Been using a Hawksmoor for about 6 months now. I purchased one for myself but I use it at work as a gardener, I've used Stihl on estates previously. I've processed a load of felled oak and fire wood, processed a ton of pallets too, felled a few small trees also. I even accidently got my fuel cans mixed up and ran a bit of petrol through it once, it still felled the small yew. It's still going strong. The body material is thinner than well known brands, the screw to tighten the chain is of an inferior quality and if it does go it'll be because of this skimping on material, but it's nothing dramatic. However, as an engine, it just keeps going with absolutely no drop in performance. I was really just playing around with a cheap chainsaw. I still get a little embarrassed turning up with this saw but I really shouldn't, this thing's already paid for itself.
33 years ago I bought an 18" saw that was always talked down as a throwaway brand. Plastic housing when any good saw was steel (back then). This year I had a good bit of storm clean up to do and it cut strong like it did back in 1989. Have used it every year for general clean up. So, I'm not surprised with the ole Hawksmoor. Oh, and my saw is green also. 👍
I have about 6 of these china chainsaws and use them all the time. I have cut about ten cord of wood over the last year and they have done very well. One thing I do mention is, most of the ones in the US come with an inferior chain, so expect to replace it right away with a better brand and you will be happy. Looks like yours comes with an Oregon bar and chain which is going to be what you need.
Good Vid George ,Only thing i would Say is Stihl Will be Able to Keep running over a Lot of years Due to Spares Availability,Cheap Saw Will be more Difficult getting Parts when its Old, But if it saves £400 And lasts a good while then Whats Not Too Like.
There is definitely a Chinese man or lady somewhere in a factory in China remembering the time they wired up those run/stop switches backwards and they're having a laugh at your expense George lol
I mean, even if you treat that as a “hot spare” for when the Stihl needs fixing (chain, bar, plug, etc) it’s still a lot cheaper to have that Hawksmoor as the spare till the Stihl gets back vs 2 Stihl’s. Plus, when sending someone else off to work a job, just the assurance the good kit won’t get messed up is always peace of mind.
The Chinese saw's what ever name they go by, have good engines, plastics are bad and the on switch is always up, just put on a good quality chain and you got a good chainsaw.
I know why the start switch was wrong. This saw is a clone(I didn't remember the name of the saw it's drives from, there's a few) and those are resigned plastics. They make this saw with a few different plastics and other models with the switch in the upward position is "run". I have a larger version of the clone, $100 shipped to my door, 62cc and a 20" blade. It's been pretty good and starting it has been pretty easy. Mine definitely bogs less than your Stihl. My main complaint with my cheap saw is I don't have a case for it, I bought a soft case that barely fits, is like a hard case/toolbox.
I had a similar experience with a cheap big heavy duty strimmer you seem to have had with that chainsaw. When she’s running, shes an absolute beats but she does have issues starting!! Long term though, for a third of the price with more power, every bit as good as a husquvarna my dad bought the same day
the best chainsaw ive ever seen is our electric husquavarna. It has loads of power, and is light as anything, and naturally makes no noise. We still have a couple of big STIHL's for big jobs, but the electric one is ideal for any jobs short of going through a full size tree.
I have been very tempted by the electric saws, particular the DeWalt as I've already got a fair bit of there kit, they are just a fair bit of money though.
Just a note on starting - I have not that brand name but def the same saw with another name on and my one says apply the choke, pull the starter twice lightly, then choke off and pull to start - it starts on 2nd pull most times
I have owned and used both Stihl and Husqvarna saws over the years but now I’ve switched to Echo as the build quality is far better with none of the stupid electronic carbs and it’s backed up with a proper warranty. The cheap off brand stuff is fine as you say for occasional home owner use, but even once or twice a year for clearing up after a storm or similar I know I’d prefer to be picking up a proper tool for the job not worrying about if/when it’s going to give out on me because I didn’t want to spend the extra money
Professionals are going to buy the Stihl, but for occasional use the Hawksmoor has got to be the way to go. Assume its got a years guarantee, so if it only lasts a couple of years. Probably buy 4 for the price of the Stihl. I personally think the quality of branded products has deteriorated considerably over the years. For example, 20 years ago I bought a Bosch corded hedgecutter. It served me brilliantly for 15 years and basically I wore it out. Replaced 4 years ago with same make and size battery powered model, now in its 5th year, not only is the battery knackered, but the cutting blades are worn worse than the one it replaced.
Nothing seems to be over engineered these days, I would be surprised if the new Stihl lasts as long as the saw it's replaced. The Hawksmoor has got 2 years of warranty so not bad, I was genuinely Impressed at its performance, time will tell if it's durable 👍
bosch stopped making stuff like that years ago they brought out qualcast used there desgins sold the qualcast brand name on ............ the green chain saw im sure is a old mcculloch model rebadged
It gets interesting when you work with both saws for a whole day or longer. then you can make a statement whether the cheap saw is worth the money or not.
You'll wreck the easy start mechanism starting it like that, lay it on the ground and just pull the start cord. I have seen a few people breaking the easy start setup thinking you can start it like a standard pullstart
Cheap one looks like the one I got from lidl it was bit of a bugger to start at first but it's OK now. I don't use it often so can't justify a premium saw and for that reason I also run it on Aspen stabilised fuel
Interesting video! I went to forestry school some 15 years ago now so we did cut quite a bit of spruces and pines then and every now and again at home, pretty rarely these days tho, but it is fun! I'm a Husqvarna man tho, that's the way to go! Do post that update in the future, I wanna know how the Hawksmoor does!
