mistermojo
ArboristSite Lurker
Hi guys, first time caller, long time listener. I am in the market for a new saw. I'm a homeowner and deer hunter so the saw will be used for trimming and light felling, as well as clearing ATV trails of downed trees. I was given a Poulan Wild Thing as a gift just under 2 years ago which didn't hold up to the challenge. Thankfully the person that gave it to me also bought the replacement plan on it from the store, so I exchanged it for a brand new one I am going to sell.
For the new saw, I have made up my mind to go Husqvarna based on conversation with 2 associates at the local saw shop, use of other Husky products, and internet research. My wallet restricts me to the 445 or 450 and I am going with the 18" bar. Please don't turn this into a brand battle thread or a for $50 more you can get xxxx bigger saw thread.
Unfortunately, all of the shops around town are all generally at MSRP, which is why I am looking at ebay. Occasionally one of the big box stores will offer $20 off as they are right now which helps but still comes up short.
For comparison: I can get an 18" 445 at the box store for $330 inc tax, or I can get one on ebay for $338 shipped with extra chain and 3 cans of pre-mix fuel to double the warranty to 4 years. $298 shipped for just the saw.
450 only comes in 20" at the box store and runs $379 + tax or I can get 18" 45o for $337 shipped. With an extra chain and mixed fuel for 450 20" on ebay runs $370 shipped.
So my questions are:
1. Is there any technological difference between the 445 and 450 other than engine size? (maybe one has better components, better build, etc?)
2. Has anyone had any good or bad dealings with sellers of new equipment on ebay? You don't need to give specific sellers if you don't want, just in general things I should look out for.
3. Are there any sponsors or members on this site who can deal on price to be comparable to what I see on ebay? Would love to give the business to someone if possible.
4. Are factory warranties worth spending the extra money on the fuel cans to extend? $25 for 3 quarts is $33 per gallon. I can mix up a lot of non-oxy fuel for that price...
Thanks for sticking with me, I look forward to hearing your advice.
Mistermojo
For the new saw, I have made up my mind to go Husqvarna based on conversation with 2 associates at the local saw shop, use of other Husky products, and internet research. My wallet restricts me to the 445 or 450 and I am going with the 18" bar. Please don't turn this into a brand battle thread or a for $50 more you can get xxxx bigger saw thread.
Unfortunately, all of the shops around town are all generally at MSRP, which is why I am looking at ebay. Occasionally one of the big box stores will offer $20 off as they are right now which helps but still comes up short.
For comparison: I can get an 18" 445 at the box store for $330 inc tax, or I can get one on ebay for $338 shipped with extra chain and 3 cans of pre-mix fuel to double the warranty to 4 years. $298 shipped for just the saw.
450 only comes in 20" at the box store and runs $379 + tax or I can get 18" 45o for $337 shipped. With an extra chain and mixed fuel for 450 20" on ebay runs $370 shipped.
So my questions are:
1. Is there any technological difference between the 445 and 450 other than engine size? (maybe one has better components, better build, etc?)
2. Has anyone had any good or bad dealings with sellers of new equipment on ebay? You don't need to give specific sellers if you don't want, just in general things I should look out for.
3. Are there any sponsors or members on this site who can deal on price to be comparable to what I see on ebay? Would love to give the business to someone if possible.
4. Are factory warranties worth spending the extra money on the fuel cans to extend? $25 for 3 quarts is $33 per gallon. I can mix up a lot of non-oxy fuel for that price...
Thanks for sticking with me, I look forward to hearing your advice.
Mistermojo
