Out of the > 10 saws I have, the Stihl 250 and 361 are all I really need for felling, bucking, limbing, and milling of trees < 20” in diameter.
I prefer a 0.325” 18” bar/chain on the 250, but a 16” works fine.
The 361 wears a 20” bar most of the time, but will also pull a 25”. I like to mill with the 25” when on my Granberg, as it is long enough for me to use an extension ladder section as the mill guide.
For large milling or extremely hard wood, my 044 is a little faster. When milling, saw weight doesn’t really matter - but for felling and bucking, I seldom break out the 044 as it wears me out. In fact, I’d rather use my 250 than 361 for most light/medium duty for that same reason. Oddly, I often find myself reaching for the 250 rather than 026 for the same reason.
Good to hear you like the MS250. I like it a lot and don't have any plans to get rid of it. When I bought it originally, it was to be used for cutting trails and limbing/cutting shooting lanes. The weight was ideal for that. I didn't need a saw with much power for that either. That little saw has been through a lot. Much, much, more than it was intended or designed for. It's not going anywhere if I can help it.
