The older the better... My neighbor gave me a Stihl FS-38 two years ago cuz he went with a E(NO)-GO.
This year she started to be non cooperative. I already have a Ryobi, so finally paid some attention to it. Cracked the Zama carb cleaned it out and it needed new fuel bladder and fuel pump (both were crunchy). Zama gaskets, bladder and fuel pump kit was $4. Fired right up and humming smooth again. I too use the couple pulls on choke, then 1/2 choke, then no choke approach while throttle lock engaged.
Asked neighbor how old is the STIHL you gave me, he said I got it about 15 years ago. Also I grease the bearing on the head yearly with a grease pen.