Posted by Steve in ID on April 19, 04 at 08:49:18:
In Reply to: OT: Chainsaw purchase posted by Arkansawyer on April 19, 04 at 07:33:04:
I have an Echo w/ 16" bar that I bought in 1976; for the 20 years I lived on the CA coast, it cut enough eucalyptus (hardwood) to supply all the wood we needed. It's bucked 24-30" diameter logs, and it still starts on the 1st or 2nd pull. It's not a true pro-grade saw (a la Husky or Stihl or Jonsreds), but it's definitely a best-bang-for-the-buck tool. Check your nearest Home Depot.
I would avoid the low end (current Poulan/Homelite/McCullough homeowner-type saws). Finding a good used saw at a chainsaw shop might also be something to check out.
For wood on the ground I thrown a wire brush in the tool box & brush the crud off before cutting. A couple of plastic wedges can't hurt, as well as a spare chain & plug. If you have not used a saw before, get somebody w/ experience to show you the tricks. You obviously are aware that you need goggles, hearing protection, & HEAVY leather gloves.
Recommend adult beverages get consumed after cutting :)...most chainsaw accidents result in some kind of amputation.
Let us know what you get.
Steve
: I'm looking at a 16" bar. I don't want to just buy the most expensive, but am looking for best value, reliability etc.