I used to keep an off-brand cheapo chainsaw as a spare/rescue saw when doing tree work. If my Stihl broke on the job or became jammed in a trunk I'd use the off=brand saw to save the day. I did once drop my off-brand saw and damaged the pull start housing. I did some mega Googling and discovered the saw was made under the envelope of the Electrolux corporation. They did indeed keep spares and yes they were UK based spares. My off-brand saw was underpowered but as long as I kept it really sharp and didn't push it, I could always get things finished. My concern with that green saw would be spares. Not chains or bars and more things like clutches and casings. Aside from that yeah fine for now and then use.
I bought a cheap petrol two handle strimmer and that would not start, took the air filter off and noticed all the instructions were opposite, choke on was off etc when I worked it out it was a great strimmer
I got to say it will come down till how long the chain lasts but that cheap saw looks like it will last a week or two...worth the money if you only use it now and then..
Another great video George thanks for sharing.To be fair the cheap saw had not been started but for the price ,you could buy four for the price of the still,interesting to know how long the guarantees are on the two saws
I try to stick to the bigger brand when buying a saw. I've only ever owned three saws in total, and still have them all. My first was an old Jonsered from the 1970s i think, it made a hell of a good noice. Then I got a new Jonsered 2240 I think the model is. A nice little saw, but not really for full-time professional work. I do love the distinct feel in the chainbreak (or whatever you call it) on the little Jonsered. Then there is my newest, and best saw. The Stihl MS241with (I think) a 14" bar. Love it! Sure, a 16" would be nice sometimes, but 14" does most of the jobs I do with it.
We use a lot of stihl equipment in our landscaping business more than 10 of each blowers,strimmers,combi units,strimmers,saws etc.The new stihl gear is garbage .There is constantly stihl stuff in the workshop with carb or ignition coil issues.The blowers are bulletproof but we will not be going with stihl for that stuff in the future.Battery stuff from eco and and husqi for consaws etc. We bought a new stihl auger last week for planting.Its in the workshop as of yesterday refusing to start.
Lots of folk have been saying the new gear is poor, it had been a long time since we bought a new Stihl, the old stuff we've got has been bullet proof, we'll have to cross our fingers with the new one👍
Square cut the teeth and you'll cut much quicker or round file but give the chain a good sharpen. They both need a tune up on the mixture, always love a chainsaw video
I was shouting timber for you the cheap one performed ok but like you say reliability and parts it may be ok for the guarantee and if not used regularly the time you go to it down the line and it won't work you are most likely stuck and may have to dispose of it
I’ve had a couple of Stihl saws as I’ve got older found them too heavy and they give me back ache, went to the local dealers and bought an Echo, so much lighter and the few times a year I use it it’s fine. But it’s Japanese, so it’s built to a good standard. Tool station is though a heck of a useful shop though…..
Is the chain is a bit to tight on the Sthil seems to bog down easy. The Hawksmoor idle is a bit high I've got a cheap Chinese saw its alright for the money
Hi George, very interesting Experiment to try the two I would like to try for the cheap one for a week or two, At the moment it works ok let’s see after a week or two, You take care of yourself and stay safe.👍👍.
I had the same trouble with my Stihl ms251 £550 quid for a toy basically it struggled with medium sized logs. I just by the 52 cc Chinese chainsaws plenty of power for a third of price. Cost me £69 quid for my last chainsaw
If you are the occasional user I would go with the battery powered Stihl or Husqvarna instead of the Chinese gas powered saw. Yes it’s inexpensive but when it sits on your shelf for 6 months and will not start and the repair shop tells you good luck with that your back to the beginning.
Hawksmoor cuts better than the Stihl..it didn't bog down as much.. poss the Stihl chain was to tight and chain needed sharpening. Definitely think Hawksmoor did a better job
Hawksmen is a new brand and their really good because all their products are good they do lawnmowers multi tool Leaf bowers and more and the ones I have still work in mite conditions
need to loosen the chain off on the stihl to tight and when your adjusting it pinch the end of the bar pull up and tighten bolts got to breakem in first before taking on the heavier stuff
I always use performance petrol and the steal chain oil and the green petrol additive ,I’ve never had any brake dawns I had a brand new husqvaner which I had no end of problems with so sometimes is not always about the name
Hello George I always buy stihl always have done yes like you say they bit more expensive but like they say u get what you pay for keep up the good work 👍👍
I’ve always been a stihl man from college and through my working life, I’ve seen cheap saws last and fall apart after 10hrs but on the flip side, worked a 441c which let the wrist pin (apparently) go and seized the engine up within 10hrs of new, so the diagnostics said. A lot of the stihl are now Chinese components anyway and the small equipment 🙄😩. I might be moving to the dark side for my next saw 😈
@@GeorgeSaunders I’d agree unfortunately. I’ve not had a new stihl that was better than it’s predecessor 😩. The shall to medium saw a are always over sold… I’ve always stuck by “put the next bar size down from the Max the manufacturer states” saying that, the 440 is on an 18inch bar😁. I honestly think for domestic jobs, battery is the way. We’ve talked about one for next to the chipper
We had a stihl saw we used to cut rebar etc and it was nice an light but getting it started was a pill compared to the old cheap saw we had i forget the name of it
Absolutely brilliant video George right up my street 👌🏻 that hawksmore looks exactly like my parkside one I got in lidl for 100 quid I presume they must be the same just branded differently. For what it cost Cant really complain about its performance and it starts first time every time. Still use my little stihl ms170 for most jobs tho they can certainly pack a punch for their size 😂
Almost all saws(including all Chinese saws) have Up to run and Down to stop, Except Stihl, who is reversed.(up=off) *note: I hate Toggle switched on Chainsaws!!! Rockers are more efficient and less pron to damage/failure. With the exception of Professional Chainsaw Clones(factory Copies) I have never understood the purpose of comparing chainsaws from China to Pro Grade Chainsaws that cost many times more, from Top brand Manufacturers. They are not the same and their purpose is not the same. One is for keeping things tidy or an emergency cleanup. The other is for tending to Frequent cutting operations. These are the things I consider when shopping for anything of this nature. What is its purpose? Stihl....and other top manufacturers Chainsaws are Stellar and will last for years if taken care of. That said, these cheaper saws can also last for years - If properly used and properly maintained. Again - Purpose If a Storm has uprooted a single Tree, the cheaper saw is a logical choice(even at 1 and done) as it will pay for itself on the first job and not drain the bank. The user will not see a need to spend on expensive repairs down the road since they are already so far ahead. The Frequent User or professional Cannot take those risk. They are far more dependent on the equipment they purchase. Thanks for a well laid out Video. Happy Cutting!
