Best Chainsaws for Home Pros: Top Picks & Essential Tips
ฝัง
- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 12 ธ.ค. 2023
- 🌲 Discover the Ultimate Chainsaws for Professional Homeowners with Wranglerstar! 🌲
Wranglerstar's recommended woodcutter kit: amzn.to/41oJX3i
(amazon affiliate link)
Navigating the world of chainsaws can be overwhelming, especially for the discerning homeowner. That's why I've handpicked the best models that blend performance, durability, and user-friendliness, perfect for those who demand the best in home maintenance tools.
🛠️ In This Video:
Wranglerstar’s Top Chainsaw Picks:
Stihl MS 462: A powerhouse for heavy-duty tasks, known for its exceptional power-to-weight ratio and advanced features, making it a top choice for demanding jobs.
Stihl MS 362: This model strikes a perfect balance between power and ease of use, ideal for a variety of tasks around your property.
Stihl MS 261: Compact and efficient, the MS 261 is perfect for those who need a reliable saw for occasional yet demanding tasks.
Why Go Pro?: I delve into why professional-grade saws like these are a cut above the rest, discussing their superior build quality, longevity, and performance.
Budget-Friendly Alternative: For professional homeowners on a tighter budget, I recommend the Stihl Farm Boss. It's a fantastic option that delivers professional-grade features without breaking the bank.
Essential Buying Tips: Factors to consider when choosing the right chainsaw for your needs, from power requirements to ergonomics.
Safety First: Key safety gear and practices you should never overlook.
Maintenance Matters: How to keep your chainsaw in peak condition, ensuring it lasts for years to come. - บันเทิง
Wranglerstar's Hard Hat: amzn.to/3tjkcEU
Dalmar Fuel Can: amzn.to/3RpLUI3
Wedge Kit: amzn.to/3uYgIrI
Spencer Logging Tape: amzn.to/3uYgIrI
woodcutter kit: amzn.to/41oJX3i
Bugz: amzn.to/46XCCZp
Milk Crate: amzn.to/46Wx01M
(amazon affiliate link)
Need a peacock feather 🪶
You have the same link for the Wedge Kit and Spencer Logging Tape.
Stihl has m-tronic with all new saws you can't adjust the carb or fix it that's a no for me
@@TH-camPremium-um4cuactually I just bought a new Stihl 261 last week. It has a fully adjustable carb. Now the 261 c-m is the one that has the "auto-self-adjusting" system you are thinking about. Only the new 500i is the only saw Stihl makes w/o a standard carb option.
How about your MSR? Bottles with the quick fill stopper? I want two, one for fuel and one for bar oil.
As an 18 year old learning to do things with my hands along with all i need to know to be a good man; I want to say thank you Wranglerstar for all of your knowledge in these videos. Been watching the channel for about a year now and I've learned a priceless amount of knowledge.
Right there with you. I've just been watching a little longer. I am getting a saw 2024. I joined Volunteer fire in my area because of Cody.
I have been watching his channel for almost 13 years. It’s changed a lot. Still decent info.
Hell yea I’m 19 have been watching for 8 years now
Go back a few years!! Those videos are great!! The videos now in days are every clout cashing vibe sadly… but alrighty info still
@@LeonardoArreola-vn6xo oh yeah in this past year I've gone back and watched as many of the older videos that I had time to. Real gems in those videos. Helped me build my toolkit and understanding of tools, even made me build an interest and appreciation of antique tools.
Damn, I have never used a chainsaw before, never cut a tree before, never needed to do these things but DAMN this is what I'd call a 10/10 starter guide. Complete, no BS, and straight to the point. Keep it up man!
So you know nothing, but for some reason have an opinion? I trust you.
I have a 9 year old and 8 year old son. They have watched you their whole life. 👍👍 We live on a farm and prep, stack wood and live off the land. We have learned a lot from you. Thanks 🙏
I’m working on my Wranglerstar Scout Lumberjack badge. I felled a tree with a double-jack axe, and I chainsawed a tree with a diameter several inches larger than my bar. After I climb a tree higher than 50’, I get my badge!
