$100 Knockoff vs $550 Stihl Chainsaw? Let's Settle This! Cutting Speed, Horsepower, Cold Start, RPM
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- Опубліковано 27 вер 2024
- Let's settle this debate! Genuine Stihl vs a couple of knock offs. Chainsaws compared for weight, fuel efficiency, pulling force to start the saw, cold temperature starting performance, torque, no load sprocket speed, cutting speed on manufactured log, cutting speed with 5 pounds of weight on the bar, cutting speed through hardwood. I purchased all of the gasoline / petrol chainsaws and supplies used to test the chainsaws to ensure an unbiased review. So, thank you for supporting the channel!
➡ Thank you for supporting the channel through memberships:
/ @projectfarm
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➡ An easy way to find past videos along with products tested: bit.ly/2FCrBpk A big thanks to Jim for putting this together.
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➡ As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
➡ Products Tested In This Video (in no particular order):
Topteng: amzn.to/47qIFXB
58cc Saw: amzn.to/3kih8Ek
Stihl MS 291: available at Stihl retailers
Videography Equipment:
Sony DSC-RX10 III Cyber-shot Digital Still Camera: amzn.to/2YdXvPw
Canon 70D Camera: amzn.to/31b5Gy0
Azden Microphone: amzn.to/34d3DLE
Go Pro Bundle: amzn.to/3Ca0ZVN
This video is only for entertainment purposes. If you rely on the information portrayed in this video, you assume the responsibility for the results. Project Farm LLC - Навчання та стиль
Here’s the list of products reviewed. More details in the video description. Thank you!
Topteng: amzn.to/47qIFXB
58cc Saw: amzn.to/3kih8Ek
Stihl MS 291: available at Stihl retailers
Am I in the market for a chainsaw? No. Did I still enthusiastically watch the entire video? Yes. I’m blown away by the frequency of video releases you do! They are thorough, well edited, I don’t know how you do it so frequently.
Thanks!
I would bet that he's recording multiple tests at a time.
@@garyandtricia1 he still does many many tools each week must do around 2 a day the time these would take to make
@@joegroom9837 He puts out a video every Sunday, typically.
@@ProjectFarm would you please test name brand chainsaw company, farm store brand and generic brands of winter, summer and general purpose bar oils? Husqvarna, Stihl, Mystik, Poulan Pro, Echo, Tractor Supply Company and others?
Todd is an amazing human being for those of us who are ‘do it yourselfers’; the time and money he spends on these comparison tests is incredible insofar as he is not compensated by the manufacturers…quite a contribution to America, this is what social media should be used for and I can’t thank Todd enough for his contributions, his tests are the only evaluations I rely on when purchasing a new tool! Thanks Todd!
You are so welcome!
I do the same. I come here first to see if he's reviewed the items.
@@ProjectFarm I want to thank you as well, you've really helped to dispel a lot of myths and sales hype around many products and I'm sure the community (and your much-deserved subscriber numbers) all agree that your real-world apples-to-apples testing helps really settle the question around what's worth your money and what's not.
Please keep up the great work and I look forward to your next video as always ^_^
I agree!!!!!
I've gotten the impression he's nothing but a good guy. A good neighbor type guy... with a awesome shop...lol
You can't beat having a video like this show up when you're in the market for something! Project Farm spoils us like always.
Thank you!!
Just split the difference and buy a Husqvarna.
And don't forget about used. I see $550 used Stihl's going for $100 all the time, just because someone always wants a brand new one.
@@sminthian Someone gave me a badly abused Echo,, A little shopping on EBay & Home Depot, A new bar, chain, air filter, & cover, plug, oil & gas tank caps (40 bucks total) I have good saw..
For a homeowner, I recommend Echo. Literally just finished cutting with my Echo cs400. For the price and five year warranty you can’t beat it. I cut 5 cord of wood min per year. It’s never let me down
I bought a Stihl MS 290 (precursor to the Stihl in this test) about 15 years ago. I heat my home with wood and live on/manage 40 acres of woods with trails running everywhere so I use the saw quite often. It still fires within 5 pulls, even in the dead of Minnesota winter and cuts great as long as you keep a fresh chain on it. Stihl makes the best chainsaws, hands-down.
Love my Stihl saws too.
Thanks for sharing.
I agree. What makes Stihl saws the best is not the day you buy it. It's how well it runs and cuts 15 years down the road.
Dad still uses a husky 254 xp from 1995. It never let him down except one time when the crank end near the clutch broke off and the engine continued to run without turning the chain. A couple years later without replacing anything but the bearings and crank since you have to split the case it still starts up better than our newer 2010 ish jonsered. 5 ish pulls.
@@tomrutherford4907 Just like a wife.
Would love to see hand cleaners compared to other products like dishwasher soap.
Thank you for the video idea!
YES, Gojo, Lava, Fast Orange....
Dawn for the win.
And, it's good for ducks.
I like this suggestion.
Yes! Like waterless hand cleaners!
I would like to see electrical tape tested to see what kind sticks the best, most resistant to heat, chemicals, etc. and how well it works in the cold. love your videos!
You'll have to go way back but he did do a video on that.
Thank you for the video idea!
Supper 33
That’s the only tape you’ll ever need
For years I had used the harbor freight 10 pack for 5 dollar tape and finally bought myself some real 3M stuff and oh man the difference made me believe in a higher power
3m super 33
Great testing as always! Stihl sure does make quality equipment, but if you can't afford one, you showed a pretty good much lower cost option. Thanks for the video!
Thanks and you are welcome!
But always keep in mind, you pay a Chinese knockoff company that didn't have to spend money on R&D, neither takes care about all the details to a good chainsaw. When Stihl sells less or goes out of business, the development of new chainsaws will slow down or completely stagnate since the Chinese have nothing to copy from.
@@xingtheiflightinsider Even with the knockoffs available, I really don’t think that Stihl will be going out of business anytime soon. In my rural area, Stihl is the leading saw. The Deere dealerships around me sell them as do Rural King and several OPE dealers. Of all the folks I know with saws, exactIy none are knockoffs. I think anyone who needs a 20” bar is probably on the more experienced side of using a saw, at least I hope so. I certainly don’t want to be around someone with little experience who buys this knockoff to try their hand at taking down something with an 18” trunk. 😯 I’m fine with my Echo and its 20” bar unless it’s a sketchy tree I’m not comfortable tackling.
