Which of these is the best buy?

[CR888]

Look into getting a new saw from the US, it cones down to how good the pound is compared to the USD and shipping, but I've done well importing saws. But your on your own once you get the saw so if your the type that needs a dealer to hold your hand...well the import idea is not for you.

 

[ZukiRyder440]

346XP NE (50cc)- Built solid, fairly nimble as far as weight and are little rippers when ported, stock ones don't feel bad either.

550 MKI or MII- Light weight and have good power, had no experience with a ported one but I've seen some ported ones and they rip as well

254XP- Kinda in 357XP territory displacement wise (357 being 56cc and the 254 at 54cc) BUT a stock 346/353 against a stock 254, the 254 blows the 346 right out of the water. They have a good amount of torque for their size and are fairly light weight.

I can't say the 261-CM because I've never ran one but I've heard they are good little saws and I held one and I must say they are fairly light for their displacement.

 

[marcop]

Bought the 550xp Mark II new.

 

[bryanr2]

346XP NE (50cc)- Built solid, fairly nimble as far as weight and are little rippers when ported, stock ones don't feel bad either.

550 MKI or MII- Light weight and have good power, had no experience with a ported one but I've seen some ported ones and they rip as well

254XP- Kinda in 357XP territory displacement wise (357 being 56cc and the 254 at 54cc) BUT a stock 346/353 against a stock 254, the 254 blows the 346 right out of the water. They have a good amount of torque for their size and are fairly light weight.

I can't say the 261-CM because I've never ran one but I've heard they are good little saws and I held one and I must say they are fairly light for their displacement.

254XP is an awesome Saw. I’ve had two ported ones