Hi George, the chain on the stihl is toooo tight,that's why your slipping the clutch all the time....I personally would have put your £130 into a 500i or a husky 560xp or something like. Come on the start/stop wrong way round for starters and no spare parts backup.....scrap, with no pleasure cutting...sorry!!
The main difference is usually spare parts, the stihl is pretty much infinitely rebuild able. You will probably struggle to find parts for the Hawksmoor other than service items.
That was my main concern with buying from a big box store, esp a store brand. Where would I get it serviced? and can I even GET parts for it, other than chains, bars, etc? I have dealers for both Stihl and Husqvarna within 3 miles of home, and another Stihl dealer 15 miles or so away. If my Toro battery saw breaks, I don't know where I'd take it. Parts ARE available from Toro however.
Great video very interesting wonder what the parts availability is like on the cheap saw, suppose at that price you don’t bother repairing it just throw it away and get another one.
Hi George, just found this video. very interesting piece of kit. Days gone buy you had no choice but to buy expensive, now you have a choice. Any update on the Hawksmoor?.
I've a 56cc Hyundai, it looks VERY similar to you howksmore , it's a beast compared to the previous 2 husquvarna and mikita, all of which proved very disappointing
I have a Hyundai Turbo 500, 52 cc and 20 inches, blue and black, i only payed for it around 50 USA dollars, new. 3 years and many gallons of fuel later still like new, I only bought it out of curiosity but it gained my full respect.
I prefer Stihl to any other brand, a friend of mine (chain saw expert) recommend not the genuine chains, he reckons the after market ones are better, any thoughts? How about a chain sharpening session?
Keep the cheap one for the crap work that you don't want to trash a decent saw for. I've got a never heard of brand that a friend gave me for free and its ideal for chopping tree roots and cutting up rotten wood that I don't want to stick my STIHL into.
Judging from the writing on the bar, the Hawksmoor is running a narrower chain: .375". Stihl's typically run .5". That will make a difference in cutting speed, too- the narrower chain is cutting less wood, so isn't working the engine as hard. That's a real bummer of a manufacturing error. I wonder how many have been returned by irate owners who couldn't get them to start at all? I ran into that difference, as well. I have 2 saws: a Stihl ms291, and a battery operated Toro. The Toro runs a .43 chain on a 16" bar. The Stihl a .5 on a 20" bar. I've found the Toro has an easier time cutting difficult wood, like old, dried out gnarly Ash crotches, or semi dry locust. (both woods shrink, and tighten up like a fist as they dry) It's a surprisingly good saw for the cheap price it cost me at the local Tractor Supply Company, and has cut a LOT of firewood for me. I bought the Stihl, both to get around the limited battery life problem, and because I was getting into really big wood- like what you have there. As an aside, I like to cut nasty wood like that big oak into thick cookies like you did, as well. Multiple hearts, crotches, etc make handsplitting big rounds a real pain! Those shorter pieces bust up much easier! They're for a grill, anyway- so chunks are actually more ideal than the standard 16" pieces.
I would never buy another Stihl chainsaw. The new lines will last you as long as a block of butter in a furnace. Rubbish and don't waste your money. Get a Husky.
We looked at the husky,but thought we'd stick with what we know, the 3 saws we've got have been great to be honest, time will tell how good the new one is👍
Here's a video I made comparing a cheap (my neighbours saw) against my old Husqvarna, worth a watch! th-cam.com/video/x-_CSVZlIpM/w-d-xo.html the vibration from the cheap one would fatigue you way quicker than a quality saw, all depends how much use you have for one and "buy cheap, buy twice"
I'll take a look Lamby 👌 that's the thing, the Stihl will definitely be easier to live with day to day, that's why we've got 3 of them. But for the odd bit of work and you don't want to spend hundreds, the cheap saw is maybe a possibility. I'll certainly be revisiting the question when I've done some work with the Hawksmoor 👍
Horses for courses so they reckon but I will say this, I bought a cheapo 3in1 strimmer with saw and trimmer attachments and for the occasional use it never fails to start or work correctly even if left for 12 months. Its bang on....👍
Cant go wrong with Stihl, All my saw's, Strimmer and hedge sheers are all Stihl, would not bother with any other as they have Never let me down. I did start with a cheap brand but it ended up like Triggers broom...
I too thought the Hawksmoor gave the better cut by far. I have one of their self drive mowers and it is a no frills hare out of the gate. Shaved loads of mowing time off a couple of high brand mowers. I also have a BU KO chainsaw even cheaper than your Hawksmoor. Comes with a 16" and a 20" chainbar with 2 of each size of chain. Would love to have seen how that would have fared against your duo. I had to fettle the carb after a bit but it cuts great. thanks for sharing your results with us.
