Max bar length on a Husky 257?

[rank]

 It's looking like I might have to buy a new bar for this 257 that I have.   what would the maximum length be in ash maple and Hickory ?

[DHansen]

You will get plenty of opinions on this question.  My first thought was what I would like to run on it.  And that would be 18".  But you said max, so I changed my mind to 20"  And I'll bet you will hear 24" will work.  I have a 266XP I have used a lot.  I have never put more than a 20" bar on it, and it has always cut very nice.  Your style of cutting will effect what works best for you.  I'd keep it to a 20" for max.  But that is just my opinion.     

[sawguy21]

I agree. I believe Oregon offers a 24" with the small mount but forget 3/8 chain with it, that saw needs to rev and it would be very nose heavy.

[Spike60]

"What's the biggest bar?" is a question that always makes me nervous in the store. Often follows "What's the cheapest saw you have?"

I practical terms, you'd be happiest with a 20". 24" would be someting if you're a tall guy and the objective is to get some reach. But otherwise a 24" is too much for a 257 in northern hardwoods.

Like DH, I have an 18" on mine.

[rank]

 

 

 Here they are with new bars.  Local dealer had a sale on....$24 for the 20" on the 257.  He Also had the .375" sprocket I needed for $7.  $32 for the 28" light weight bar on the 272xp.  They sure do cut that ash nice.  Thanks for the advice 

[DHansen]

Nice job, they both look great.  

[Corley5]

My 2156 Jonsered came new with a 20" bar.  I don't see a need for any other   It's the same as the 357XP.