With all that is available, a first time buyer can feel overwhelmed. However, for the self-reliant homeowner looking for one do-it-all saw, the selection can be narrowed down considerably. For trimming and construction that calls for a chainsaw, it’s nice to have something small and light. For falling and firewood cutting, it’s advantageous to have power. A good compromise is a professional grade saw with an engine displacement of 50cc’s and 16” bar. If additional power is wanted over agility, a professional grade 60cc saw with 18” bar will fit the bill nicely.

Why a professional saw? Pound for pound, "professional" saws have more horsepower than “occasional use” or “homeowner” saws and are built to last under demanding conditions day in and day out for many years. To the homeowner, this equates to an easy to handle tool that will last a lifetime with proper care.

New, expect to pay between $500 and $620 for a pro 50cc saw and between $600 and $740 for 60cc's. Costly yes, but a long term savings by eliminating repair and replacement costs. Buying used is risky, especially off the Net.

Which brand & model? Stihl, Husqvarna, Jonsered and Dolmar/Makita all have quality saws in their lineup. Stihl and Husqvarna however, are the most recognizable names in North America and, most widely available.

Amongst professional users, the Husqvarna 550XP and Stihl MS261 are the two most popular 50cc saws. Though not widely available, the Dolmar PS 5105 is the least expensive 50cc "pro" saw and gets high praise from some. In the 60cc class, the Stihl MS362 and Husqvarna 562XP are popular.

• Though it may be tempting to save a few dollars up front by purchasing off the Internet, it can cost you more in the long haul should you need warranty work done. Support you local dealer if possible, or, the next closest independant dealer you can find. Those few extra dollars will help indivduals in your community, buy you knowledge, and provide you with in stock parts and service when you need it.
• When shopping, always consider weight. One pound can be a lot in extended sawing positions.
• Study and follow the owners manual.
• Chainsaws are extremely dangerous tools. Get proper instruction & always wear appropriate safety equipment, including hearing protection (hearing loss is the most preventable disability).
• Two-stroke exhaust contains chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects & other reproductive harm. Though it's not usually realistic, if you can, cut when it is blowing & stay upwind of the saw. Consider too a respirator capable of handling emissions. Also, if you're lucky enough to live in a country where a non-benzene alkylate fuel can be purchased, use it. Uunfortunately, the U.S. regulatory figures don't put a premium on health and this type of fuel is not available at the pump. However, a far cleaner burning fuel is available in cans that also has the pre-mix oil already added. It doesn't smell like pump gas and the emissions are significantly less. It is very expensive though. Stihl Motomix is one.
• Choose a versatile chain. When salvaging firewood, many conditions will be encountered from green and clean to dead, hard & dirty.
• Learn to sharpen your chain and keep it sharp by touching-up often.
• Consider using vegetable oil for bar/chain lube.

Links to chainsaw manufacturers:

http://www.usa.husqvarna.com/
http://www.stihlusa.com
http://www.dolmarpowerproducts.com
http://www.charlotte.usa.jonsered.com/

Some excellent tips on maintaining and tuning chainsaws:

http://www.madsens1.com/saw_carb_tune.htm

Chainsaw Milling
If you’d like to mill your own lumber or beams, consider buying a second and dedicated larger saw. For occasional use, buying used is a good option here. Also, unlike a multi-use saw, the weight of a milling saw is not as important. Any saw in good working order will do as long as it has enough engine displacement. Milling is one area where bigger is actually better. Consider 80cc a minimum.

For mill information, see the following links:

http://www.motherearthnews.com/top_articles/2004_August_September/Modern_Timber_Framing
http://www.beammachine.com/
http://www.granberg.com/
http://www.backwoodshome.com/articles/tresl39.html