Chainsaw Echo. Review of the model range, instructions, reviews

About the Echo brand

The Kyoritsu Noki brand was founded in Japan in 1963. The first chainsaw produced by the plant was called “CS-80” and was very popular on the market. Immediately after the release of this model, the line (and then the entire manufactory) received the name Echo. From that moment on, a new manufacturer of professional and amateur instruments appeared on the Japanese and Middle East markets, which could compete not only with CIS manufacturers, but also with European craftsmen.

In 1972, Echo Incorporated was founded in the USA, which continues to manufacture products to this day. The lineup has changed and improved. The influence of American colleagues in the shop can be traced, although the basis remains original.

Homeland of the brand and country of origin

Homeland - Japan. The first chainsaw was developed and produced there. Currently, all products are manufactured in the USA.

Echo - Japanese quality at a reasonable price

The first Echo chainsaw was produced back in 1963. At that time, the company was known as Kyoritsu Noki Company Limited and was engaged in the production of agricultural machinery. The company received its current name in 1978. Now ECHO is part of the transnational corporation Yamabiko.

ECHO's headquarters are located in the suburbs of Tokyo, and its production facilities are located in the Japanese cities of Yokosuka and Morioka, as well as in China. The corporation's products have gained popularity due to their technology, excellent quality and high performance. Today, Echo chainsaws can be found in many industries.

These tools are used in professional felling, construction and repair, and are used by utility workers. Household and semi-professional models are excellent for caring for ornamental and fruit trees, harvesting and sawing firewood.

In addition to chain saws, the company produces brush cutters, cultivators, pole cutters, motor drills, motor drills, sprayers, lubricants and accessories. More detailed information about the range of manufactured products can be found here:

Echo Product Catalog

ECHO products combine high quality and reasonable prices, you can always buy tools according to your budget. In the manufacturer's catalog you can find expensive professional models and household tools at a budget price.

Features of Echo chainsaws

As mentioned above, the Japanese laid the basis for production with advanced technologies and reasonable material consumption. Let's take incisors as an example: most often they are not made from one specific material. Where hardness and a sharp blade are needed, there will be a carbon alloy, and where rigid support is needed, there will be a regular alloy steel or cast iron shell. This will preserve the cutter for as long as possible and prevent it from flying out of the chain.

Such a small example can provide a picture of all the elements of a chainsaw, since the entire structure is arranged in this way. If it had been assembled in a standard “handicraft” way, its price would have been several times higher.

Advantages

• high quality materials;
• long service life;
• wide range of products;
• affordable prices and a wide range of price offers;
• a small number of fakes.

Flaws

• most spare parts are not replaceable;
• You can order the original from the factory only during wholesale delivery (from 150 pcs.);
• non-standard configuration and design that may confuse the average user;
• most chainsaws are still expensive;
• ineffective noise reduction system (chainsaws produce sounds louder than 100 dB).

Echo chainsaw range

At the moment, the manufacturer is focusing on chainsaws of the highest price category. This is a professional segment that is in demand in industrial sawmills and large-scale production. Not surprising, since the United States is one of the world leaders in wood processing and deforestation.

ECHO CS-353ES

The saw is designed for working with large-sized solid workpieces and logs.

Chainsaw, with an engine capacity of 34 cm3 (power 1590 W). The idle speed is 13,500 per minute, which allows you to quickly saw even hard wood. The vibration on the ECHO CS-353ES is noticeable, however, the workpieces are cut quickly, so you can be patient. The tire size is 350 mm, which is much smaller than analogues of the same power. It can be classified as professional, as the characteristics are impressive. Weight - 4 kg.

The price of 15,300 is much higher than that of the same “Lynx PR-5218”, which is similar in characteristics, but costs 3 times less.

The ECHO CS-353ES chainsaw is reviewed and compared with the SHTIL 180 and HUSQVARNA 141 saws in the following video:

ECHO CS-260TES-10

Compact and convenient saw for household purposes. An excellent option for tourists.

A portable chain saw with an engine capacity of 26.9 cm3 and a power of 910 W. Maximum rpm in idle mode is 12,000 (with a tire size of 250 mm). This combination gives us a small and powerful chainsaw that is easy to control. The shock absorption system, which dampens vibrations, further increases the level of comfort when working. Noise level: 111 dB (very loud). ECHO CS-260TES-10 is a mini chainsaw, weighing 2.9 kg.

