The Forestry Forum

Hi folks, dont really wanna open a can of worms here but i read alot on this forum about the good standard of Stihl, of which they are, but seem to come second against Husqvarna - but when i watch the vids on Huskys vs Stihls on youtube - 9 times out of ten Stihl loses to Husky and at the same time the Stihl filters get clogged up. So am i missing something here..?
So what has a Stihl got that the Husky hasnt.
I dont follow Stihl myself due to the amounts of dust collected around the air filter -and im not sure if they've addressed this problem yet.
There are plenty of old saws still cutting well, i have one myself - an old Jonsereds 70E, 35 years old thats proven the test of time. Im not qualified enough to know who makes the best chainsaws but for me the top 5 would be Husqvarna, Sachs Dolmar, Jonsereds, Stihl and Poulan in no particular order.
Im now looking for a small limbing saw, and the one that comes to mind is the Husqvarna 36, or i might have a look at the Stihl 170. :snowball:
Ah, now the pros will come on teach me a lesson..

 A Echo CS400.   Steve

I myself like husky and jonsered it is mostly a dealer preference for me my husky and jred dealers are more pro logger friendly and the two stihl dealers are more homeowner geared. I also grew up running husky so I got used to them and the way they run.

I have nothing against what someone uses for a chainsaw. As Maine logger said,dealer support is important. I run a Husky,but that is just because of the dealer. Than that dealership was brought out by a snowmobile,4 wheeler place. Not so happy with the support from that dealer now. I also have a Efco that I won from the FF. A very nice small saw,I use for limbing.

I've got half and half Stihl  and Husky. I would rather work on a husky but think Stihls last a little longer. Its a draw guys the old Ford Chevy debate.  Frank C.

The Husky 36-36cc the Husky 41-41cc and the Poulan 2900 46cc are all the same basic saw,I've had my 41 for 21 years now and it's still going strong,but my poulan is a really strong saw.
   I have owned a Stihl 170 also and it is a fine little saw, any of these should do you well.

  John

I have a Jred 2171  turbo 14 years old still runs like new

It's more a personal preference than anything else. Regarding the Stihl air filters clogging up, having run a number of different brands over the years and the majority of them Stihl, I'm not sure I see this as a big issue. I carry a large soft paintbrush in my saw tool kit. I use it to brush the area around the filler caps when I refill. Also give the air filter a swipe if necessary. Takes maybe 15 seconds to clean both caps and the air filter and filter housing. Not an issue for me.
Stihls and Husqvarna saws operate a bit differently and that difference will either be liked or disliked by different people. Dealer support isn't that much of an issue for me because I have never in my life taken a saw to a dealer to be worked on. Parts can be gotten readily for nearly any brand (except I've had some real struggles with Jonsered) So I guess just pick a brand you like and a saw you like and get cutting. I bought two project Poulans yesterday. Haven't even looked them over yet. One is a 2000 which I will probably make into a runner and the other is a 3400 which will probably be a parts saw. I don't hate any brand, just have my druthers.

Im a husky and jonsered guy myself. Had a ms310 still for awhile and it was a great cutting saw just real heavy for its size in my opinion. I sold it for more then I paid for it which wasnt much and with only 6 tanks through it the guy still got a great deal!

I think the most underrated chainsaw is the Makita/Dolmar. For me, they are my preference and I have Stihl, Echo, Husqvarna also.
What hurts Makita/Dolmar is the lack of dealers, but I can get any part I need, online, from many suppliers and prices are cheaper then Dealers.
As far as a small saw, my favorite is my Makita DCS 401. Fantastic saw that is built with needle crank bearings and , for me, it is perfectly balanced for my intended use.
Also, I much prefer the removable Head/Cylinder construction over the "clamshell" design in any saw.

You kinda do want to open a can, your wording. I have a tip, if you type husky vs Stihl, most likely you will see a mod husky vs a Stihl. I cut 150 loads of firewood last year until now. And I can tell you there is nothing any better then Stihl. Is there other good saws you bet. But it's always people trying to show you their saw is as good as your Stihl. That should tell you something, and as the number 1 sold saw in the world says something to.

Ive ran Stihls for years but three or four years ago went to huskys, I some times think there both junk ! I just bought another 395 XP and all ready when I start it you have to keep pumping the trigger to keep it running. The last one I bought was a year and a half ago Ive already put two new pistons and jugs on her. This past month I started mixing more oil with my gas I use to mix 50/1 not sure but was thinkiing with the ethonel it was running to lean.

