550XP Mark 2 bar and chain suggestions

[Thumper88]

I plan to get one the 20% off 550’s being offered by Gentleman. I’m buying a PHO and have started looking at bars and chains. The main use of the saw will be limbing and light bucking working with a friend who does residential tree work, as well as cutting smaller firewood. I have bigger saws wearing 24” bar and chain combos, running 3/8 full chisel. Stihl RS with a Husky bar on a ported 365 Special and Oregon bar and chain on a 288XP. My main concern is light weight while maintain decent cut speed in wood smaller than 16”, with most cuts being 12” or smaller. So who makes a very light bar and chain combo in 16”? Is it worth it to run 3/8 or will .325 be easier on me and the saw while maintaining it’s ability to work quickly. Thanks in advance

 

[ammoaddict]

In 16" bars, I don't think the lightweights are noticibly lighter. Some people swear by 3/8. I like .325 on smaller saws. I have the Husqvarna narrow kerf bar on my 545 with the Husqvarna chain. Sp33 I think it is. I like it a lot, it's a great combo.

Sent from my moto g(7) power using Tapatalk

 

[Farmchuck]

I run 16” .325 Stihl full comp chain on mine & I am pleased. I got An Oregon Versa cut bar for it. Holding up well.

 

[huskihl]

20” LW 3/8 Tsumura is about $65. Not sure if it’s available in .325 or not. .325 is more forgiving but either one will work

 

[USMC615]

20” LW 3/8 Tsumura is about $65. Not sure if it’s available in .325 or not. .325 is more forgiving but either one will work

I don’t think it is offered in .325...I inquired a while back with a couple of folks, if my memory serves correct.

 

[Wonkydonkey]

As much as .325 is a pain, if all you own is 3\8 On 60cc + saws .325/ works well on 50 cc saws ... maybe 3/8 lo-pro it’s another way if you already have other lopro.saws

But ymmv .