Contents
A chainsaw is a reliable and faithful assistant to every professional craftsman and novice journeyman. Unfortunately, the construction market is full of brands whose products do not always meet the stated technical specifications. To avoid problems, you need to buy high-quality equipment from trusted brands, including Stihl. What is the best Stihl chainsaw and how to choose it, read our article.
Technical support of Stihl branded chainsaws
The history of the Stihl company (Stihl) begins in 1926, when the production of electric miter saws is launched at the Andreas Stihl machine-building plant registered in Germany.
The first chainsaw, the weight of which exceeded 46 kg, and the power was only 6 hp. s., was presented to the public in 1929. 90 years have passed since the release of the first chainsaw. During this period of time, the company has undergone many changes, but one thing has remained unchanged – this is the excellent quality of products manufactured by Stihl.
In the modern production of chainsaws, various innovative technologies and unique techniques are used. Let’s take a look at some of Stihl’s patented technologies that improve tool performance and guarantee maximum operator protection.
Technology 2 MIX
2 MIX technology allows to reduce fuel consumption and minimize the amount of exhaust gases. 2 MIX technology refers to a unique method of purging the combustion chamber with clean air, thanks to which no residual fuel mixture is released into the atmosphere.
Катализатор
A special device called a catalyst burns the remaining fuel mixture in the muffler. Since the heating temperature is too high (about 1000 degrees), the catalyst housing has double walls. Such protection prevents the tool from heating up during operation and, accordingly, prevents the operator from getting burned.
Please note that the catalyst is not included in the basic package of most Stihl chainsaws presented in the model range. You can purchase and install the device as an accessory.
Air filter
Stihl has developed innovative air filters that are characterized by high wear. Pre-cleaning is carried out due to centrifugal force, respectively, the load on the filter element is reduced.
The air filter developed according to a unique technique can be washed under running water, cleaned with gasoline or air.
Intelligent Engine
The intelligent engine system from the developers of Shtil has no analogues in the world. The quality and quantity of fuel consumed is controlled electronically, the need for manual adjustment has disappeared by itself.
Chainsaws with an intelligent engine installed are easy to start and have a stable crankshaft speed.
Decompression valve
Installing a decompression valve allows you to reduce pressure when turning the starter. The decompression valve must be opened before starting the engine. After the first flash of the fuel mixture, which occurs at the moment the device is started, the valve closes automatically.
Carburetor heating system
As you know, when the temperature drops to negative levels, there are problems with the operation of chainsaws. At sub-zero air temperatures, icing of the carburetor occurs. The developers of Stihl managed to solve this problem by installing an automatic carburetor heating system.
The carburetor heating system consists of a thermal switch and a heating element. When the air temperature drops to +10 °C, the thermostat turns on and power is supplied to the heating element.
Electric handle heating system
Electric heating of the handle increases the comfort of using the tool. Such a system prevents the sticking of snow and the formation of ice. Chainsaw models that have a handle heating system are marked with the letter “W”.
The main criteria for choosing a chainsaw
A diverse range of models complicates the choice of a working tool. When selecting models, the following criteria should be considered:
- Engine type and size.
- Power and performance.
- The speed of rotation of the cutting element.
- Working tire length.
- Fuel and oil tank capacity.
- Tool dimensions and weight.
- Handle location.
- Additional options (automatic blocking of the chain, anti-vibration mode, heating of the handle, control of the frequency of rotation of the cutting element, etc.).
For some craftsmen, not only functionality is important, but also the industrial design of equipment. The German brand produces chainsaws in the same style. Externally, the tools combine conciseness, constructivism and ergonomics.
Stihl specializes in the development, production and sale of powerful and trouble-free specialized equipment. The factories of the world famous brand are located in Germany, USA, Brazil, Switzerland and China. Unfortunately, the popularity of the brand has interested not only potential buyers, but also scammers. The modern market is full of fakes.
When buying a working tool, pay attention to the country of origin. Original products of the Stihl brand are accompanied by quality certificates.
Author’s advice
The best budget models Calm
Often budget chainsaws are called household. Such working tools will be useful in the country and in the private yard. We bring to your attention the TOP-3 of the best budget chainsaws of the household class.
STIHL MS 170
Household saw for high-quality performance of a number of current works, in particular, pruning the garden, clearing the yard from old boards and logs, preparing firewood for the winter. The body of the STIHL MS 170 is made of impact-resistant material, so the tool is not afraid of mechanical damage. The operator is protected from burns: a special spark-absorbing grille is installed on the muffler.
The chain is lubricated automatically. Users note economical oil consumption and a long service life of the saw set.
Features:
- construction type – manual model;
- power, W – 1300;
- engine size, cu. cm – 30,1;
- tank capacity (fuel / oil) – 250 and 145 ml;
- tire length, cm – 40;
- weight, kg – 3,9.
