With all that is available, a first time buyer can feel overwhelmed. However, for the self-reliant homeowner looking for one do-it-all saw, the selection can be narrowed down considerably. For trimming and construction that calls for a chainsaw, it’s nice to have something small and light. For falling and firewood cutting, it’s advantageous to have power. A good compromise is a professional grade saw with an engine displacement of 50cc’s and 16” bar. If additional power is wanted over agility, a professional grade 60cc saw with 18” bar will fit the bill nicely.

Why a professional saw? Pound for pound, "professional" saws have more horsepower than “occasional use” or “homeowner” saws and are built to last under demanding conditions day in and day out for many years. To the homeowner, this equates to an easy to handle tool that will last a lifetime with proper care. Support your pocket book and ecosystem by consuming less. Buy quality the first time.

New, expect to pay between $400 and $500 for a professional 50cc saw and between $500 and $600 for 60cc's. Costly yes but a long term savings by eliminating replacement costs. Buying used is risky, especially off the Net.

Which brand & model? Stihl, Husqvarna, Jonsered and Dolmar/Makita are just a few companies with quality saws in their lineup. Stihl and Husqvarna however, are the most recognizable names in North America and, most widely available.

Amongst professional users, the Stihl MS260 and Husqvarna 346XP are the two most popular 50cc saws. The 346’s close relative, the 353, is reportedly an excellent saw too with a more user friendly powerband and smaller price tag (around $350). In the 60cc class, the Stihl MS361 and Husqvarna 357XP are popular.

The Stihl MS260 is one of the most proven saws available. Here's one w/ the addition of a 16" Oregon Pro-Lite bar, 3/8" semi-chisel chain, padded handles to reduce vibration, fully adjustable 026 carb and enhanced choke and muffler.

• Though it may be tempting to save a few dollars up front by purchasing from a big box store, it costs us all more than just money in the long haul. Support you local dealer if possible, or, the next closest independant dealer you can find. Those few extra dollars will help indivduals in your community, buy you knowledge and provide you with in stock parts and service when you need it.
• When shopping, always consider weight. One pound can be a lot in sawing positions.
• Study and follow the owners manual.
• Chainsaws are extremely dangerous tools. Get proper instruction & always wear appropriate safety equipment, including hearing protection (hearing loss is the most preventable disability).
• Two-stroke exhaust contains chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects & other reproductive harm. If you can, cut when it is blowing & stay upwind of the saw. Consider too a respirator capable of handling emissions. Also, if you're lucky enough to live in a country where a non-benzene alkylate fuel can be purchased, use it (unfortunately, the U.S. regulatory figures don't put a premium on health). Finally, in addition to these ideas, look for ways to minimize the need for using the saw. Though extremely useful, saws are obnoxious and unhealthy tools.
• Choose a versatile chain. When salvaging firewood, many conditions will be encountered from green and clean to dead, hard & dirty.
• Learn to sharpen your chain and keep it sharp by touching-up often.
• Consider using vegetable oil for bar/chain lube.

Links to chainsaw manufacturers:

http://www.usa.husqvarna.com/
http://www.stihl.us/chainsaws/comparison.html
http://www.dolmarusa.com/site/managed/html/kategorie/219/Chain_saws_gas
http://www.charlotte.usa.jonsered.com/

Some excellent tips on maintaining and tuning chainsaws:

http://www.madsens1.com/sub8.htm

Chainsaw Milling
If you’d like to mill your own lumber or beams, consider buying a second and dedicated larger saw. For occasional use, buying used is a good option here. Also, unlike a multi-use saw, the weight of a milling saw is not as important. Any saw in good working order will do as long as it has enough engine displacement. Milling is one area where bigger is actually better. Consider 80cc a minimum.

For mill information, see the following links:

http://www.motherearthnews.com/top_articles/2004_August_September/Modern_Timber_Framing
http://www.beammachine.com/
http://www.granberg.com/
http://www.backwoodshome.com/articles/tresl39.html

10.31.07