Hate them stihls always got into a sweat trying to start them and tended to have a fuel pipe collapse from tank to carb.needed changin every couple of years. Pro husky only option.
It appeared to me that the cheap saw cut a little better than the Stihl. I do believe that the big difference between the two will be durability. The Stihl was built to last. Some cheap saws would more than likely last a long time as long as you don't run them too hard and take good care of them. Loggers us high quality saws for a reason. They cost a lot more, but they are worth it.
That Stihl will struggle with a bigger bar, I run Husqvarna xp saws, a forestry worker told me to always run a new saw in by removing the bar and chain, filling the fuel tank and letting it sit and run the full tank through.
To the average home owner it makes more sence to have a cheap saw sitting in the garage most of the year so these cheap tools do have a place for the right customer , dos it say were it was made George any stamps on the engine etc, really enjoyed that great video.
I agree mate, no point having an expensive tool sat there doing nothing. The saw is Chinese made including the engine, but it does have an Oregon bar which is good 👍
Great video 👍Chain is too tight by a half turn on the stihl by the sound of it George. Years ago I had Stihl MS260’s, and they just ate crank seals working daily on that kind of timber. Went to a new MS441, 70cc, didn’t miss a beat. Now just sold it and bought a new MS500i in October, which is just pure chainsaw pornography.
Horses for courses, if you’re regularly using it and can justify 500+ then yep go for the good warranty and backup but if it’s an occasional use use for firewood delimbing or emergency storm clearing and can’t justify the price choose something cheaper but regardless of which you choose husbandry and maintenance will go a long way to keeping them going
The health and safety brigade,in the office,insisted I wore stihl gloves!!Of course in the field left them in the pick up!!Did you notice a vibration difference?My hands are like claws now,vibration white finger??🤔😭😄👍
Liking the vid. I went down the plug in electric mode years ago.... sound posh now but electric saw and a 3 pin plug🤣. Still using it after 15 years. Better chain and bars make all the difference. I prefer also having the use of a generator for any occasion that might kill the mains power. Stay safe 🏴
@@GeorgeSaunders evening sir. The 87 is being very patient with me 😔🙄. Iv not been working on it for a while but Swinnerton tractors have shown the most interest and help in supplying me with any parts required. So it back to me to make sure I order all the right seals etc. Missing the old girls grunt. My day job is busy and eating into available time but I'm also thinking of doing some cab work sound depending before and after etc in future. ..
251 is one of Stihls "homeowner" grade saws. 261 is where it's at. This was a fun comparison to watch though. Not many guys bury 45cc saws in huge hardwood.
At 4:31 you put the switch in the Stop position, no wonder it didn't start.🤣
Been using a Hawksmoor for about 6 months now. I purchased one for myself but I use it at work as a gardener, I've used Stihl on estates previously. I've processed a load of felled oak and fire wood, processed a ton of pallets too, felled a few small trees also. I even accidently got my fuel cans mixed up and ran a bit of petrol through it once, it still felled the small yew. It's still going strong. The body material is thinner than well known brands, the screw to tighten the chain is of an inferior quality and if it does go it'll be because of this skimping on material, but it's nothing dramatic. However, as an engine, it just keeps going with absolutely no drop in performance. I was really just playing around with a cheap chainsaw. I still get a little embarrassed turning up with this saw but I really shouldn't, this thing's already paid for itself.
Echo or husqvarna for me.
Never been a fan of Stihl. Always felt cheap when I was a tree Surgeon.
Great video
33 years ago I bought an 18" saw that was always talked down as a throwaway brand. Plastic housing when any good saw was steel (back then). This year I had a good bit of storm clean up to do and it cut strong like it did back in 1989. Have used it every year for general clean up. So, I'm not surprised with the ole Hawksmoor. Oh, and my saw is green also. 👍
I have about 6 of these china chainsaws and use them all the time. I have cut about ten cord of wood over the last year and they have done very well. One thing I do mention is, most of the ones in the US come with an inferior chain, so expect to replace it right away with a better brand and you will be happy. Looks like yours comes with an Oregon bar and chain which is going to be what you need.
Let’s face it, they’ve probably come out of the same Chinese factory
Good Vid George ,Only thing i would Say is Stihl Will be Able to Keep running over a Lot of years Due to Spares Availability,Cheap Saw Will be more Difficult getting Parts when its Old, But if it saves £400 And lasts a good while then Whats Not Too Like.
There is definitely a Chinese man or lady somewhere in a factory in China remembering the time they wired up those run/stop switches backwards and they're having a laugh at your expense George lol
I mean, even if you treat that as a “hot spare” for when the Stihl needs fixing (chain, bar, plug, etc) it’s still a lot cheaper to have that Hawksmoor as the spare till the Stihl gets back vs 2 Stihl’s. Plus, when sending someone else off to work a job, just the assurance the good kit won’t get messed up is always peace of mind.
The Chinese saw's what ever name they go by, have good engines, plastics are bad and the on switch is always up, just put on a good quality chain and you got a good chainsaw.
I know why the start switch was wrong. This saw is a clone(I didn't remember the name of the saw it's drives from, there's a few) and those are resigned plastics. They make this saw with a few different plastics and other models with the switch in the upward position is "run".
I have a larger version of the clone, $100 shipped to my door, 62cc and a 20" blade. It's been pretty good and starting it has been pretty easy. Mine definitely bogs less than your Stihl.