The Husqvarna 460 rancher has been more than enough saw for East Coast Pines and Oaks on my property. We do not deal with the massive trees of the West Coast. We wouldn't cut down Redwoods like you guys did. It is better to build away from such wonderful trees.
Solid info from Wranglestar. I’m 63yrs old, retired linemen. I run 3 saws here in Michigan. Mostly Oaks, Ash and Beech but some White Pine, Hemlock and Spruce. Saws are an extendable pole saw, a husky 51 and a 372XP. About 60 % of my cutting is with the 51, it’s 24yrs old but still looks newish and runs perfectly.
I’m blg on PPE, so props for stressing those items! Chaps also protect me from briers and pokies plus saves my Wrangler jeans.
I use a milk crate for my throwing line and PPE and a 5 gal bucket with a caddy for tools and gas/oil. I can carry both in one hand and a saw in the other.
I always carry a 1st aid bag with Israeli bandage/tourniquet, quick clots, gauze bandage and a eyewash bottle, of which I only ever used the eye wash bottle.
Keep on with good advice and stay safe brother!
I'll be buying the stuff you mentioned today. Thanks!
I learned about the Stihl 2 in 1 on one of your older videos and it's a game changer. Old timers will say it's a gimmick, and nothing is better than regular filing. Well, I am an old timer and I've been sharpening chains for a very long time, and that 2 in 1 is incredible
You’re so right. I’ve filed a lot of chains and the 2 in 1 is so much more efficient.
I have been watching you for almost all of those 13 years. My dad passed away when I was 4 and my grandfather when I was 10. So most of the time I didn’t have anyone around to teach me these things. Watching your channel has been invaluable. Not only the practical skills but also the way you reinforce the feeling of worth within a young man. I am married now and trying to start a family. My father in law is a great man who has also taught me so much. I cannot express my gratitude enough for men like you. God bless you and your family. You are always in my prayers.
Well done Rusty.
Am thankful you've had him as an example. FYI, even us old guys like to know what Cody has to say too :)
If I may, I'd like to share with you a few channels/resources I think you'd enjoy *since we both like everything Cody shares.
TH-cam channels to ALSO watch :
1) PROJECT FARM !
2) RANGER SURVIVAL AND FIELDCRAFT.
One of the most important books for ANY married couple, even if you have the BEST marriage, and should be the FIRST book (& workbook) you should both go through together IS:
" LOVE AND RESPECT THE LOVE SHE MOST DESIRES AND THE RESPECT HE DESPERATELY NEEDS. by Emerson Eggerichs. "
Keep up the good work.
261 and 661 is my ultimate combo! From firewood to milling slabs and everything in between!
Grew up with a 260. Bought myself a 261 a few years ago. Awesome power to weigh ratio. Best do it all if you only have one saw imo.
I can speak for the Stihl 271 farm boss. We got one to clear my property and cut firewood. With a sharp chain it cuts very well for the average guy. Definitely looking forward to upgrading to a more pro grade, thanks Cody.
WoodBoss and FarmBoss are two different saws. Both are prosumer saws not to be confused with true professional saws. People get confused since the FarmBoss is a 271 and a professional saw is 261. The numbering can be a little confusing but the internet is your friend. Stihl is hands down my favorite manufacturer.
I bought my first chainsaw, a Husqvarna Rancher 465, and I’ve used it quite a bit for two years now, cutting wood on my property in north central Ohio to keep my wood stove fed in the winter. I cut up a lot of dead Ash and it goes right through it. Very happy with it. Starts every time.
As an east coast man who runs a full wrap, the local saw shop had to order my last saw with a full wrap from a west coast warehouse. Took a few weeks for it to come in, but once you go full wrap you can't go back.
You forgot hearing protection. I like the Husqvarna helmet with integrated heating protection (Stihl makes a similar one). I love my Bugz which I bought upon Cody's recommendation a couple years ago. I already had the Stihl chain sharpener before I saw Cody recommend it; I can't agree with him more. It does a great job.
Or, the advantage is that the proho will not be able to hear his wife's complaints anymore. ;)
I've been running the same Stihl 025 for 30 years. I picked up a 361 about 10 years ago for big stuff. Im midwest and they work great. The 025 has done everything asked of it and never failed me.