@@jamesgoens3531 echo makes a pretty decent saw for homeowner or firewood people
@@xingtheiflightinsider But in the real world when lots of American people are struggling and just don’t have money, they resort to buying foreign-made products because they need to get a tool to get a job done, even if they know it might not last. Kind of like why some DIYers buy from stores like Harbor Freight - overall cheaper products that are good for smaller jobs or less frequent use… But it’s a nice surprise when a cheap product - whether it’s made in the States, China, Taiwan, wherever - actually is just as good as (or sometimes better than) the big brand tools. And then there’s the consumables of course…
You've become my go to guy when I need to buy something. Your demonstrations are always free from bias. Thanks. I've got a suggestion for you. I'm considering attempting installing a water heater and was looking at the "Pro-Press" tools for solder free pipe fitting. An analysis of these tools would be helpful.
Thanks! Thanks for the suggestion.
Great video. I don't think anyone realistically expected the Stihl to lose...but it does provide valuable information. As a home owner that may trim up a few fallen trees or do a little cutting the cheapo models might just be the ticket. For anyone else that needs their saw to perform and has the allowable budget we will see a better value sticking to the good brands.
Thanks! Thanks for the feedback.
I’ve cut dozens of cords of firewood with my Stihl saw. Runs like a top. The chain brake is an important, perhaps life-saving, safety feature. This is one of those instances where it’s worth the extra money to get the better tool because the risk of harm is so great. Thanks, Project Farm!
You are welcome! Thanks for sharing.
I've got 2 fingers sewn back on after a run in with a Jonsered 92cc without a chainbrake. Be very careful out there and wear eye protection, gloves for grip, chaps and steel toed boots. A saw will tear you up faster than you can react. Trust Me.
I own 35 chainsaws. I have an entire rack with 6 shelves for them in my shed. They all run, I've rebuilt them all. I have a gamut of Homelite, from the super 2, 350, 925 and more. A couple old sears saws (with the most aggressive cutting profile I've ever seen), an old Montgomery Ward, a couple Pioneers, and 6 or 7 Stihls. From wee little guys like the 192 to my monster 111cc 075. Most of these saws have been ported. Some have oversized jets because of which. I have to Locktite every bolt on these saws.
They are fun, aggressive saws. Especially that Super 2.
Of all my saws, 2 have chain brakes. A ms192 and a ms181. The only saw to ever kickback on me is the Super 2.
Chainbrakes ARE helpful. but besides knowledge, being the biggest and best safety device, the penultimate safety feature is in the weight. Heavy saws almost never kickback, not that they can't, but if you've spent a week using an old 041 farm boss, you should know enough by then to mitigate this factor.
So for my money, I'll take the old all metal, non chain brake, heavy as sin, saw all day. Stand up and buck (shout-out to Buckin!). Let the saw do the work for you.
Ymmv I understand the subjectivity of the topic.
Safety police surely are incensed. I look forward to their vitriol.
I bet they think aliens built the pyramids as well, cuz ppl, ppl just cant do something they cant do. Unimaginable, preposterous! Whether that stems from their over abundance of caution, lack of utility from underdeveloped arms, ignorance, naivety, fear, or maybe they're simply virtue signaling, who am I to say, I'm just speaking from experience, take that how you may and use yr own discretion.
@@B_Van_Glorious don’t underestimate the number of morons out there. I find a longer bar is safer. I have recently bought a new Stihl $1,200. Just broke in after a couple of cords, really nice.
@@B_Van_Glorious You had me rolling sir. Much like large caliber pistols not everyone likes them. Some just cut firewood once a year some just do some tree trimming from time to time. Buy according to use and skill level. Go wood cutting with friends see what they like to use. chop half a day with theirs with them fueling it. And never borrow a chainsaw!! Any problem that happens will be your fault.
Thanks again for another quality video. I still say project Farm is the hardest working channel on UA-cam. I was happy to see that you are pushing 3M viewers!
Thanks so much!
The real test is 10 years down the line when the stihl is still going and the others have been dead for 8 years
Thanks for the feedback.
This channel is now our “Go To” prior to purchases for our channel and personal use now!! Thank you for all the through testing. Just purchased and installed the ZECK 13000k winch after your winch review 🏁
Thanks!
This channel is a first stop before any purchase of tools, goods or anything you use to do stuff. "I need a grinder, wonder what Todd has to say about that? Oh, of course he tested that"!
Gotta say that $100 Topteng was pretty impressive. I doubt it would match the durability of the Stihl, but if you just needed a saw for one time use it seems like a great option.
Thanks for sharing!
Nah, it's a bad deal even if it's much cheaper. Even for one use and even you're broke, get a loan and buy the Stihl. You can resell it when you're done and you'll end up paying the same as the Topteng overall. Except, for that one time use, you'll have a better saw, safer, and you won't have to add more trash to the landfill. Trust me, i am as frugal and penny-pinching as they come, I have been there. For a 1-time use the absolute best idea is to get a used Stihl that works, because that you can resell for what you paid. But if you can't make sure it works, a new Stihl or Husqvarna is a close 2nd best deal.
@@gorkyd7912 😂😂 dumb, but you won't understand why
@@allenwilliams1376 Why is he dumb? buy once, cry once. It might be 5 times the price, but with Stihl you can get parts for it, has local support and repair, and it's more durable. As you get older, you will understand that durability and support trumps everything else.
@Allen Williams is dumber than a hemlock stump and incapable of understanding why.
I can buy a Stihl Farm Boss or similar saw all day long for $150 - $250.
If you buy a dirty one in good shape, you can easily clean it up, tune it, and replace the spark plug. You can then resell it at a small profit if you got a good deal on it.
