I've owned chainsaws for over 25 years. I cut at least 12 cords of firewood a year. IMHO, you cannot go wrong with a Stihl. Because it sounds like your saw will sit idle for long periods of time, I'd suggest you be shown the recommended procedure for storing your saw over that period of time. Good Luck!

From what you listed, I'd buy the Stihl in a heartbeat. However, I would also really consider an Echo CS-306. You can get them at homedepot for $200, they have the same size 30cc engine as the 170, but only weigh 7.5lbs. The stihl weighs 8.6 lbs. The Echo also carries a 5 year warranty, and they are good solid machines, made in the USA.

What I would recommend is go and handle both saws, then decide which one you feel more comfortable with and buy that one. For what you are doing almost any saw will be ok, so long as you take care of it. This means running good quality oil in the appropriate ratio, mid grade or premium fuel, keep the saw clean, the chain tight (not overtight), sharp and the bar oil full. Also, and this one is huge, don't leave the saw full of gas if it is going to sit more than a month. Drain the fuel, then start the saw till it runs out of gas (it will run for a couple seconds off the fuel in the line).

And don't forget to wear protection. At minimum hearing protection and eye protection, but you really should wear chaps as well.

Good luck, and happy sawing!

I've owned a 18" Poulon for 5 years and I've cut down at least 100 scrub pines on my land. It's an excellent saw for the money and runs as well as my 14" Stihl. I also like Stihl, but they're very expensive for the average homeowner.

I like the Echo saws. Theyre light, run well and are easy to maintain. I have a pair of cs-520's that I favor. Make sure when your done using whatever brand you settle on that you drain out the small amount of fuel mix thats in the tank when your finished. You can leave the oil, but drain the fuel. This makes for easy starting the next time you need it.

The older Poulans and Homelites were great saws, but their namesakes sold today arent even a glimpse of the originals.

You don't want to hear "used", but there is an online shop that sells reconditioned saws with a gaurantee (just google it). Also, you might try a Stihl (or other brand that has one) servicing dealer and see if they have a used saw. They wouldn't (if they value thier rep) sell it to you if it was junk. Just a thought. I'd go with the Stihl.

Good Luck,

Dave

I'm kind of partial as my arsenal of Stihl equipment is growing so I'd have to say, buy the Stihl.