My main complaint with my cheap saw is I don't have a case for it, I bought a soft case that barely fits, is like a hard case/toolbox.
I had a similar experience with a cheap big heavy duty strimmer you seem to have had with that chainsaw. When she’s running, shes an absolute beats but she does have issues starting!! Long term though, for a third of the price with more power, every bit as good as a husquvarna my dad bought the same day
Really good comparison video👍 makes you wonder really is the premium brand saw worth 4 times the. Money 💸🤔 only time will tell 👍👍
If you’re using it regularly then it probably is worth buying an expensive one, but most of us don’t.
the best chainsaw ive ever seen is our electric husquavarna. It has loads of power, and is light as anything, and naturally makes no noise. We still have a couple of big STIHL's for big jobs, but the electric one is ideal for any jobs short of going through a full size tree.
I have been very tempted by the electric saws, particular the DeWalt as I've already got a fair bit of there kit, they are just a fair bit of money though.
Just a note on starting - I have not that brand name but def the same saw with another name on and my one says apply the choke, pull the starter twice lightly, then choke off and pull to start - it starts on 2nd pull most times
I have owned and used both Stihl and Husqvarna saws over the years but now I’ve switched to Echo as the build quality is far better with none of the stupid electronic carbs and it’s backed up with a proper warranty. The cheap off brand stuff is fine as you say for occasional home owner use, but even once or twice a year for clearing up after a storm or similar I know I’d prefer to be picking up a proper tool for the job not worrying about if/when it’s going to give out on me because I didn’t want to spend the extra money
Professionals are going to buy the Stihl, but for occasional use the Hawksmoor has got to be the way to go. Assume its got a years guarantee, so if it only lasts a couple of years. Probably buy 4 for the price of the Stihl. I personally think the quality of branded products has deteriorated considerably over the years. For example, 20 years ago I bought a Bosch corded hedgecutter. It served me brilliantly for 15 years and basically I wore it out. Replaced 4 years ago with same make and size battery powered model, now in its 5th year, not only is the battery knackered, but the cutting blades are worn worse than the one it replaced.
Nothing seems to be over engineered these days, I would be surprised if the new Stihl lasts as long as the saw it's replaced. The Hawksmoor has got 2 years of warranty so not bad, I was genuinely Impressed at its performance, time will tell if it's durable 👍
bosch stopped making stuff like that years ago they brought out qualcast used there desgins sold the qualcast brand name on ............ the green chain saw im sure is a old mcculloch model rebadged
Hi George, I have nine Stihl saws from the smallest to the largest and out of all of them the ms 500i is the one I use the most and highly recommend.
Great demo George,thank you👍I don't envy you cutting timber in 30 degree heat🥵
I’m not a chainsaw Expert but it looks like you’ve created all the non-start problem by flooding it continuously
No, actually at the factory the off-on switch was installed up side down. That was the problem.
I don't think the Stihl saws are built like they used to be.
It gets interesting when you work with both saws for a whole day or longer. then you can make a statement whether the cheap saw is worth the money or not.
As soon as I've put it to some work I'll do a follow up video 👍
I think the chain on the Stihl sounds a bit tight and dry, that's why it's bogging down with you
I did notice that buh, just needs loosening a bit👌
You'll wreck the easy start mechanism starting it like that, lay it on the ground and just pull the start cord. I have seen a few people breaking the easy start setup thinking you can start it like a standard pullstart
If it breaks I'll get another one.
@@GeorgeSaunders at that price if you get a year of work out of it, it would have paid for itself
Cheap one looks like the one I got from lidl it was bit of a bugger to start at first but it's OK now. I don't use it often so can't justify a premium saw and for that reason I also run it on Aspen stabilised fuel
Interesting video! I went to forestry school some 15 years ago now so we did cut quite a bit of spruces and pines then and every now and again at home, pretty rarely these days tho, but it is fun! I'm a Husqvarna man tho, that's the way to go! Do post that update in the future, I wanna know how the Hawksmoor does!
Bugger you cost me £93.71 yesterday thats the new price for the cheap chainsaw and I love it. On off switch still the wrong way round
I used to keep an off-brand cheapo chainsaw as a spare/rescue saw when doing tree work. If my Stihl broke on the job or became jammed in a trunk I'd use the off=brand saw to save the day.
I did once drop my off-brand saw and damaged the pull start housing. I did some mega Googling and discovered the saw was made under the envelope of the Electrolux corporation. They did indeed keep spares and yes they were UK based spares.
My off-brand saw was underpowered but as long as I kept it really sharp and didn't push it, I could always get things finished.
My concern with that green saw would be spares. Not chains or bars and more things like clutches and casings. Aside from that yeah fine for now and then use.
That's the thing, I'm sure it won't be easy to find parts, maybe it won't use any?😂
I bought a cheap petrol two handle strimmer and that would not start, took the air filter off and noticed all the instructions were opposite, choke on was off etc when I worked it out it was a great strimmer
I got to say it will come down till how long the chain lasts but that cheap saw looks like it will last a week or two...worth the money if you only use it now and then..
Another great video George thanks for sharing.To be fair the cheap saw had not been started but for the price ,you could buy four for the price of the still,interesting to know how long the guarantees are on the two saws
Excellent video George!
Yeah those zenoah clones are very much hit or miss, since there's really no quality control in the factories they're made in.
I try to stick to the bigger brand when buying a saw. I've only ever owned three saws in total, and still have them all. My first was an old Jonsered from the 1970s i think, it made a hell of a good noice. Then I got a new Jonsered 2240 I think the model is. A nice little saw, but not really for full-time professional work. I do love the distinct feel in the chainbreak (or whatever you call it) on the little Jonsered.