I would have concerns about running the Topteng year after year, but the price difference between the Topteng is so great that you might as well forget about buying replacement parts for the Topteng when it breaks -- just buy another saw and keep the old one for parts. Thanks for the video. Good luck with spring jobs on the farm.
Thanks and you are welcome!
It probably would be the same part that would break on the second saw.
Now you have two broken saws.
If the part that broke only cost $20....would you now buy 4 of those parts...repair both saws...and still be ahead?
You will have spent 100+100+80=$280....in X years.
A friend ran a Stihl 044 for years and then made the mistake of lending it to someone who ran it on straight gas.
The cost of just the parts to repair the Stihl was over half that of a new comparable Stihl...and it was a 20 year old saw.
.
He took a chance and bought a $400 Chinese knock off as he needed to cut firewood..
For the last three years he has cut hardwood blue gum eucalyptus firewood by the cord...using Stihl chains and bars on the knockoff...with no problems.
He can't see the Stihl ever being repaired unless he just wants to have a play at repairing it himself....
I think the big takeaway there is... Never lend out your saw.😂
@@wadewilliamson7994 Good idea. Maybe hold onto your Stihl and lend the TopTeng to your brother in law?
Last thing i want to do is waste time repairing Chinese equipment
Isn’t there budget saws that are identical copies to namebrand saws like Stihl and Husqvarna? You should test those compared to their identical counterpart.
Yeah, but you gotta build them+ some machining to get them running correctly… Farmtec, Holtzfarma…
@Jb W you don't have to build them. They have assembled ones for sale. I have the 660 clone. Runs really well for less then a 1/3 the cost.
@@Macaziod what brand?
Thanks for the suggestion.
Andy enters the chat
Another baller video , man cutting up that $$$ lumber like it's 1999 hahaha Great video mate. Really enjoy and appreciate all your effort . This channel went from goofy lawnmower torture to THE tool review channel , without ever selling out. Guess a proper goofy video is in order for 3 million subs any day now !
Thanks! Thanks for the suggestion.
@@ProjectFarm that wasn't a suggestion lol
@@thenoblehacker9111 😂😂😂 dudes a Robot
@@Kangaroojack1986im dying to see a reply where he doesnt say “Thanks!!”
Must be a robot
Like it’s pre Biden prices.
Always appreciate your time and effort in bringing us awesome content
Thanks so much!
I would love to see some of the HART power tools tested against other tools in previous tests. I was recently looking for more power tools and just realized how extensive their lineup really is. Very impressive coming from Wal-Mart.
Thank you for taking the time to go through as many comments as you do and giving us all the content that you do!! 😊
You are welcome! Thanks for the suggestion.
Flex as well
Harts new cordless tools are actually very powerful compared to their older cousins. But the price is higher of course. Still glad to see smaller brands making waves.
i bought a 62v green machine, it wont cut butter!!!!!
Lol.hart tools from Walmart. Best thing to do with them take it home give the tool to your worst neighbor and burn the box for heat.
I think it's also great to illustrate that you don't need the top tier tool to handle the job unless you are a professional who uses it all the time. The ~20%-30% uplift would definitely be a big difference, but only if you happen to use the tool all the time.
Great point! Thank you
It also, however, illustrates that when you are going for unknown brands even at the same price point that performance can vary wildly
just buy the stihl anyway. its additional lifetime more than makes up for the higher price.
after all the things last for years even when used by logging crews.
Parts and service on the off brands scare me. I can get my 30 year old Stihl serviced anywhere.
If you were doing a one off job and nothing more, the cheaper saw might be a good option, but if you wanted something which you could use year after year for a decade or more, go for the quality product.
As always, an excellent test! Your work is invaluable! 🙂 I was kind of hoping I'd see a Holzfforma/Farmertec clone here to get the numbers . I got their G660, which is a 1:1 clone of the Stihl MS660, and I love it. It's great for both milling and bucking, and hasn't let me down yet! Paid $250 shipped from China a couple years back, took a few weeks, and after some basic checking for loose bolts, it started right up and is still kicking ass!
Thanks so much! Thanks for the suggestion.
@@ProjectFarm I second that. Holtzfforma and Neo-Tec vs the real saws. Though I realize this would be a pricey test considering the saws are clones of pro saws.
Another vote for neotec. They make a ms380 clone also (72cc I think) only 200 bucks
Another neat series of tests.
How about a test of various brands of trash bags?
You always do an amazing job on these!
Thanks for the suggestion.
Yes please. Similar to the glove testing.
Best household trash bag is the HDX Home Depot bag. I'd love to see a test but I won't buy another brand. For it's cost and durability it outperforms any other name brand bag I've used.
@@imhooks do you ever buy the hdx paper towel
@@FLINTmitten810 I haven't. They any good?
I started heating with wood in 1994 so I needed a chainsaw to cut the wood. Having grown up in a household that heated with wood and ran Stihl saws exclusively I naturally went to my local power equipment dealer and he recommended an 036 Stihl for wood cutting duties. After years of heating with wood and using the 036 to cut all of it I am amazed at how reliable and durable it has been. Other than replacing bars, chains and a drive sprockets I have not had any other problems with the saw. I’m getting too old to cut wood like I used to so I’m going to give my 036 some maintenance and give it to my son for tree removal and storm damage use.
I have no idea if Stihl’s newer saws are as good as the older ones because I have never had to replace mine.
Thanks for sharing.
I rarely buy anything anymore without checking here first. The best part is, the tests you do here reflect exactly what I find out in the field. Keep up the great work Todd... we all appreciate it more than you know.
Thanks!
We've been a Stihl family since 1985. We still have the first saw. Still runs great, but has had a couple things replaced. My dad and I, have 5 Stihl's between us. 😄
My dad bought a 041 Farm Boss in the early eighties. We heated with wood, so it got worked a lot in the summer and winter for decades, until around 2010 when we got another Stihl. It slowly was relegated to backup status, but the amazing thing was, while he kept up on maintenance, he never once change the sparkplug on it. He'd take it out, clean it, check it and it'd go back in. He had one ready to replace it, but never did.
We have five saws between us as well now.
Thanks for sharing!
