There are a few trails I frequent in Stanislaus National Forest that often have downed trees. I carrier a bow saw and axe, however I actually have seen trees as large as 18" in diameter down, too big for the bow saw and a lot of work with the axe. So I was thinking chainsaw, however I am a total chainsaw novice, what should I look for and what do I need besides the chainsaw?
Chain Saws
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Off-Road Ranger I
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Hey bud there is a awesome wright up in the boot camp section (here) on chain saws with some great info :)
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No worries man if you want to know anything more drop me a PM i have miles and miles of info i can send ya
If you want a good recommendation for a chainsaw I have a echo CS590 and has been the best chainsaw I've ever had on the trail. Even more so then the last stihl I had. Just be sure to bring the proper safety gear, extra chain, oil (or premix) and sharpener.
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In the south east US a good saw can be the difference between a great weekend on the trails or being force to head back early. I carry a 18” Stihl MS250 everywhere, some of the trees that fall on the trails in Arkansas need every inch of that 18” bar.
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Once you read the boot camp thread and want to pick up a saw consider local parts availability. Husqvarna and Stihl are first picks for me(Stihl my favorite) and Echo a 3rd. Most brands will have a homeowner, pro sumer, and professional line. You get what you pay for and I consider a chainsaw a long term purchase. If you can't afford a brand new pro level saw I'd look for some well cared for used ones. An amazing new saw is a Stihl MS261, an MS260 would be an older used version that you would love. Put a 18-20" bar on it and you are in business!
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I have 3 stihl saws. They are good saws. The longer bars are handy but you don't need anything big for trail use. A lighter weight saw will take up less space (if that's an issue) and you can run them all day without getting worn out.
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I use a chainsaw very infrequently and I have been considering getting a battery operated chainsaw. The Dewalt DCCS670X1 FLEXVOLT 60V MAX Brushless Chainsaw seems pretty good, and i could charge the battery in the truck. thoughts?
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Ive been looking at the 12” version of these too. I wouldn’t consider them for heavy use but I already carry batteries for my impact driver. You wouldn’t have to carry an extra fuel can and if you wanted to use one in a camp ground, they’re quiet. I have no personal experience with them though.