In your poll, you should know that Husky, Jonsered, Poulan are all the same company, tho they sell to different markets, and there is a lot of overlap in the brands.  They also own RedMax and McCulloch now.
FWIW. I think Dolkita and Echo are way under rated and often overlooked, Stihl is way oversold, IMO.  They are not worth their price of admission, IMO, when compared to other options.

Quote from: jdhacker on February 17, 2014, 01:16:03 PM
You kinda do want to open a can, your wording. I have a tip, if you type husky vs Stihl, most likely you will see a mod husky vs a Stihl. I cut 150 loads of firewood last year until now. And I can tell you there is nothing any better then Stihl. Is there other good saws you bet. But it's always people trying to show you their saw is as good as your Stihl. That should tell you something, and as the number 1 sold saw in the world says something to.

:) ya got me

It is like comparing whiskey and whisky! You can tell that they are different, maybe which one you like the best, but not which one is the best.

Quote from: ShaunUK on February 17, 2014, 02:34:47 PM

Quote from: jdhacker on February 17, 2014, 01:16:03 PM
You kinda do want to open a can, your wording. I have a tip, if you type husky vs Stihl, most likely you will see a mod husky vs a Stihl. I cut 150 loads of firewood last year until now. And I can tell you there is nothing any better then Stihl. Is there other good saws you bet. But it's always people trying to show you their saw is as good as your Stihl. That should tell you something, and as the number 1 sold saw in the world says something to.

:) ya got me

Maybe got you but didn't get anyone else...:)  I'm trying to remember when myself or the other Husqvarna/Jonsered guys ever even had "Stihl" in their conversations....unless someone else brings it up...or it was a miss spelling "still" (the whisky kind)  ;D Seems it's the Stihl guys always trying to edge into the "what saw should I buy" threads after everyone else has agreed on a 555,562,365,372....550 or what ever.

I think the right question is what can you buy from Stihl at the price point of a 365 that can match capability? Ever have a conversation where Stihl's are called the best "bang per buck" pro level saw? Usually the Stihl saws in the 543, 555, 365 price range have discussions rationalizing their clam shell homeowner saw roots... 8)

(edited by Amin)    Politics and political statements do not belong on the chainsaw board!

That should get a little action started for you.... :snowball:


(Having said all that, Stihl; makes a good saw and great Pro level Saws)

Stihl pro saws are just fine, the lower models don't have as much quality as a lot of other saws, all are over priced for what they are.  Steve

Like stated before........its all in what you like. I run Husky and never ran a Stihl before so I cant say.

I run 372 and a 2166 and looked at a stihl 441 but it felt to heavy for what it was. But most of the other loggers run stihl and love them. But for me its either Husqvarna or Jonsered.

Weimedog,  I think you have a point with the 365. Stihl doesn't have anything to compare in the size along with construction for the buck. That said, I do like my Stihls.

It's a Ford Chevy thing.Generally speaking no matter who made it most saws of equal displacement cut about the same all things considered .

How long they last might have something to do with how they are ran and what care  they have received .It might have something to do with the oil mix ratio too for that matter .Then again that might open up the ever popular oil wars again . ;D

im a 3rd generation logger and over the years ive ran homelite,poulan,echo,husky,stihl,jonsered,pioneer,solo,shindawa,sachs-dolmar and a few others and now I run dolmar and husky but its all in what you like the dolmars start and run great that's what I like about them and better priced than a husky or stihl and ther built very well

I have several stihls, and love them.  However it is all based on me going to the same dealer right around the corner from me.  I am yet to own another brand, (unless you count my electric chain saw).  A good dealer is a big deal to me.

Be aware that the current Jonsered saws all are just variants of some Husky model, so they really should count as the same thing (Jonsered is owned by Husky, as is Poulan and some other brands).

Quote from: SawTroll on February 18, 2014, 05:27:03 PM
Be aware that the current Jonsered saws all are just variants of some Husky model, so they really should count as the same thing (Jonsered is owned by Husky, as is Poulan and some other brands).

I'm glad you said that....wonder what the chart looks like with those two added together. I picked Jonsered and view them as better looking Husqvarna's

Both make good saws as already stated general maintenance and a Sharp chain will lengthen the saws life. Unless you are knowlegable enough to work on your own saws I would find a good dealer close by. If you have both brand available through a good dealer I have to say I prefer the husky depending on what model is in question.

Stihl, my favorite so far. The 026 Pro was incredible and no doubt still would be in service if it hadn't been stolen. Love all my Stihls since.

