"What is this saw's compression?" Thats the first and most important question you should ask when buying any used saw. (A new Stihl saw will have 120lbs compression. While I have seen some well used saws still running with only 95lbs, I wouldn't suggest buying a used saw with less than 115lbs.

 Not everyone has a compression guage or a dealer close by to check out the saw. If the seller has good feedback and you really want the saw, ask him to check the piston\cylinder for any scaring. This is easily done simply by removing the muffler, shining a light into the engine and manually moving the piston up and down (slowly pulling on pullrope) If the piston and cylinder are smooth without damage, then compression may or may not be okay. Cylinder and/or piston damage aren't the only causes of low compression. Thats why I would not a used saw without  this reading from the seller. ( Low Compression from a scared piston or cylinder is NOT A COST EFFECTIVE REPAIR FOR MOST SAWS)

Next you should ask if the bar and chain are included and what condition they are in. Stihl bars can be pretty pricie for 20" and over.(min.$28.00) And the chains run approx a dollar an inch OFF the bar. (Meaning a saw with a 20" bar will have a chain measuring 25 to 28 inches or more.) To be sure, call your local Stihl Dealer for pricing, they don't all price the same.

I see a lot of Ebay listings like this; STIHL 029/MS290. Implying these two models are the same. A Model 029 is NOT the same as a MS290. The 029 is much older.  While parts are still available (and salvy loggers may prefer them) a newer model is best for the new or occasional user. Remember, Stihls newer model saws all have the letters MS preceeding the model number. e.g. MS290 These letters simply mean "Motor Saw."

Whether the saw is  used or new in the box, write now the exact model, bar size, and chain type. Then call your closest dealer and ask the cost of this saw new. Unless its a MS390 or larger, dont pay more than half the price of new for a used.

Something else I see on Ebay, that bothers me, are STIHL CHAINSAWS NEW IN THE BOX. Stihl Corp. does not allow Stihl Dealers to sell over the internet. This is because equipment must be serviced,and the customer educated on use and maintainace before it leaves a store. Dealers selling new saws on Ebay risk losing their Dealership. So why do they do it? From what I can see;  the saw sells for more on Ebay than at their store.  (Bidding frenzies) And they don't have to spend the time (money) on assembly,service or educating the customer.

  Another reason Dealers list new saws on Ebay;  buyers assume "new in the box" means a bar and chain are included. Or the bar and chain is made by Stihl. And either there is no bar and chain or the bar and chain is made by Oregon. SO ASK!

Or do the smart thing when buying a "NEW" Stihl saw...buy from a Dealership and receive an assembled, serviced saw that will fit your needs and always provide you with reliable service and help.

Now you can buy like a Pro!!!!

LorrieLee