Top Handles?

[WOLF_RIVER_MIKE]

Again, bringin up an old thread.
I know everybody's got a fovorite or not. Why or why not. Let's hear 'um?

 

[Bruce Selfridge]

I have an 019T Stihl and I have had chronic problems with it. It will not start after sitting a couple days or more without priming it. The saw has been in to two different dealers several times for hard starting. I am always told there a sticking problem in the carb. I have lost faith in Stihl, you should not have to buy an 020 to get a dependable saw. The dealers also say the 019 is very hard to work on.

 

[rbtree]

019 was a piece of ****

and maybe still is, even with pwr increase. It's heavy and gutless. my dealer wont sell em either, cause they dont want to werk on 'em.

 

[high life man]

In my line of work, I use a tophandle 80% of the time. The 020T is an amazing saw and durable if treated well. With it's filter design though, there's little room on the handle for my snap hook, and I wouldn't bet $440US + tax on the chincy wire loop on the back.

My all-time favorite though is the old Stihl 015L. Quite powerful for its age. Tough-as-nails all-metal case, tanks, and starter cover. Sounds neat, and with 1/4 pitch chain it cuts like a dream. They're a little heavy but not unbearable, even in the tree. Sometimes simplicity is the best solution. Someday mama will buy me a digital camera so I can post a picture of my beloved twins .........

 

[WOLF_RIVER_MIKE]

high life, take um to WalMart or someplace an get them digitized. like I have to do. Works in the interim.

 

[tony marks]

well ive got two. echo cs 3000 and the 020 av stihl.
in truth for climbing the little 3000 is all i need .
ive also heard the 3400 is a stronger version of the 3000.
dont believe id want or need any more power up there.
might not be as easily controlled . in any case ,im not looking for anything better than this little 3000.it gets my vote. later now

 

[Treehugger101]

Hi there,
We have had good luck with the Echo's. I think the CS-3400 is worth the extra over the 3000, it has just enough extra jam... Our Echo's have been very reliable and good saws for the money. Great for light pruning and deadwooding conifers.
I really like the Husky 335xpt. It fits my hand the best, has the best vibration dampening (makes it easier to line up your cuts!) and has a good bit more zip than the Echo's, the extra chainspeed makes precise jump cuts easier. Once we got the oiler straightened out it has been super reliable as well. .. . It is my saw of choice for techinal pruning or small removals.
Our stihl 020T is a real powerhouse. And our new MS-200T looks to be one as well. They're a bit more blocky than the Husky and don't follow you up a tree quite as nicely and a bit heavier. They are worth their weight in gold on larger removals, the motor just won't give up! Yes, it is hard to justify the extra price...
If I had to pick one it would have to be the Husky, I know they have had some reliability problems but they are the best all around package IMHO.

 

[seesaw]

Solo 633. More gusto than the Echo 3400. Retails for the same price. Nice alternative to the $425+ range (Husky &Stihl). $269 w/ 12" bar. Trails nice.

 

[Treehugger101]

Hey seesaw,
I have been wondering about the Solo 633, but don't have a local dealer. How are they holding up for you?

 

[seesaw]

Treehugger,
I've only had my 633 since May but, it hasn't given me a lick of trouble yet (knock on wood!). Good starting saw in all temps. Nykasil cylinder treatment just like the Stihl. Even done in the same plant in Germany (not chrome plated like some). I think you should be able to find out who the distrib. is in MT. by going to www.solousa.com or calling them at 800-296-7656. Can't beat the price for a 2k hour engine and a 2yr. warranty too boot.
Good luck.

 

[Treehugger101]

Thanks for the info seesaw, I'll check it out!