Newbie needs Stihl model advise

[deadrise]

I'm a homeowner with about 2 acres of large oaks, maples, poplars, pine, etc.

I currently have a Stihl 025 with a 16" bar that works ok for my needs. It tends to bog down on some trees, though. I'd like more power and the ability to cut through bigger trunks.

I'm thinking about upgrading to a bigger saw that can be used for some of the big logs laying around and for general use. I'm looking at the MS290, MS390, and
the MS 260. My budget is around the $400 mark.

Can anyone recommend a particular model?

Thanks

Chris

 

[timberwolf]

260 is a well built pro quality saw, as far as big logs, it is not the best choise, 290 and 390 are built on the same lower end, different jug, 390 is better at cutting biger logs, but it is not as good quality as the 260.

290 is just heavy and won't cut much if any faster than a 260.

 

[SawTroll]

260 is a well built pro quality saw, as far as big logs, it is not the best choise, 290 and 390 are built on the same lower end, different jug, 390 is better at cutting biger logs, but it is not as good quality as the 260.

290 is just heavy and won't cut much if any faster than a 260.

That's right - with a 400 USD budget, I think the Husky 359 and Dolmar PS-5100S are better choises than any Stihl.......

If it has to be a Stihl, my suggestion is the MS280........:taped:

 

[timberwolf]

Agreed, 5100 is smooth running, 359 is a good 60 cc saw, but need a muffler jub to be a great saw for the money. Also Jonsred 2159 same thing.

Don't know much about the 280, they are nearly a rare as white moose here.

 

[deadrise]

Thanks for the replies.....

How about the MS 280 C-BQ w/ a 20" bar? I'm constantly adjusting the tension on my 025 and it's a pain. Is the Quick Adjust a good feature or a gimmick?

 

[SawTroll]

Thanks for the replies.....

How about the MS 280 C-BQ w/ a 20" bar? I'm constantly adjusting the tension on my 025 and it's a pain. Is the Quick Adjust a good feature or a gimmick?

Avoid any Stihl model with a "C" in the model designation, they have add-ons that increase the weight and maintenance intensity, and does nothing good.........

Imo, a 20" bar is a bit much on that saw, unless it is just for reach, when limbing.

I only have one 20" bar, and that one is on the Husky 372xpg, I don't even want it on the MS361, which has a lot more power than the 280, but that's just me...........

 

[Hired Gun]

How many times are you cutting a year?

 

[deadrise]

I'm probably using it 18-24 days a year. More if we have a busy storm season, like the past few years.

Would the MS361 be overkill? It looks really sweet.

 

[TimberPig]

I'm probably using it 18-24 days a year. More if we have a busy storm season, like the past few years.

Would the MS361 be overkill? It looks really sweet.

The 361 would be an excellent choice, far better than the 290/390, but will blow your budget. You're looking at spending closer to $600 for that one, but will be getting a lot more saw for the money than with the 290/390.

 

[TimberPig]

Don't know much about the 280, they are nearly a rare as white moose here.

That's because they no longer sell them in Canada. They were offered briefly, didn't sell well enough to keep them available in the lineup, and were dropped.

 

[rb_in_va]

deadrise,
Where in VA are you? If you're near Hampton I'd be happy to let you run my 5100. Plus there is a servicing Dolmar dealer nearby!

 

[deadrise]

I'm on the Middle Peninsula, near West Point. Thanks for the offer, but I have a great Stihl dealer close by (Middlesex Lawn and Garden) and I'd most likely stick with them.

 

[rb_in_va]

I'm on the Middle Peninsula, near West Point. Thanks for the offer, but I have a great Stihl dealer close by (Middlesex Lawn and Garden) and I'd most likely stick with them.

Yeah, probably a good idea. I doubt you could handle the Dolmar. Just kidding bud!

You going to the NoVa GTG? We could run your new Stihl against my Dolmar!

 

[SawTroll]

.... Don't know much about the 280, they are nearly a rare as white moose here.

We actually have a documented white moose in Norway, it was spared last hunting season, and probably still is alive..........

Headline news, for some time.........

 

[deadrise]

Okay, for all of you still reading....

Just got off the phone with the local dealer.

MS280 - $410
MS290 - $340
MS260 - $480

All with 18" bars. I'm leaning towards the 280. The 260 is so close in price, I wonder if I shouldn't spring for it.

 

[TooTall999]

View attachment 45155 Here's a white moose

 

[.aspx]

Do you have to buy from a dealer? I got a like-new MS 310 on eBay for $227.

 

[TimberPig]

We actually have a documented white moose in Norway, it was spared last hunting season, and probably still is alive..........

Headline news, for some time.........

We have the odd one show up from time to time around here as well. While it's not strictly illegal to kill one, they do request that hunters not shoot them due to their uniqueness.