Best Stihl Chainsaw Reviews

Best Stihl Chainsaw Review
Image Credit: Stoney Ridge Farmer

I was recently tasked by a renowned chainsaw selling company to review the best chainsaws in the market. This caught me off guard because I didn’t know where to start. It took me a couple of days going around to test and do research on a variety of models in the market and come up with a list of perfect options.

I went the extra mile to compare the products by listing down their features and specifications. I never left there; I also ensured I stated what every chain was best suited to do. In my list, the STIHL chainsaws emerged as tools of the modern generation. This machine had everything you would like from any perfect chainsaw.

Since there are several STIHL models in the market, it becomes difficult to choose the right one to serve your intended need. Various models have different features and specifications that make them stand out from the rest and make the selection process easier. In our best Stihl chainsaw reviews, we shall look at the top STIHL chain saw models you can consider when shopping for them.


1. STIHL MS- 170 Lightweight Chainsaw for Wood Cutting

ModelMS 170
Weight4 kg
Displacement31 cc
Bar Size12-16 inch
Power SourceGas
Fuel8.5 oz
Chain Oil5 oz
Made inUSA
Stihl MS 170 Gas Powered Chainsaw

If you are looking for a saw to use at home, this is the one for you. You get to have the best. Its unique features and specifications make it a great value product. Want to trim or cut some small trees around your homestead? Pick MS 170. It is among the perfect options you can use to carry all home-based projects. STIHL MS 170 is a value for money.


Expert Opinion

George Parter, New Jersey, USA.

“For me, this is the best saw I have used. I purchased it at a reasonable price and got nothing but value. I have been using it for around ten years now and will surely go on. It is not easy to find a saw like this one. It does not produce too much vibration. I equally save up on fuel for it considers my pocket.”


Why is It Different?

Unlike Husqvarna 240 chainsaw and other chainsaws, MS 170 is very light in weight. This is because it is excellent in size and equipped with aluminum and plastic housing. It delivers a lot in terms of speed and high power. Leave alone its unique design that experts and professionals comply with.

We are all used to the constant vibration in saws. The excellent news, Stihl has reduces this by coming up with an exclusive system. The system is an anti-vibration system that minimizes vibration. It seeks to make it as comfortable as it can be for you. Moreover, it aids in lessening operator weariness.

It Carries Technical Features

  1. It has a carburetor that ensures the engine receives the correct RPM for better oil consumption
  2. Built with an anti-vibration system to prevent users from feeling produced vibrations
  3. Has the Ematic lubrication system to save on oil consumption
  4. Varying bar and chain length of between 12 and 14 inches
  5. It weighs 9 pounds and thus making it among the lightest options
Needed Additional Features
  • Affordable quality product
  • Light in weight
  • Easy to use and manage
  • It cuts quickly and smoothly
  • Unique design
Unwanted Features
  • You cannot purchase it online
  • It produces too much smoke
  • It lacks shock absorbers

Frequently Aske Questions

Does this model have a fuel-saving system?

Yes, the model maintains optimum performance and power with low fuel consumption

Does the package include a carrying case?

No, almost all chainsaws don’t come with carrying cases.

Can this model run in freezing temperatures?

Yes, it has an air heating system that enables it to be used in any climatic condition


2. MSE 170 C-B Durable Corded Electric Chainsaw

ModelMSE 170 C-B
Weight3.8 kg
Motor Power13 amp
Bar Size12-16 inch
Power SourceElectric
Oilomatic3/8 in. PM3
Chain Oil6.8 oz
Made inUSA
Stihl MSE 170 C-B

If you are looking for a great electric saw, look no further than this model. The STIHL MSE 170 C-B is not your ordinary electric saw. This product is durable and utilizes the latest technology in cutting. Save the money for fuel, engine maintenance, and exhaust fumes.


Expert Opinion

By Albert H. Gardner, Ohio, USA.

