395xp or 288 vs ms460 on a mill

[chads]

I am thinking of getting a new saw.
I have been using a ms460 w 36" bar.
I was at the dealer the other day and priced the 395xp around 1200 w 36"bar.
He was really busy and is going to see what he can do on the price and give me a call.
I was thinking to get a 42" bar wondering what size chain to get I have been running 3/8 050 should I stick with that size?

THe 3120 just seems out of reach and very heavy but I would take it if the $ was the same.
The 660 was about the same price as the 395 but had less warranty and I think the air filter is more prone to clog not real excited about it.
I spotted a 288 w 24" bar used for $400 looked ragged out a bit claims has new piston and cylinder+.
I looked at the specs and think if I get something the 295 would be a step up from the 460, the 288 not so much difference.
What do you guys think?
Chad

 

[BobL]

Just a couple of points
Warranty is void as soon as you use any saw for milling. This is another reason to get a good used saw.
Air filters are much less of an issue on mills than regular sawing. Even on the dustiest wood I might knock the filter out once during the day. On green wood I go the whole day without cleaning.

 

[Grey]

395xp vs. MS660 (not 461). 461 is perfect felling and bucking saw, but I think it would burn up with serious milling usage.

 

[JakeG]

Of all the saws you mentioned (except the 3120 due to cost), the 395 would handle the 36" and 42" the best.

 

[mdavlee]

395 for milling. If you can wait you'll probably be able to pick up a used one on here and save half a new one. Use .063" chain. It will carry more oil down the bar. An aux oiler should be used at 36" plus.