Chain Saw Recommendations

[fredsheldon]

Now that is some chainsaw.

[fiatben]

I recently had to research this issue myself, and had presented the question on one of the woodturning forums previously. That, coupled with having worked in a small engine repair shop for the past 3 years, I'd say that your Stihl 290 is a good choice. I would say that the top three choices for woodturners would be Stihl, Echo and Husqvarna (probably in that order). Of those, we've seen all three come into the shop needing work, but the Husqvarnas seem to come in more and just don't seem to be the saw they used to be (maybe too many Chinese parts?)
The more aggressive chain is a great accessory. Definitely do not want to use the saw without a full face shield, ear protection and padded gloves as a minimum. The chaps are an extremely good idea too. I recently spoke with an ER nurse with a story about a 19-year old they brought in with a chainsaw sticking out of his leg!! At least his buddies had since enough to leave it in there until they got him to the hospital. Otherwise, he probably would have bled out before they got him in.
Personally, I would have gone a little bigger, but you didn't define what you meant by a "big" bowl blank. Personally, I would have gone with the 311 or the pro model, because I hate that feeling when something just a little bigger would have done a much better job. But most chainsaws will cut stuff bigger than I have the kahunas to attempt to turn on my old Shopsmiths.

[wdelliott]

I agree with Burkhome. Buy the most robust model you can afford. You are positng a homeowner's unit. Too light.

I own a ranch and clear brush and trees all the time and own 5 Stihl chainsaws from small to bit. I end up using my strongest unit most of the time and do not regret the extra cost.