Pros:
- compactness;
- low specific gravity;
- maneuverability;
- ease of use.
Cons:
- palpable vibration;
- lack of a key bracket in the basic configuration;
- chain stretches over time.
Video “First acquaintance with the saw STIHL MS 170”
In this video, experts explain how to perform the first assembly of the tool.
STIHL MS 180
The MS 180 chainsaw is the ideal companion for private households. With this tool, you can tidy up the yard, prepare trees and shrubs for wintering, prepare solid fuel on the eve of the heating season, and even perform high-quality cross-cutting of wood.
The device differs in simplicity of a design and convenience of operation. The absence of metal inserts in the body made it possible to significantly reduce the weight of the functional unit. Engine-mounted rubber dampers reduce vibration and protect the operator from injury.
Features:
- construction type – manual model;
- power, W – 1500;
- engine size, cu. cm – 31,8;
- tank capacity (fuel / oil) – 250 and 145 ml;
- tire length, cm – 40;
- weight, kg – 3,9.
Pros:
- housing resistant to deformation, shock and other mechanical damage;
- quick start;
- lack of vibration;
- low noise performance;
- ease of handling and maintenance.
Cons:
- high fuel consumption;
- lack of primer;
- filter clogs quickly
- flimsy switch.
Video “Full review of STIHL MS 180”
This video shows the main technical specifications of the MS 180.
STIHL MS 181 C-BE
Robust and reliable tool for domestic use – this is how the model MS 181 C-BE can be characterized. The manufacturer has provided the maximum level of operator protection. There is an automatic chain stop, anti-vibration system, chain catcher and rear protection.
The STIHL MS 181 C-BE is distinguished by economical oil and fuel consumption. At the same time, the efficiency of the device is at a height.
Features:
- construction type – manual model;
- power, W – 1500;
- engine size, cu. cm – 31,8;
- tank capacity (fuel / oil) – 280 and 180 ml;
- tire length, cm – 40;
- weight (without tire and chain), kg – 4,3.
Pros:
- high performance;
- easy and fast start;
- economical consumption of oil and fuel;
- maneuverability;
- ease of use.
Cons:
- not suitable for cutting thick and massive logs.
Video “Review of the saw STIHL MS 181 C-BE”
This video is dedicated to the description of the STIHL MS 181 C-BE chainsaw.
The best saws in the middle price segment
The category “middle price segment” often implies semi-professional tools. A semi-professional gasoline saw is the best option for a number of construction, installation and logging work.
STIHL MS 271
The ideal tool for high-quality and even cutting of wood materials and natural wood. Perfectly copes with boards and logs of medium diameter. The reliable and durable STIHL MS 271 chainsaw can be used for landscaping the garden and adjacent areas, harvesting firewood for the winter, building sheds and garden arbors.
The advantages of the model include a reduction in fuel consumption by 20% and a reduction in exhaust emissions by 50%.
Features:
- construction type – manual model;
- power, W – 2600;
- engine size, cu. cm – 50,2;
- tank capacity (fuel / oil) – 500 and 240 ml;
- tire length, cm – 50;
- weight, kg – 5,6.
Pros:
- reliable air filter;
- availability of the anti-vibration mode;
- automatic chain brake;
- convenient access to the fuel tank;
- high productivity;
- low emission of exhaust gases.
Cons:
- user complaints about the rapid wear of the piston;
- noticeable level of acoustics.
Video “Overview of STIHL MS 271”
This video describes the options and functionality of the MS 271.
STIHL MS 310
The STIHL MS 310 has a wide range of applications. The tool can be used to perform numerous household tasks, in furniture production, the construction industry, gardening and landscape design. The manufacturer provides a high degree of operator protection: automatic chain stop system, chain catcher, closed sprocket and hand protection. Rubberized shock absorbers reduce the load on the hands and reduce the level of vibration.
A distinctive feature of the MS 310 chainsaw is the ability to work in summer and winter modes. Under the winter mode is meant the heating of the handles and the carburetor.
Features:
- construction type – manual model;
- power, W – 3240;
- working volume, cub. cm – 59;
- tank capacity (fuel / oil) – 690 and 330 ml;
- tire length, cm – 45;
- weight, kg – 5,9.
Pros:
- endurance;
- performance;
- ease of use;
- universal application;
- summer and winter modes of operation;
- a good combination of quality and cost.
Cons:
- no serious deficiencies were identified.
Video “Comparison of STIHL MS 290, MS 310 and MS 390 chainsaws”
This video provides a comparative analysis of three semi-professional tools.