Then there is my newest, and best saw. The Stihl MS241with (I think) a 14" bar. Love it! Sure, a 16" would be nice sometimes, but 14" does most of the jobs I do with it.
We use a lot of stihl equipment in our landscaping business more than 10 of each blowers,strimmers,combi units,strimmers,saws etc.The new stihl gear is garbage .There is constantly stihl stuff in the workshop with carb or ignition coil issues.The blowers are bulletproof but we will not be going with stihl for that stuff in the future.Battery stuff from eco and and husqi for consaws etc. We bought a new stihl auger last week for planting.Its in the workshop as of yesterday refusing to start.
Lots of folk have been saying the new gear is poor, it had been a long time since we bought a new Stihl, the old stuff we've got has been bullet proof, we'll have to cross our fingers with the new one👍
Square cut the teeth and you'll cut much quicker or round file but give the chain a good sharpen. They both need a tune up on the mixture, always love a chainsaw video
12 months later, do you have an update on the Hawksmoor?
I was shouting timber for you the cheap one performed ok but like you say reliability and parts it may be ok for the guarantee and if not used regularly the time you go to it down the line and it won't work you are most likely stuck and may have to dispose of it
There's no doubt the Stihl should last longer down the line, once the Hawksmoor has done some work I'll do a follow up video 👍
30° that's a very cold day
I’ve had a couple of Stihl saws as I’ve got older found them too heavy and they give me back ache, went to the local dealers and bought an Echo, so much lighter and the few times a year I use it it’s fine. But it’s Japanese, so it’s built to a good standard. Tool station is though a heck of a useful shop though…..
Is the chain is a bit to tight on the Sthil seems to bog down easy. The Hawksmoor idle is a bit high I've got a cheap Chinese saw its alright for the money
Hi George, very interesting Experiment to try the two I would like to try for the cheap one for a week or two, At the moment it works ok let’s see after a week or two, You take care of yourself and stay safe.👍👍.
I had the same trouble with my Stihl ms251 £550 quid for a toy basically it struggled with medium sized logs. I just by the 52 cc Chinese chainsaws plenty of power for a third of price. Cost me £69 quid for my last chainsaw
If you are the occasional user I would go with the battery powered Stihl or Husqvarna instead of the Chinese gas powered saw. Yes it’s inexpensive but when it sits on your shelf for 6 months and will not start and the repair shop tells you good luck with that your back to the beginning.
I bought a cheap saw a few years back worked fine until it broke down and I could not get replacement parts
Hawksmoor cuts better than the Stihl..it didn't bog down as much..
poss the Stihl chain was to tight and chain needed sharpening. Definitely think Hawksmoor did a better job
Zenoah by any other name parts are available everywhere
Hawksmen is a new brand and their really good because all their products are good they do lawnmowers multi tool Leaf bowers and more and the ones I have still work in mite conditions
need to loosen the chain off on the stihl to tight and when your adjusting it pinch the end of the bar pull up and tighten bolts got to breakem in first before taking on the heavier stuff
I did notice the Stihl was a bit tight, I'll get her adjusted when we get it out again 👍
I always use performance petrol and the steal chain oil and the green petrol additive ,I’ve never had any brake dawns I had a brand new husqvaner which I had no end of problems with so sometimes is not always about the name
The cheaper saw is a third of the price...so is the pricey saw thrice better? Seems it all boils down to longevity
Great stuff George and Liz, try and stay cool over there👌👍🙏😎
Should have got an ms500i! Certainly wouldn't put a 18 inch bar on that saw, will really struggle!
Brilliant video
Cheers Luke 👍
Hello George I always buy stihl always have done yes like you say they bit more expensive but like they say u get what you pay for keep up the good work 👍👍
Had a jonsered 94 cc, with a 24 inch blade.....loved it....but someone stole it 🤷♂️
That's a monster!
@@GeorgeSaunders it was, chewed some logs 😅
I’ve always been a stihl man from college and through my working life, I’ve seen cheap saws last and fall apart after 10hrs but on the flip side, worked a 441c which let the wrist pin (apparently) go and seized the engine up within 10hrs of new, so the diagnostics said. A lot of the stihl are now Chinese components anyway and the small equipment 🙄😩. I might be moving to the dark side for my next saw 😈
A lot of folks are saying the new saws aren't nearly as good as the old ones 🤷♂️ what do you do?
@@GeorgeSaunders I’d agree unfortunately. I’ve not had a new stihl that was better than it’s predecessor 😩. The shall to medium saw a are always over sold… I’ve always stuck by “put the next bar size down from the Max the manufacturer states” saying that, the 440 is on an 18inch bar😁. I honestly think for domestic jobs, battery is the way. We’ve talked about one for next to the chipper
We had a stihl saw we used to cut rebar etc and it was nice an light but getting it started was a pill compared to the old cheap saw we had i forget the name of it
I have the ms251 woodboss 18" bar love it.
Absolutely brilliant video George right up my street 👌🏻 that hawksmore looks exactly like my parkside one I got in lidl for 100 quid I presume they must be the same just branded differently. For what it cost Cant really complain about its performance and it starts first time every time. Still use my little stihl ms170 for most jobs tho they can certainly pack a punch for their size 😂
I wouldn't be surprised if it's the same saw, seems a good bit of kit, I've had cheap stuff last for years, so don't always go for premium 👍
Almost all saws(including all Chinese saws) have Up to run and Down to stop, Except Stihl, who is reversed.(up=off)
*note: I hate Toggle switched on Chainsaws!!! Rockers are more efficient and less pron to damage/failure.