Redmax. I have the only Craftsman model ever farmed out to Redmax, a GZ4000 in disguise, and it's been a great saw. This is not a surprise as it's powered by a Zenoah engine, an engine I've been familiar with for a long time having used them on my rc planes. As long as the Poulan/Husky/Jonsered conglomerate don't change the OEM engine on the Redmax, I'd buy another one.

Dolmar/Makita, I'm going to try them next. In my opinion, it's only the lack of dealers that's hurt them. I've heard nothing but good things about them and our little Dolmar dealer just begs you to go out back and fire up their demo saws. I'm going to one of these days.

I wouldn't hesitate on a good buy on a Husky if I was looking for a saw and it was the size I wanted. In fact, I'm looking at trading one of my rc planes for a pair of them.

I'd like to see Echo and Redmax added to the poll.

Thanks for all replies so far. Pretty much neck and neck so far unless someone can justify not adding Husqvarna and Jonsereds together. In the original thread the question was asked...what has Stihl got that Husqvarna hasn't...of which no replies have been given. If someone was to ask me...what has Husqvarna got that Stihl hasn't....my reply would be less dust around the air filter - because thats all i know.
When you see a like for like saw competing against each other there really isnt that much init apart from maintenance issues and maybe price. So for the Stihl fans out there a little justification would be appreciated as im on a learning curve here. Is the air injection a patent of Husqvarna's that stops the clogging of the air filter..?
Id like to find out which saws the majority of the professionals own, these people being those who work within the industry day in day out. I should have put more thought into the poll. :snowball:

  Near me there is a Stihl dealer that has his initials and SAW SHOP as the business name. He sells all the Stihl equipment plus the associated tools for professionals, Stihl tools are his business. If I want an Echo, Husky, Etc. it will be from a hardware store that sells chainsaws as a small part of there line. Your area may be reversed or you may not care about service but I do so I like Stihl.

Where I live there are 3 Husky (2 pro shops, catering to loggers, 1 is an ATV, snowmobile dealer) and no S within 30 miles of me. 1 Echo dealer ( a hardware store) . The closest Stilh dealer is about 80 miles away. 5years ago I ran nothing but Stilhs because where I was there was a good dealer, now it is all Huskies. I like both saws but probably like the Huskies a tad better lol. ED

My experience using Husky's (model 61) is from some time ago, PCT work, so I'm curious as to how the newer saws hold up. We used to burn through shock mounts and sprockets on the Husky's. In the 90's used Stihl's, they had lower vibration, easier on the hands and much lower maintenance. Engines on both never failed.

I voted stihl, but I have used huskys too and like them both.

Quote from: ShaunUK on February 19, 2014, 08:05:35 AM
Thanks for all replies so far. Pretty much neck and neck so far unless someone can justify not adding Husqvarna and Jonsereds together. In the original thread the question was asked...what has Stihl got that Husqvarna hasn't...of which no replies have been given. If someone was to ask me...what has Husqvarna got that Stihl hasn't....my reply would be less dust around the air filter - because thats all i know.
:snowball:

The answer to what Husqvarna has that Stihl doesn't is saws at the price points of 545, 555, 365 that are essentially pro level saws for mid level prices. These Husqvarna models are pro level construction and performance competing with the mid level Stihl's such as the 311's & 391's. I'm sure most here have seen the difference between a 365 and a 372. They both cost less than the typical 441, 440,460 saws which are in the same weight / performance class. So bang per buck. Is a $700 dollar Stihl MS362 better than a $550 dollar 555? I don't know. I do know they both are fine saws, BOTH of them. But is a 562XP or Stihl 362 $150 dollars better? Maybe if your a pro...I don't know. I don't think so.

I needed a bigger saw than my Husqvarna 353 to clear a lot of downed ash trees. I also picked up some work with a friend processing firewood.

I was looking for a Stihl 391, something that could handle a 24" bar if necessary. The price would have been a bit over $600. My local dealer (stocks Stihl & Huskys) did not have any 391's, so I was about to pull the trigger on a 362 25" for $709. I just happened to mention that I was sorry I had missed out on the Husky 365 X-torq's when they were available, when he told me ha could get one with a 24" for $700.

A 70cc saw with pro construction (and easily converted to 372 power specs) for that price was no contest. A 70cc Stihl would have cost at least $150. more.

The 365 was really a "better bang for my buck" purchase, not a judgement on quality.

