Husqvarna and Echo are the only 2 I would consider. Stihl makes an excellent product, but they force DIY'ers to their dealer network for repairs. If their products are so good, why the fear of losing repair revenue? Echo and Husqvarna have no problem posting their microfiche for the world to see. Parts are a simple internet search, click, and order. DONE. Stihl makes you go to the dealer, pay sales tax, and STILL pay shipping charges! Not a big fan of the way they do business. Reminds me of GM and Harley-Davidson. Make your money on MERIT, not deception! Just my little rant.
I just sold my 13 year old Echo handheld blower/vac for $120. Think I paid $180 new, so not bad at all. Grabbed my dad's Echo PB-403 backpack that he didn't want anymore. Replaced the coil and rebuilt the carb, and cleaned everything while it was apart, and now it's like a new unit. Starts ONE pull ALL the time, hot or cold, plus, parts are EASY to come by & find when needed.