@@misfire88 Worth every cent! We also have Stihl trimmers, and blowers. Yea, plugs basically go forever, if you mix properly, and it's still set up by the tuners at Stihl. I also run ONLY Amsoil Saber in everything. I also run Saber in my tuned Moped - Puch E50 engine, with a 70cc DMP cylinder, etc. Imho, works extremely dependably in ANY two-stroke, at 80:1. .........Hmm... has Project Farm covered Amsoil Saber?
@@ProjectFarm 👍Many Stihl users have similar stories I think, too.
You mean you stihl have the first saw. Thought you were a stihl family 🙄
Great comparison! While the knock offs may be cheap, the Stihls are by far a better value. They will last for years. I Stihl have the one I bought in the 90’s even after years of heavy use. It’s a back up saw now but just used it yesterday. It’s a lot heavier than the modern Stihls but that works in its favour when bucking firewood from large diameter logs.
Thank you!
Steel products now are nowhere near what they were in the nineties. Unfortunately They're built just like everything else now. Engineer to work for a specific length time. Ask any pro and they will tell you that we'd rather have the old 80s & 90s o series Then these new saws. Had a steel o84 for 24 years. Worked every time like the day I bought it. Till the date some scumbag stole it.
@@christianzaccone4347 Dumbass geezer opinion
@@christianzaccone4347that's sad he must have known it was a good saw.
@@christianzaccone4347 why are old sthil saws better? Because they are louder, heavier, vibrate more and burn fuel less efficiently? It's pretty hard to CONVINCE people that what they own is always NOT the best BECAUSE they own it. Just saying....
One factor that I really wish you would add as a “food for thought” is the hidden safety cost of cheap knock offs.
2 quick real life examples:
A pilot friend who championed using harbor freight grinders so he didn’t have to swap discs … due to the power switch shape and force required his hand skipped right off the switch and right into the disc cutter.
(Hospital bill $2000 + $250 carpet cleaner bill & 1 week mandatory time off cuz he couldn’t safely fly passenger airlines with his hand torn up and stitched)
Myself while using a cheap Ryobi Hedge trimmer, the carb throttle would stick a little even after letting off the trigger keeping the blades moving (albeit slowly) for a good 10 seconds afterward. While pausing to clear cut branches out of the way I kept my left hand on the D Ring handle while using my dominant right to reach in. Fatigue caused my left hand to relax slightly which caused the back heavy engine to drop and the light blades in front to pop up right into my outreaching hand. Severed 3/4 of my thumb (tendons/nerves/vessels/bone)
Hospital + Reconstructive Hand Surgery for the Thumb ($15,000) plus 3 summer months out of commission for my construction job.
You can definitely find Chinese imports that will demonstrate great cost performance characteristics but as soon as you encounter a single injury and get that hospital bill you instantly will wish you could have paid $450 extra. When we are talking chainsaws safety is something you don’t screw around with (plastic bar tensioners and flexible clutch lock let’s see how that holds up to a 11,000 rpm chain that comes flying back at you cuz there was more than just a sprocket to grab it after the bar tension fails)
I guess you can just buy 5 more replacements when that happens … assuming you still have all your limbs in tact to operate those masterpieces of recycled plastics, chinesium and leftovers that failed quality control.
THIS comment right here… there is no price on life and limb, these budget options are an accident waiting to happen
Both of those "real life" stories were examples of stupidity.
@@nathanielskiba6366 You’re absolutely right and the one thing we can absolutely count on in this world is everyone (even the best) will make a stupid choice. The point though is if the people in the story had put more emphasis on quality than price they both could have avoided the painful lesson.
And if you would like I would be happy to share the pictures from this “Real Life” Story 😉 and the subsequent hospital bill too. I keep them as a reminder to not cheap out on equipment.
Did the hand impact screwdrivers get any support?
I only saw the communication between us and was hoping other viewers would give the request a like. Maybe there will be more interest this week.
I would like to see that myself. Good suggestion
@@ProjectFarm you have seen the recommendation for the tool right?
Great video as always. Thank you.
I was given an ms290 right after buying a 346xp. It’s a good saw. I usually run the xp just because it’s lighter, although I did just use the stihl for 2 maples that were about 20” round.
I am considering a 372,ms440 or a holtzforma clone of one or the other. Putting those used against their clones new would be an episode I find entertaining and useful instead of mostly entertaining like this episode.
Putting the ms250 and ms290 in the mix would help see how much advantage any of those options it.
Edit:I have no hesitation spending your money for the episode. I might even be willing to buy the second place saw off you so you can keep the winner. 🎉
You are welcome! Thanks for the suggestion.
I ran a 272xp for years cutting softwood logs and pulp with firewood (maple, yellow birch, beech) for home use on the side. Saw was a workhorse.
I bought one of the 52cc Chinese 20 inch saws about two years ago. Every time I grab it it fires right up and it sounds amazing. I never expected it to last very long for $80 but it is exceeding my expectations so far. I never owned a Stihl brand saw but every one I ever used was nearly new and they were always difficult to get started.
Thanks for sharing.
great test. I'd be curious to see how the internal construction of the $100 saws compares..... they had to cut corners somewhere
build quality of things like the ignition system, the piston/rings/con rod and crankshaft would be interesting to see.
Thank you for the video idea!
Good test, Commander and it went about like I thought it'd go. When I went looking for a mid-sized saw I ended up getting a new one because all the ones I found were really too big. I got a 261 or a 26 in the older number because they were recommended by my pal that ran the saw shop at the ACE and then got his own shop. He did all the repairs for the electric co-op and said that their 26's or 261's were the toughest he'd ever seen so that's what I got. They're a commercial grade saw and a SCREAMER like my old Super 45 was! The son-in-law finished cutting up all the logs here with it and a maple was very close to 36 inches through with a 20 inch bar. The tests you ran on these 3 were as good as there is and could be, no problem. The proof is in the cutting and no way around it. Hope yall are doing o.k. with all the big blows down around there. Thanks again and BLESSINGS to the whole Farm!
Hi Lewie, Thank you for the positive feedback on the review! Great decision on the saw you purchased! That's a nice saw that'll last a long time! It's always a pleasure to read your comment! Wishing yall many BLESSINGS!!!