The answer to what Husqvarna has that Stihl doesn't is saws at the price points of 545, 555, 365 that are essentially pro level saws for mid level prices. These Husqvarna models are pro level construction and performance competing with the mid level Stihl's such as the 311's & 391's. I'm sure most here have seen the difference between a 365 and a 372. They both cost less than the typical 441, 440,460 saws which are in the same weight / performance class. So bang per buck. Is a $700 dollar Stihl MS362 better than a $550 dollar 555? I don't know. I do know they both are fine saws, BOTH of them. But is a 562XP or Stihl 362 $150 dollars better? Maybe if your a pro...I don't know. I don't think so.[/i]
[/quote]
Well said, i did slightly touch on this when i said.. like for like and price n maintenance, but yeh like you say bang per buck.
Had a look at the Matika yesterday on youtube..Husqvarna 576xp vs. Makita DCS 6401... wow..i think Makita missed out on my poll..absolutley awsome, came out about even. If i could afford a big new chainsaw i would definatley check it out. dangle_smiley

I have always run Stihl saws.  I buy a new one about every year.    I have boxes full of dead ones.   Just keep im for parts.   But I have to say they are getting very pricey.  And, the dealer I go to seems to me moving more and more to the home owner market and catering less to loggers.   So,,I would certainly try a sachs-dolmar if some one around here sold and serviced them.   I like the idea of being able to buy parts on line.  That would be a big deal to me.

I have had Huskys but I like my pro level stihls better and there are no Husky dealers left in my area.Price is not an issue with me because just like trucks and tractors I buy used and get a better deal usually.

Had a look at the Matika yesterday on youtube..Husqvarna 576xp vs. Makita DCS 6401... wow..i think Makita missed out on my poll..absolutley awsome, came out about even. If i could afford a big new chainsaw i would definatley check it out. dangle_smiley
[/quote]

Hopefully the Makita owners out there will put their votes in as Dolmar since they're the same saw.

Quote from: ShaunUK on February 20, 2014, 04:59:50 PM
The answer to what Husqvarna has that Stihl doesn't is saws at the price points of 545, 555, 365 that are essentially pro level saws for mid level prices. These Husqvarna models are pro level construction and performance competing with the mid level Stihl's such as the 311's & 391's. I'm sure most here have seen the difference between a 365 and a 372. They both cost less than the typical 441, 440,460 saws which are in the same weight / performance class. So bang per buck. Is a $700 dollar Stihl MS362 better than a $550 dollar 555? I don't know. I do know they both are fine saws, BOTH of them. But is a 562XP or Stihl 362 $150 dollars better? Maybe if your a pro...I don't know. I don't think so.[/i]

Well said, i did slightly touch on this when i said.. like for like and price n maintenance, but yeh like you say bang per buck.
Had a look at the Matika yesterday on youtube..Husqvarna 576xp vs. Makita DCS 6401... wow..i think Makita missed out on my poll..absolutley awsome, came out about even. If i could afford a big new chainsaw i would definatley check it out. dangle_smiley
[/quote]

They are Dolmar, so the option is out there.....

Run what ya got, Buy what ya want!!  Only thing other than Stihl around here are Huskies at the farm and home, plastic. So guess what, I run Stihl, have for 30 years, had good luck. Last saw other than Stihl that I run was a Homelite 360, heck of a saw. Before that was a mac 3-25, wow that was a long time ago. Even though I am not a Pro Logger I run mostly pro-saws, like the power to weight ratio better. I let my dealer work on my saws, I repair alot of things but I ain't no chainsaw expert! You saw guys are worse than the Ford- Chevy guys, I drive a Dodge. :D

These which brand is better polls are pointless. Most saw collectors understand that most modern pro saws will all last about the same, and cut about the same. We also know most of them won't be running in 30 years like the old tanks we collect and restore. Now I'm not saying I don't prefer to run modern saws, I do. However there is built in obsolescence and you simply can't overlook that. With that said, even then it comes down more to the owner of the tool, than the tool itself.     

Quote from: Andyshine77 on February 21, 2014, 03:27:28 AM
These which brand is better polls are pointless. Most saw collectors understand that most modern pro saws will all last about the same, and cut about the same. We also know most of them won't be running in 30 years like the old tanks we collect and restore. Now I'm not saying I don't prefer to run modern saws, I do. However there is built in obsolescence and you simply can't overlook that. With that said, even then it comes down more to the owner of the tool, than the tool itself.   