With the exception of Professional Chainsaw Clones(factory Copies) I have never understood the purpose of comparing chainsaws from China to Pro Grade Chainsaws that cost many times more, from Top brand Manufacturers.
They are not the same and their purpose is not the same.
One is for keeping things tidy or an emergency cleanup.
The other is for tending to Frequent cutting operations.
These are the things I consider when shopping for anything of this nature. What is its purpose?
Stihl....and other top manufacturers Chainsaws are Stellar and will last for years if taken care of.
That said, these cheaper saws can also last for years - If properly used and properly maintained.
Again - Purpose
If a Storm has uprooted a single Tree, the cheaper saw is a logical choice(even at 1 and done) as it will pay for itself on the first job and not drain the bank. The user will not see a need to spend on expensive repairs down the road since they are already so far ahead.
The Frequent User or professional Cannot take those risk. They are far more dependent on the equipment they purchase.
Thanks for a well laid out Video.
Happy Cutting!
Hi George, the chain on the stihl is toooo tight,that's why your slipping the clutch all the time....I personally would have put your £130 into a 500i or a husky 560xp or something like. Come on the start/stop wrong way round for starters and no spare parts backup.....scrap, with no pleasure cutting...sorry!!
Thanks George interesting vid.. Take care sir...
The main difference is usually spare parts, the stihl is pretty much infinitely rebuild able. You will probably struggle to find parts for the Hawksmoor other than service items.
Zenoah by any other name parts are available everywhere
That was my main concern with buying from a big box store, esp a store brand. Where would I get it serviced? and can I even GET parts for it, other than chains, bars, etc? I have dealers for both Stihl and Husqvarna within 3 miles of home, and another Stihl dealer 15 miles or so away. If my Toro battery saw breaks, I don't know where I'd take it. Parts ARE available from Toro however.
I always cheap and cheerful because when broke just go and buy another. I've had still and no better and very expensive.
Chainsaws don't like seasoned wood.
Great video very interesting wonder what the parts availability is like on the cheap saw, suppose at that price you don’t bother repairing it just throw it away and get another one.
No doubt it'll be more difficult than getting Stihl parts. Cross that bridge when it comes 👍
Hi George, just found this video. very interesting piece of kit. Days gone buy you had no choice but to buy expensive, now you have a choice. Any update on the Hawksmoor?.
I filmed an update a little while ago, I'll have to put it up👍
Sure lidel had one at 70 ish pounds be intresting how long theres would last
I've a 56cc Hyundai, it looks VERY similar to you howksmore , it's a beast compared to the previous 2 husquvarna and mikita, all of which proved very disappointing
Probably the same saw is available as various brands👍
I have a Hyundai Turbo 500, 52 cc and 20 inches, blue and black, i only payed for it around 50 USA dollars, new. 3 years and many gallons of fuel later still like new, I only bought it out of curiosity but it gained my full respect.
but a good show keep up the hard work
I prefer Stihl to any other brand, a friend of mine (chain saw expert) recommend not the genuine chains, he reckons the after market ones are better, any thoughts? How about a chain sharpening session?
Never tried after market chains, might have to get one and see👍
There exactly the same apart from the plastics a bit thinner all ur doing is paying for the brand
Keep the cheap one for the crap work that you don't want to trash a decent saw for.
I've got a never heard of brand that a friend gave me for free and its ideal for chopping tree roots and cutting up rotten wood that I don't want to stick my STIHL into.
Chains to tight on the sthil can hear the whine from the chain 😢
I always used stihl but now they use Chinese parts they aren't the same
Should have had a battery powered chainsaw to compare with the 2 petrol powered ones.
A batter saw would last 5 mins in oak
I have been considering getting the big DeWalt saw, I might still yet, they look good for a bit of light work 👍
Can you get spares George?
I had a cheap titan saw table years ago but couldn't replace anything.
That is something I've not tried yet, no doubt it'll be trickier than getting parts for the Stihl 👍
£130 is cheap for a chainsaw, but how much was it compared to the expensive one ?
Expensive one is about £600
Not a fair comparison at all. Get the same size blade and then it’ll be a fair comparison. Until next time peace ✌️
Judging from the writing on the bar, the Hawksmoor is running a narrower chain: .375". Stihl's typically run .5". That will make a difference in cutting speed, too- the narrower chain is cutting less wood, so isn't working the engine as hard. That's a real bummer of a manufacturing error. I wonder how many have been returned by irate owners who couldn't get them to start at all?
I ran into that difference, as well. I have 2 saws: a Stihl ms291, and a battery operated Toro. The Toro runs a .43 chain on a 16" bar. The Stihl a .5 on a 20" bar. I've found the Toro has an easier time cutting difficult wood, like old, dried out gnarly Ash crotches, or semi dry locust. (both woods shrink, and tighten up like a fist as they dry) It's a surprisingly good saw for the cheap price it cost me at the local Tractor Supply Company, and has cut a LOT of firewood for me. I bought the Stihl, both to get around the limited battery life problem, and because I was getting into really big wood- like what you have there.
As an aside, I like to cut nasty wood like that big oak into thick cookies like you did, as well. Multiple hearts, crotches, etc make handsplitting big rounds a real pain! Those shorter pieces bust up much easier! They're for a grill, anyway- so chunks are actually more ideal than the standard 16" pieces.
I would never buy another Stihl chainsaw. The new lines will last you as long as a block of butter in a furnace. Rubbish and don't waste your money. Get a Husky.