“There was this time I was looking for a chainsaw that befits my preference. Someone recommended that I use MSE 170 C-B; I still thank the person to date. It is the best electric chainsaw. I once thought of using it indoors, and when I did, it did not disappoint. From experience and a professional point of view, I would recommend it to anyone.”


What Makes It Different?

In contrast with other chainsaws or Husqvarna 450 E, you can use this machine indoors. Are you surprised by this? Yes, you can. All you need is a power connection. It even has a coast- down specification that quickly stops the chain from rotating. Wondering how? This occurs once the trigger is released. All you need to do is to let it work after plugging it in.

Concerning technology, this product is not left behind. It has reduced emission technology. This is environmental- friendly as it prevents pollution. There is an extra chain brake that is manually activated. It was designed to work when the operator releases the rear handle. This ceases the chain quickly.

This chainsaw is as safe as ever. It is designed with a system that minimizes the risk of injuries. Stihl Quickstop chain brake is its name. It ceases the chain from rotating when mistakenly activated by the operator’s hand. There is also a possibility that it can be activated by inertia. It will then stop immediately.

It Carries Technical Features

  1. It has a large trigger switch and a quick chain adjustment knob for fast and easy to use
  2. Designed with an automatic chain stoppage feature to stop the chain from rotating when you release the trigger
  3. It is powered by electricity
  4. This machine weighs under 8.5 pounds and thus making it easy to maneuver around with
  5. It has a lubrication system to provide proper lubrication and minimal oil consumption
Needed Additional Features
  • Additional chain-breaking feature
  • Safe to use
  • Durable
  • It saves power
Unwanted Features
  • The reduced emission technology is not available in all models
  • You cannot purchase it online

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are the target buyers?

This model is suitable for home tasks.

What is the motor output of the model?

The engine output is at 13.1 amps

How many volts is this model?

The MSE 170 C-B is 120 V model

Another popular and heavy-duty brand is Poulan or Poulan Pro. You can check the Poulan Pro chainsaw to have a suitable trimmer.


3. STIHL MS 250 Chainsaw for Homeuse

ModelMS 250
Weight10 lbs
Displacement45.5 cc
Bar Size18 inch
Power SourceGas
Fuel16 oz
Chain Oil6.8 oz
Made inUSA
Stihl MS 250 Gas Powered Chainsaw

Have you ever used an axe to cut firewood? Then you know how tiresome it is. You not only get tired but time-consuming. If you depend on firewood to warm your home, then you have to get a chainsaw. Which chainsaw is best for cutting firewood? Already thinking of buying one? Well, ensure you buy STIHL MS 250 chainsaw. You will not regret it.


Expert Opinion

By Goodluck K. Mandela, South Africa.

“STIHL MS 250 is a value for money product. It has unique features that make me say so. Unlike other chainsaws, it has a winter/summer shutter. This great device protects the carburetor from damage during bad weather. It is safe to use and convenient as well. I must say it is one of the best. And yes, I do have mine, not one but two. You can deduce why.”


What makes It Different?

It is the best chainsaw for firewood cutting. This product is easy and comfortable to use. It possesses peculiar features to handle cleanup tasks or for clearing. Furthermore, it can cut through little trees and limbs. You simply cannot miss having one. This is the best chainsaw that will serve you for an extended period.

Another thing that makes it different is that it has a master control lever. Users can efficiently work with a single lever. One has to pull the trigger before moving the master control lever to the rightful position. When using this product, be sure you are safe. There is a rear handguard that lessens the risk of injury. It also gives a vast area for placement of the foot when starting.

Did you know you can use it under any weather condition? This is because it has a winter/summer shutter. It enables the carburetor to operate at an optimum temperature year in year out. It also prevents ice from entering the carburetor when working under low temperatures.

When you compare the STIHL MS 250 models with Remington RM1645, the Remington RM1645 model has a smaller fuel tank than the STIHL MS 250 model. Since the Remington RM1645 has a smaller fuel tank, it’s best suited for residential property projects, whereas the STIHL MS 250 can carry both commercial and residential tasks at large.

