I finally got to use my new stihl 131 pole saw as well as my new husky 435 for some trimming/pruning over the weekend. Observation #1 about the 131, I'm out of shape!! That saw will cut whatever you can get it to with no problems. Cut some 8 inch oak limbs and it acted like it didn't even know they were there. Plenty of power, but it gets heavy after a while. I know, I know, suck it up and quit complaining. It also uses little fuel, or so it seems. The 435, for what it is, seems to be a good saw for what I bought it for, small stuff. It is comfortable to use and has decent power. It seems to be running a little rich, but I figured on running a few more tanks through it before adjusting the carb. I have to say though that my 335xpt has a lot more guts than the 435. I would expect that considering it was half the cost. All in all, a good weekend and I managed to get a lot accomplished. It's always fun to get to try out your new toys.