I had just bought a Husky Rancher. Then a buddy from the FD passed and his widow gave me his Stihl 025. I LOVE that saw. Rehabbing it right now, but that’s a great saw.
@@dougfowler6898woe split impulse line be upon thee... jokes aside, badass saw.
I killed my 025 (& almost myself) because I just HAD.....to do the tree job in 100 degree Temps. I loved that saw !
Echo makes a killer affordable entry level full wrap pro grade saw for under 600$ a each ocs 620 pw with west coast dogs and maybe some porting work cost less then a grand and will run for a long time. If you have an echo dealer near you def take a look
Northwoods man approves of this message. Good advice as per usual. Although you totally forgot the most important tool. The scrench.
I have the 362, and the wood boss. The wood boss was my first saw, and it’s still going strong 6 years later! I love both.
First saw I ever bought was a stehl 170. It’s just about the cheapest they sell and works great for light firewood cutting which is about all I do with it. They are only about 200$ and I highly recommend for anyone who only needs a saw for clearing small trees or fallen branches
Bought a new STIHL 261c few weeks ago and now the bar nuts are built into the cover.. thought it was a great feature!
I have 3 saws. Stihl 009, 029, 660. First two I have had 30+ years and still doing great. 660 is 10 years old. I use it for big trees and with a rip blade to cut boards. I am an amateur but have used a chain saw cutting firewood and lumber for 50 years.
Excellent video. Since I don't do all that much cutting, I'm happy with my MS271 Farm Boss, but I always wear the listed PPE... not interested in lifelong injuries.
As a person who has worked with chainsaws professionally and now just homeowner use, I reccomend the all in one sharpener. You have your flat file and round file all in one with a good pitch.
While I prefer my dad’s Stihl saws, I own a pretty nice older Husky 50 and a newer Husky 120. Both work well for me on my 100 acres of NH woods. My twin boys have learned on them as well and hopefully I will get a bigger Stihl saw one day! Thanks from an East coast man.
Cheers from another NH east coast man running a stihl
I have been very happy with my ms391 with a 20” bar and my 660 with the 28” and 36” bars. Great for cutting firewood here in Minnesota.
Outstanding starter kit. And I'd echo the use of the chainsaw chaps. Having cut timber for 45+ years, I made it to a respectable old age without serious injury, but there were close calls. Now, I won't operate my saws without wearing them, the chaps. I'd add a compact first aide pack to a kit, one containing fast acting coagulant compression gauss...something to have on your suspenders or belt just in case.
thanks for all you do for the community
The Echo CS-590 is a good "cheap" saw as well.
I have an echo 620p. It’s been a great saw. It’s in my opinion plenty of saw for the east coast. I’ve used a milk create for my saw supplies for years, cool to see that in common. I use them in alot of my systems. Another great use for them is to put your standard 20lb propane tank in them. Makes them easier to transport, keeps them off the ground to prevent rusting and storage for a lighter.
I also have an echo 620p and like it a lot. I’m in central Texas, so it’s plenty big for my needs. Echo makes very good equipment. Maybe if I used it every day my opinion would be different.
@@brandoniron4011 I do believe the Echo 590 to be the sweet spot for homeowner saws. Basically a 60cc saw with one of the few drawbacks being the plastic handle. I have a couple modified 372 xp that I will grab first, but the 590 is no slouch either. The best thing you can do regardless of what saw you have is KEEP IT SHARP!
Great saw! It is one of them in my stable. Recently got it ported and like it even more
@@jolkraeremeark6949I agree on value and capability.
I know your not the biggest Milwaukee fan but their 16 inch saw has been my best chainsaw investment I could have made. All my family has always ran stihls and my Milwaukee can't run a 24 inch blade like some of theirs but it holds its own and has been well worth the money. It's needed maintenance like any chainsaw but I've been very happy with it.
I'm at Combat Engineer School right now and we're getting into chainsaws and the moment I started looking at my homework this video popped up. Very convenient timing.
Hope engineer school went well.
@@jameshersom2536 it did, thank you!
My first saw was a 029 Farm boss 30 years ago. 16 and 20" bars. Still have it and still runs great. Later added a 201T. Take care of them and they run many years.
