Comparing the three mentioned

[JoeMc1]

I am currently in the market for a saw. $300-$450 range and the three Im considering are the 350, 353, and 359. Now this saw would be used only 9-12 times a year for basic homeowner use. Will I really see the advantages of the 353 or 359, any advice would be appreciated

 

[Gypo Logger]

Hi Joe, RJS is probably more qualified to answer your question than any of us lowlife woodticks.
Enter Rocky: Why would anybody want the saws you speak of when you can get a fun saw like a 044CC, put the chain on backwards and be safe, look the part and go racing on the weekends?
FMC

 

[Jacob J.]

Joe- You can find a new 359 these days well in your price range, and yes, you would see the benefit of having the larger saw. All three of those models have similar engine designs with the 359 having a better air filtration system, bigger fuel filter, better carburetor, and sturdier oil pump.

The 359 also has the best designed piston out of the three, the 350 and 353 pistons just look like sardine cans.

 

[Tony Snyder]

If by homowner use you mean cutting up fallen limbs, the 350 would be adequate. The main difference between the 350 and 353 would be in their tolerance to sustained heavy duty use. The power difference would probably not be noticable.

If you are going to get into dropping trees and blocking up the trunks, I would go for the 359.

 

[hokiebob1]

I bought a 353 9 months ago for home use. I love it and am not sure the extra power/cost of the 359 would have been worth it for me. I did, however, modify the muffler and reset the fuel mixture. I found it online for a decent price.