!