All the knowledge you give us is truly invaluable, thank you
I’ve been watching your channel for at least 5 years, if not longer. I’ve seen a lot of this before, but this was a well made, substantial, summary and I really appreciate the effort and contribution of knowledge that may not otherwise be available.
Thanks!
Cody, thanks for making more of these 'OG-style' Wranglerstar videos! It's plaint to see that you read our comments and take them into consideration. These are always an instant like for me, as a (relatively) newly reformed East Coast man who now lives in the West.
I've seen your previous chainsawl videos... but I was glad to watch this one again... good beginner refresher!
Fantastic informative video! Hit the points on the head. I went for a 63cc powerhead on a 20" bar for occasional tree felling, but we have everything from Oak to thin tall softwood poplars and sap filled knotted conifer. the 63" powers through everything and a small home-gamer saw for limbing and small ladder work. All the best from Ireland ☘
Years ago I was wondering about axes and their uses as far as camping goes. I stumbled upon one of your videos that was more about axe maintenance and felling trees. I was hooked on your channel since. Keep up the good work and don’t regret going back to basics. Lots of folks don’t know anything and that’s why they search TH-cam like I did. I feel more confident as a Proho because of your channel and other like it.
I’m greatful for my time in the forest service learning how to take care of a saw the proper way. Awesome video. Gave me good knowledge of what to have as a ProHo
I have been following you for over 8 years and I want to thank you for your life’s lessons. Especially your Grand Dad!! Thank you for producing great meaningful content. I grew up with Stihl chainsaws and I currently own 3. My small saw is the ms260 over 20 years old and it’s still going strong. Many Blessings to you sir and your family!!!
Followed you for 10 of your TH-cam years, and this is one of those videos I subscribed for. Even though I have my chainsaws and experience, you and your video is so very watchable!
Thanks Cody very thorough explanation and examples
I bought my first pro saw last year and went with the MS362C. I must say it’s an absolute monster and worth every penny!
I am 15 and love learning the way you do things!
I use a 261c almost daily at work (NPS). If anyone says anything bad about the 261, they’ve never used one. My large saw is a 500i with a west coast saws kit. Both are amazing saws.
I have both stilh and husky saws. Both will get the job done with no real problem.
my primary saw is a echo cs590 timberwolf with a 24 inch bar they are about 60cc excellent saw me and my dad both ran them for many many years and cut a very large amount of wood every year, and i also use a echo professional grade cs3510 saw with a 16 inch bar thats about 35 cc as my secondary saw, they work great as a pair. im a firm believer in echo saws
The 590 is indeed a great saw. I have flooded it a few times and I don't care for the plastic handle, but otherwise a nice saw.
Been running a 590 for the last four years. 6 cord a year and it has been more than reliable. Easy start but wish it had more umph to pull a bigger chain. I’d love to run a 28” to avoid bending down so much.
@@warden6.7 it just might do it with skiptooth and exhaust job.
Love the premise on this one.
MS621 and 372xp here. Bought one of those sharpeners a few months ago and don't regret it. I started using Redline Racing Oil 32 to 1 ratio years ago, and never worry about fuel going bad.
I grew up in a log house in WV and we only heated with wood. Dad always had an orange 5 gallon bucket that he kept all his firewood equipment in. To this day, I do the exact same thing. It seems like the old ways, the nostalgic ways are often the best. Keep up the good work. I enjoy your videos.
Buying a professional saw hurts your pockets at first but I’ve had all my pro saws and equipment for years now and they almost never let me down definitely worth the investment
Excellent post,
Thank you, Sir😊
For sure agree with Cody. Your first chainsaw, and the saw that will get 80% of the work done is the excellent Stihl MS 261 (262, in the US?). A light, powerful and simply outstanding saw. It's my go-to saw for all but the biggest tasks. You can buy a slightly longer and lighter bar if you have the funds and really need to. I didn't as the 37cm (15" inch) bar, really is fine for most tasks I run into - felling and bucking fir and pine. For the odd occasion I run into a really mature tree, the 462 is a beast and allows me to fell the tree without cutting from both sides and "complicating" things. As the 462 is heavier, I prefer the 261. For bucking, the 461 is a pleasure to work with. I mark the tree with the smaller saw and then get to work with the 461. Goes through wood like nobody's business, it really is a beast. And without a doubt, rather save up and get a pro grade tool (even if you aren't a pro) rather than consumer grade. You will never regret it. In my experience, you don't necessarily notice the difference when "upgrading" to a pro grade tool. However, after using a pro tool, when using a consumer grade tool again, you notice that tool's flaws immediately and realise just how bad they really are. Strange that one doesn't really notice an upgrade, but really notices a downgrade.
