Need advice on buying a consaw (petrol cut-off saw)

Barry Flannery

Hi,

I'm wondering if someone can advise me on the critical specifications for a consaw.

First of all, I want to buy a saw outright and am not interested in hiring or renting.

After a very brief bit of research I think that I've narrowed it down to either Husqvarna or Stihl and am planning to spend around ~€1000 on it. I have a number of questions however on deciding what exact model:

• How important is power? Many of the models seem to be 3.8kW but I'm tempted to push for the ~5kW power range. How important is power? Faster deeper cuts? Is kick back far more dangerous at higher power levels?
  
• How important is blade diameter? 12" seems to be the most common but I'm wondering are larger blades superior/faster? I don't want to get into a situation where the larger blades are rare as hens teeth and cost megabucks.

I was looking at these two models:

Some of the models I was looking at the the 5kW class engines such as:
http://www.stihlusa.com/products/cut-off-machines/professional-cut-off/ts700/

http://www.husqvarna.com/ie/construction/products/power-cutters-product-range/k-970/#specifications

Any help would be much appreciated!

Barry

WUFF

Hi

If its of any help i have a Stihl TS400 bought new in 2002 still going strong.
Its a 3.2kw saw with a 300m dia blade.

It really depends what you will use the the saw for. The bigger saws 5kw power range and larger blades can be useful for road cutting tarmac, concrete ect they are generally mounted on a cart.

For general use ie cutting blocks bricks, lintels, pavors ect I find the smaller saw easier to handle. Lighter & easier to use in a tight space.
The 300mm blade has about a 100mm cutting depth.

I have found over the years money spent on a good quality diamond blade is money well spent.
Make sure your fuel mix is accurate, keep it serviced and DONT lend it to anyone and you will have it for years!

Maybe call in to a few tool hire shops and see what they hire out and what problems arise.
I would buy another Stihl.

ihavethepower

i would agree with wuff, i've chased with both stihl and husky, the build quality on the stihl feels better less plastic-y. Good choice of machines though. I would hire both from respective dealers, or ask for test run on hire equipment.