I find it amusing that the majority of the posters on this site recommend Kubota tractors which aren't cheap but shy away from a good quality chainsaw. my advice is to spend the modest amount of extra cash and get a Stihl and if taken care of it will be the last saw you ever buy. I don't mean to "dis" anyone elses opinion but to me buying a cheaper saw is buying problems. My Stihl saws always start, my oldest is 1982 vintage 056AV and it still starts. My newest is an MS310 with an 18" bar and this model can be bought for under $400 new, closer to $300 if you find the right dealer. Add to that that you will always be able to buy parts for them and will rarely need to if you take care of them. Keep your chain sharp and run good bar oil. I cut an average of 8 full cords of hardwood per year to heat my house and my shop.