Price - 21,900 rubles.

ECHO CS-361WES-14″ CS-361WES/35RC

Semi-professional saw for industrial and household work.

ECHO CS-361WES-14″ is even louder than the previous one (115 dB), since with a tire length of 350 mm it produces 14,000 rpm. There is a chain brake and an anti-vibration system. This chainsaw is perfect for 7-9 hours of continuous operation. Engine capacity 35.8 cm3. It weighs about 3.8 kg, however, the center of gravity is balanced so that the saw does not fall out of your hands or jump when the cutter hits a metal object or stone.

Price 19,300 rubles.

ECHO CS-360TES-12″ CS-360TES/30RC

Lightweight chainsaw for household purposes. It will also be an excellent option for hiking trips due to its compactness and low weight.

A portable chain saw with a standard (35.8 cm3) engine capacity. Engine power is 1620 W, with 2.2 horsepower. A 300 mm long tire allows you to reach 14,000 rpm at idle. The saw is loud (115 dB) and large. Weight - 3.6 kg.

Price 23,490 rubles.

ECHO CS-4200ES-15″ CS-4200ES/38LRV

Chainsaw ECHO CS 4200ES is a compact professional model with medium power.

It is an exception to the main line, as it is focused on household functions (pruning branches, processing logs). This model is equipped with an air purification system that operates in three stages. Yes, the chainsaw practically does not shake, but the power is average. Engine displacement is 39.6 cm3, tire length is 380 mm, noise level is 95 dB (still loud, since this is the level of a passing train). The weight of the model is 4.4 kg.

Price - 25,100 rubles.

ECHO CS-620SX-18 CS-620SX/45LRS

High-performance professional chainsaw.

Portable chain saw with a huge (59.8 cm3) motor. Power 3320 W (4.51 horsepower). The speed is 12,900 rpm and the tire size is 450 mm. What can I say, here he is - a real beast. The noisiest (117 dB) saw in the line, but also the most powerful. There is a vibration damping system, but the vibration is still noticeable. Weight – 6.1 kg.

Price - 41,200 rubles.

ECHO CS-510-15″

Professional lightweight model.

A more compact version that weighs only 5.1 kg. Engine capacity - 45 cm3. The engine power of the ECHO CS-510-15″ is 1930 W. The maximum rpm is 13500, with a tire size of 380 mm. Before us is a stripped-down and “lightweight” version of the above-described model. It is much easier to control, hold in your hands, and costs less (32,200 rubles). However, it is just as loud (116 dB).

Price - 32,200 rubles.

ECHO CS-3700ES-15″ CS-3700ES/38LRV

Professional chainsaw with an easy start system.

Engine capacity – 35.8 cm3. Power in horsepower is 2.04, and in watts - 1500. The ECHO CS-3700ES-15″ chainsaw produces 12500 rpm at idle. The tire is only 380 mm long. There is a chain brake mechanism and an anti-vibration system. The model is light, compact, controllable, but loud (116 dB) and expensive. Weight 4.4 kg.

Price - 21,300 rubles.

ECHO CS-452ESX-15 CS-452ESX/38RD

Professional modified model.

A heavy chainsaw that has a special professional engine assembly. The engine displacement is 45.1 cm3, and the fuel tank holds 0.54 cm3. The tire is long (380 mm). Idle speed is 13500 rpm. The model is practically a gift, because the characteristics are impressive, and the warranty is 5 years. Weight – 4.6 kg.

Price - 30,600 rubles.

ECHO CS-390ESX-15″ CS-390ESX/38LRV

Compact and convenient household chainsaw.

Portable chain saw, with standard characteristics: engine capacity 38.4 cm3; power 1900 W (that’s 2.58 horsepower). Like the representative described above, it provides 13,500 rpm, with almost the same (380 mm) tire length. The design of the saw is comfortable; it has an orthopedic bend under the arm, which is why it does not become numb and does not get tired. Considering the weight of 3.6 kg, this feature greatly simplifies the work process.

Price - 29,490 rubles.

ECHO CS-501SX-15 CS-501SX/38LRV

Lightweight professional model.

