The original question was how the 260 is ranked amongst its peers. The answer is dead last and it has nothing to do with sales.
Dead last, how do you figure. It outsells both the 346 and 5100 combined. Its the only one of the three that has a steller reputation for lasting 15 years or more under use, neither the 346 or 5100 have done so that I know of yet. So let me guess here, oh my, your using your performance based theory, your vib theroy and your filtration theroy, all three used constantly againist Stihl to justifly the other being better. Well dear ole Ben I got bad news for you. I've heard those same three things so much I've grown used to them and call them excuses now. Yup just excuses as to why this saw is better than that saw. Reason being in all the years I have sold saws I've yet to be asked about vib systems, filtration systems or performance from a customer. Why is that Ben, how come the buyers don't ask about such things, do you know, I'll tell you why, they don't care, simple as that. Saw buffs may but the average buyer could care less. They're main concern is getting a saw that starts, runs good, saws wood and most of all lasts. They also like the idea of service after the sale of which Stihl plays second fiddle to no one, though I'm sure you will argue that as well. The 260 does all those and as for lasting its the only of the three in question that has lasted and proven itself, the verdict is still out on the other two. Sales may mean nothing to you as to whether a saw is good or not but if it doesn't sell I don't care how good it is its not worth a dayumm sitting on the shelf. Now the biggest laff of all, oh but the 5100 and 346 cut faster than the 260, ok, point made, so. Will they be cutting 20 years from now, hmmm don't know do ya, the 260 will, it already has,wink! BTW, love my 5100 even you say the parts and service suck. To that I say so, go buy a 346 then if ya don't like it, more power to ya. Let me know in 20 years if its still running. Betcha my 026 will be,wink!