Do i see a Poulan, come on man, wheres your vote  :laugh:, or did you vote for something else..? ;D

Quote from: JohnG28 on February 21, 2014, 12:57:12 AM

Quote from: ShaunUK on February 20, 2014, 04:59:50 PM
The answer to what Husqvarna has that Stihl doesn't is saws at the price points of 545, 555, 365 that are essentially pro level saws for mid level prices. These Husqvarna models are pro level construction and performance competing with the mid level Stihl's such as the 311's & 391's. I'm sure most here have seen the difference between a 365 and a 372. They both cost less than the typical 441, 440,460 saws which are in the same weight / performance class. So bang per buck. Is a $700 dollar Stihl MS362 better than a $550 dollar 555? I don't know. I do know they both are fine saws, BOTH of them. But is a 562XP or Stihl 362 $150 dollars better? Maybe if your a pro...I don't know. I don't think so.[/i]

Well said, i did slightly touch on this when i said.. like for like and price n maintenance, but yeh like you say bang per buck.
Had a look at the Matika yesterday on youtube..Husqvarna 576xp vs. Makita DCS 6401... wow..i think Makita missed out on my poll..absolutley awsome, came out about even. If i could afford a big new chainsaw i would definatley check it out. dangle_smiley

They are Dolmar, so the option is out there.....
[/quote]
I stand corrected. smiley_thumbsup

Quote from: ShaunUK on February 21, 2014, 05:18:23 AM

Quote from: Andyshine77 on February 21, 2014, 03:27:28 AM
These which brand is better polls are pointless. Most saw collectors understand that most modern pro saws will all last about the same, and cut about the same. We also know most of them won't be running in 30 years like the old tanks we collect and restore. Now I'm not saying I don't prefer to run modern saws, I do. However there is built in obsolescence and you simply can't overlook that. With that said, even then it comes down more to the owner of the tool, than the tool itself.   

Do i see a Poulan, come on man, wheres your vote  :laugh:, or did you vote for something else..? ;D

I voted for something else, simply because I own and run many different makes. I am a fan of the older Poulan saws, but I respect any well made saw. Brand means little to me, from saws to automobiles.

Quote from: saxon0364 on February 20, 2014, 07:15:17 PM
I have always run Stihl saws.  I buy a new one about every year.    I have boxes full of dead ones.   Just keep im for parts.   But I have to say they are getting very pricey.  And, the dealer I go to seems to me moving more and more to the home owner market and catering less to loggers.   So,,I would certainly try a sachs-dolmar if some one around here sold and serviced them.   I like the idea of being able to buy parts on line.  That would be a big deal to me.

Hi Saxon0364, how come a stihl chainsaw only last 12months.?  Money must be no option.  ;D

The poll is showing Stihl in the lead. Why?
Better saws or better marketing?

Quote from: ShaunUK on February 21, 2014, 05:18:23 AM

Quote from: Andyshine77 on February 21, 2014, 03:27:28 AM
These which brand is better polls are pointless. Most saw collectors understand that most modern pro saws will all last about the same, and cut about the same. We also know most of them won't be running in 30 years like the old tanks we collect and restore. Now I'm not saying I don't prefer to run modern saws, I do. However there is built in obsolescence and you simply can't overlook that. With that said, even then it comes down more to the owner of the tool, than the tool itself.   

Do i see a Poulan, come on man, wheres your vote  :laugh:, or did you vote for something else..? ;D

Well said.  A good pro quality saw, taken care of properly, will last about like it's competition.

I run Stihl and I've run them for years.  I don't really think they're better than Husky but it's what I'm used to.  I know how to work on them a little and, more importantly, I know what to expect of them. I'm too old to change now.

I've seen loggers blow up Huskys and Stihls, pro saw or not, through poor maintenance and just plain abuse.  I've seen saws last a long time if they were taken care of and brand didn't seem to matter.

The reason I picked Stihl over Husky to start with?  My last Mac125 finally bit the dust and I needed a new saw for work the next day.  By the time I got to town that night the Husky dealer was closed but the Stihl shop still had the lights on.  I was able to grab an 090 and be back out in the woods the next day.  If the shop hours between the two places had been different I'd probably be running a Husky today.

For the weekend warriors I don't think brand makes a big difference.  Good mix, clean filter, sharp chain, don't over-work the saw for what it is...they'll all last a long time.

Quote from: ShaunUK on February 21, 2014, 05:35:34 AM

Hi Saxon0364, how come a stihl chainsaw only last 12months.?  Money must be no option.  ;D

A faller around here working 6 hours a day for 10 months of the year is at 1200 + hours.A lot of them will buy a new saw every year and use the 1200 hour machine as a spare saw or sell it off to the logging crew where they may get another few years as a landing bucking saw and eventually sold again as a firewood saw.
We have a few fallers that have an excellent maintenance program and will get two years before they purchase a new saw and use the other for a spare.

Dealer support is a valid consideration.