STIHL MS 241 C-M
The saw MS 241 CM used in forestry is characterized by its reliability, practicality and high functionality. The increased motor resource guarantees long service life of the tool. The high-quality guide bars and saw chains used in the work process allow you to perform a high-quality and accurate cut of soft, hard, dirty and even frozen wood. At the same time, the threat to the life and health of the operator is minimal.
Features:
- construction type – manual model;
- power, W – 2200;
- engine size, cu. cm – 42,6;
- tank capacity (fuel / oil) – 470 and 200 ml;
- tire length, cm – 40;
- weight (without tire and chain), kg – 4,7.
Pros:
- compactness and maneuverability;
- reliability;
- high body strength;
- simplified launch system;
- universal filtration system.
Cons:
- no significant deficiencies were found.
Video “Overview and review of the STIHL MS 241 CM saw”
Do you want to know the opinion of users about the model MS 241 CM? Watch this video carefully.
The premium class includes professional tools for a wide range of applications. Such chainsaws are actively used in the construction industry and furniture production, forestry and farmland. Premium-class saws are characterized by performance and increased resource, power and versatility.
STIHL MS 461
Model MS 461 is used for sawing logs of various diameters and felling trees. The device is often used in the construction and furniture industries, in landscaping and gardening, as well as for a number of works of public utilities.
Users note easy and quick starting of the engine, since a decompression valve and carburetor heating are provided. The functional block is controlled by an ergonomic control lever. The installed rubber springs and blockers reduce the level of vibration and reduce the load on the operator’s hands.
Subject to certain safety measures, the STIHL MS 461 saw does not pose a threat to human life and health. There are spark-absorbing muffler grilles and a QuickStop emergency brake with a chain catcher function.
Features:
- construction type – manual model;
- power, W – 4400;
- engine size, cu. cm – 76,5;
- tank capacity (fuel / oil) – 800 and 320 ml;
- tire length, cm – 45;
- weight, kg – 6,6.
Pros:
- reduction of fuel consumption by 20%;
- low acoustics;
- ignition system with microprocessor;
- ease of use and maintenance;
- convenient location of the air filter.
Cons:
- requires frequent cleaning of the air filter;
- There are many fakes on the market.
Video “Overview of the STIHL MS 461 and STIHL MS 661 CM”
This video provides features and descriptions of two professional tools.
STIHL MS 661 C-M
Powerful and reliable professional chainsaw for various types of work in large volumes. According to the manufacturer, the MS 661 CM model successfully copes even with extreme loads.
The advantages of the MS 661 CM chainsaw include a well-thought-out anti-vibration system, economical fuel consumption and constant optimal engine power. Users note the safety of operation of the device, as well as the easy-to-use oil pump with the ability to control power. The MS 661 CM is equipped with a QuickStop automatic chain brake and an HD2 air filter with a polyethylene filter element.
Features:
- construction type – manual model;
- power, W – 5400;
- engine size, cu. cm – 91,1;
- tank capacity (fuel / oil) – 850 and 400 ml;
- tire length – supplied without a cutting element;
- weight, kg – 7,4.
Pros:
- ease of assembly;
- easy start;
- high torque;
- simplified fuel supply system;
- strong fastenings of accession of the cutting element;
- protection from the effects of precipitation;
- improved access to the air intake.
Cons:
- overpriced parts.
STIHL MS 880
The STIHL MS 880 chainsaw is the undisputed leader in the number of positive consumer reviews. This model has an increased motor resource, copes with extreme loads and demonstrates excellent performance. The main scope of the tool is forestry and agriculture.
Reliability of work and high quality of a cut is guaranteed by a highly productive Rapid Super chain. The improved anti-vibration system relieves stress and strain on the hands. The safety of the operator is thought out to the smallest detail. It has an automatic chain brake and side chain tensioner.
The gradually increasing power function increases the operating time of the working tool.
Features:
- construction type – manual model;
- power, W – 6400;
- engine size, cu. cm – 121,6;
- tank capacity (fuel / oil) – 1300 and 700 ml;
- tire length, cm – 91;
- weight of the functional unit, kg – 10.
Pros:
- high power;
- excellent productivity;
- versatility of application;
- reliability and strength of the case;
- convenient management;
- anti-vibration mode;
- autobrake system.
Cons:
- heavy weight;
- difficulty with movement.
Video “STIHL MS 880 – the best and most powerful chainsaw”
This video demonstrates the work of a professional tool.
The Stihl chainsaw rating presented in our article is based on user reviews and representatives of service centers. However, you should not dwell solely on these models. The range of chainsaws of the Stihl brand is very diverse, it will not be difficult to choose the most convenient tool to use.
Сн бна уу? Энэ хөрөө монголд хаана зарагдаж бгаа вэ? 381 нь хэрэгтэй бна.