Recoil is hard to pull, as if cylinder is coated in oil creating a lot of compression. Model is that red and yellow Homelite branded 38cc or 35cc from china. It is kind of a violent reaction when pulling the cord to start it. I got it to start twice, both times the cord didn't retract all the way after startup. The funny thing is when I gently moved the loose cord it eventually would get pulled in, but the chainsaw would immediately cut off. I'm not smart enough to understand either behavior, but any insight is appreciated.