Quote from: Paul_H on February 21, 2014, 12:48:36 PM

Quote from: ShaunUK on February 21, 2014, 05:35:34 AM

Hi Saxon0364, how come a stihl chainsaw only last 12months.?  Money must be no option.  ;D

A faller around here working 6 hours a day for 10 months of the year is at 1200 + hours.A lot of them will buy a new saw every year and use the 1200 hour machine as a spare saw or sell it off to the logging crew where they may get another few years as a landing bucking saw and eventually sold again as a firewood saw.
We have a few fallers that have an excellent maintenance program and will get two years before they purchase a new saw and use the other for a spare.

Dealer support is a valid consideration.

Understood. Id love to be over their working in the forest amongst the snow with a few of the lads, must be great. Plenty of woodland over here but your not aloud to touch it even if your freezing to death. All protected by that hairy goat legged female and her corporate friends. Violin_smiley

We won't get political,eh  :)

huskyreds and stihl are close only 3 votes difference  :D :D 8) 8) 8)

husky and johny fan right to heart but sadly when I moved down here I found neither had a dealer that was at all good for parts or service so I was forced to switch to STIHL 3 years ago im not a fan of how they rev so high and viberate but what I wil say is the parts and service at muskoka rent all is by far the best of ever seen!!!!! once my saw blew up they handed me a saw and said here use this no charge till ur new one is here in a week...

Stihl is all I've ever used.  Are they the best?  I don't know and it doesn't matter to me.  They work when I need them.  Thats what matters to me.  Plus I'm familiar with the brand and working on a Stihl is pretty straight forward.  I know I can call my dealer and get what I need. 

I've never had any issues with the air filters getting clogged or anything like that.  I use my saws for yard maintenance and firewood.  If any of my saws are .025 secs slower bucking up a log than another brand,  I'm ok with that.   

Quote from: Den69RS96 on February 26, 2014, 03:39:04 PM
Stihl is all I've ever used.  Are they the best?  I don't know and it doesn't matter to me.  They work when I need them.  Thats what matters to me.  Plus I'm familiar with the brand and working on a Stihl is pretty straight forward.  I know I can call my dealer and get what I need. 

I've never had any issues with the air filters getting clogged or anything like that.  I use my saws for yard maintenance and firewood.  If any of my saws are .025 secs slower bucking up a log than another brand,  I'm ok with that.

Hi and thanks for the reply, the thread isnt whats the best..its whats your best. This was to keep it unbiased, may be posting why its your best. With having so many members a pattern may have developed as to the reasoning why particular chainsaws were chosen, well that was my intention but maybe i worded it wrong, saying that though there does seem to be a dealer pattern emerging, cheers. :)

As far as what does Stihl have over Husky, in my area the answer is lots of good dealers.  I actually am not aware of a real Husky dealer close by but you can get them at big box stores, although they don't carry pro saws, which is what I use.  The Stihl dealer I work with is pretty large, and they used to carry Husky as well, but didn't sell enough so they got out of it.  There seems to be a little Stihl dealer in every little town, so it's easy to get parts and support.  Husky's seem to be good saws, I've run them a fair amount.  There's just no support around here.

I was also curious about the comments regarding the Husky 365 not having a Stihl comp.  The places I looked online had them listed for $700, 65.1 CC @4.5 HP, 13.2 lbs. http://www.husqvarna.com/asia/products-2526/chainsaws/365/#specifications
I'm not sure where everyone else is looking at Stihl models, and maybe I'm missing something, but the Stihl 362 is $699 at my dealer, it's 59.0 CC @4.6 HP, and 13.0 lbs.  (Slightly) more HP, (slightly) less weight, and the biggest item, it runs 5,000 RPM faster (14,000 vs. 9,000).  Granted, if you like Husky, then the power and weight difference will be manageable, but it does seem to me that this is quite a comparable saw, and that Stihl even has a slight edge, if you had to give one of them and edge.  Am I missing something?

14,000 is at WOT no load. 9,000  is in the cut. Most pro saws run in that range give or take a few rpm's. I used to service some of the saws for a logging company, I found the Huskies required less maintenance so tended to favor them. Some crews ran 038's, I was frequently replacing mounts which was a pita and the air filters clogged with snow. Not a good design for our climate although I see it has been improved.

I know it's not a big deal, but I find no reference to the 9,000 RPM being in the cut, it just lists "Max Speed" as 9000 RPM.  This is listed on several different websites, there is no higher speed rating i have found.  Am I missing something again?