I own a 462 28” bar and a 271 20” farm boss but….My buddy gave me a saw a few years ago from Amazon….$139 DeReal brand 62cc 20” bar …WOW!!! Very nice.
Great video and advice, thanks Cody!
I have a MS 261 CM with 16” bar. It’s the smallest pro series saw, & I’ve used it to clean up our thick wooded 2.5 acres. It’s worked well for everything from 6” cedars to 20” oaks.
I bought a Remington chainsaw based on your review from a few years ago. For as little as I need it it has served me well, especially for the price.
I love these information duno videos. Im not even planning on buying a saw but ill sit and listen to someone talk about it all day
Echo timber wolf is one of the best saw you can buy for your money. Excellent all around starter saw
Agreed!
North Idaho here. Agree as I have one sitting on my bench here in my shop. Looking at getting the echo pro series with a 28” bar.
Recently bought a Husqvarna 562 xp as my first chainsaw. Great, informative video.
That there is a nice saw!
Wood cutting kit. Gas, oil, sharpening tools, extra chain, extra bar, 4lb hammer/axe wedges. Hardhat/eye protection/hearing protection.
Big saw/little saw.
And my favourite little devices, is a magnetic 16" measuring stick that sticks to your bar for marking your rounds;)
I bought my ms 260 10 years ago under your recommandation ! And didn’t regret it at all and it still runing great ! Back then ( having 4 little ones running around …) i could not quite afford it so I asked the local dealer if he had some used one and he did ! But it was still over my budget it came with a bar and a new chain on… so I asked him if he would take those off and gave me the saw for 200$ Canadian and he did ! Altough my wife was laughing at me for not buying a saw but a motor I did in the end get what I wanted I just knew than living In a logging area than that saw would be gone fast! So bar and chains… I could buy them later ! I just needed to think outside the box
I brught a used 362 when I was 16 and at 28 now I have loved it ever since. Haven't really had too do anything too it I'm wanting too get a smaller one now like a top handle.
Thank you for this information Sir!
Just bought my first ms151T. Been using an ms192,as my in tree saw. Should have got the 151 10 years ago ! I'm 65 and the lighter weight is really nice! I've used stihl products for 30 years. We have an excellent stihl shop here in Kingsland TX. Your dealership does make all the difference!
After watching my dad buy residential grade weedeaters when I was younger and they only last 3 or 4 yrs I will only buy commercial grade powertools. I love my STIHL 046 & MS362C but dont get to use them that much. I use to have a MS270C. It was 👍 too.
Thanks for this informative video!
I deeply appreciate your fathering and your wholsome attitude
Thankyou very much for this tutorial Sir. Well done and extremely appreciated !
About the channel, so glad I grew up watching you. Found your channel when I was in the third grade. That was 12 years ago. I have learned so much over the years. Thank you.
Back towards your older videos! Love it!
Great video boss. The reason that I started following you all those years back was because of videos like this. Merry Crimbo from the UK 🙂🎄🔥
I agree wuth your recommedation of the Stihl sharpener. They are great.
Great info, thanks.
I’ve got 9 saws. The Stihl 362 with 25” bar is my go to saw. I do carry a Stihl 170 for limbing though. Light and nimble.
I’ve really enjoyed my 500i. 32” bar. You can drop anything and limb standing up.
I’ve had a STIHL Farm Boss and I currently have a Husq 450e. You’ll love the bigger bar and extra power that comes with the 500 or similar size.
