Kudos for a crisp and clear review format. Effective at conveying the pertinent information without wasting my time. I hope you’ll continue along these lines. Thanks.
What? This had to be the most objective and efficient review I HAVE EVER WATCHED. LIKE WATCHING A PRO ON TOPGEAR. You captured EVERYTHING important with highlights and no waste of time. Extremely efficient. Because of your review, my own indecision has tipped me to the STIHL ms 261-C (or CM). I would be interested to know how it goes for MRO (Maintenace/Repair/Operation) over the next while. But you can’t go wrong with a good HUSKY or STIHL dealer. ECHO in Canada is mostly slower support, except if you have a Shindaiwa dealer as they are with Echo. 👍
Femalelumberjack I would follow your lead in to the woods to fell trees any day. I mean that with respect; anyone who can “sling” two chainsaws like they were colt & Smith & Wesson has my respect (even if one does slip down (Husky)...
I cut live oak and mesquite, my Stihls hold up to the abuse of these woods. I keep extra oil/fuel caps for my Stihls, a complex design that does work to keep the tanks sealed. At the end of the day, local dealer parts is what makes your choice to a brand. Fair review, thank you.
The 261c is a fantastic saw. Amazing power to weight ratio. I did all of my chainsaw exams with a 261. I thought it was fantastic. I do agree that all Stihl fuel and oil caps are inconveniences. They have been that way for over a decade. Time for an upgrade. Fantastic comparison of the saw. I subbed after I watched this.
Thanks for the great video and real world comparisons. I’m in the Pacific NW region of the US and my heart just sinks for so many areas around the world when I hear how much chainsaws cost and I feel grateful and spoiled to live where I do. That being said I’m a cheap guy and I never buy my saws new either. I am not a professional but I’ve used saws quite a bit off and on in my life and it’s really more of a hobby now. I have a few from all 3 brands and have likes and dislikes on all of them but I’d say you can’t really go too wrong with any of these three. Thanks to all you professionals out there, we appreciate what you do! Be Kind. Aaron
Nice comparison of saws. Any of them would be a winner. I’ve had my Echo 510 EV since 1989 and the only mod was opening the exhaust up bit. Echo always chokes the exhaust too much. With an 18” bar, it handles it as well as some other saws that are a little bigger. I’ve changed the spark plug a couple times and that’s it. I’ll take a simple on/off switch anytime.
thats very strange the 3 261's we have at work all 3 seem to have something wrong with them all the time. We have one thats only a couple of years old and is on its last legs. All huskys are heavier but last much longer. 261's seem so cheap and plastic like and brake very easy
Far and away the most detailed, informative, and well laid video I’ve seen of someone reviewing chainsaws, since I’ve been researching buying a new one. Also thank you for reviewing saws that are actually comparable to one another, and not “hey let’s compare this Dewalt battery one to a commercial Stihl...” like wtf people
because of her review i will go with the 261. for some reason the stihls are so well balanced. they feel right in your hands its quite difficult to explain. its a well balanced and well built saw.
This is the best comparison video I've seen on TH-cam.....more please :) Funny the price difference is that much, over here the Husqvarna is cheaper, wonder why. AND In that first can push on that husky a bit more, didn't hear "pressure" on it :) Also you bring up a point, "specs" aren't everything. Your commentary on weight & perception based on "feel" is something that really important and often not elaborated on as you did. Thank you for building this video. :)
We cut 8 full cords in one day with 3 different saws at 9,000 feet in Colorado in the fall. They all seemed to perform well until it was time to re-fuel; The Husky and Stihl did not start easily, requiring several pulls up to nine.The Echo started after 2 pulls. .
Great video. I appreciate how you provided a wholistic review based on your use case. I do residential/commercial arboriculture, and day to day I”m alternating between limb walking brushy trees for pruning jobs, to rope/crane/bucket accessed red oak removals. As a climber, I get passed around to different crews and have realized the benefits of maintaining my own 18V hatchet pruning saw. After nearly failing a crane job due to company saw drama, i decided I needed to maintain my own aerial removal saw and purchased an Echo 501P with 18in. Bar. As a consumer, my saw lost the class race, but as a pro in the real world, the 18V hatchet has put some heat on the 201T niche as a ‘trim saw’. With 40% more displacement and only 20% more weight than a 201T, I would be surprised if any top handle saw can touch the 501P in a cookie race or power/weight ratio. Dyno Joe’s recent 50cc lineup showed the 501P powerhead at nearly 1/2lb lighter than the 261 when full. Recently, I discovered I can fit both an 18V hatchet and 501P in a an aerial bucket. For a recent red oak removal, I carried a hatchet for single handing and a 501P for double handing -Neat!
I've been a boots on the ground logger here in the USA for going on 20 years now and have ran mostly Stihl and Husqvarna saws, while I have tried off shoot brands from time to time I keep coming back to what performs best day in day out and the Stihl and Husqvarna saws just can't be beat period hands down. Yes Stihl went through a period where the quality dropped off and prices went up but they are fixing that problem, I used Jonsereds (when they were still made in Sweden and not owned by Husqvarna) and loved the simplicity of their saws, no nonsense just a saw that worked and was not for the weak or meek or weekend Firewood cutter....when they tried to compete in that homeowner/weekend warrior market is when they got into trouble. But even in those days I still had a Stihl or 2 in my Truck....just in case. It's only been in the recent past that now you will find NOTHING but Husqvarna and Stihl saws in my arsenal of saws. I'm not trying to be a know it all or big shot either...this is simply one loggers opinion from 20+ years of Falling timber in the Pine, Fir and Spruce covered Mountains of the American West.
Just thought I would add this one last thing. I just today bought another Husqvarna as my main Husqvarna had to go to the shop for the very first time in 5 years of day in day out use felling Spruce, Fir and Ponderosa Pine. I bought a brand new 550XP MK II. Since its square in the middle of the right bar length.....(18"-20"- 24") with the lighter weight .325 - 050 Pixel Chain and Bar combo that performs like 3/8" - 050 X-cut with a Pro Lite Bar.....let's just say I was able to use our Son's 550XP MK II this morning for a few hours while he ran our Skidder for us, and I was sold !...he has his in the 18" Bar Length and loves it....I bought mine that came with 20" Pixel Bar n Chain but I also bought an extra 24" Pixel bar and a spool of .325" Pixel Chain (so I can make up what ever length chains we need) and I can hardly wait to get to work in the Morning and get the Saw in some wood. So light....so we'll balanced even at 24" it fits your hands perfectly. (I know the recommended Max length is 20" but this thing, with what little testing I did here at home this early evening on some 3 yr dry, old, hard as nails, Ponderosa Pine, Rock solid, Stump ends that are at the small end 36" across .......this little 550 MK II Handled it like it was a 16" Saw Cutting green Fir.....WOW....SUPER IMPRESSED WITH THIS LITTLE SAW...feels just like..A SMALLER COPY REALLY OF MY new 572 XP and that is impressive to say the least. Make no mistake I am not trumping up one brand over the other and I hear Stihl has a new Saw they are trying in the European Market first the 400 C I think it's called has a Titanium Cylinder or Piston.... something like that but anyway the first reports are really REALLY GOOD and I have my local Saw Dealer that I buy from already has me lined up to try one as soon as they become available here in the USA.....just so nobody gets to thinking I am a walking advertisement for Husqvarna over Another Brand.... The only loyalty I have is to the saw that works and lasts.
What an AWESOME review! I loved every second of this. Your camera work is outstanding, and yes I do realize how much time this takes to produce from my own channel. GREAT job and cheers from Canada....
