Need Advice On New Saw Purchase...

[macpower]

GrnRvrMn,
I just got the ER bill for the 20 stitches in my kids knee, (not a saw injury, but then a saw won't stop at twenty stiches). Over $1400, can you realy afford not to have the safety gear?? How about a blind eye, or living out your life with the nickname of "Stumpy". Safety gear is cheap in comparison!
Talk with your dealer about a package, saw and PPE. We give 10% on safety gear with a saw, most will do something. Face it, you won't become a regular customer if you are crippled.

[sawguy21]

I told a customer who didn't want to buy "this time". If there is a next time, once you get out of the hospital. He laughed and bought the chaps. A lot easier to replace than a leg.

[SawTroll]

 What kind of saw do I start with?

So far this tread has been all about Stihl 250 and 260.

Have you considered the Husky 353?
I think it will cost noticably less than the 260, not much more than the 250 if you buy it online.
It should perform about the same as the 260, and it is a much newer construction with better air filtration and anti-vibe. Imo also better ergonomics, but a tad more weight.
It is probably the least costly pro quality saw on the market. Comp release, adjustable oiler and "snap-off" top cover is standard.

The Husky 350 is also a nicer saw than the 250 imo.

[GrnRvrMn]

Thanks Troll and everyone else for the advice.

Monday, after school I got the 250.  I bucked a couple of rounds and split them up.  Slow start, but getting there.

Yesterday ordered chaps from our sponsor Bailey's.  Then cut a few more rounds and cooked supper on the fire I built from the split wood.  Eggs and Eye or Round slices.  A good day.