Stihl 034 AV with 20" bar

[muncybob]

There is one for auction nearby. Compression tested at 175lb and it appears in the photos to be in decent condition, but I really have no idea what would be a good price for this used saw.
Looking to cut max 30" hardwood trees and probably be cutting about 6+ cords per year. This saw would be good for my usage? Is a 20" bar the max I would run on this? Any input will be appreciated!

 

[Rudedog]

That saw is a good firewood saw. I don't know what would be a good price for the 034. If it is a Super that would be even better.

 

[andosca]

20" would be the max and it'd probably be happier with an 18" i believe it's 56cc. it is a workhorse of a saw though and although i prefer huskies, i've run a few of them at work. i've been there ten years and the saws have been there longer and have gotten plenty of use. they'll handle a 30" log but you really will want a bigger saw if you're cutting six cords of big stuff.

 

[andosca]

oh, and all these guys are going to tell you to get a husqvarna 372. you should!

 

[StihlyinEly]

If it all checks out and starts and runs well (assuming this is an auction where you can do that first), I wouldn't pay over $200 for it unless it's in mint/collector condition. The 034 series is a darn good one. Tough and strong. My 034S easily runs a 20-inch bar and full comp 3/8 chain all day long in hardwood, but it's got more CCs than the standard 034. I think the recommendation that you run at most an 18-inch on it is a good one.

Day in and day out, it's the saw I reach for most often for most jobs.

 

[mheim1]

If it all checks out and starts and runs well (assuming this is an auction where you can do that first), I wouldn't pay over $200 for it unless it's in mint/collector condition. The 034 series is a darn good one. Tough and strong. My 034S easily runs a 20-inch bar and full comp 3/8 chain all day long in hardwood, but it's got more CCs than the standard 034. I think the recommendation that you run at most an 18-inch on it is a good one.

Day in and day out, it's the saw I reach for most often for most jobs.

:agree2:
The 034 is a great saw to have as a all-around saw.
$200 is about the max in good technical condition (the supers could run a little bit more). If you can live with a 20" bar and the price is fair, go for it.
If you need something bigger than 20", start looking for a 046/440/460 (or something equivalent).

 

[muncybob]

Thanks for the help! I'll keep an eye on it. It will be my first real saw if I get it. Didn't mean to imply 30" hardwood is all I'll be cutting...but I have come across some and it's all I can handle with the old Jonesy I am borrowing. Most of the wood I've been cutting lately is probably less than 24".