@@ProjectFarm Yall too and I always try and get stuff based on the performance angle of it all. Price is in there too but what it will do and what it needs to do is almost foremost in the back of my balding head. Happy early spring and remain as calm as need be and God Bless!
Would have been interesting to include a mid priced saw such as the equivalent Husqvarna.
Thanks for the suggestion.
I really like your unbiased, analytical approach to product reviews!
Thanks!
Let's all take a moment to appreciate how fit Todd is! These were kinda intensive tests (many of them are) and he handles them with ease 💪🏿
Thank you!
Those forearms are a big tell that he works with his hands daily.
He’s work tough
And his hard work is paying off
Farm boy tough!!!! Only way to be 🙏
That’s the toughest of tough
Whenever you upload a new video it makes me smile... Thank you! 😊
Thank you! That means a lot to me!
Thank you very much I live in Colorado. I do a lot of logging and I’m glad to see that a top tang is such a good saw. I have huskies and stills, but I would like to have a top tang just as a throw around saw and one my neighbor could borrow, but anyway, thank you so much for the extensive scientific evaluation of the saws.
You are welcome!
*i love these knockoff reviews so much its unreal. tnx PF*
Thank you!!
Man, the dude really went full tarzan mode on a chain to help us in comparing two chainsaws. GG xD
I like everything Todd reviews, especially the chainsaw related tests because that's what I do for a living (repair chainsaws). He's always thorough, accurate and honest. Stihl, and many other OPE manufacturers, has taken some pretty hefty increases this past year. Stihl has taken two price increases since October. I get it, inflation, supply, demand, yada, yada yada. I think 2 years ago that saw retailed for just over $400. The MS250 could be had for $299 during the spring sale in 2021. The cost of the Pro level saws is dizzying.
What do you think of Husqvarna saws? We just picked up a rancher model. . .seems sweet, but is no lightweight with a 24" bar. Always been a Stihl family, but wanted to try the husky.
@@life_of_riley88 I assume you have the 455? That's a tried and true model. Run the XP+ oil at 40:1 (3.2oz per gallon) and it will last even longer.
@@richardflagg3084 Yep rancher 455! Thanks for the tip on oil, we'll run it that way.
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.
Interesting results, great testing, and well edited video, big thumbs up from me!
Thanks so much!
I would love to see caulking tested! So many different kinds that all don't explain what they are good for. Testing categories could be stretchiness, Bonding to wood/metal/mdf/paint. Curing around moisture?
Amount they shrink over the curing process, paintability, (does it shine through paint and how long do you have to wait to paint/cure time, ease of cleanup, I always have trouble buying caulking. The different types are really hard to tell differences on. They can be drastically different prices and I don't want to waste money when it isn't necessary. It might be good to know what the chemical makeup is a little bit, that way we can be educated about the buzz words if we see caulking not included in the test specifically.
Thank you for the video idea!
Yes this please
Just bought the topteng 52cc for home use it works just fine 4th item I buy just by watching your video reviews. Good job keep up the good work. Would you happen to know where I can buy a replacement carburetor or parts to have on hand for this saw ? Do you have a link for the topteng parts ?
I can say that the Stihl will most likely outperform the knockoff before watching! My dad's personally put his Stihl (forgot the model name) through a lot of use over possibly 6+ years now and it's still working just as good! He only had to get the wires on the ignition coil fixed once, the rest has been changing bars/chains and cleaning it after each use.
I will be editing this once I watch it, for now I just wanted to say thanks for still making these and big props for always having some amazing ideas! I loved the folding chainsaw vid! If you ever want to do something april fools related, a suggestion I have is test some crocs. I have one pair of thick rubber crocs at home which have saved my toes from some falling firewood (ok, not from head height, somewhere around waist height) and you could compare it to something as funny as barefoot or regular shoes.
Edit: The testing methods are genius as always! As for the "knockoff" one, I meant the 58cc Saw which looks like a Stihl. I didn't expect to see the Topteng perform this well too!
You are welcome! Thanks for the suggestion.
The higher RPM's are the thing. Another is a metal bottom vs a plastic like on the cheaper model saws. My Jonsered Pro 52cc runs 13,000 rpm's and that makes all the difference. Had a Husky 41cc for 20 years and cut 8-10 cords a year with it. Finally gave up the ghost but I sure got my money's worth out of it. Stihl, Husky, Jonsered, Echo, Sachs (now Makita). Take your pick but make sure if your serious to go to a saw shop not a box store and get the higher end saws. BTW: you will see more Huskys than Stihl's in my woods with Stihl catching up now adays although I'm a Husky and Jonsered fan.
Video Idea: I would be really interested in calipers. I think that there's a lot of different options out there and I always want to know whether it is worth spending the extra money for them. I need precise measurements, but sometimes I don't want to break the bank if something would work for cheaper.
Thanks for the video idea.
Second this, that would be a great test
If you need precise measurements, you need a micrometer rather than calipers. Even a cheap mic is vastly more accurate than a set of calipers.
@Galaxywide what a machinist considers accurate is usually a smidge or ten different than the average bloke.
The biggest difference between cheap and expensive calipers is the build quality. A couple of guys at work are on their third fowler brand calipers that aren't IP67 rated, while I'm still using my 17 year old Mitutoyo IP67 8" caliper. If you work in an environment where you use cutting fluids or you will be sweating, you absolutely must have an IP65 or IP67 rated digital. Dials are obviously liquid proof except for when they get submerged and the dial numbers are ruined. Dust and dirt are the big enemy of dial calipers. Vernier can withstand everything but bad eyes.
Stihl is the only saw in this household and it runs year after year. It would be interesting to see the long term of maybe over 3-5 years to see if the knock-offs are still running and are usable. A year by year update if possible would be nice.
Thanks for the suggestion.
Owned a few budget ones in the past, they don't last long but didn't want to spend a 1000 on a Still so bought a second hand Husqvarna from the 90's from a dude who threw his back out, best tool in my shed and has been for years.
... if they haven't torn your leg up, lol.
