Chainsaw Repair

372 

Both are very good saws. The 576 is a strato design, makes good torque and is easy on gas. There are both AT and Non-AT versions of the saw out there so if you have a look round you may find that both versions are available to you. Don't be afraid of AutoTune it works great.

You might also think about the XT version of the 372 very nice powerful saw. You may be able to save yourself some $ by buying a 365XT. It is exactly the same saw as the 372 same piston and cylinder same displacement 71.5cc. The only difference is the transfer port covers, which can be changed out for 372XT covers or modified to be the same as the 372 covers in about an hour! You then have a 372XT in sheep's clothing.
 
Everything you read above is true and should also figure into your choice

get a 390 xp for a few bucks more.  : )

Or build your own saw bb 372 kit.

After what I learned from Killiansredleo and others on here I won't buy a new saw.  : )

Get a blown up 365 special or blown up 372, put a Big Bore kit on it, dual port the muffler, no base gasket and a stihl piston, ( have to look up which one)  and hold on.

Of the two you listed, 372.

Me personally I would go 576. They have a much nicer powerband than the 372.

Agree on the balance issue. I have a lot of 372 saws and because of the balance issue, I have resorted to Sugihara light weight bars, $$$$ but makes the saw feel better in your hands, but still not as good as a 272XP.