Replacing my Dolmar PS-32 - Recommendations?

[rjgee]

Hello everyone,

I recently sold my PS-32 Dolmar w/ a 14" bar because I need something a little bigger. I've started to maintain/create some trails. Some of the downed trees this year have been too large for that saw.

The saw will be used occasionally, maybe 1-2 times a month for an hour or so. This will be for some campfire wood etc.

I'd like to get something with a 16" bar or larger, more power than the PS-32, and be around the $300-350 price point. I have had good luck with Stihl equipment (blowers,trimmers) but would be interested in other reliable brands (Dolmar/Makita, Echo, Husky).


Thanks for any info you can provide!

 

[KenJax Tree]

The best saw for that price range is the Echo 490. See when a Echo dealer near you is having their 1 day sale and save 20%. They can also be had on Ebay for $300 with free shipping.

 

[rjgee]

Thanks for your information! I was actually looking at that saw. Just curious, what would you consider the Stihl equivalent to be?

 

[KenJax Tree]

Thanks for your information! I was actually looking at that saw. Just curious, what would you consider the Stihl equivalent to be?

The only 50cc saw Stihl has is the MS 261 and it sells for $569-$589. I would say the closest saw to compare it to is the Husky 450 which sells for $399.

 

[rjgee]

Thanks again!

 

[Overkill338]

Thanks for your information! I was actually looking at that saw. Just curious, what would you consider the Stihl equivalent to be?

For your description I'd recommend the MS241. I paid $440 for mine and could have gotten the 261 for $480. The 241 is an amazing little saw.

 

[KenJax Tree]

For your description I'd recommend the MS241. I paid $440 for mine and could have gotten the 261 for $480. The 241 is an amazing little saw.

I think you missed his $300-$350 price point.

It didn't make sense to get the 241 if you could've gotten the 261 for $40 more.

 

[Overkill338]

I think you missed his $300-$350 price point.

It didn't make sense to get the 241 if you could've gotten the 261 for $40 more.

Yeah, I missed that part, brain fart. I didn't need a 261. The 241 is a little beast, and has no trouble with an 18" bar. Also, for felling, I use my 360.

For his saw, what about a Dolmar 421, Husqvarna 445, or Stihl MS250 ?

 

[NYH1]

If you have any Jonsered dealers in your area, see if they have any saws left. There's a $150 instant rebate through June 30st. Might be able to get a CS 2252 (Husky 545) in your price range.

NYH1.

 

[pavel408]

Just curious, what would you consider the Stihl equivalent to be?

MS251 - the same weight and power, price should be 300-350 USD, a hobby line however (MS241 and MS261 are pro saws and therefore too expensive)

 

[James Miller]

I'v got a 250 and 490. The 250/1 is a good saw. The 490 is just a better deal even at the same price. Split mag case,rim drive and is stronger running the same bar and chain setup. My 250 hasn't seen much use since I picked up the 490.

 

[cuinrearview]

I see great deals new and used on PS-510s or the Makita equivalent of you want to stay with that brand. You could definitely score a used 5105 in your price range.

 

[rjgee]

Thanks again for all the replies! I ended up getting a MS-251. I live 20 minutes from 2 Stihl dealers and over an hour to the closest Echo dealer.

Used the saw last evening and I'm impressed. Now this is coming from someone that his first saw was a Poulan Wild Thing I used it 17 years ago to clear a wooded acre for a house. And used it throughout the years. It finally went 2 years ago.

 

[Overkill338]

Thanks again for all the replies! I ended up getting a MS-251. I live 20 minutes from 2 Stihl dealers and over an hour to the closest Echo dealer.

Used the saw last evening and I'm impressed. Now this is coming from someone that his first saw was a Poulan Wild Thing I used it 17 years ago to clear a wooded acre for a house. And used it throughout the years. It finally went 2 years ago.

Is it the Wood Boss?

 

[Overkill338]

There is a new PS-32 for $200 in my local FB market place.

 

[rjgee]

Is it the Wood Boss?

Yes it is the Wood Boss.

 

[Overkill338]

Yes it is the Wood Boss.

IMO that's a better saw than the 251 with EZ start and quick adjuster.