Hi folks,

I'm working on an article for Examiner.com about homeowner chainsaws and firewood, and would appreciate your opinions. There are three questions:

1. Hypothetically: You fell, buck, and split around four cords of mixed hardwood a year for your woodstove. The trees you drop are typically less than 15 inches in diameter at breast height. You need a chainsaw to replace one that has finally worn out. You're willing to pay up to $350 or a little more for a new (not used) saw. Durability, reliability, ease of starting, safety, and reasonably convenient access to a dealer are important issues for you. What make and model should you buy?

2. Hypothetically: You fell, buck, and split around four cords of mixed hardwood a year for your woodstove. The trees you drop are typically less than 15 inches in diameter at breast height. You need a chainsaw to replace one that has finally worn out. Money is a real issue at the moment, and you have budgeted $250 for a new (not used) saw, and would prefer to pay less. What make and model should you buy?

3. Hypothetically: You fell and buck trees, and split your firewood by hand (no hydraulic splitter). What are your favorite trees to make into firewood?

There are no wrong answers to this poll--I'm just looking for honest opinions. Feel free to answer some or all of the questions. Thanks in advance for your help!

Best regards,

Jeff Serena

jbserena@comcast.net