Stihl MS200? Convince me!

[twoclones]

Do you use the Stihl MS200?

Recently when talking with *Chainsaw Jack*, he told me that he uses and really likes the Stihl MS200. I'd like to know how many others are using the 200 and why you feel it's worth the extra cost...

I compared the MS200 with the MS210 [which I use]... These two saws have identical size engines. The 200 puts out 0.1kW more power, weighs 1.3 pound less, holds less fuel and more chain oil than the 210. Stihl recommends a 14" bar for the 200 and a 16" bar for the less powerful 210. [does not compute]

The biggest difference is price. The 210 retails for $269 and the 200 for a hefty $609.

Convince me that your MS200 is twice as good as my MS210.

[tcb16]

Personally I use my 200 at least twice as much as my 210. The main benefits that I notice are the vibration system and the feel of more perceived power. Obviously that's not a tech term, but what I mean by it is it just feels more powerful while staying smooth. I'd compare it to the ms 250 w a 14 inch bar in power, but with very little vibration at all. If your logging more than 3 hours a day on the saw its a must have, especially if you've got any hand or forearm troubles. I hope this helps... Tim

[twoclones]

Thanks Tim, that does help. What bar are you using on your 200? I plan on keeping my 210 with the 16" standard bar but may be needing a new detail saw before the end of this summer.

I'm currently using 2 of Echos' 306 saws with 8" and 11" dime tips. The weight is very nice but I have to clean the air filter twice each day because they suck up even large chips. I think there's a flaw in the intake
design.

Butch

[tcb16]

I used to have the same problem with an echo 346 w a twelve inch quarter tip. Now I've moved to a 210 with a 12 in dime tip and a 250 with a quarte tip. The 250 can get a bit heavy but is good for the
Extra power. On the 200 I use the standard 14 inch bar
But I've heard of
Goodluck
with 14 and 16 inch
carving bars as well
. How do you like the
8 inch carving bar?
I've been debating on
how useful it would be, and if it would heat up quickly, even if the back of the cutter was ground
Properly. Any advice would be hugely helpful...

[twoclones]

Originally Posted by tcb16

. How do you like the 8 inch carving bar?

I bought my 8" dime tip a bit reluctantly and now the only time I use the 11" is when the 8" will not reach. I've got a lot more control over the tip of the shorter bar. I haven't noticed it heating up any more than the 11".

I don't have a quarter tip bar at all. No particular reason though.