You can’t généralise like that. Extremely pleased with my MS462, a beast that does it all
We looked at the husky,but thought we'd stick with what we know, the 3 saws we've got have been great to be honest, time will tell how good the new one is👍
Depends wat ur doing the wee huskys need to be threw in the bin but the bigs 1s are good enough but stihl are good alround
If a stihl doesnt last you are obviously doing something wrong
Last as long as a block of butter classic my friend to be fair from cars to saws there all cheap rubbish now
Hard started.
Here's a video I made comparing a cheap (my neighbours saw) against my old Husqvarna, worth a watch! th-cam.com/video/x-_CSVZlIpM/w-d-xo.html
the vibration from the cheap one would fatigue you way quicker than a quality saw, all depends how much use you have for one and "buy cheap, buy twice"
I'll take a look Lamby 👌 that's the thing, the Stihl will definitely be easier to live with day to day, that's why we've got 3 of them. But for the odd bit of work and you don't want to spend hundreds, the cheap saw is maybe a possibility. I'll certainly be revisiting the question when I've done some work with the Hawksmoor 👍
you should let the saw heat up before cutting its not good for the saws been run cold
That's great, but it would have been a bit boring watching me stand there for 5 minutes letting the saw warm up👍
or let them worm up before you start the vid
Horses for courses so they reckon but I will say this, I bought a cheapo 3in1 strimmer with saw and trimmer attachments and for the occasional use it never fails to start or work correctly even if left for 12 months. Its bang on....👍
Same here, I've got a Titan 3 in 1, brilliant bit of kit, does everything I ask of it👍
Cant go wrong with Stihl, All my saw's, Strimmer and hedge sheers are all Stihl, would not bother with any other as they have Never let me down. I did start with a cheap brand but it ended up like Triggers broom...
Agree I've used stihl products for over 30 years very rarely have problems.
Hi George nice video . You start a chain saw with the chain break on.
I too thought the Hawksmoor gave the better cut by far. I have one of their self drive mowers and it is a no frills hare out of the gate. Shaved loads of mowing time off a couple of high brand mowers. I also have a BU KO chainsaw even cheaper than your Hawksmoor. Comes with a 16" and a 20" chainbar with 2 of each size of chain. Would love to have seen how that would have fared against your duo. I had to fettle the carb after a bit but it cuts great. thanks for sharing your results with us.
Cheap crap George awful build quality - stick to Stihl I say! You buy cheap you buy twice in my experience.
Hate them stihls always got into a sweat trying to start them and tended to have a fuel pipe collapse from tank to carb.needed changin every couple of years. Pro husky only option.
I don't like any of these saws, i prefer electric saw very easy and simple. Thanks for the video
It appeared to me that the cheap saw cut a little better than the Stihl. I do believe that the big difference between the two will be durability. The Stihl was built to last. Some cheap saws would more than likely last a long time as long as you don't run them too hard and take good care of them. Loggers us high quality saws for a reason. They cost a lot more, but they are worth it.
That Stihl will struggle with a bigger bar, I run Husqvarna xp saws, a forestry worker told me to always run a new saw in by removing the bar and chain, filling the fuel tank and letting it sit and run the full tank through.
To the average home owner it makes more sence to have a cheap saw sitting in the garage most of the year so these cheap tools do have a place for the right customer , dos it say were it was made George any stamps on the engine etc, really enjoyed that great video.
I agree mate, no point having an expensive tool sat there doing nothing. The saw is Chinese made including the engine, but it does have an Oregon bar which is good 👍
the pull start wont last you long you shouldnt drop start the easy start saws.
@@GeorgeSaunders
Great video 👍Chain is too tight by a half turn on the stihl by the sound of it George. Years ago I had Stihl MS260’s, and they just ate crank seals working daily on that kind of timber. Went to a new MS441, 70cc, didn’t miss a beat. Now just sold it and bought a new MS500i in October, which is just pure chainsaw pornography.
Everybody keeps saying the 500i is pure filth!😂
Horses for courses, if you’re regularly using it and can justify 500+ then yep go for the good warranty and backup but if it’s an occasional use use for firewood delimbing or emergency storm clearing and can’t justify the price choose something cheaper but regardless of which you choose husbandry and maintenance will go a long way to keeping them going
Exactly Neil 👍
Me at my tree job every day running ms462,and a ms661 watching a video about a ms251, me very interesting lol
😂
The health and safety brigade,in the office,insisted I wore stihl gloves!!Of course in the field left them in the pick up!!Did you notice a vibration difference?My hands are like claws now,vibration white finger??🤔😭😄👍
That is something I didn't mention, definitely more vibration from the cheap saw! You'd know it by the end of the day👍
Liking the vid. I went down the plug in electric mode years ago.... sound posh now but electric saw and a 3 pin plug🤣. Still using it after 15 years. Better chain and bars make all the difference. I prefer also having the use of a generator for any occasion that might kill the mains power. Stay safe 🏴
There's a lot to be said for a mains powered saw👍 how's the ol' 87 going mate?
@@GeorgeSaunders evening sir. The 87 is being very patient with me 😔🙄. Iv not been working on it for a while but Swinnerton tractors have shown the most interest and help in supplying me with any parts required. So it back to me to make sure I order all the right seals etc. Missing the old girls grunt. My day job is busy and eating into available time but I'm also thinking of doing some cab work sound depending before and after etc in future. ..
The cheap brand made it look easy
251 is one of Stihls "homeowner" grade saws. 261 is where it's at. This was a fun comparison to watch though. Not many guys bury 45cc saws in huge hardwood.