Only one note. Always drain the fuel in a Stihl if you only use it occasionally.
For 1/5th the price.. 5 knock offs will out last 1 stihl
A plunge cut would have been a interesting test.
That tree you cut down, looking at the rings, looks like it was once 2 trees side by side that eventually grew into one tree.
Thanks for the suggestion.
the double heart was at the limb split at the top not the butt
It would be interesting to test the effectiveness of the air filters, because that would have a significant impact on the longevity of the saws. Great clip though!
Thanks for the suggestion.
Another great video. I also wonder how how the knock off saws would hold up long term compared to the stihl. I have 2 stihl saws that are over 10 years old and they are still running great and cutting wood good.
Knockoffs get the job done but easily break if you drop them, like I often do.
I would just like to say I bought a stihl After trying many different chain saw. The reason; I have rumitoid arthritis is both hands. The pulling and the vibrations in the other saws was so bad 👎 😫 it really hurt and could not go into the woods to get wood with my kids anymore. However to me the stilh is easier to start and a lot less vibration in the bar and chain. So I can now enjoy 😉 gathering firewood with my kids again. Thank you Stilh, you folks are awesome. Your saw may cost more, but part of my life I thought was gone forever. Is back.
Thanks for sharing.
I really like how thorough is this one. I appreciate that you have included the cutting tests with no weight, just with you operating the saw. Although there is human there, I think it is more accurate since stronger motors can be pushed harder.
Thanks for the feedback!
Another great video. I liked the fact that you tried the econo saws with a Stihl chain. Personally, everything I have owned from Stihl has had a negative impact on my mental health so I was rooting for the underdog.
Looks like you have a slow hydraulic leak in that front-end loader.
You know one of the biggest debates I can think of in the “what oil is best” world is that of the 2-stoke snowmobile engine! I sure would love to see your tests and results on what oil protects a 2-stroke sled engine the best. Categories like cleanest burning, exhaust valve buildup, piston scoring and long term lubrication could be explored…. People would love that! I think you’re just the man for the job!!!!
Thanks for the suggestion.
Yup" would really like to see that !!
Excellent tests, as always. I'd love to see a longevity review of these budget saws in a few years
Thanks for the suggestion.
You spelled days wrong. The chinesium saws are garbage from top to bottom.
@@nunyabizness9216 lol yeah, I got a Coocheer (or something) for around $100. It lasted for a couple weeks of light use.
I replaced a 1990's Husqvarna with a Poulan Pro about 5 years ago. They are both quite similar in build, but I actually like the Poulan Pro better, quality-wise. And it was half the price. Been serving me well all this time for occasional use.
Alot of Stihl fanboys don't realize that not everybody has 20 years of chainsawing work to do. Why not get a cheaper brand if you just have to clear your backyard of like 20 trees
Good Point!
A friend has a cheap knockoff and surprisingly performs well. I also bought a knock-off ms381 for an in-between as my ms 661c was too big at times, and my ms251c was too small at times. For a knockoff in between saw, it's pretty good, and I would recommend it. Just don't think you can have a knockoff as a stand-alone saw. Each to their own I guess.
Thanks for sharing.
The chain makes a big difference in chainsaws. It would be interesting to compare these saws using the same chain. Or a video comparing different chains using the same saw
The Chinese knock offs actually seem to have a lot in common with the Japanese Zenoah G5000/5200 if I look at the general construction of the saws. Also sold as Redmax, Hitachi and Tanaka. Some of their newer saws are even sold as Husqvarna. A comparison between the Chinese and the original would be nice to see, as I also understood that the Zenoah is like the blueprint for the Chinese chainsaws. A lot of parts are even interchangeable.
Thanks for the suggestion.
The amount of value you provide with your in depth comparisons is nothing shy of incredible. It's great to know when a guy can pinch a few pennies on a quality budget brand vs spending the money on the big name. I love my stihl 291. My new honda 3200i generator, not so much. Had I seen your engine comparison video sooner, I'd have saved 3k and opted for the predator powered unit.
Keep up the great content 🍻
Will do, thank you!
No way. You did the right thing on that Honda. PARTS. DURABILITY. I keep things like this forever, and use them extensively. Having to replace the whole unit because something little is worn is a non-starter for me. I use a lot of older equipment, but it's all quality. It works great. It's reliable. I hardly need parts, but when I do, I can get them. I'm never going to start buying junk just to save upfront.
@GreatNorthernDad I was replacing an old tried and true honda from the 90s. The new fuel injected unit is very hard to start. Floods itself first pull if Temps are below freezing and I don't pull it 6 times with the ignition in the off position prior to trying it. If I run it on echo mode in winter, the thing doesn't stay warm enough and condensation happens inside the motor (that's what honda told me). So the oil gets water in it and becomes over full requiring I dump it. Honda said they are working on a software update to solve it but wouldn't take the unit back despite me calling both the dealership and corporate office 24 hours after purchase. This $3,500 dollar generator has been hands down the least reliable engine I've owned. I'd probably trade it straight across for the predator at this point
@@TheHappyHermit Wow. That's not the norm, but certainly understandable why you'd rather have the Predator in that situation. Out of curiosity why did you replace the 90s one?
@GreatNorthernDad it was starting to burn a lot of oil and struggle under some loads. Many thousands of hours on it. Getting a little tired. It wasn't uncommon for it to see 30 hours of runtime a week when the cloudy winter limited solar power. I still have it, but I figured it was time to get a fresh dependable unit to last another many years. The 3200i is their first fuel injected unit. Had I bought one of the usual carburetor models I'm sure it wouldn't be a problem. I'll get the old one completely rebuilt this season and save the 3200i as a backup.
Pretty ridiculous that they can't even manage to do this stuff on Consumer Reports, when you supposedly pay them to do it. Good job as always, keep up the content.
Thanks!
It would be interesting to see if either saw performs better once properly tuned. I Had a cheap saw that was given to me (chinese knockoff) the guy that bought it said it was hard starting and 0 torque. I was able to lean it out ALOT and it made a huge difference in torque and it fires off easy now after a few pulls. Most times the chinese saws just get a rough tune and then they send them out the door.
