I'd check if he's used one before and has a preference. Im on a saw regularly (usually tree vs car or tree vs house) and will only use stihl or a husky, i'd be dissappointed with anything else, id rather know up front and put the difference in myself. Note for what you need, a cheaper saw might do as even a cheap stihl will set you back $400+. Have a look at youtube, has some good videos on durability and safety about stihl saws. Some of the cheapys i wouldnt trust, they run tests between them, very enlightening.
Does he have the safety gear? Boots, chaps, helmet, visor, ear muffs, etc.....
Other thing to consider is getting him on a cross cut course, particularly if he doesnt have experience.
Some might say im going overboard but im not sure if you have seen actual chainsaw injuries? They are pretty nasty and bloody hard to treat, particularly in a camp thats not close to civilisation.
Chainsawing is very safe if done right, so many take needless and life changing risks
Chris
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