I have a Shindy T-230, and I am very happy with it........many of the guys I work with at the firehouse have switched from echo's to shindy's. Many are pro landscapers.....
mine only gets used once every two weeks or so, and always starts right up with one or two pulls.
My advice is to check the brands mentioned above on their websites to see weights, models, etc. Also ask yourself who do you like best in your area for service, and see what they sell. Service means a lot.
A big OPE dealer around here sold tons of echo's for years.....then Home depot started selling them, he was the closest "real" dealer, and he did not want to service all of HD's sales, so he just dropped echo and is now selling sthil.
My exmark dealer who I like sells shindy's , so I went with what he sells.........
Frank D.
Ariens 1332DLE Pro, Exmark 52" HP ZTR, Gardian Generac generator, Shindiawa T230 Excell/Honda PW, Craftsman rototiller, Favorite IPE- My Mac + Ipod- No Windoze for me!