@@Femalelumberjack I have to say the MS 261 is the best! I have one myself always starts always reliable don’t get me wrong husky is a great saw we had two of them in the past but Stihl is the king! My 261 is extremely easy to use my dad taught me how to use a chainsaw on the 261 to this day I am still using it five years later
Nice video. I've not used the Echo cs-501sx. I've got a Husky 550xp mk2 and Stihl MS 261 (refresh version - which is the one you have in the video). I like both saws and, despite using them extensively, I still can't decide which is better; my view is that you can't make a bad choice between these two.
i've had my echo for over 10 years, just use it around the house and camping sometimes, the model number is the cs400 it's an 18 inch ,, , i've not had any issues
Echos tend to have their carb set a little lean from the factory in my opinion. Tweak the high a little maybe a quarter turn after u remove the plastic restriction caps👍 also maybe a Stihl chain would make it cut smoother. If it has a full chisel chain it might be why its cutting rough. Their all good saws tho. I own stihl and echo and in my opinion echo is underrated.
@@GripFreak the way I made the determination was by cutting with it. And the procedure I used was tweaking the high jet back and forth about 1/16 of a turn until it started cutting better. I played around with the low jet also but I'm pretty sure I left it where it was. Gotta take those restrictor caps off first tho👍
@@GripFreakIf you listen carefully when she tested from cold start, you can actually hear the chainsaw bugging down and struggling to reach a high speed because a lack of fuel, this is a sign that it might be too lean as the cold air is more dense.
I agree I have a Ms 261 but was looking at a 501 both seem like great saws I also think echo takes a while to break in I chose the 261 cause of my dealer having the huge computer to do the m tronics I think there awesome if you have a dealer close by with one
Thank you for the great review. I have Husky big saws, stihl top handle saws and echo top handle, blowers and pole saws. It's all good gear...just a matter of "feel" personal taste, and logistics.... I found the MS 362 to feel lighter than the 562xp but the opposite was true. My BIG problem with Stihl was that you had to go to their "authorized dealer" to get anything...that is changing but in the mean time I invested in Husky where I could get any parts I wanted. Thanks again
Recently bought the echo. I am a sthil guy. But the echo performed really good. And yes it's the bar length. For what it's worth echo did well for me on this particular saw. Not on the climbing saws but this one is good.
This is so timely that I found this video. As I had mentioned before, I'm a relatively new subscriber, so I'm going back and watching all of your old videos. I'm just in the process now of evaluating this exact class of saw. One suggestion I might have for future reviews is to make the review based on how much usage you are going to be giving the saw, homeowner versus land management versus professional daily use.👍
Yep, luckily I'm surrounded by Stihl and Husq dealerships, but I chose the Stihl 261 since it felt right in my hands and about a hair lighter than 550.
I've had a lot of trouble with Stihl oil caps until I found the one simple solution. Do not overfill the tank. If you use a Stihl self fill cap on your combi-can it stops filling at just the right height for the cap to work flawlessly. Too full and screwing the cap down creates pressure and the cap pops back off. Leave a little space and everything seems okay.
I talked to the head mechanic at the local saw repair shop a couple of months ago. He said that the Echo’s that are made in Japan rarely come in for repairs, only the occasional end of season tune up or chain sharpening. He recommended those over any other brand. Interesting input. So far my little Stihl has done well for me but I am still deciding on a new bigger saw.
I would wager he sees fewer Echo's in the shop because there are far more Huskys and Stihls out there getting way more work on them compared to Echos, which I are more of a homeowner brand. So him seeing more saws come into the shop of one brand is a fairly worthless metric unless you're also measuring how many saws are out there being used, and how many work-hours are being put on each of those saws.
Does yours bog down when cutting larger trees? I have a 261CM and Husky 562XP and I get irritated with my 261CM when cutting larger logs. It's also a gas hog. I like the size and feel though, and I usually will use it for limbing. I also find it way more predictable than my Husky.
I've used the 550XP and own an MS261C. Both have developed running/stalling/starting issues after a year or so of use. I also own a 562XP and have had zero issues. Currently, my 261C stalls constantly at idle. It's also a hard starter. I maintain my saws, so that's not an issue. I've ordered a new fuel solenoid for around $50 so we'll see if that solves the problem.
Thanks for a great review. And thanks for being one of the very few TH-cam chainsaw people who actually wears full protection! That really irritates me in other videos is seeing people just wearing only hearing protection, no chaps/face shield or helmet. As a doctor I’ve seen too many people who decided protective gear wasn’t cool in the emergency department. (it’s never good when a patient arrives on 2 stretchers).. your cuts seemed incredibly smooth (mine always have tiny ridges in a fan shape from where the saw entered). Yours look like a little sanding and you can use them for carving blanks. And I love your cat looking around clearly asking “who the hell is she talking to?’
Awesome review! I've been looking into all these saws for awhile and this was the most informative non bias review I've seen. Also as some others said very pleasant to watch you miss.😊
The $74 difference will more than make up for itself after one season in fuel cost. I know a .3 litre per hour difference doesn't seem like much but it is a lot. Husqvarna is the same saw as the Stihl it just costs less to operate while still producing essentially the same result. Over 10 seasons you could buy two more of them in the fuel money you had saved.
Hi, nice video. I had 2 stihl 026 for 25 years and just loved them. If I had not fall a tree one one of them it would last for ever as the other 026, still working great. Bought a new 261C and expected it to last as long. After 3 years of cutting firewood it brake down with crankshaft failure. No guarantee as I used shell oil and mixed as I used with 026 saws. Stihl told me I was to blame not using stihls own gas with motomixoil. That told me new stihlsaws are not so good and durable as the old once. Just my experience with stihl 261c and the stihl company in Norway.
I like that echo doesn't have a see through tank. I'm getting old and out of shape, gives me a chance to pretend like I'm checking the gas and oil sometimes (so I can get a drink and a breath when the 20 year olds are Stihl working). Bahahahaha
You come across very well lots of in depth analysis and well laid out information, not just blatant product placement. Well done young lady. I would use your review if available before purchasing any chainsaw product. You are spot on in relation to the Stihl fuel/oil caps over engineered crap.
Great video! I've had 261 for a year now, a MS251 and MS170 for several. with that being said, obviously a STIHL guy... but loved this review. Very intrigued by that 550....
I have a MS170, 2- MS181 and a MS251C most of them have the easy start and tool less chain covers a bonus for when your out in the woods. No tool chain adjustments and you never have to pull your shoulder out of socket to get it started. Best thing you can buy for any saw is a Stihl 2in1 sharpener
That was good to see thank you for the video. Right now in the UK I am still using a 346xp which has been an excellent chainsaw. I am looking at buying a 550xp soon. I also own a 372xp which I use for larger trees. Thank you.
Great reviews! Stihl would sell a LOT of saws if they ran the shot at 14:35 in an ad. ;) In the U.S. and maybe other places Echo has a discount program for pros if you buy $2,500/year. With Echos already competitive pricing and the discount it makes their saws very hard to beat imo. Quality has been great and we have found they open up once broken in a bit and benefit from a carb adjust.
Newcomer and manager of a timberland estate, I do love my late 80s model 181 husky. It's a back breaker however. Bought a 450 for light duty stuff. Great video
So many people turn a bind eye to the Echo's lol. From what I've seen the echo's are severely lacking due to factory tunes for EPA regulations. A re tune wakes these things up. Was a husky guy forever, went out and got an Echo on the fly when I was in a pinch and I've been sold since then. Even if you never retune, They start. Every. Time. Slower cut I can deal with as long as it starts every time. People always poke they on off toggle switch. I get it, but I love it haha. Less is more!
