I've got a Stihl Farm Boss that I've had for years. It's an 029, which I think is the same size as a 290. It has been an awesome saw. Never, EVER, EVER...use motor oil as chain oil! That will ruin a chain and bar quicker than anything. Use bar and chain oil only. I've got chipper chains on both of my Stihls, and they throw hunks of wood instead of sawdust...lol. Don't use a chipper chain unless you've got a lot of experience with a saw. They kick back much easier than a regular chain. I use non ethanol premium gas, and Stihl 50 to 1 mix in my saw, but the 50 to 1 Motomix is good too. Only other thing I can tell you is wear hearing protection. I didn't do it when I was younger, and my ears ring like hell now! Good luck, and be safe!