It Carries Technical Features

  1. Has a greater fuel capacity of 470 cc. to run continuously for an extended period
  2. It has a quick stop brake for immediate stoppage of the rotating chain when required
  3. Designed with an air heating system to protect the carburetor from freezing when working in cold temperatures
  4. Features an anti-vibration feature to prevent the transfer of vibrations to users when using
Needed Additional Features
  • Efficient and reliable
  • Perfect power-to-weight ratio
  • Excellent for cutting firewood
  • Convenient to use
Unwanted Features
  • You can’t purchase it online

Frequently Asked Questions

How much horsepower does this model have?

It is built with a 3 HP horsepower

What is it suited to do?

It is meant for home-based projects like trimming small to medium-sized branches

How much oil does this model hold?

It has a tank that can accommodate 15.9 0z


4. MSA 120 C-B Battery Powered Chainsaw

ModelMSA 120 C-B
Weight3.7 kg
Displacement32 cc
Bar Size10-12 inch
Power SourceBattery
Oilomatic1/4 inch
Chain Oil3.7 oz
Made inUSA
Stihl MSA 120 C-B Battery Chainsaw

The MSA 120 C-B chainsaw is another market model with an excellent feature that makes it stand out from the rest. This is the best option for people who have, for long, been looking for a battery-powered chainsaw model. This market innovation serves well in home clean-up projects at large. It has the chain breaking feature that makes it a machine for both professionals and novices. It is indeed a perfect solution worth their price tag.


Expert Opinion

By Vincentian O., Maryland USA,

The MSA 120 C-B is one of the most erratic trimmings and cutting tool worth the price. I usually believed so much in the more prominent brands in the market until I used this chainsaw. The machine is lightweight, and you can use it to make accurate cuts. You don’t need to spend too much on buying fuel to use; this machine consumes less oil to make several cuts at large. Besides this, it has a braking system that stops it immediately when needed. This is indeed an excellent model you need for your daily home tasks.


What Makes It Different?

MSA 120 C-B chainsaw is lightweight, reliable, and easy to use a chainsaw. It is one of the perfect battery-powered chainsaws that requires little maintenance to work correctly for you. You can also employ these chainsaws to carry out various light cutting tasks at home.

Besides this, the MSA 120 C-B has an easy to adjust the chain. It also doesn’t produce noise when running. It is generally equipped with excellent features that make it among the best STIHL chainsaws in the market worth its price tag.

It Carries Technical Features

  1. Has varying chain and a bar length of between 10 and 12 inches
  2. Has a better braking system to enable the chain to stop whenever there is a need
  3. It is lightweight; it weighs about 8.4 lbs. and thus making it a perfect option to maneuver around with.
  4. Designed with the Ematic lubrication system to enable it to consume less oil
  5. The Ematic lubrication system also ensures every part gets sufficient lubrication.
Needed Additional Features
  • This is an easy to use a chainsaw in the market
  • Excellent battery
  • Requires low maintenance
  • It is portable
  • Produce less noise
  • It is a reliable option
  • Comes with three years warranty
Unwanted Features
  • Only ideal for smaller branches
  • It has a chain oil feed that is prone to cause blockages

MSA 120 C-B Vs Echo CS-370Which Saw is the Best?

The MSA 120 C-B and Echo CS-370 are both powerful and excellent performing brands in the market. Both models feature kickback protection and automatic chain oiling. The Echo CS-370 seems safer due to its plastic kickback guides and the inertia-activated chain brakes compared to STIHL that relies on the chain brakes alone. Besides this, both these models come with pre-cleaners that help to filter air. However, the STIHL stands out from its counterpart in one way. The Echo CS-370 lacks free chain tension adjusting, and anti-vibration handles features that are greatly featured in the STIHL models.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does its battery last?

If you use it to cut 4-inch diameter wood, it will run for up to 100 cuts

What kind of charger does it come with?

It comes with an AL 101 charge

What kind of battery does it come with?