I've been running a Stihl Farm Boss with a 20" bar for 15 years. I only do 3-4 cords a year and I don't fall anything, but I am in the PNW. It's a little slower than fancier saws, but it's done a fine job.
Farm Boss is all the saw most people would ever need unless your job is behind one.
Yep, I have an ms250 with an 18" and it's an absolute workhorse, does more than everything I need here in the lower thumb of Michigan
Excellent video. When I was first researching everything about chainsaws, Wranglerstar is in my top 10 to learn from, no dumb steering from this person.
Cody, thank you for taking the time to share your wealth of generational wisdom with us. It is very valuable in today's society.
We carry an MS-462c with a 28” bar as our primary saw as a Type 3 engine in Region 5. We have a second saw as well, which is an MS-460/36” bar. Our patrols and battalion chiefs are mostly carrying MS-400c/24” saws now, and I have to say that for brushing and dropping most trees, I really do like the 400.
Good tips. I'm 47 years old, but new to felling trees and processing firewood. I wasn't raised on any large pieces of land, but a couple years ago I bought a house on 20 acres in the Sierra Foothills near Yosemite. When I bought this house, I knew I'd be doing a lot of work with the trees on the property, which are primarily blue oak. I picked up 3 chainsaws, all Stihl: 14" MS170, 24" MS391, and 12" HT135 pole saw. I only take down a handful of trees each year, mostly dead or dying trees for firewood use, but in the first few months I was here, I took down 8 big oaks and 3 pine trees just to open up the view and remove trees that I felt were too close to the house, and could pose a fire danger.
This video brought me back. Most of my saw lineup is Stihl saws that I have gotten over the years. My first was a 261 that I ran for the longest time with a 20" bar before realizing how much more power it had with a 16" bar. My main workhorse is a 462 that I got a few years ago and it has never failed me.
Interestingly, you are not the first to recommend that 2-in-1 file that I have heard recently. I've used the two file method with round and flat file all the years I have run saws. It is a skill that you perfect overtime, but these 2-in-1 are taking away some of that skill. Still, if it works, why not use it. Might just invest in one to try and see how it works.
Keep up the great content like this. Always a pleasure to see a new video.
Great video thank you!
Thank you very much for this! I'm new to chainsaws and have been getting more into it lately, this was very helpful!
I have a 1997 Husqvarna 51 (16") and a Stihl MS 251 (18"). Both work well for basic clean up tasks. I always wanted a top handle, but I cannot justify the cost for what I use a saw for and how often I use one.
Thank You! I have learned much from you. I've gained so much from all your chainsaw videos.
One thing i can add. I'm not felling trees i'm just cutting fire wood for many years now. So imo its much better to use full face shield with ear muffs. It is just better than safety glasses, safety glasses always gets covered in moisture, and listening to engine for few hours is actually tiring so ear muffs are nice to have.
Love my 460 and my 660. Stihl for the win.
Well reasoned. I agree completely.
I have an MS261 with a 20 and 16 inch bars. Great saw for anything I will use it for.
My first saw was a Stihl MS250. Now im rebuildong a Stihl 038 to have as a larger saw
I’ll definitely go with Husqvarna 550XP instead of MS261, great video though.
Outstanding, concise video. Homeowner; 3-4 cords a year. I started with a 18” MS250. Just upgraded to a 20” MS261; same weight, much more power. Captive bar nuts, so no spares required in the kit! I appreciate the pro series quality & features.
Thinking about doing the same thing. 251 has been great last 10 years but struggles with hardwood over 16”s wide. Hoping that 261 with a 20”would slay those bigger logs about 20”s wide I run into every now and again.
Love the videos, thank you!
I have the Stihl Farm Boss. Works well enough for the midwest where most of the land has already been cleared and leveled.
love the chain saw vids keep them up
I have been running the same 271 stihl with a 20 inch bar for Almost 10 years.
It’s been relatively retired now. I use a 362 for my small saw and a 661 for the big stuff. Run a 20 and a 30 tho a 661 will run a much bigger bar.
After running the 362 for over a year it’s definitely the best saw for the main saw
For my east coast hardwoods I run an ms261 and an ms661 for bigger timber- always recommend professional saws. When you're constantly cutting firewood and felling you notice the difference.