Stiltech,
I don't see anything wrong with the same colored handle thing, Jonsered and Husky are the ones who started doing that.
I remember when we had some of the biggest, best and proudest, bad ass saw manufacturers in North America. They have all come to pass now.
There is good and bad in all manufacturers the most important thing remains top notch local service or service where ever you go.
Very debatable about long term quality and life between Electrolux and Stihl products. Long term both product line ups are most likely equal at the present time and the only major difference will remain top notch service. ( with the exception of modifications but remember that speed kills)
I like Makita/Sachs-Dolmar saws, have used them and they are really good, unfortunately very poor service and dealer network so I do not buy them. Same for Solo, Efco, Shindaiwa poor dealer organizations ( in my neck of the woods anyways). I have Stihl and Electrolux saws, I even still have a Homelite big blue that is impossible to kill ( I use it for stumping, handed down from my dad) my favorite top handle is still my little Jonsered.
Maybe in 5 years we will have saws screaming at 20,000 rpm's not sure they will be any better and last any longer than the present offerings. They may cut a little faster, be noisier (we are all slowly going deaf), but I am convinced will not last longer for the $$ that will be charged for them.
LOL ,