This model comes with AK 20 battery


5. STIHL MS 180 Excellent Air Filtration Chainsaw

ModelMS 180
Weight9 lbs
Displacement32 cc
Bar Size12-16 inch
Power SourceGas
Fuel8.5 oz
Chain Oil5 oz
Made inUSA
Stihl MS 180 Gas Chainsaw

This is an excellent market option designed with more power to carry out more complex tasks at large. This chainsaw has four overflow channels, which it uses to optimize fuel consumption. It also has a unique design that prevents users from getting vibrations on their hands. Besides this, this model emits little toxic gases to the environment. Compared to other market models, it reduces poisonous gas emissions by about 80%.

The STIHL MS 180 1.5 KW chain saw is designed excellently to maintain standard air and fuel constant. This helps users to avoid frequent filter cleanup sessions at large. It is an ideal machine to carry out home-based projects like cutting firewood and other general home maintenance tasks. Even though it has greater power than other market models, it still maintains perfect weight; you can easily carry it around to use in your daily field tasks.


Expert Opinion

Noel K., Ontario Canada

“The STIHL MS 180 makes a superb and easy to use a chainsaw in the market. Its general construction and the quality of materials make it stand out from the rest than other home grade saws at large. It also has excellent features, from the side-mounted tension system, a two-stroke engine, single lever master function controls, and many others. It is indeed a tool worth considering.”


What Makes It Different?

This type of chainsaw comes with an improved running engine at large. It has an enhanced engine cooling design to provide users consistent performance when carrying out home-based tasks and in the field. It is also a powerful machine, but it is also lightweight to enable users to carry out daily field activities. This is a reliable and lightweight option worth the price.

It Carries Technical Features

  1. These chainsaws have a varying bar and chain lengths of between 12 and 14 inches
  2. It weighs 9 pounds
  3. Built with a side-mounted tension system to enable users to adjust the chain quickly and safely
  4. Designed a two-stroke engine that supplies the saw with efficient fuel for it to function excellently
  5. It also comes with a fresh crankcase to enable it to create a layer of free air that helps to prevent fuel loss by about 30%
  6. The model has a single lever master control function to allow users to operate it from an available layer function
  7. Has an emetic lubrication system that ensures there is proper lubrication of the entire parts of the saw
  8. The emetic system also provides there is reduced oil consumption by about 50 %
  9. This model also has a design that dampens all oscillations in the engine while using it to reduce feeling the vibrations as they come out.
  10. It has a compensator that is handy to control the saw carburetor and also preventing chances of air mixing with fuel
Needed Additional Features
  • Designed lightweight
  • Easy to adjust the chain
  • It is an easy to use model
  • It is durable
  • Less fuel consumption
  • Offered with a one year warranty
Unwanted Features
  • Produces toxic gases
  • Difficult to start it
  • Required regular maintenance

Chainsaw STIHL MS 180 Vs. Husqvarna 450. Which is the Best?

These models are quite different, even though they exhibit some similarities at large. In terms of engine performance, the Husqvarna 450 produces a power speed of 9000 RPM, which is higher than what STIHL MS 180 provides. However, when we compare their weight, the STIHL MS 180 beats the Husqvarna. The STIHL weighs lower than its counterpart and thus making it a great portable option in the market.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this model suitable for?

The model is perfect for home-based tasks like clearing or cutting small trees, trimming branches, and also removing fallen limbs

How much horsepower does this model have?

This is among the powerful models in the market with a horsepower of 2HP

What is the amount of fuel does the model hold?

It has a tank that holds 8.5 oz. fuel

Conclusion

Chainsaws are essential tools we must have at large. They help us to carry out home-based and field cleanup tasks with ease. Since the market is saturated with several models and brands of chainsaws, it is vital to know the best option that will serve you best. The above best Stihl chainsaw reviews give you the best tools on the market.

We offer the technical features as your guide to settle on the best model suited for your planned tasks. Besides this, you should also get something that is within your budget. Compare every model’s specifications and select an option to perform correctly at the amount you wish to spend. Chainsaws are essential tools worth to invest.

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