No it would be interesting to see him compare actual Stihl knock off saws made by Farmertec/Hutzl. These saws are actually clones of the Japenese Zenoah 5200 saws. I’ve got two of these saws and never once were they advertised having anything to do with Stihl saws. This video and the comparison is a complete inaccurate bunch of crap but the uninformed gobble up this mess and say thank you oh great swell guy. What a laugh lol
Love the comparison! It really shows in this video how much effort, prep and organization you invest in your videos, and that is awesome! I think the real proof in the pudding would be years from now which one is still kicking. I've worked as a volunteer FF and now municipal maintenance, and both jobs always had Stihl saws around, and they kicked butt for years and years. Many of which looked like they shouldn't be working but still were. And now, if I can't breath some life into an old freebie Poulon Pro which (I believe) just needs fuel lines, then it's going in the trash and I'll be saving for a Stihl.
Thanks! Thanks for the feedback.
This is a laugh. These Chi Com 5200 52cc saws are not Stihl clones or knock offs and have never been advertised as such. These are copies of Zenoah 5200 Jap saws. So much for analytic thorough precise research.
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Drill pumps
I would love to see a portable drill pump showdown! Does anyone else feel like they are all junk? The notion of a drill pump is so awesome but usually such a let down in practice. I'd suggest testing maximum suction lift heights, dry run testing, maximum discharge pressure, various viscosity fluids and of course include the perfect commentary on build quality, price point, etc.
Thanks for your consideration. You have built an amazing repository for the common man.
Thanks! Thanks for the suggestion.
It would be more interesting to test the knockoffs against the around 25 year old original. Other than that, nice test!
Thanks! Thanks for the feedback.
yep, durability is where the chinese knock-offs usually fail. could be fine for a few cuts here and there every month though. 🙄
@@kittytrail in most cases, you would be right. But some brands make pretty decent +100 knockoffs.
Copies of the Stihl 090 and 080.
They are actually used for milling. And that is the worst thing you could do to a chain saw, other than cutting mangrove roots underwater.
Another great, educational, and well done video. Always interesting content. Thanks for going to all of the trouble to make these fantastic videos.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Does the tractor have a hydraulic leak? It seemed like it was slowly falling in the time lapse of the log cutting. Great video as usual! We greatly appreciate your time and efforts put into the content you produce.
Yes it does. I need to address it. Thank you
@@ProjectFarm I also have hydraulic leaks... Wonder if those hydraulic leak fixer chemicals work...hint hint.
Hydraulic oil always leaks trough valves back to tank
@@paypwnzof course not when everything is fine.
@@lordred7462 spool valves and pumps always have a small
I like this test, because I have an 026 Stihl and a 260 pro, but once I cut a Hard Maple log of 31 Inches inside the bark at 45 seconds cut with an 066 magnum with the red eye.
They are some of the best saws.
Thanks for the feedback
I ain’t never cut down a tree but man that video was informative, well edited and entertaining. Watched the whole thing. Nobody does it like this man. Kudos to you my guy for all the hard work, Very much appreciated.
Thanks so much!
As always, your videos are great. I think you get what you pay for and the one thing you can't demonstrate is durability and how long something will last. I had a Stihl chainsaw (sorry can't recall the model) that was still working after 20 years of hard use (lived at the 4,000 foot level in the Sierras in California and heated my home with wood stoves and bucked about 6-7 cords a year). Retired and moved to Oregon and don't heat with wood anymore but bought a Stihl MS251 a couple of years ago since I have about 100 oak trees on my property and still need a chainsaw. I imagine this saw will outlive me.
Thanks for sharing.
Stihl saws are awesome, especially in the Pro Series. If however you only have $80-100 to spend these 52cc Zenoah clone saws do work well considering the price. It’s luck of the draw because you could get a bad one that is a POS out the box.
Great tests. My bottom end Huskvarna appears rather better than the Stihl. For starters it has a primer, After a winter lay off with old fuel in it she always starts second pull.
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.
As always, thanks for the great info! About 10 years ago, I was needing a new and better chainsaw, and did my research. I got talked into an off brand by a dealer (who is no longer in business), and it only lasted a few years before the oil pump quit. I immediately went to town and bought a Stihl MS251. I couldn't be happier.
I remember 20 years ago, wishing my saw had a bigger gas tank. Now, I wish it was smaller, so I could justify taking a break more often 😁
How about a review of Grass/weed/vegetation killers? I like Roundup Extended, but you never know?
You are welcome! Thanks for sharing. Thanks for the video idea.
The thing I love most about this channel are the honest reviews. It makes selecting new products much easier since I feel informed.
The thing I hate most about this channel are the honest reviews. It makes selecting new products much easier by removing my indecision, leaving my wallet much lighter.
At least this time I have escaped unscathed and more confident that I made the right decision buying my MS261 a few years ago!
Thanks!
For the prices of the budget saws, there are significantly better saws available for just a little bit more, so the Topteng and 58cc wouldn't even make it on my list. Thanks for the great video. You provide a great service for everyone who wants to get the most out of our money.
What slightly more expensive ones would you recommend?
Thanks and you are welcome!
@@peanutgallery5245 You can pick up a Ryobi, Craftsmen, or Poulan for between $125 and $185. They're no Stihl or Echo, but they're certainly better than the $100 ones shown here.
Here in Florida, because of the occasional hurricane that comes through I have had good luck finding used chain saws at garage sales that were bought to cut up a couple of trees and then lived in the garage for 15 years that are still in like-new condition.
For occasional use people like this, the Topteng would be a good practical option.
Thanks for the feedback.
I'd like to see ya take the topteng and see if you can do some upgrades to it to make it perform at the same level as the stihl.
Thanks for the suggestion.
@@ProjectFarm I think the holzforma it's the closest thing to a stihl but sometimes they need a carb tune up
@@andrewwastien I was thinking the 58cc saw might have needed some tuning.
@Paul Frederick I highly doubt that saw was truly a 58cc engine. I'd say it was the same exact size as the other if not smaller.
