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Both Stihl and Husky make good saws, but both make lower price "competitive" saws that can be sold at a price point. I'm not sure about current pricing, but for a mid size saw in the 50 to 60 cc engine size, I'd expect to be in the $400 to $500 price range for the pro quality, and in the $300 to $400 range for the mid quality, and whatever the cost of the "homeowner quality"...you don't want it. The better saws have good vibration dampening, making it easier on your hands, wrists, elbows and shoulders. They also have better safety systems for stopping the chain suddenly. And of course the engine is built for a much longer life. Any saw can be fitted with a longer bar and chain, so it looks like a competitor, but the cheap ones will make a lot of noise, vibration, smoke, and not much sawdust. For what you have described, I'd choose one with a 3/8" chain, and not something smaller as they wear out too quickly. I know a lot of good people who prefer the Stihl brand, but having used chainsaws for nearly 50 years, I really prefer a pro quality Husky. For me, it seems better balanced and provides less vibration to arthritic joints. My 266 model was factory fitted with an 18" bar and chain. I replaced that with a 16" bar and chain, making the saw more maneuverable in tight places, and easier on the arms and shoulders. It is now a 27 year old saw, but it will keep up or beat my son's 5 yr old model 365. I have been heating our house with wood since 1977 (6 to 7 full cords/year). I recently asked my saw dealer (who sells both Husky and Stihl) which is the better brand. He said it depends on the particular model, they both have very good ones, and they both have poorer quality "homeowner models". So check their websites and find out what the better models are, and then do your comparison purchasing. Best Wishes Paul in MN
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