9k is where the engine develops max power, not max rpm. No doubt it will turn well above 10k free of load. The new 365s are 70cc, and with a fast simple mod become a 372xt. That is where the discrepancy becomes more apparent.

When I bought my first sawmill in 1995, I took my grand-dad's old 031AV that my dad had laying around into the local Stihl dealer to have it tuned up. They were obnoxious and rude and told me it was an old piece of crap that was not worth fixing and that I should buy a new saw from them. So I took half of their advice. I loaded up the Stihl, drove across town and bought a new Husky 51 from a much friendlier sales person. My dad still has the 031, but it just sits in the garage. Later an old logger sold me a beat up 288 for cheap, and I've been running mostly Huskies ever since. I do wish they had metal pull start covers like the old Stihls did. The pull start mechanism was the one thing I always had to hassle with on my Huskies.

I've been impressed with the Dolmar/Makita saws I've seen, though.

I've ran stihl  husky Johnsonred Sachs  my first saw was a 550 homelite even like it. There are things I like about the husky,s over the. Stilh , like more logs on a tank of gas ( I'm old talking about 066 and 045 s. ) But I love the stihl wide nose bars so I run stihl

When I first started in the logging industry I ran 2 stihls a 361 and a 460 and now 5 years later I wouldn't run anything other than an equal size husky or jonsered they seem to be a better everyday use saw.

Good to see you on here MWalker welcome to the forum!

MWalker87,welcome to the forum. You have a skidder?

Did have a skidder sold it went carpentering now I am a chopper and wish I had never left the woods!

Quote from: Horselog on March 03, 2014, 09:45:24 AM


I was also curious about the comments regarding the Husky 365 not having a Stihl comp.  The places I looked online had them listed for $700, 65.1 CC @4.5 HP, 13.2 lbs. http://www.husqvarna.com/asia/products-2526/chainsaws/365/#specifications
I'm not sure where everyone else is looking at Stihl models, and maybe I'm missing something, but the Stihl 362 is $699 at my dealer, it's 59.0 CC @4.6 HP, and 13.0 lbs.  (Slightly) more HP, (slightly) less weight, and the biggest item, it runs 5,000 RPM faster (14,000 vs. 9,000).  Granted, if you like Husky, then the power and weight difference will be manageable, but it does seem to me that this is quite a comparable saw, and that Stihl even has a slight edge, if you had to give one of them and edge.  Am I missing something?

From the URL posted, you're referencing the Husky site in Asia I think. I just got a 365 X-Torq just before Christmas. It's a 70.1cc , 4.9hp saw built on the same platform as the 372XP X-Torq. with a Dremel tool and a little skill, you can turn it into a 5.6 hp 372 XP, and I paid $700. OTD with 24" bar.

I had the 362 in my hand, but this was a much better deal IMHO.

Hi folks, thanks for all the replies and thousands of views. Well looks like Stihl and Husky are liked the best - ::) so no surprise there. A good thread to read for new customers not quite sure on which make to choose, sticking to Husky myself and i may have 2 more to add to my collection, a Husky 65L and a Husky 65, one having a chain brake. Just about to purchase a welder aswell as i have around 10 old 15kg gas bottles to turn into log burners, great for barbys-camping-garage etc, free heat, and with a hot plate welded on top free cooking aswell, all the more reason to go and buy a chainsaw. ;) :) :)

A couple of weekends ago we cut a large blow down that was on the edge of an old graveyard.

 (https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10233/cemetary_tree.jpg)

There were 7 of us and everyone brought Stihl chainsaws except one and he said his next saw would be a Stihl. I asked around and everyone basically said that Stihl is the brand their fathers used or buddies use. It's the brand that they feel is the best.

 (https://forestryforum.com/gallery/albums/userpics/10233/Chainsaws.jpg)

In the past few years I've owned Husky 346, 357, 372, 365, 550, 562 Stihl 260, 261, 362, 440, 441 and a few Jonsereds. Other than a few minor things I couldn't really complain about any of those saws. They all broke down at some point but they are used professionally. I am a Husky guy at heart but that's mostly because when I take a saw into my local shop I can walk in through the back doors, put the saw on the bench and their mechanic drops whatever he is working on and looks at my saw. I buy a lot of stuff there  :) I'm also more comfortable working on Husqvarnas.

That being said when I need a new saw I'll still pop into the Stihl shop and check the prices. If they can beat the Husky dealer by a good margin I'll be walking out of there with a new saw.