I cut trees for a living and have been doing it for well over 20 years. I switched to Echo years ago because their saws last longer, they're cheaper and can take the abuse. Stihl is over engineered and over priced. My girlfriend works at a Stihl plant and she tells me stories of all the things they are told to let pass in order to make quota. I haven't bought a newer Husky in a long time so I can't speak about their quality, but price wise they're neck and neck with Stihl and I have an entire shed full of broken Husky XP pros saws. One of complaints from this woman is the old school on/off switch and choke, but that's exactly what makes them dependable and easy to work on.
Same here, switched to Echo years ago and haven't looked back. Echo saws always start and are very reliable. No surprise here that she picked the Stihl, I think she has an endorsement.
People have stihl saws that are 30 years old. I think best way to make a decision is to look at professional loggers. What are they using? Stihl and husky. One thing I know…. True professionals arm themselves with the best tools because their livelihood depends on it
@@richardfuerst5286 My girlfriend has worked at that plant for over 10 years, and you don't know what goes on behind the scenes there. Here's something you don't know. Stihl bought the company that was making their carburetors, so they make their own now, but they know they're sh*t. They openly admit it among themselves, but they have to meet quotas so they keep sending them out. There are other things too that they let slide, because "the customer won't care". And when it breaks in a year, you can go pay another premium price to get it fixed at one of their authorized dealers. I will say the pay is good, as well as the benefits.
@@sticks7971 Their saws don't see the abuse residential tree services do. They make 3 cuts and the tree is on the ground. Big deal. A Craftsman chainsaw would last 15 years under those conditions.
I had 3 stihls--194-261-and a 201 and I got tired of all 3 not starting after they got warm--No dealers could fix them where they would start back till the next day. I got rid of all 3 of them and bought Echo saws. They run and start flawless. They are great saws.
The bar length has nothing to do with the chain speed. The sprocket still drives the chain at the same velocity, regardless of bar size (friction will have virtually no effect at that bar length). The Echo is simply a lower powered, slower saw. As for the slight weight difference between the Stihl and Husky, I think you’ll find the Stihl has a larger fuel tank. From the manufacturers specs, the Stihl is lighter than the Husky (head only, no bar). In fact the Stihl 261 has the highest horsepower to weight ratio of any saw in its class. Both the Stihl and Husky you tested are “pro” saws in their model lineup. I own the Stihl, my brother has the Husky, and they’re both excellent saws for those that want professional quality.
Me I'm a husky guy. And the echoes are good saws but there not pro saws like the sthils and huskys are. I have a Husqvarna 450 rancher with a 20 inch bar and I love it. I just ordered a Husqvarna x cut full chisel chain for it and I'm hoping it will improve the cutting proformance of my saw.
@@Femalelumberjack the echo CS 501 SX, echo CS362TES (top handle chainsaw) and the echo CS 550. I also use the stihl ms 151t, stihl ms 162, stihl ms 362 and the stihl ms 462. Great saws! Thanks for asking, new subscriber from England.
Beautiful and knowledgeable about chainsaws, what more could a guy ask for😁 I'm a Stihl guy, 3rd generation Stihl user. I have a 261 and love it. I have owned 2 Husqvarnas. The dealer network for them where I live is very poor. I'm not sure that echo is in the same class as Stihl or Husqvarna. I don't have any experience with them other than looking at them at a dealer. The dealer network for echo is not good either. There are Stihl dealers everywhere here and I have one that treats me good. If you look at dyno Joe's videos you will see were he did a 50cc dyno video. The Husqvarna kicked butt with 4.5hp, 60cc saw hp.
I'm a Stihl nut. I owned a couple Husky's, 1 - Echo, but fell in love with my steal of a Stihl. I picked up a MS250 for $50 8 years ago and it still chews up wood like a pig eatin slop. I have since added a 361(traded for a 046, I rescued and rebuilt) and 180c to cover most of my needs. Thinking of upgrading to the newer 500i in the near future.
@@martincm8683, open up the restrictions in the muffler. The limiter caps prevent you from adjusting the carburetor very much. If you take them out you can actually tune it rather than just tweak it a little.
Lovely and very informative video....I love all these saws to tell you the truth but I have grown to love my Stihls . Very good video and I love the background. Very peaceful looking. Thx for your efforts 👍🏻
Great review!! 550xp mark II or Stihl 261CM are both great choices. Echo if money is tight is not a bad choice either. Great to have options depending on price/dealer location/repair support.
I ran both, 261 cm and 550 xp, The Stihl has a little bit more power, the husqy trumps up with slightly more agility. I like to work with Both of them, they are absolutely equal.
For checking weight, yes add the bar and chain. But dont think its fair to fill with oil and gas. This could make the one with larger tanks appear heavier, when really the extra weight of more oil and gas for a longer run time may be what people want. If in use the wight of oil and gas is a deciding factor, then get a smaller saw.
I was running this saw for about 2 hours at about a 30-50% duty cycle th-cam.com/users/postUgkxfQm1wmg0ItKDLavxj1nXtQY9HP7EF504 and it did a great job. I used the lever for the built in sharpener to clear chip buildup out more than to actually sharpen the chain. It managed to cut some hardwood stumps much larger than it's size without bothering the neighbors with hours of 2 stroke noise.
You make me wanna get a 261c! What a great saw!! Thanks for this video I really like the 501 but it’s underpowered until it’s ported. The 501 should come with 3kw power from the factory especially with that price tag.
Great vid ! Improving Edition skills ! Now, regarding review, one important factor that rarely is spoken. After buy Support: (1) how is store network ? Is there one near you? (2) Parts availability (3) Genuine Parts price (4) Time to deliver replacements (5) Overall support. I love Huskys, but for example around my house I've three Sthil representatives. I'll never buy expensive equipment without good support. By the way I've tested the 3 stores for different reasons and I've peace of mind that I can go with my truck over my Sthil and next morning is been taking care in one of these dealers. Cheers ! And thank you.
I get mad at stihl when they won't sell me parts for the older saws. "No that's discontinued" I hear that alot. I like your comparison of saws as they sell them to you!
I mean saws from to 70s and 80s. They're still good! Oh well the chinese make parts for them. I hate to use them but I'm not gonna chuck my saws if I can't get an air filter or something minor like that.
Thanks for the review, good to see them all together. After much research, handling, and consideration, and despite currently owning a number of Stihl products and a Jonsered, and seriously considering the two Europeans, I've ordered the Echo. I just couldn't convince myself on the other two. The Huskie feels heavy and awkward, the Stihl nice but I don't like those caps on my other gear, and the m-tronic just doesn't sit easy with me. Significantly lighter, significantly cheaper, longer warranty, simple Japanese quality, professional grade saw which is nice and compact and which seems to me to have all of the upsides and none of the downsides of the others for a careful owner user. That switch btw is as natural as heck to flick to off when needed, particularly in a hurry- what is Stihl thinking with awkward thumb up to off? From all accounts once they are worn in they perform much the same as the others- give or take which makes little difference to me. Thanks again.
Well done girl very comprehensive review of all three saws. Found it interesting as I have only run StiHL saws. Started with them and stuck to them. Have Ms261c and it is a good workhorse. Good job.👍
Dolmar 5105 is the best saw for the price in the 50cc class imo, if i didnt care about money, i would go for the husqvarna in my private inventory aswell
I've run Stihl and Husqy's for work and I just never cared for the stihl saws. I felt they lacked power in comparison to Husqvarna's but that's just me. Great review!
