Conclusion: Both saws are excellent and would easily outlast my remaining cutting years.
Finally, I was able to make it through the 36" to 42" rounds of ash. My splitting for the year is essentiually finished, thanks to my overworked Stihl MS250, four wedges, two sledges, two very much stronger and younger buddies, a "hookaroon" (real time saver), and my new 26 ton Iron and Oak vertical/horizontal splitter (what a machine).
So, I will not purchase another saw this year. However, next spring/summer I will purchase a new saw and at this point am leaning towards the 342XP or the 357XP. It seems that when considering saws in the category we call "the best", saw ergonomics and service provided by the local dealer are perhaps the two most important considerations.
Thanks, all, for the feedback.
John_M
Finally, I was able to make it through the 36" to 42" rounds of ash. My splitting for the year is essentiually finished, thanks to my overworked Stihl MS250, four wedges, two sledges, two very much stronger and younger buddies, a "hookaroon" (real time saver), and my new 26 ton Iron and Oak vertical/horizontal splitter (what a machine).
So, I will not purchase another saw this year. However, next spring/summer I will purchase a new saw and at this point am leaning towards the 342XP or the 357XP. It seems that when considering saws in the category we call "the best", saw ergonomics and service provided by the local dealer are perhaps the two most important considerations.
Thanks, all, for the feedback.
John_M