new saw guidance

[firecat]

I have searched this with good results, but wanted to ask specifically: I am currently using a Stihl 015AV (no chainbrake!) I got for free, with a new 14" bar and picco chain from my local dealer. My family has always had Stihls: 026s, 028s, MS280s... A good friend swears by Husky... I recently started working with an orange apron part-time (Home Depoo) and may get a 20% discount coupon I intend on using towards an Echo CS400. I have a friend who is an Echo dealer and told him my plans to buy from the big-box if I get the discount, and buy my accessories from him, he understands and will be happy to service it. I live in town and besides handling downed limbs and dead ash trees in the park, I aspire to cut firewood with friends and family as RECREATION and to feed my mainly decorative fireplace. If I do not get a discount, I feel an urge to buy a Stihl 250/270/290/310 maybe even a 260pro. I like to buy bigger for the unexpected... For what its worth, there is a Jonsered/Echo dealer in Wolverine where I will be most likely to use my saw away from my home area. What is my best value between Echo 400 or 530 and comparable Stihl or Jonsered to sum up a long story?

 

[capetrees]

I've run a couple of 270s into the ground and am on my second 260, this one is the 260pro and have NEVER complained about any of them. The 260 pro is a great size saw and has all the power you'll need for the work you seem to want to do. I can't speak for the other saws but thats because Ive never had any reason to stray from Stihl.

 

[GNAR13]

the 260 has been around for a while, but there is a reason for that. they're great little saws

 

[Javelin]

I ran a 520 echo which is the older version of the new 530! Very impressive saw for what it is! Very similar to the Stihl 260 in performance weight and power!