Echo are the way to go for homeowners because of the long warranty. That being said get a 620p. As for me I mostly run husqvarna but I have one stihl I like. It took me getting a port job done to like a stihl. From the factory they are all so restricted!
Hi there. I have both the Stihl 261cm and the Echo 501sx. I can tell you with my saws, the Echo took about 10 tanks to run in. The stihl only needed about 5 tanks. The Stihl didn't pick up much power once run in, but the Echo picked up alot. I also did a muffler mod on both saws, the Stihl picked up a small amount. But it was definitely noticeable. The Echo however, After a muffler mod and 10 tanks of fuel it turned into an amazing saw. I could not believe how much improvement I got from the Echo after a muffler mod. I honestly feel that the Echo is all but on par with the Stihl after the muffler mod and run in time. Hope this helps some people
It was the same with archery gear. Get the bow that felt just right in your hand. Same with the saws you going to be working with all day. Loved the video. Wish you good health with this virus😘
Just purchased Echo 501, seems like the bar oil runs out the bottom (when not in use) quicker than I can pour it in! the top! Otherwise I think it has potential, however after almost two tanks of fuel, I can't say much good or bad just yet. Such a beautiful lady doing a great review...thank you .🍺 🥨 🍺
Had a play with an MS 261 and a 550 XP today I think the Husqvarna is the better made saw in terms of quality. The 04 light 050 bar in my opinion does not cut quicker than the 058 full chisel chan on the Husqvarna. Love your videos 😀
My son and I have a wide variety of saws. Stihl MS162 (free), MS194T, MS251, MS271. Echo CS590, CS4910, CS310. Husqy 345. Im slowly being won over by Stihl......but I still love my 590....tuned it and put on a less restricted exhaust....that thing is an animal.
Femalelumberjack I just picked up the CS 4510 to replace one of my old intermediate saws. Absolutely love it so far considering I’ve primarily purchased the Husky’s in the past. Nice thing about this model is the ignition was redesigned so it’s always on until you push it to kill the engine. Either way really well done video with lots of good info.
Great review... But did you prime the husky on the cold start test? Mine usually cranks on first or second pull, but only when primed. The Stihl doesn't have a priming bulb.
) like stihl dont need tool to remove bar . Easier to maintain carb and air filter. ) I like Echo saws owned them too. You feel pins and needles Vibration through handle . Husky..yip got one..too many plastic parts that could break. Not easy to maintain carb and air filter. Good informative vid. _Thank you_ *Pleased you choose sthil*
Why am I watching this vid? I have three stihl saws, a 200T, OLD 066 with a 36 inch bar and an oldie but goodie 038 magnum II. I guess I just like watching saw videos 😎
Good job on the comparisson.I am using an Echo CS 501 SX and a CS 620 SX.Echo saws gain a lot after some tanks of fuel.My 501 wake up after the 10th tank,like 20% more power so give it some more running time.Also Echo saws gain a lot from a muffler mod(501 and 490 are the easiest saws to mod the muffler) so another 20% for sure.Then you can compare them,a fully broken in,muffler modded 501 sx would be the fastest saw of the three.Just saying.
I love my 261 cm vw. Enough power no stalling Indeed the oilcap is annoying. But I never wanna change it to an husqvarna. I hate husqvarna saws I’m a stihl guy but there are enough guys that love husky saws
When it comes to a 50-60 cc saw I'm Husqvarna all the way. I just prefer the weight, balance, and power/torque over other brands. I can't speak about the 550xp, but I've owned a few 562xp saws n the power is phenomenal! I just wish they had a bit more longevity. Now when it comes to a top handle saw, I'm stihl all the way! The power, weight and ergonomics are 2nd to none.
Kudos for a crisp and clear review format. Effective at conveying the pertinent information without wasting my time. I hope you’ll continue along these lines. Thanks.
What?
This had to be the most objective and efficient review I HAVE EVER WATCHED. LIKE WATCHING A PRO ON TOPGEAR. You captured EVERYTHING important with highlights and no waste of time. Extremely efficient. Because of your review, my own indecision has tipped me to the STIHL ms 261-C (or CM). I would be interested to know how it goes for MRO (Maintenace/Repair/Operation) over the next while. But you can’t go wrong with a good HUSKY or STIHL dealer. ECHO in Canada is mostly slower support, except if you have a Shindaiwa dealer as they are with Echo. 👍
Thank you! Much appreciated
Femalelumberjack I would follow your lead in to the woods to fell trees any day. I mean that with respect; anyone who can “sling” two chainsaws like they were colt & Smith & Wesson has my respect (even if one does slip down (Husky)...
I cut live oak and mesquite, my Stihls hold up to the abuse of these woods. I keep extra oil/fuel caps for my Stihls, a complex design that does work to keep the tanks sealed. At the end of the day, local dealer parts is what makes your choice to a brand. Fair review, thank you.
To me thes comparisons are just ford to Chevy. Rival brands and preference
The 261c is a fantastic saw. Amazing power to weight ratio. I did all of my chainsaw exams with a 261. I thought it was fantastic. I do agree that all Stihl fuel and oil caps are inconveniences. They have been that way for over a decade. Time for an upgrade. Fantastic comparison of the saw. I subbed after I watched this.
th-cam.com/video/UF72q0CCM_M/w-d-xo.html
Thanks for the great video and real world comparisons. I’m in the Pacific NW region of the US and my heart just sinks for so many areas around the world when I hear how much chainsaws cost and I feel grateful and spoiled to live where I do. That being said I’m a cheap guy and I never buy my saws new either. I am not a professional but I’ve used saws quite a bit off and on in my life and it’s really more of a hobby now. I have a few from all 3 brands and have likes and dislikes on all of them but I’d say you can’t really go too wrong with any of these three. Thanks to all you professionals out there, we appreciate what you do!
Be Kind.
Aaron
I've had my 261c for a year now and it's probably favorite tool I've ever owned
Nice comparison of saws. Any of them would be a winner. I’ve had my Echo 510 EV since 1989 and the only mod was opening the exhaust up bit. Echo always chokes the exhaust too much. With an 18” bar, it handles it as well as some other saws that are a little bigger. I’ve changed the spark plug a couple times and that’s it. I’ll take a simple on/off switch anytime.
261c is my go to saw at work and has never let me down, Iv also got an older 261 and still runs like a champ!
thats very strange the 3 261's we have at work all 3 seem to have something wrong with them all the time. We have one thats only a couple of years old and is on its last legs. All huskys are heavier but last much longer. 261's seem so cheap and plastic like and brake very easy
I own several Echo's and I never knew you could use the rope handle to open the oil cap. THANK YOU.
No problem:)
Me too! Thank you very much
No she said the scrench but I see she was holding rope.
About as clear as mud!!
@@oakiewoodsman me too, good info to have
Far and away the most detailed, informative, and well laid video I’ve seen of someone reviewing chainsaws, since I’ve been researching buying a new one. Also thank you for reviewing saws that are actually comparable to one another, and not “hey let’s compare this Dewalt battery one to a commercial Stihl...” like wtf people
Thank you
because of her review i will go with the 261. for some reason the stihls are so well balanced. they feel right in your hands its quite difficult to explain. its a well balanced and well built saw.
Or you get people reviewing saws not even near their range like a 45 cc saw vs a 65 cc saw. of course the 65 cc is gonna outperform by miles.