@@andrewwastien those holzformas are pretty decent from what I've seen.
Heck yeah we are ready for the next video! We're Gonna Test Thaaaaat...!
Thanks!
Great video. Long time Stihl guy here, 2-3 pulls is normal on my 034 and MS250. What would really tell the tail would be a few hundred hours of cutting with each.
Thanks! Thanks for the video idea.
I've tried cheap and they begin just fine. 5 years later they are not even in my garage. I have one stihl almost 20 years old. A husky at 10 years. And they still start!
Just bought a MS271 last week to clean up storm damage. Great saw.
Nice!
In 1981 I bought my dad a Stihl for Christmas, an 010-AV paid about $180 (he had several crap saws that never did anything, so I asked everyone who I thought might know and they all said Stihl was the best). When he passed I got it back. I still have it. But he had loaned it to several people and one of them had set it on fire and the melted crispy handle was very painful to hold, so I bought an MS-170 about 12 years ago, paid about $180. Cold, it starts after 4 pulls with choke, then 3 pulls with just throttle lock. With new blade on it cuts like a lightsaber. No complaints. Well, I like the 1981 saw's carrying case better so I didnt buy a new one.
Very interesting thanks for sharing 👍 but the only test you can't do is when each of these saws are 10 years old
Thanks and you are welcome!
Test suggestions.
Paint stripper,
Orbital sanders,
Wood chisels,
Bandsaw blades,
Different types of woodworking tools
Thanks for the suggestions.
OMG the vibration you will have at night from sawing so much! Thank you for a nother great video.
You are welcome!
I am on my 4th STIHL - first an 036 sold when I moved (temp) to an apartment decades ago - now have an MS180, an 026 and a 362 (small/medium/large!) - all run perfect - the 180 and 362 are computer controlled - NO TUNING!!!
biggest thing I have to worry with is chain sharpening - 3 or 4 oak cords a year for fireplace - and tank smaller one camping for firewood - the 026 is going on 3rd DECADE and still runs perfect.
Thanks for sharing.
I have a husky, a poulan and a chinese knock off. I don't heat the house with wood any more, but I did for 15 years, too old now. If something needs cutting I use the chinese knock off it's called an X Bull. It has a spring load pull start that is easier on my bad back and if there is gas in the carb it's a one pull deal. Cuts just as well as the husky and cost less than a third as much. Probably would not last as long used hard, but I will wear out before it does. Chain brake pops off and stops the chain from vibration so I disabled it.
Thanks for sharing.
Topteng looks identical to my Titan saw (except mine has a primer and rocker power switch) and it's done me well for hundreds of hours of use. It has a 45cm bar and sometimes feels a little under powered but I can't fault it all.
Thanks for the feedback.
Hey! I've noticed on recent videos you've stopped mentioning where each product is made. It may seem small but that was one of my favourite parts about these videos just because pretty much nowhere else documents country of origin and I feel like that's valuable information that deserves to be preserved. I may be in the minority here since I haven't seen any other comments mentioning it but just wanted to give my two cents.
Regardless, thank you for all your hard work and for the service you provide by making these videos.
Thanks and you are welcome! Thanks for the feedback.
Awesome video! The Topteng saw seems decent for about $100 especially if you only need the chainsaw for one small job and don't plan on using it too frequently
VIDEO IDEA. Thermal and longevity testing on the ceramic paints. Not the protective coatings that you’ve done before but the actual thermal paints. There are brands like lizard skin, ceramaX, supertherm ect…
Thanks for the video idea.
Great video. I like how you speak quickly but clearly. Feels like I watched a 20 min video in just under 12 with great content.
Thanks!
Gthan 60cc Husky knock off with a 20" bar is what I got off Amazon and it absolutely smoked my rancher 455 in a comparison bucking a 31" cedar log. The top cover, filter and chain break definitely are cheap and will most likey need to be retrofitted with something better, but they haven't broke yet. It has muffler ported to the side and came with a quality, chunky chain. I liked your video and i highly recommend you get one to play with, i guarantee you will be impressed.
Thanks!
I can attest to how hard it is to pull a Stihl starter.
They used to have compression release levers on the bigger chainsaw engines so you could get some fuel into the cylinder before doing a start pull.
Thanks for sharing.
025/MS250 were very hard to pull (but usually started on one or two good pulls if primer bulb appeared full)
another one (MS 230 ?) was easier to pull but didn't have as much power
I think some VEPCO (Virginia Electric Powerco,now "Dominion Energy" work utility trucks used to carry a MS 250
@@davidpowell3347 No bulb on model, sadly.
I love how Chinese knock-offs like this get reviews titled as such: "A little small", "Love!!! Great for baby room!", "Perfect for a small bedroom apartment", "Great for office supplies and clothing". I mean now I know how they get those tears in brand new jeans.
This just came up my mind, i think it would be really interesting for people who work with machines that have micro vibrations. Can you test anti vibration gloves. Like wichones are the best at reducing it etc.
I think this might be even really interesting
Thanks for the suggestion.
I've modified my XL76 and it kicks out savings 3 inches long not just dust..
I have had built to me some copy Sthil saws. Nice to have more saws for different use without going broke, but I only use them for spesific tasks. If I push them hard, something brakes or falls off, always.😅
Thanks for sharing.
One thing I wondered while I watched this video, was how "in tune" were these knock off chainsaws?
I bought a $100 Gasoline chainsaw, and one thing it says in the own'er's manual that you need to adjust the carburetor and how to adjust the carburetor. The manual also warns not adjust for speed but for power.
Others who have bought these cheap chainsaws have found that by simply adjusting the carburetor according to the owner's manual they obtain much better performance than they got right out of the box.
The only problem with the 58cc saw may have been that it was not fully tuned. They just got it to run at the factory and put it in a box.
I suggest a re-match after having an experienced small engine mechanic set the carburetors.
Thanks for the suggestion.
Great video as always, you've become my go to before I make a purchase if the product in question has been evaluated by you. I'll stick to my Husqvarna and Echo saws though those cheap ones wouldn't be bad to keep in a truck.
Thanks! Thanks for sharing.