I have OWNED three saws (used many), two Homelites and now this one. I needed more power for intermittent logging, firewood, and ripping (refiled 2 chains for ripping) old barn beams for furniture. It has performed very well in winter and summer, wet or dry. It starts well, idles better than my other saws, and the smaller kerf and high chain speed make for very fast cutting, even with hardwoods.
I have many hours behind this saw, and I just ordered 5th and 6th chains (the others have been filed away). The only problems that are hardly worth mentioning are:
-The anti vibration system takes away some of the 'feel" of what you are cutting.
-My gas cap is getting tighter with each passing year. It seals fine, but its just hard to twist in and out now.
-It has a big engine which takes longer to reach operating temperature for usable power. (To be expected)
So far this saw has been flawless in its operation.
Get more detail about Poulan Pro PP4218AVX 18-Inch 42cc 2-Cycle Gas Powered Anti-Vibration Chain Saw With Case.