Peace and love from Atlanta Georgia. Still rocking my Husqvarna 246XP since 1999 next saw will be the 550XP ;-)
This is the best comparison video I've seen on TH-cam.....more please :) Funny the price difference is that much, over here the Husqvarna is cheaper, wonder why. AND In that first can push on that husky a bit more, didn't hear "pressure" on it :) Also you bring up a point, "specs" aren't everything. Your commentary on weight & perception based on "feel" is something that really important and often not elaborated on as you did. Thank you for building this video. :)
We cut 8 full cords in one day with 3 different saws at 9,000 feet in Colorado in the fall. They all seemed to perform well until it was time to re-fuel; The Husky and Stihl did not start easily, requiring several pulls up to nine.The Echo started after 2 pulls. .
I've had the same experience. The echo always seems to start better. My thoughts are why choose get one of each.
Great video. I appreciate how you provided a wholistic review based on your use case. I do residential/commercial arboriculture, and day to day I”m alternating between limb walking brushy trees for pruning jobs, to rope/crane/bucket accessed red oak removals. As a climber, I get passed around to different crews and have realized the benefits of maintaining my own 18V hatchet pruning saw. After nearly failing a crane job due to company saw drama, i decided I needed to maintain my own aerial removal saw and purchased an Echo 501P with 18in. Bar. As a consumer, my saw lost the class race, but as a pro in the real world, the 18V hatchet has put some heat on the 201T niche as a ‘trim saw’. With 40% more displacement and only 20% more weight than a 201T, I would be surprised if any top handle saw can touch the 501P in a cookie race or power/weight ratio. Dyno Joe’s recent 50cc lineup showed the 501P powerhead at nearly 1/2lb lighter than the 261 when full. Recently, I discovered I can fit both an 18V hatchet and 501P in a an aerial bucket. For a recent red oak removal, I carried a hatchet for single handing and a 501P for double handing -Neat!
I've been a boots on the ground logger here in the USA for going on 20 years now and have ran mostly Stihl and Husqvarna saws, while I have tried off shoot brands from time to time I keep coming back to what performs best day in day out and the Stihl and Husqvarna saws just can't be beat period hands down. Yes Stihl went through a period where the quality dropped off and prices went up but they are fixing that problem, I used Jonsereds (when they were still made in Sweden and not owned by Husqvarna) and loved the simplicity of their saws, no nonsense just a saw that worked and was not for the weak or meek or weekend Firewood cutter....when they tried to compete in that homeowner/weekend warrior market is when they got into trouble. But even in those days I still had a Stihl or 2 in my Truck....just in case.
It's only been in the recent past that now you will find NOTHING but Husqvarna and Stihl saws in my arsenal of saws. I'm not trying to be a know it all or big shot either...this is simply one loggers opinion from 20+ years of Falling timber in the Pine, Fir and Spruce covered Mountains of the American West.
Just thought I would add this one last thing. I just today bought another Husqvarna as my main Husqvarna had to go to the shop for the very first time in 5 years of day in day out use felling Spruce, Fir and Ponderosa Pine.
I bought a brand new 550XP MK II.
Since its square in the middle of the right bar length.....(18"-20"- 24") with the lighter weight .325 - 050 Pixel Chain and Bar combo that performs like 3/8" - 050 X-cut with a Pro Lite Bar.....let's just say I was able to use our Son's 550XP MK II this morning for a few hours while he ran our Skidder for us, and I was sold !...he has his in the 18" Bar Length and loves it....I bought mine that came with 20" Pixel Bar n Chain but I also bought an extra 24" Pixel bar and a spool of .325" Pixel Chain (so I can make up what ever length chains we need) and I can hardly wait to get to work in the Morning and get the Saw in some wood. So light....so we'll balanced even at 24" it fits your hands perfectly. (I know the recommended Max length is 20" but this thing, with what little testing I did here at home this early evening on some 3 yr dry, old, hard as nails, Ponderosa Pine, Rock solid, Stump ends that are at the small end 36" across .......this little 550 MK II Handled it like it was a 16" Saw Cutting green Fir.....WOW....SUPER IMPRESSED WITH THIS LITTLE SAW...feels just like..A SMALLER COPY REALLY OF MY new 572 XP and that is impressive to say the least.
Make no mistake I am not trumping up one brand over the other and I hear Stihl has a new Saw they are trying in the European Market first the 400 C I think it's called has a Titanium Cylinder or Piston.... something like that but anyway the first reports are really REALLY GOOD and I have my local Saw Dealer that I buy from already has me lined up to try one as soon as they become available here in the USA.....just so nobody gets to thinking I am a walking advertisement for Husqvarna over Another Brand....
The only loyalty I have is to the saw that works and lasts.
What an AWESOME review! I loved every second of this. Your camera work is outstanding, and yes I do realize how much time this takes to produce from my own channel. GREAT job and cheers from Canada....
Thank you much appreciated!
@@Femalelumberjack I have to say the MS 261 is the best! I have one myself always starts always reliable don’t get me wrong husky is a great saw we had two of them in the past but Stihl is the king! My 261 is extremely easy to use my dad taught me how to use a chainsaw on the 261 to this day I am still using it five years later
Türkçe bilen yokmmmmmmmmmmu
V
@@Femalelumberjack 140 psi 372xp good compression?
Nice video. I've not used the Echo cs-501sx. I've got a Husky 550xp mk2 and Stihl MS 261 (refresh version - which is the one you have in the video). I like both saws and, despite using them extensively, I still can't decide which is better; my view is that you can't make a bad choice between these two.
Thanks! I agree 550xp mark II and ms261c are both great saws and the design seem to be the only real difference
i've had my echo for over 10 years, just use it around the house and camping sometimes, the model number is the cs400 it's an 18 inch ,, , i've not had any issues
Echos tend to have their carb set a little lean from the factory in my opinion. Tweak the high a little maybe a quarter turn after u remove the plastic restriction caps👍 also maybe a Stihl chain would make it cut smoother. If it has a full chisel chain it might be why its cutting rough. Their all good saws tho. I own stihl and echo and in my opinion echo is underrated.
Yeah your right about that. I had to pop the caps to fatten it up where I wanted it. Now it's a little ripper!
How did you make this determination and what procedure did you use to tune?
Thanks, Echo Repair Specialist...✌
@@GripFreak the way I made the determination was by cutting with it. And the procedure I used was tweaking the high jet back and forth about 1/16 of a turn until it started cutting better. I played around with the low jet also but I'm pretty sure I left it where it was. Gotta take those restrictor caps off first tho👍
@@GripFreakIf you listen carefully when she tested from cold start, you can actually hear the chainsaw bugging down and struggling to reach a high speed because a lack of fuel, this is a sign that it might be too lean as the cold air is more dense.
I agree I have a Ms 261 but was looking at a 501 both seem like great saws I also think echo takes a while to break in I chose the 261 cause of my dealer having the huge computer to do the m tronics I think there awesome if you have a dealer close by with one
Great video! I know how long it takes and how much effort you have into this video and I really appreciate your comparison!
Thank you!
Thank you for the great review. I have Husky big saws, stihl top handle saws and echo top handle, blowers and pole saws. It's all good gear...just a matter of "feel" personal taste, and logistics.... I found the MS 362 to feel lighter than the 562xp but the opposite was true. My BIG problem with Stihl was that you had to go to their "authorized dealer" to get anything...that is changing but in the mean time I invested in Husky where I could get any parts I wanted. Thanks again
Ah I can see that being an issue. Here almost all the dealers have both or all 3 brands so it’s not a problem at all
Recently bought the echo. I am a sthil guy. But the echo performed really good. And yes it's the bar length. For what it's worth echo did well for me on this particular saw. Not on the climbing saws but this one is good.
This video was covered every question I had about these 3 saws. What an excellent review. Very helpful.
