my first stihl chainsaw ms290

[Big_Al]

For me it doesn't make sense to run a 290 if you have a 362. Maybe as a limbing saw or backup if needed. Nothing wrong with a 290 but I'll stick to my 362.

 

[sb47]

For me it doesn't make sense to run a 290 if you have a 362. Maybe as a limbing saw or backup if needed. Nothing wrong with a 290 but I'll stick to my 362.

It all depends on how big your wood is. Most of the time the 290 will do, with the exception of early morning wood. Then only the 362 will do.

 

[Wood Doctor]

My only major squawk about the MS 290, 310, 390 triplicate is the clam shell design. These saws all have to be taken almost completely apart to rebuild the engine's top end, a day's work in my case. On the other hand, the 024, 026, 028, 240, 260, 361, 362, etc. can all be rebuilt in half the time. So, I stick with the even-number series and avoid the odds, also noting that the HP/Weight ratio of the evens is usually higher.

 

[Marine5068]

Congrats on the new saw.
I bought a brand new Stihl MS291 this year and has an 18" chain. Works best for a all-around firewood blocking saw.
I bought it to replace and a ten year old Poulan and it's like day and night.
My next saw will be either an MS441 or MS461 for cutting large Maples, Red Oaks and White Pines we have around here.

 

[OakWD5]

Good luck with the new saw and be safe. Have fun with it and once the warranty runs out give it a muffler mod. It will give you a noticed and welcome gain.

 

[mn woodcutter]

I have used a 290 for yrs and never had a single problem. It's just so reliable. Not the lightest or most powerful but always gets the job done.