2nd Stihl saw for climbing

[ClimbingTN]

I primarily use a 194T and sometimes the Echo 2500 when I only have a few to prune. We have 3 Stihl dealers close by so it’s easy to get parts if I need them quickly. I’ve been thinking of getting a bigger Stihl for in tree use for larger branches and removals. I’ve had to haul up the MS 460 or my old 029 but seems like something smaller would do the job. I’m not as young anymore so saw weight is a concern and challenging at times. What ya think?

 

[Bendroctanus]

Ms400C is a tough, rippin’ saw. Mine is still killin’ it. If you want something lighter, but still has enough power, I’ve heard great things about the MS261. It’s next on my list. That and the 500i.

 

[27RMT0N]

Yah, if you are not looking for a top handle (the latest gen 201 is very good) the 261 is a very good saw running an 18" bar, but the 400 is a lightweight monster with a 20" or even 24/25".

The new 400.1 looks to be even better.

 

[ClimbingTN]

Ms400C is a tough, rippin’ saw. Mine is still killin’ it. If you want something lighter, but still has enough power, I’ve heard great things about the MS261. It’s next on my list. That and the 500i.

Yah, if you are not looking for a top handle (the latest gen 201 is very good) the 261 is a very good saw running an 18" bar, but the 400 is a lightweight monster with a 20" or even 24/25".

The new 400.1 looks to be even better.

I run a MS400C on my forestry job. I’ll have to try it up a tree one day. Something with an 18” would be good for the bigger stuff.

 

[flyingmosstreen]

Is the 400 sort of taking the place of the 360 realm?

We have a couple 361/18” that we run for work and they get the job done decent. I usually run my personal 462 24” most of the time though because it’s almost as light (almost)

 

[Bendroctanus]

The 462 is a dope saw. My old boss got one and I loved that thing.

I would venture to say that the 400c took place of the 362. I noticed that the 362 was considered a professional saw when it first came out but then is now considered like a “firewood” saw. What makes the 400 sweet is that it is the same weight as the 362 but with a larger displacement. More power with out adding weight. Again, I love mine.

 

[evo]

I either go from a top handle to a 261 or straight to a 500i. It comes down to what ‘big’ saw will get me to the ground. I’m not one to swap out rear handles unless I f-up or need 32” to get me down to the ground.

 

[96coal449]

I run a 262C for the bigger cuts. It's also my crane saw with a LW 20'' bar. Good power for the weight given.
Up from there, I skip over the 60cc class saws. For just a tad more weight, a MS440 or a 462 would be the go to with a 28'' LW. My 440 is down for a rebuild, and I don't have a 462 yet, so I transition to the 66 with a 32'' LW.

A 500i is also on my wish list, along with #2 440 build. Box of NOS OEM parts I have for a ported big bore build.
Yes, I'm addicted to power saws.

 

[evo]

I so miss my 440 that got ripped off, it was my favorite all around saw, the 500 is a very close second.
I don’t think it’s fair to compare the 500 to anything, it’s in a different class.
If I were you I’d skip the 462 and just go to the 500. My 461 sits unless I need the grunt

 

[96coal449]

I so miss my 440 that got ripped off, it was my favorite all around saw, the 500 is a very close second.
I don’t think it’s fair to compare the 500 to anything, it’s in a different class.
If I were you I’d skip the 462 and just go to the 500. My 461 sits unless I need the grunt

Agreed.... the 500 is totally a different class. I love how responsive the throttle is. I purposely avoided running one for as long as I could. I didn't want to be enticed. Alas, I ran one and I'm hooked.

The 462c is another story. My 440 was also my all time favorite. While searching online for parts, I came across 2 new OEM case halves. Now I have the parts to rebuild my downed saw, and enough NOS and good OEM parts in a box for a second. The 462 would be a stay at home firewood saw. After using my 262c, I find the chipped carbed saws wonderful. I also have the 461. Good smooth power. A tad heavy for blocking up logs with repetitive cuts. I don't want to task either 440 with that duty. There irreplaceable.

 

[southsoundtree]

What's a 400 and a 500i PHO run?

All my saw are good, but I'm interested to upgrade sometime.

 

[Bendroctanus]

That depends. What does PHO mean?

 

[southsoundtree]

Powerhead only.

Not dependent on bar length, light/ standard bar, nor chain.

 

[Jehinten]

My favorite in tree saw until I need something bigger is a modded 261 with 18" bar. Small enough to fit through a crowded tree with plenty of power when you need it.

 

[Bendroctanus]

Powerhead only.

Not dependent on bar length, light/ standard bar, nor chain.

I think the 400c is up to around $1100 now at my local place, which seems ridiculous. But I’ve asked them before and they won’t sell PHO. Which is also ridiculous.

After writing this, I think I need to find a new Stihl dealer…

 

[96coal449]

The dealers around me hold the same.
No PHO. Pick a bar, I was told. In that particular sale, 201Tc, I'm glad. I ended up with a very LW 14'' bar.

I wish a PHO sale was doable. Then again, it's like buying a replacement bar in advance for when one wears out.

 

[27RMT0N]

I think the 400c is up to around $1100 now at my local place, which seems ridiculous. But I’ve asked them before and they won’t sell PHO. Which is also ridiculous.

After writing this, I think I need to find a new Stihl dealer…

Yep, last thing I need is another heavy bar and crappy safety chain on my $1,000+ pro saw.....

 

[Bendroctanus]

Yep, last thing I need is another heavy bar and crappy safety chain on my $1,000+ pro saw.....

Hahaha yeah really. And then they look at you and ask, “Are you a professional??” so they can check off the non safety chain requirements.

 

[evo]

I think the 400c is up to around $1100 now at my local place, which seems ridiculous. But I’ve asked them before and they won’t sell PHO. Which is also ridiculous.

After writing this, I think I need to find a new Stihl dealer…

Yeah some dealers are assholes. Mine is the same, and won’t even swap chains from safety to chisel.

 

[Serf Life]

The 462c is another story. My 440 was also my all time favorite.

What about the 462 doesn't do it for you? Spec wise they look sweet.