Thank you. Glad you liked it :)
th-cam.com/video/UF72q0CCM_M/w-d-xo.html
This is so timely that I found this video. As I had mentioned before, I'm a relatively new subscriber, so I'm going back and watching all of your old videos. I'm just in the process now of evaluating this exact class of saw.
One suggestion I might have for future reviews is to make the review based on how much usage you are going to be giving the saw, homeowner versus land management versus professional daily use.👍
I’ve only done one review of a “homeowners chainsaw” the rest have all been professional saws
Excellent video and fair comparison. Consideration of spares availability and cost is a very vital point considered on top of the rest.
Yep, luckily I'm surrounded by Stihl and Husq dealerships, but I chose the Stihl 261 since it felt right in my hands and about a hair lighter than 550.
I've had a lot of trouble with Stihl oil caps until I found the one simple solution. Do not overfill the tank. If you use a Stihl self fill cap on your combi-can it stops filling at just the right height for the cap to work flawlessly. Too full and screwing the cap down creates pressure and the cap pops back off. Leave a little space and everything seems okay.
I talked to the head mechanic at the local saw repair shop a couple of months ago. He said that the Echo’s that are made in Japan rarely come in for repairs, only the occasional end of season tune up or chain sharpening. He recommended those over any other brand. Interesting input. So far my little Stihl has done well for me but I am still deciding on a new bigger saw.
I would wager he sees fewer Echo's in the shop because there are far more Huskys and Stihls out there getting way more work on them compared to Echos, which I are more of a homeowner brand. So him seeing more saws come into the shop of one brand is a fairly worthless metric unless you're also measuring how many saws are out there being used, and how many work-hours are being put on each of those saws.
The echo 501 p are made in usa
Thank you for a very professional review. I'd be happy to use any of the three saws you reviewed; they all look nice and light.
Thank you
I LOVE my 261 cm. Best saw ive ever owned!
Does yours bog down when cutting larger trees? I have a 261CM and Husky 562XP and I get irritated with my 261CM when cutting larger logs. It's also a gas hog. I like the size and feel though, and I usually will use it for limbing. I also find it way more predictable than my Husky.
I just picked up the ms261cm . I have no complaints at all. This thing rocks, no bogging at all.
I've used the 550XP and own an MS261C. Both have developed running/stalling/starting issues after a year or so of use. I also own a 562XP and have had zero issues. Currently, my 261C stalls constantly at idle. It's also a hard starter. I maintain my saws, so that's not an issue. I've ordered a new fuel solenoid for around $50 so we'll see if that solves the problem.
A natural beauty who delivers a very straightforward review that's easy to understand and very informative. Great to watch.
Thanks for a great review. And thanks for being one of the very few TH-cam chainsaw people who actually wears full protection! That really irritates me in other videos is seeing people just wearing only hearing protection, no chaps/face shield or helmet. As a doctor I’ve seen too many people who decided protective gear wasn’t cool in the emergency department. (it’s never good when a patient arrives on 2 stretchers)..
your cuts seemed incredibly smooth (mine always have tiny ridges in a fan shape from where the saw entered). Yours look like a little sanding and you can use them for carving blanks. And I love your cat looking around clearly asking “who the hell is she talking to?’
Finally someone who start their cuts at full throttle when comparing saws. Great video......
Awesome review! I've been looking into all these saws for awhile and this was the most informative non bias review I've seen. Also as some others said very pleasant to watch you miss.😊
The $74 difference will more than make up for itself after one season in fuel cost. I know a .3 litre per hour difference doesn't seem like much but it is a lot. Husqvarna is the same saw as the Stihl it just costs less to operate while still producing essentially the same result. Over 10 seasons you could buy two more of them in the fuel money you had saved.
Hi, nice video. I had 2 stihl 026 for 25 years and just loved them. If I had not fall a tree one one of them it would last for ever as the other 026, still working great. Bought a new 261C and expected it to last as long. After 3 years of cutting firewood it brake down with crankshaft failure. No guarantee as I used shell oil and mixed as I used with 026 saws. Stihl told me I was to blame not using stihls own gas with motomixoil. That told me new stihlsaws are not so good and durable as the old once. Just my experience with stihl 261c and the stihl company in Norway.
STIHL NUMBER 1
Anyone else like the fact that stihl has a see trough gas tank and not always guessing if it's full or empty?
At the Husqvarna there's a little window where you could see it.
The Echo tank is traslucent but you cant tell in the video.
Yes that can save U a lot of steps/grief on a steep sidehill.
I like that echo doesn't have a see through tank. I'm getting old and out of shape, gives me a chance to pretend like I'm checking the gas and oil sometimes (so I can get a drink and a breath when the 20 year olds are Stihl working). Bahahahaha
40 minutes and its empty, or when it stops running. No big whoop either way. If in doubt fill it up!
I paid $615 USD for the Husqvarva 550xp 20” bar today,
Thanks for sharing the video, well done.
Enjoy it
Excellent detailed review - Most helpful - I will order the Stihl MS 261c.
Many thanks !
You come across very well lots of in depth analysis and well laid out information, not just blatant product placement. Well done young lady. I would use your review if available before purchasing any chainsaw product. You are spot on in relation to the Stihl fuel/oil caps over engineered crap.
Great video! I've had 261 for a year now, a MS251 and MS170 for several. with that being said, obviously a STIHL guy... but loved this review. Very intrigued by that 550....
I have a MS170, 2- MS181 and a MS251C most of them have the easy start and tool less chain covers a bonus for when your out in the woods. No tool chain adjustments and you never have to pull your shoulder out of socket to get it started. Best thing you can buy for any saw is a Stihl 2in1 sharpener
That was good to see thank you for the video. Right now in the UK I am still using a 346xp which has been an excellent chainsaw. I am looking at buying a 550xp soon. I also own a 372xp which I use for larger trees.
Thank you.
Great reviews! Stihl would sell a LOT of saws if they ran the shot at 14:35 in an ad. ;)
In the U.S. and maybe other places Echo has a discount program for pros if you buy $2,500/year. With Echos already competitive pricing and the discount it makes their saws very hard to beat imo. Quality has been great and we have found they open up once broken in a bit and benefit from a carb adjust.
Newcomer and manager of a timberland estate, I do love my late 80s model 181 husky. It's a back breaker however. Bought a 450 for light duty stuff. Great video
Great review of the saws. One critique, please allow your saws to warm up before pinning the throttle. Cold seizure is real.
Good job on showing these 3 saws. I have a Stihl myself but have heard good things about the other 2 saws ...
Thank you
So many people turn a bind eye to the Echo's lol. From what I've seen the echo's are severely lacking due to factory tunes for EPA regulations. A re tune wakes these things up. Was a husky guy forever, went out and got an Echo on the fly when I was in a pinch and I've been sold since then. Even if you never retune, They start. Every. Time. Slower cut I can deal with as long as it starts every time.
People always poke they on off toggle switch. I get it, but I love it haha. Less is more!
Absolutely love your reviews all the way from Fargo, North Dakota. Keep up the great work girl.
I cut trees for a living and have been doing it for well over 20 years. I switched to Echo years ago because their saws last longer, they're cheaper and can take the abuse. Stihl is over engineered and over priced. My girlfriend works at a Stihl plant and she tells me stories of all the things they are told to let pass in order to make quota. I haven't bought a newer Husky in a long time so I can't speak about their quality, but price wise they're neck and neck with Stihl and I have an entire shed full of broken Husky XP pros saws. One of complaints from this woman is the old school on/off switch and choke, but that's exactly what makes them dependable and easy to work on.