Quote from: Ryan D on March 20, 2014, 09:13:55 AM
In the past few years I've owned Husky 346, 357, 372, 365, 550, 562 Stihl 260, 261, 362, 440, 441 and a few Jonsereds. Other than a few minor things I couldn't really complain about any of those saws. They all broke down at some point but they are used professionally. I am a Husky guy at heart but that's mostly because when I take a saw into my local shop I can walk in through the back doors, put the saw on the bench and their mechanic drops whatever he is working on and looks at my saw. I buy a lot of stuff there  :) I'm also more comfortable working on Husqvarnas.

That being said when I need a new saw I'll still pop into the Stihl shop and check the prices. If they can beat the Husky dealer by a good margin I'll be walking out of there with a new saw.

Hi there, looks like you wont be walking out there with a Stihl then........ ;D ;D

Quote from: Weekend_Sawyer on March 20, 2014, 06:23:11 AM
A couple of weekends ago we cut a large blow down that was on the edge of an old graveyard.

There were 7 of us and everyone brought Stihl chainsaws except one and he said his next saw would be a Stihl. I asked around and everyone basically said that Stihl is the brand their fathers used or buddies use. It's the brand that they feel is the best.

Well thats what the poll reflects, but id say that at least 70% of tree surgeons around here use Husky. Stihl tends to be more farm/homeowners use around here and Husky the preffered choice for the pros.

In 1998 when I started logging professionally, I did some research on what brand of saw to go with.  Nothing compared with Stihl in terms of power to weight ratio.  I think having more cutting capability with less weight to lug all day is as important as anything.  You aren't limited by how much your skidder will pull--you are limited on production by how long each day you can operate the saw and hook choker cables.   If you accept the premise that a heavier saw will tire you quicker, then Stihl would be your choice

Here is what the manufacturers claim on their websites...a quick over view using lowest price points in the model line:

50cc class:
Stihl MS261:  11.6lbs, 50.5cc, 3.75hp, $670
Husqvarna 550xp: 10.8lbs, 50.1cc, 3.75hp, $575

60cc class:
Stihl MS362: 13.21lbs, 59cc, 4.7hp, $800
Husqvarna 562XP: 12.57lbs, 59.8cc, 4.7hp, $725

70cc class:
Stihl MS441: 14.6lbs, 70.7cc, 5.6hp, $950 or MS460: 14.6lbs, 76.5cc, 6.0hp, $1059.95
Husqvarna 372XP: 13.4lbs, 70.7cc, 5.5hp, $850 or 576XP: 14.9lbs, 73.5cc, 5.7hp, $950

80-90cc class:
Stihl MS660: 16.5lbs, 91.6cc, 7hp, $1150
Husqvarna 390XP: 15.6lbs, 88cc, 6.5hp, $1050

AND have to figure in actual cost at dealers as some will work with you on prices and some won't. BOTH brands have proven over time their products are professional level saws. SO price/performance? Power to weight? How about dollars per horsepower?  My math runs out when I get past ten fingers....so you guys will have to figure all that stuff out... :D

AND then the mid level saws..

Stihl 391 vs. 365? What about the Husqvarna 555 and 545 vs Stihl counter parts in mid range saws? Construction/performance/price comparo's don't have the time but it might be fun to do and stir the pot. Can't go wrong with ANY of the saws listed on this entire post, in my humble opinion. Bottom line from my perspective? The brand with the best dealer in your area is where you should go if your a pro. That makes SO much difference over the long haul.

As general information Makita for all intents is a Dolmar in blue clothing .I was more partial to red myself .

I believe with the Dolmar 7900 at 79cc, 6.2hp, and 13.9 lbs has one of the best ratios around.  The 395XP at 94cc & 7.1hp is not terrible either but at 17.4 lbs it is rather heavy. I have both the 395xp & Stihl 660 saws for cutting big timber but the 7900 Dolmar is easy my favorite as best all-around (all day) saw.

FWIW often times now just as in the past manufacturers HP ratings are missleading and often inaccurate .

If you cut through all the smoke and mirrors not much as really changed in over thirty years .Back then it was slightly more than one HP per cubic inch as for all intents it is today .

Quote from: bandmiller2 on February 17, 2014, 08:42:50 AM
I've got half and half Stihl  and Husky. I would rather work on a husky but think Stihls last a little longer. Its a draw guys the old Ford Chevy debate.  Frank C.

Well, everyone knows that Chevy's and Stihl's are the best.   :laugh: :laugh:

If you believe what they claim, the class by the numbers winners are the 550xp, 562xp, MS460, and MS660
So Stihl has the big iron and Husqvarna is almost like a pro saw... Just a little smaller. :)

BUT having run a few here and there, now and then; that 70-75cc class isn't as clear cut.:)