I need a chainsaw for my minature farm (only 15 acres) just for tree trimming and stuff nothing big and was wonder which you guys think is the best. My father says Husqvarna and they do look very impressive but would Stihl be a better bet?

 

My dad has had a Stihl for many years. It has served him well. I think it only has a 14" bar. Model D12 or D15? But my brother works as a lineman for a power company and has at least 3 big Husqvarnas', and he likes 'em. Another one to throw in the mix is Jonsered. Those are the Top 3 saws that I listed. Good Luck![img]i/expressions/face-icon-small-smile.gif[/img]

 

have used both husky and stihl in the past and i would put my money on the stihl. stihl uses or at least had used 2 piston rings verses 1 in husky, better cylinders on stihl, harder material so they last longer. husky easier to repair , comes apart easier then stihl. both are good quality saws, jonsonred has electolux motors like husky but usually better quality parts .

 

I wish I had one of each

My homelite will have to cut-it for now

 

Personal experience - I've been using a Husky 272XP w/32" bar for about six years on my farm. No problems at all, it is reasonably lightweight, quiet, and and has been trouble free, though the 272 (or 372 as it is called now) is probably a bit big for a few acres, so you may want to look at some of the smaller (and cheaper) models. I've cleared a lot of trails and fencerows, sawed up some pretty big hardwood logs, plus at least a truckload of firewood a week during the winter, so this saw has seen it's fair share of work.

If you're going to carry a saw on a quad, get a proper mount like the Koplin saw press. I used to strap it to the rear rack, but sooner or later it comes loose and the chain lugs cut up the seat. The saw press isn't cheap, but it's cheaper than a seat.

Also have an ancient Poulan 82A logger's saw I picked up at a pawn shop for $50. Weighs a ton, loud as the in-laws, but still runs great. You can cut your family tree down with that monster.

On the other hand, I have several neighbors who swear by Stihl, so I'd say go with whichever one you can get the best price on, they're both very good.

 

I've been looking for a new saw myself the past little while, and we're in about the same kind of situation. So here's my 2 cents.... friend of mine has a Stihl, has had it for a lot of years, and not many problems. I've got a Jonsered, have had it for a lot of years, and not many problems. I've never owned a Husqvarna, but I've used a few, and they cut like there's no tomorrow... but the life span seems a bit shorter.
For my use, which is weekends and the odd pro job or two (hurricane cleanup), I'll get another Jonsered with no worries. A little bit slower cutting than the husky, but longer life, and still cut circles around the Stihl of the same size. Get a brochure from all three, and compare apples to apples. Look closely at vibration levels... I'd pick the Jonsered 2152... low vibration, good power, easy servicing, and magnesium crankcase (not plastic). About the same price as a husky 353, and better features imo.


Chilly

 

We used to lay in at least 10 cords for each winter when I was growing up in PA. During those years, Dad burned through a few cheaper saws (Craftsman, McCulloh). After he bought the Jonsered, my brother and I were in the hurt locker. Dad did the felling and cutting into 23" logs, my brother and I hauled, split, and stacked. We had a heck of a time keeping up with that saw, it never stopped! I've never heard a complaint about Stihl, don't know much about the Husky.

 

I’ve never had a lick of trouble with Stihl chainsaws (or any Stihl equipment for that matter.) I have a little Stihl MS 250 that I find myself using a lot. It is light and easy to handle. I have a bigger MS 460 but I seldom use it. The little one does everything I ask of it and is easier to handle. Slower but lighter and easier to run. Oh and I have a Stihl pole pruner which I didn’t think I’d even want (a gift) but I absolutely LOVE that thing.

 

Well, I've used a Stihl 024 AV Super for 12 years now ( bought is used from my neighbour who thought it was wrecked, when he simply never had serviced it...), and I have had no problems. Incredible saw. Have been looking into new saws now, and I think it's going to be a Jonsered. Husqvarna is ok, but I believe Stihl and Jonsered are better.

 

Okay guys thanks for all of the excellent opinions. I am looking very seriously at going the Jonsered route. I had enver even heard of them until this post however after some research on them they look to be top quality at a good price.

Thanks