Yesterday I got to run an Echo CS-500P all day limbing up tree tops on the ground. Other than the 20" bar that was on it, it was a capable and handy saw. I would have preferred an 18" bar for this saw as that is what I believe to be the practical maximum size on 50cc class saws. It looked pretty new.
All in all I was pleased but once again, not impressed. I am not a huge fan of the toggle style on/off switch. In rare instances I have heard these can malfunction and give you a jolt as you turn the saw off. Even though it is placed in what would seem to be an ergonomic location, I always found I had to remove my hand from the handle entirely to turn it off.
The starting mechanism was smooth and comfortable to operate.
It seemed to fluctuate where it wanted to idle throughout the day too. I had to make several idle adjustments in both directions to either keep it from shutting off because it was so low or having it high idle and spin the chain. Do not know what the deal is with that. The idle adjusting screw never spun on its own, the saw just decided it wanted to idle differently. Like I said, it was a nearly new saw. Getting air leaks already? Either way it did not make me think I needed to stop using it but this could prove frustrating or even dangerous for the average homeowner.
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The 193T is an impressive saw for its price. I remember going to the Stihl dealer a little bit after Matthew and it was the only saw they had. I bought it, an extra bar, and 5 chains for it for under 500 out the door. I made that same purchase 3 more times in the coming month because they were such a big hit with our limbing crews we had out at the time. They are not an MS200 or 201 but for 200 less, they are a great value.