Same here, switched to Echo years ago and haven't looked back. Echo saws always start and are very reliable. No surprise here that she picked the Stihl, I think she has an endorsement.
I sold Stihl for 15 years and went through the Stihl plant in Virginia Beach. Awesome tour. Clean and efficient. Germans always over engineered.
People have stihl saws that are 30 years old. I think best way to make a decision is to look at professional loggers. What are they using? Stihl and husky. One thing I know…. True professionals arm themselves with the best tools because their livelihood depends on it
@@richardfuerst5286 My girlfriend has worked at that plant for over 10 years, and you don't know what goes on behind the scenes there. Here's something you don't know. Stihl bought the company that was making their carburetors, so they make their own now, but they know they're sh*t. They openly admit it among themselves, but they have to meet quotas so they keep sending them out. There are other things too that they let slide, because "the customer won't care". And when it breaks in a year, you can go pay another premium price to get it fixed at one of their authorized dealers. I will say the pay is good, as well as the benefits.
@@sticks7971 Their saws don't see the abuse residential tree services do. They make 3 cuts and the tree is on the ground. Big deal. A Craftsman chainsaw would last 15 years under those conditions.
I had 3 stihls--194-261-and a 201 and I got tired of all 3 not starting after they got warm--No dealers could fix them where they would start back till the next day. I got rid of all 3 of them and bought Echo saws. They run and start flawless. They are great saws.
Your videos are informative. I have to go pull out my Echo and see if my pull handle opens my gas tank now.
Did it work?
@@Femalelumberjack It does not work on the Echo 400. The pull cord handle doesnt have the stub to fit it.
i love her channel , so happy and friendly and an expert in her field
The bar length has nothing to do with the chain speed. The sprocket still drives the chain at the same velocity, regardless of bar size (friction will have virtually no effect at that bar length). The Echo is simply a lower powered, slower saw.
As for the slight weight difference between the Stihl and Husky, I think you’ll find the Stihl has a larger fuel tank. From the manufacturers specs, the Stihl is lighter than the Husky (head only, no bar). In fact the Stihl 261 has the highest horsepower to weight ratio of any saw in its class.
Both the Stihl and Husky you tested are “pro” saws in their model lineup. I own the Stihl, my brother has the Husky, and they’re both excellent saws for those that want professional quality.
Me I'm a husky guy. And the echoes are good saws but there not pro saws like the sthils and huskys are. I have a Husqvarna 450 rancher with a 20 inch bar and I love it. I just ordered a Husqvarna x cut full chisel chain for it and I'm hoping it will improve the cutting proformance of my saw.
Stihl and echo chainsaws all day every day, for me.
Which Echo saws do you use?
@@Femalelumberjack the echo CS 501 SX, echo CS362TES (top handle chainsaw) and the echo CS 550.
I also use the stihl ms 151t, stihl ms 162, stihl ms 362 and the stihl ms 462. Great saws!
Thanks for asking, new subscriber from England.
I love my Echo. Especially when friends lift an eye at me like, oh he has an echo my Stihl is so much better, and then I show them up.
@@DunningsMillLawnCare I use the 362 also it has been a great saw
Beautiful and knowledgeable about chainsaws, what more could a guy ask for😁 I'm a Stihl guy, 3rd generation Stihl user. I have a 261 and love it. I have owned 2 Husqvarnas. The dealer network for them where I live is very poor. I'm not sure that echo is in the same class as Stihl or Husqvarna. I don't have any experience with them other than looking at them at a dealer. The dealer network for echo is not good either. There are Stihl dealers everywhere here and I have one that treats me good. If you look at dyno Joe's videos you will see were he did a 50cc dyno video. The Husqvarna kicked butt with 4.5hp, 60cc saw hp.
The Echo appears to have a felling sight line on the other side right behind the pull cord. But yes, it doesn't fully wrap the chainsaw.
The top gunmark is on filter cover (not obstructed by handle). The sprocket cover also has one.
I'm a Stihl nut. I owned a couple Husky's, 1 - Echo, but fell in love with my steal of a Stihl. I picked up a MS250 for $50 8 years ago and it still chews up wood like a pig eatin slop. I have since added a 361(traded for a 046, I rescued and rebuilt) and 180c to cover most of my needs. Thinking of upgrading to the newer 500i in the near future.
Get it ported. I want to try a ms500i against my ported ms441 arctic. I dont think itll keep up stock. The pitted ms441 eats some wood.
Mod that Echo muffler and retune with limit caps removed and I bet that Echo will really perform
shouldnt have to
Yep, muffler mod will help the 501 outperforme the 550XP.
how is that done,, at a saw mechanic or diy
What does "mod" mean for a muffler ? And what are the limit caps ?
Sorry, I'm french 😉
@@martincm8683, open up the restrictions in the muffler. The limiter caps prevent you from adjusting the carburetor very much. If you take them out you can actually tune it rather than just tweak it a little.
What an excellent comparison video! I thoroughly enjoyed it and these videos rarely come with a beautiful smile! Thank you Femalelumberjack :)
Lovely and very informative video....I love all these saws to tell you the truth but I have grown to love my Stihls . Very good video and I love the background. Very peaceful looking. Thx for your efforts 👍🏻
Thank you. Much appreciated
Great review!! 550xp mark II or Stihl 261CM are both great choices. Echo if money is tight is not a bad choice either. Great to have options depending on price/dealer location/repair support.
I ran both, 261 cm and 550 xp, The Stihl has a little bit more power, the husqy trumps up with slightly more agility. I like to work with Both of them, they are absolutely equal.
For checking weight, yes add the bar and chain. But dont think its fair to fill with oil and gas. This could make the one with larger tanks appear heavier, when really the extra weight of more oil and gas for a longer run time may be what people want. If in use the wight of oil and gas is a deciding factor, then get a smaller saw.
I was running this saw for about 2 hours at about a 30-50% duty cycle th-cam.com/users/postUgkxfQm1wmg0ItKDLavxj1nXtQY9HP7EF504 and it did a great job. I used the lever for the built in sharpener to clear chip buildup out more than to actually sharpen the chain. It managed to cut some hardwood stumps much larger than it's size without bothering the neighbors with hours of 2 stroke noise.
Nice shootout! The 501 has a felling line on the recoil, a little black paint on it will make it easier to see.🇨🇦
Thank you.. the line is way to small and hard to see
Great very fun video!! .... Man .... I absolutely LOVE husqvarna chainsaws! !!!!!! 435,455,572!!!!
You make me wanna get a 261c! What a great saw!! Thanks for this video I really like the 501 but it’s underpowered until it’s ported. The 501 should come with 3kw power from the factory especially with that price tag.
Great vid ! Improving Edition skills ! Now, regarding review, one important factor that rarely is spoken. After buy Support: (1) how is store network ? Is there one near you? (2) Parts availability (3) Genuine Parts price (4) Time to deliver replacements (5) Overall support. I love Huskys, but for example around my house I've three Sthil representatives. I'll never buy expensive equipment without good support. By the way I've tested the 3 stores for different reasons and I've peace of mind that I can go with my truck over my Sthil and next morning is been taking care in one of these dealers. Cheers ! And thank you.
That's true. It's a bit different here because the country is so small, but your right about the spare parts prices.
Thanks
You are perfect!! I have been on the fence about these 3 trying to make up my mind which one.
I get mad at stihl when they won't sell me parts for the older saws. "No that's discontinued" I hear that alot. I like your comparison of saws as they sell them to you!