A chainsaw with an increased engine capacity of 50.2 cm3 and a power of 2570 W (3.49 horsepower). 13500 rpm and a 380 mm tire size provide a high level of operating comfort and good cutting quality. Chain brake and shock absorption are present. ECHO CS-501SX-15 is designed for professionals who value long-term continuous operation and comfort. Weight 4.6 kg.

Price - 30,600 rubles.

ECHO CS-350WES-14″

Universal semi-professional model.

ECHO CS-350WES-14″ is an excellent universal chainsaw for the amateur semi-professional class. It has collected a number of innovations and features that make this model stand out from the crowd of competitors. The first and most important thing is low weight. With 2.01 horsepower, the weight is only 3.6 kg! The work is pure pleasure and shows high efficiency.

The materials from which the ECHO CS-350WES-14″ chainsaw is made are durable and well protect the insides from damage and debris and dust.

The cylinder walls are coated with Hard Chrome, which helps withstand temperature changes and increases service life.

There is a “quick start” system (ES Strat). The oil supply mechanism is fully automated. The air purification system is superior to all previous models. A real find for professionals and people knowledgeable about chainsaws.

Price - 19,300 rubles.

User manual

Before you start operating the Echo chain saw, you should study the manual, become familiar with the structure of the unit and the safety rules when working with chain saws.

Chainsaw device

Safety precautions when working with an Echo chainsaw:

• Ensure the reliability of bolt and screw fastenings, if necessary, tighten the screws and nuts;
• After each refueling, you should inspect the chainsaw for oil and gasoline leaks. It is prohibited to work if the tightness of fuel, oil lines and tanks is broken;
• Do not refuel the Echo chainsaw while the engine is running or hot;
• Make sure that the chain tension is correct; not only the performance of the chainsaw, but also your safety depends on this;
• When working, always use personal protective equipment, wear sturdy shoes and tight-fitting clothing;
• To avoid injury, operate the chainsaw with both hands;
• It is prohibited to carry out sawing near open sources of fire, or during rain or snow;
• Working with a faulty anti-vibration system is not allowed. This can lead to arm and back fatigue and injury to the operator;
• You should not overwork; it is best to take breaks every 45-50 minutes of work;
• When performing any repair work, turn off the engine and wait until it cools down;
• After turning off the engine, turn on the inertia brake to stop the chain;
• Clean the air filter regularly;
• Keep your Echo chainsaw clean in a dry, well-ventilated area.

First launch and run-in

Assembly of the Echo chainsaw and first launch:

• Remove the protective casing, mount the saw set, install the toothed stop and put on the casing without tightening the nuts on the splines;
• Using the adjusting screw, set the correct chain tension and tighten the fastening nuts until they stop;

Important: the links of a properly tensioned chain should not sag, while the chain rotates easily along the bar without locking or making extraneous noise.

• Fuel the engine, add oil to the automatic lubrication system;
• Make sure that the chain stopping brake is on, check that the chain is not in contact with foreign objects;
• Start the engine, let it warm up at idle speed (1-2 minutes);
• Release the chain brake and get to work.

Maintenance

Your chainsaw has a two-stroke gasoline engine that requires a high-quality fuel mixture. To prepare it, you should use high-octane gasoline grade AI 92-95 and special motor oil for two-stroke engines. The working mixture is prepared in a ratio of 1/50.

Fuel mixture ratio

The manufacturer claims that the Echo engine does not require special running-in, and therefore there is no need for a special fuel mixture. Running in the chainsaw is carried out using regular fuel, in a gentle mode for 7-9 hours. At the same time, you should not cut thick logs and overheat the motor.

Echo JASO FD

Husqvarna HP oil

Oleo-Mac Prosint 2T oil

Recommended motor oils:

• Echo JASO FD with dispenser;
• Husqvarna HP;
• Oleo-Mac Prosint 2T;
• CHAMPION JASO FD;
• STIHL HP;

To refill the automatic lubrication system, special oils with a certain viscosity index should be used. They not only increase productivity, but also extend the service life of the saw set. It should be remembered that the use of various substitutes as lubricants leads to premature breakdowns and costs for repairing a chain saw.

