I picked up the 309 Machine, ported 261 last year. Now that I've got a few tanks through it, I feel like I can finally give an opinion. It basically feels like a 60-62cc saw in the size and weight class of a 50cc saw. As I get older, weight has become a priority, and that's where this saw stands out.
I have been running a stock 261C-M since 2017, and it has become my go-to saw for most things. I have a 500i for the bigger work, but there are times I need a little more grunt than what the stock 261 can provide, yet I don't want to drag out the 500i. That's where this ported 261 shines, think of it as an 18-20" bar saw on steroids. The custom 3/4 wrap handle is a work of art as well. I'm very happy to have it as part of the package.
309 Machine has excellent customer service and shipped my order quickly and professionally. I am a very happy customer and plan to return for future saw needs.