Really? In Switzerland the sell parts to nearly ervery stihl
Yeah I'm stuck searching eBay for used parts that aren't any better than mine
In Germany i dont have that Problem, my dealer got me evrything... concerning Chainsaws... :D
Is this in the US? It’s hard to find parts for a lot of things in the US. They want you to buy new stuff instead.
I mean saws from to 70s and 80s. They're still good! Oh well the chinese make parts for them. I hate to use them but I'm not gonna chuck my saws if I can't get an air filter or something minor like that.
I just got a stihl ms311 last week and i love it!!
Thanks for the review, good to see them all together. After much research, handling, and consideration, and despite currently owning a number of Stihl products and a Jonsered, and seriously considering the two Europeans, I've ordered the Echo. I just couldn't convince myself on the other two. The Huskie feels heavy and awkward, the Stihl nice but I don't like those caps on my other gear, and the m-tronic just doesn't sit easy with me. Significantly lighter, significantly cheaper, longer warranty, simple Japanese quality, professional grade saw which is nice and compact and which seems to me to have all of the upsides and none of the downsides of the others for a careful owner user. That switch btw is as natural as heck to flick to off when needed, particularly in a hurry- what is Stihl thinking with awkward thumb up to off? From all accounts once they are worn in they perform much the same as the others- give or take which makes little difference to me. Thanks again.
Pessima scelta, meglio è la sthil
Great video. I have the 501 and it has been a great saw. Femalelumberjack is one gorgeous lady.
Give me the stihl anyday. So much easy to find parts and repair info on the net and great saws in my opinion.
Excellent, non-bias, too, your review was great.....I too am a Stihl person!!
I now have a new interest in chainsaws
Thats my wife, would you like to be swinger?😂😂😂😂😂😂
Just bought a new 261c today , with the "light 04" 18" bar for €730, can't wait to get it ripping along side my 461 and baby 171 lol
Well done girl very comprehensive review of all three saws. Found it interesting as I have only run StiHL saws. Started with them and stuck to them. Have Ms261c and it is a good workhorse. Good job.👍
They were all great saws I've mainly used stilhls but have been impressed with huskys that I've ran
Dolmar 5105 is the best saw for the price in the 50cc class imo, if i didnt care about money, i would go for the husqvarna in my private inventory aswell
I've run Stihl and Husqy's for work and I just never cared for the stihl saws. I felt they lacked power in comparison to Husqvarna's but that's just me. Great review!
Have you used the 261 c-m?
I had one of the echo saws, gave it a hard two seasons in a road ditch and it held up well great for the money! I traded it in though. Be well
Good to know, thank you
Echo are the way to go for homeowners because of the long warranty. That being said get a 620p. As for me I mostly run husqvarna but I have one stihl I like. It took me getting a port job done to like a stihl. From the factory they are all so restricted!
Hi there.
I have both the Stihl 261cm and the Echo 501sx.
I can tell you with my saws, the Echo took about 10 tanks to run in. The stihl only needed about 5 tanks.
The Stihl didn't pick up much power once run in, but the Echo picked up alot.
I also did a muffler mod on both saws, the Stihl picked up a small amount. But it was definitely noticeable.
The Echo however,
After a muffler mod and 10 tanks of fuel it turned into an amazing saw. I could not believe how much improvement I got from the Echo after a muffler mod.
I honestly feel that the Echo is all but on par with the Stihl after the muffler mod and run in time.
Hope this helps some people
For how many years will the echo last is the question, we know the stihl will be 15-20 years
@@Morpheen999 My CS400 is running strong at about 10 - 11 years. I've had no problems with it and have never had it in the shop.
The old version of the 550 xp is amazing. But i like echo the best
It was the same with archery gear. Get the bow that felt just right in your hand. Same with the saws you going to be working with all day. Loved the video. Wish you good health with this virus😘
Thank you
Great video. I prefer the Stihl because I think its more simple. I liked the wet comparison, its important to know their real weight ready to work.
Nuno thank you 😊 yes that’s what I figured.. who needs the dry weight
Just purchased Echo 501, seems like the bar oil runs out the bottom (when not in use) quicker than I can pour it in! the top! Otherwise I think it has potential, however after almost two tanks of fuel, I can't say much good or bad just yet.
Such a beautiful lady doing a great review...thank you .🍺 🥨 🍺
There are a few comments on this video about the 501 being way better after 10 tanks of gas 👌
Hope you fixed that oil issue :)
Had a play with an MS 261 and a 550 XP today I think the Husqvarna is the better made saw in terms of quality. The 04 light 050 bar in my opinion does not cut quicker than the 058 full chisel chan on the Husqvarna. Love your videos 😀
My son and I have a wide variety of saws. Stihl MS162 (free), MS194T, MS251, MS271. Echo CS590, CS4910, CS310. Husqy 345. Im slowly being won over by Stihl......but I still love my 590....tuned it and put on a less restricted exhaust....that thing is an animal.
All I run these days are echo, amazing machines especially for the price.
That's awesome. Which saws are your favourite?
Femalelumberjack I just picked up the CS 4510 to replace one of my old intermediate saws. Absolutely love it so far considering I’ve primarily purchased the Husky’s in the past. Nice thing about this model is the ignition was redesigned so it’s always on until you push it to kill the engine. Either way really well done video with lots of good info.
Great review... But did you prime the husky on the cold start test? Mine usually cranks on first or second pull, but only when primed. The Stihl doesn't have a priming bulb.
) like stihl dont need tool to remove bar .
Easier to maintain carb and air filter.
) I like Echo saws owned them too.
You feel pins and needles
Vibration through handle .
Husky..yip got one..too many plastic parts that could break.
Not easy to maintain carb and air filter.
Good informative vid.
_Thank you_
*Pleased you choose sthil*
Stihl every time
You say "could break."
But have they broken?
@@wiredforstereo Good observation.
At worst ive had to tighten nuts n screws that vibrate loose.
It's second time I see this video 😊. Thanks for teaching me how to care my chainsaw 🎉
Why am I watching this vid? I have three stihl saws, a 200T, OLD 066 with a 36 inch bar and an oldie but goodie 038 magnum II. I guess I just like watching saw videos 😎
Great info,was always stihl ,but recently bought olec mac and its working good so far.
Good job on the comparisson.I am using an Echo CS 501 SX and a CS 620 SX.Echo saws gain a lot after some tanks of fuel.My 501 wake up after the 10th tank,like 20% more power so give it some more running time.Also Echo saws gain a lot from a muffler mod(501 and 490 are the easiest saws to mod the muffler) so another 20% for sure.Then you can compare them,a fully broken in,muffler modded 501 sx would be the fastest saw of the three.Just saying.
Thanks for sharing - it's always nice to hear from people actually using the products!
@@Femalelumberjack 🙋👍💯💯
excellent video...your comparisons & presentation were very informative & thorough.., .thank you so much..., from San Diego, Callifornia
I love my 261 cm vw. Enough power no stalling Indeed the oilcap is annoying. But I never wanna change it to an husqvarna. I hate husqvarna saws I’m a stihl guy but there are enough guys that love husky saws
When it comes to a 50-60 cc saw I'm Husqvarna all the way. I just prefer the weight, balance, and power/torque over other brands. I can't speak about the 550xp, but I've owned a few 562xp saws n the power is phenomenal! I just wish they had a bit more longevity. Now when it comes to a top handle saw, I'm stihl all the way! The power, weight and ergonomics are 2nd to none.
Another great video. I was worried when you showed the weight comparison and the Echo was barely lighter. But Surprise it has an extra 3” of bar.
Aaron Edwards yes that’s what surprised me too. 3” longer bar and still 3-400g lighter than the others