Since you'll be using the saw professionally, I'll recommend some of the pro models.

Stihl 260
Husky 346xp
Dolmar 5100s

These will be in the $4-500 dollar range I think.

If you really only need this for occasional really small jobs, I'd look at a Stihl 180 or some of the Echo models.

Be careful though, if you get one of those pro saws. Don't let your husband swap his with yours :)!

Any of those saws will normally start easily if they are properly maintained. The biggest issue is fuel, mix it properly with quality oil and do not leave the saw sitting for long periods of time with fuel in it. Run it dry if not using regularly and mix small quantities of fresh gas for each use.

"I'll use it for small scale trimming, pruning, cleaning etc. for my several landscape accounts."

That statement doesn`t scream commercial user at me so consequently I won`t recommend the MS260, 346xp, or Dolmar 5100s.

"I am a small woman and need this thing to ALWAYS start for me and to be as lightweight as possible."

This statements says more to me about what will be best for laulau. Since I consider her to be a casual user I`m going to recommend a rear handle saw rather than a top handle Echo that seem to be all the rage with some people. It will be much safer and easier for her to use. The MS180 would be a good saw for her IMO........and only about $200 at a supporting dealer, a rear handled Echo would also be good, maybe even higher quality, but I can`t stress enough that the saw should be purchased from an actual dealer for the follow up support that she may need, it doesn`t sound as if her hubby maintains his saws and neither Home Depot or Lowes will be much help.

I definitely agree with you about the smaller saw barbedwire.

I could only see going to the pro models if she had jobs that could benefit from the extra size and power. I also did not know if she might have employees that could handle a larger saw.

I agree, if her needs as she states, the smaller non-pro saws would be the way to go.

Here's another vote for the smaller 14 inch saws. With a good sharp chain they will easily cut hardwood up to 10 inches and bigger stuff if you take your time.

If you're not familiar with removing and reinstalling the chain and bar, you ought to have your dealer show you how to do that. Unless you want to spend a lot of money buying replacements, they will need frequent cleaning to make them last.

I'm not a big fan of the "no tools required quick chain adjusters" that are on some of the saws. I had one on my Stihl 018 and disliked it so much I converted the saw to a regular adjuster.

Hope you find a good saw that fits your needs.

Thanks for all of the advice- I'll be going to a few dealers this weekend. Yes, my needs are as described- if there are larger tasks at hand that require a more powerful saw, chances are I'm not the one who's going to be handling it! Although my accounts fall under the commercial category, my needs in a chainsaw are not necessarily that heavy duty. I would guess that it might get used 5-6 times a year for limbs, small stumps and the like that are all under 3". Anything bigger & I'de have someone else do it- I know my limitations! Thanks for all of your help- it all makes sense

I bought a Echo, brand new on Ebay, very light, runs great, and was cheap, starts easy, cuts nice, perfect for the small stuff.

Peeps , please ignore this schill Oliva who is schilling various elect saw manufacturers , she has little gas saw knowledge and is digging up old threads for her own profit !