Chainsaws - competitors

Every serious manufacturer in any field has competitors and rivals. The woodworking industry is no exception! Below are a few of the larger competitors that are comparable to the Echo in terms of specs:

• Stihl is a German company that also ranks first in the top sales. It is in first place in the list of competitors, as it has a large range of products and is sold in almost every store. The brand is well-promoted and does not need advertising, although the characteristics of some models and the quality of budget chainsaws are very mediocre.
• Lynx is a strong competitor from Belarus, which boasts quality and an affordable price. It is second only in power, although it has professional models that easily outperform any representative on the list.
• Viper is an American company that produces successful copies of popular models. The characteristics are the same, and the price is lower. The quality remains questionable, however, people buy the products, even in the absence of advertising.
• Husqvarna is a Swedish company that produces quality products for big money. It may well compete with Echo, but it does not have such bright advertising, has not yet established deliveries to the rest of the world and does not produce a large number of “amateur” models, so for now it is known only in narrow professional circles.

Some of the above contenders beat the Echo on price, but not on power. Moreover, if we compare chainsaws in the professional segment (of which Echo has the majority), the competitors are far behind.

Owner reviews

Alexander Kryuchkov:

I chose a saw for my father. We used it in the village for sawing firewood, and in winter we went into the forest. Several large pine trees were felled. Echo works like a clock. It doesn’t eat extra fuel, and it doesn’t overuse oil either. This summer we started a small construction project in the village - the chainsaw did not rest. I realized that it is ideal for renovation and construction. The Echo saw has already earned its price.

Artem Shiryaev:

I bought Echo on the recommendation of a friend. I read reviews on the Internet, talked with sellers - I bought it for household needs and to cut firewood. Although the tool is a household tool, it can cut down trees up to 55 centimeters (I haven’t cut any more). Moreover, the weight is such that branches can be cut with one hand. I liked how it started in winter: the first or second time. I have no complaints about the instrument – ​​it’s truly Japanese.

Reviews of Echo chainsaws

Having studied trading platforms and discussions on forums, we can come to the conclusion that the reviews are mostly positive. As a rule, they praise the weight (the average weight of an Echo chainsaw is 3 kg), speed, and durability. They criticize for complex designs and the lack of an intuitive control system (quick start, crash protection, etc.) Here are some of the reviews:

Victor, 31 years old:

Hi all! I purchased an ECHO CS-260TES-10 saw to prepare firewood for the heating season. At first, I thought that the seller was lying, because the saw was very light and it did not inspire any power. However, after a couple of hours of work, I got used to it and noticed that almost all the work planned for the day was completed 2 hours earlier. The cut is smooth and without serrations, there are no peelings or tears. Very, very good. I bought a new one from the store. I didn’t spare any money, as I plan to pass it on to future generations as a memory and a quality instrument.

Oleg, 40 years old:

Good day, forum guests! I’m creating a thread with the goal of dotting all the i’s. I bought the ECHO CS-510-15 model on the market. Whether it’s new or used is not clear. The price is almost like new. I brought it to the garage, unpacked it, looked at it for a couple of minutes, and packed it back. Nothing is clear (previously there was a SHTIL saw with one lever - everything is simple there). A couple of months later the working season began, and I had to learn how to use a chainsaw. I launched it with grief and began to work. I will say that the sophisticated design fully justifies the result - it works easily and quickly, and fits in the hand like a glove. I’ve been using it for 3 years now, the flight is normal, I recommend it to everyone.

Top models

As we have already noted, all chainsaws from Echo are distinguished by high quality and exemplary performance characteristics. However, in the manufacturer’s model range there are chain saws that have gained particular popularity and have long become sales leaders.

Chainsaw Echo CS-260TES-10

Chainsaw Echo CS-350WES

Chainsaw Echo CS-501SX

Top models of Echo chainsaw:

• Echo CS-260TES-10 is a very light, compact (pocket) household-grade chainsaw. Ideal for small repairs and construction work, garden pruning and hedge maintenance.
• Echo CS-350WES is a universal semi-professional tool. Equipped with an excellent Japanese engine, has a reliable design and reinforced piston.
• Echo CS-501SX - a reliable, high-revving, powerful (3.5 horsepower) engine combined with excellent maneuverability and performance.