The PB230LN works very well but I found it tiring due to the weight, I was switching hands frequently.

I also started out with a hand held blower and found myself having to switch hands often. I finally got a backpack blower, which solved that problem. The backpack does a much better job in less time, and is not tiring at all. If you get a chance, try a backpack out before buying a new blower. At least you will know for sure which one is right for you. Charles Ranheim.

I was thinking of buying a handheld blower to augment my backpack Echo 650. While looking over the schematics I found that the Echo 230LN has two piston rings whereas the Echo 251 only has one? I suppose the designers are looking for rpm and thats why they went to one ring.

I ended up buying the PB251 a few weeks ago and am very happy with the unit. It is worlds better than my Craftsman/Poulan that it repalced.