Thought I had decided

[wildnorthern]

After posting some questions on the smaller stihl/husky saws and reading many posts through the search function I had been leanign towards the 260 pro. However after some more reading recently it seems as though the 270 has newer features and been described as running smoother. My biggest concern with this saw is the weight. I have arthritis and am a smaller framed guy. Should the 270 be a consideration or should I lean towards the 346xp or 353. My father in law will do all my service work for me so servicing isn't an issue on either brand.

 

[sawinredneck]

Just my .02

If weight is that much of a factor, arthritis, I would go with the 260 at 1 1/2 pounds lighter. If price is an issue, and it seems to me that you shouldn't be doing that much cutting, I would look at the Husky 350, cheaper than the 270, weighs less and about the same power.
I know, add more confusion.
Andy

 

[wildnorthern]

I would guess the most I would cut in a day would be 4 hours with a break or two during that time. I won't be doing this 4 days a week or anyting either. It will be for cutting firewood and clearning trails (trees)

I am pretty sure the 260 is ruled out on antivibe being in the dark ages and from the searches I have done the 353 has some parts that make it a little better quality then the 350.

Price isn't an issue as huskies are very affordable online and my f-i-l works at a place where I can get the stihl at cost or very close to cost.

 

[rbtree]

If you can find a dealer nearby, check out the Dolmar 5100S. Stock it is the fast est of all the saws you're looking at, but is about 11 lb. Price however is the best at about $360. There's a couple dealers on this board.

A good, light, peppy saw is the Shindaiwa 488.

 

[sawinredneck]

I have yet to run a Dolmar or Shindaiwa chainsaw, if the Shin's are anything like there weedeaters, buy it!!!!! They just didn't have anything in the size I wanted when I was looking (Yeah, I bouth the 390 instead, insert joke here....)
But for the money and to have a local dealer, the 350 is a heck of a peice of equipment for the money!
Andy

 

[SawTroll]

... should I lean towards the 346xp or 353. ....

Yes, definetely!:

They are basically the same saw, only the engines are different.
Both have mag cases, adjustable oiler, snap-off top covers, superb anti-vibe and air filtration. The also are about the most ergonomic saws out there.

The 346xp is slightly lighter due to its smaller engine, but better porting result in slightly higher max power output.
The 353 has a wider and more user friendly power band, and has a decomp valve.