Stihl equipment has been produced for over 80 years and is very popular among amateur and professional craftsmen. The brand has long become synonymous with timeless quality, excellent ergonomics and high performance. The secret of success is total product quality control at the stage of raw material selection, and Stihl production facilities are located in Germany, the USA, Brazil, and China. The company specializes in the production of garden equipment, in particular gasoline chain saws. The model ranges include dozens of different modifications: from light “home” ones to powerful ones, suitable for rescue work, felling and construction. Our editors have studied the features of all models and selected the TOP best Stihl chainsaws of 2022.
Rating of the best Stihl chainsaws
In terms of reliability, saws from a German manufacturer are the best on the market. Regardless of the class and technical characteristics, the user receives an excellent unit with a long working life. Therefore, the review included different models - light, medium and heavy saws. These are the best representatives with the optimal combination of power and performance.
STIHL MS 880-36
The best professional Stihl chainsaw can significantly reduce the usual time for completing work due to its outstanding characteristics. Its high technical equipment, true German quality and performance fully justify the impressive price. Its arsenal includes summer and winter operating modes, carburetor heating, and various security systems. The filter element filters out even the smallest dust particles, significantly increasing the service interval. The power supply of a chainsaw is such that the density and diameter of the wood does not matter to it. One of the heaviest chainsaws starts the first time in any conditions. To curb such power (8.7 hp), the manufacturer equipped the tool with very effective vibration damping and emergency stop systems in the event of abnormal situations.
Advantages:
- highest power;
- large cut;
- reliability;
- effective vibration damping system;
- electronic engine control;
- carburetor heating;
- easy start;
- Convenient controls allow you to hold the saw with both hands during any manipulation.
Flaws:
- high price;
- increased noise level;
- demanding on fuel quality.
STIHL MS 661-28
The MS 661-28 is the ideal combination of high power (7.3 hp) and maximum ergonomics. The saw weighs 7.4 kg, but the design is so well thought out and convenient that it is very comfortable to work with. Electronic engine management ensures power is maintained, and 2-MIX technology reduces fuel consumption by 20%. The set of advantages is complemented by the latest development - 2D filters, which absorbs the finest dust, and the M-Tronic easy start system from Stihl. The chainsaw is designed for extreme loads; according to reviews, it is unpretentious to weather conditions and, with proper maintenance, works flawlessly.
Advantages:
- convenient for long-term use;
- low vibrations;
- optimal tire size;
- more economical than models with a conventional 2-stroke engine;
- electronic fuel supply control;
- wear-resistant starting system.
Flaws:
- requires competent maintenance.
STIHL MS 361-18
4.6 hp is hidden under the body of this powerful and dynamic chainsaw, which significantly expands the range of use. A high-quality saw can easily cope with any gardening work and is suitable for thinning medium-density plantings and construction. The main features of the model are a durable body and reliable design, ultra-low vibrations. The manufacturer increased the engine efficiency by introducing four-channel fuel mixture supply technology. The special design of the engine has significantly reduced fuel consumption, which is confirmed by numerous reviews from customers. The owners also claim that the saw is unpretentious and trouble-free.
Advantages:
- high performance and power;
- dynamic acceleration;
- efficiency and increased torque over a wide speed range;
- sophisticated lubrication system;
- effective anti-vibration system;
- endurance and reliability in various operating conditions.
Flaws:
- high price.
STIHL MS 260
This universal chainsaw has become very popular; the model is suitable for domestic use, small construction, collecting firewood, cutting through thickets, as well as for cultivating and thinning. The saw combines all the best from Stihl - the ElastoStart easy start system, which reduces the load on the hands, the high-quality Ematic chain lubrication system, and the QuickStop brake. The chainsaw is unpretentious in operation, filter cleaning is required only when seriously dirty, and is equipped with an anti-vibration system and heated carburetor.
Advantages:
- easy start in any climatic conditions;
- good power reserve;
- oil supply adjustment;
- reliability and practicality;
- really low vibrations;
- convenient design.
Flaws:
- tangible weight;
- high noise level.
STIHL MS 201 TC-M
According to user reviews, this chainsaw is most suitable for use on a personal plot or small farm. Thanks to the short base, the tool is very maneuverable, which is especially important when caring for trees and shrubs, as well as in construction, when there is often a need to work in limited space. A high-quality saw is made in the best traditions of the brand, all parts fit tightly, operation is simple and convenient.
Advantages:
- short wheelbase;
- light weight;
- great resource;
- ease of maintenance;
- decent performance;
- ergonomics.
Flaws:
- demanding on the quality of chain sharpening.
STIHL MS 193 CE-14
Lightweight, less than 4 kg in running order, and a convenient small-class chainsaw designed in such a way as to ensure maximum comfort during operation. Low noise level and complete absence of vibrations, ideal weight distribution, half-turn starting in any weather, chain tension without tools make it possible for even women to operate the saw. At the same time, like other similar tools from Stihl, this model has good performance and the highest quality. The downside is the high cost of service in branded centers, but original consumables and oils significantly increase service life.
Advantages:
- lightweight design;
- no vibration;
- simple controls;
- durable engine;
- easy start;
- Excellent weight distribution reduces stress on the hands.
Flaws:
- high cost of maintenance and original spare parts.
STIHL MS 250 C-BE
Optimal characteristics and weight for private use allow this saw to be used very intensively. A fairly powerful gasoline engine will not fail in the face of difficult tasks and will easily cut several cubic meters of firewood in one day, help in building a house or bathhouse, and will not overheat when felling wood. Also, to make the operator’s work much easier, this is the best price in terms of price - the quality chainsaw is equipped with the ErgoStart system, keyless chain tension adjustment and a powerful brake, which is responsible for safety in emergency situations. And the adaptive lubrication system saves chain oil by adjusting its supply depending on the load.
Advantages:
- winter/summer mode;
- easier cold start;
- chain tension without tools;
- anti-vibration system;
- capacious refueling tanks for long-term operation on one refueling;
- The lubrication system reduces the oil supply when the load decreases.
Flaws:
- systematic cleaning of the drive sprocket from sawdust is required.
STIHL MS 230
The popular model MS 230 is equipped with an unpretentious 2.5 hp gasoline engine, sufficient for cutting down small trees, dead wood, harvesting birch firewood and other work on a personal plot. Its light weight and dimensions make it easy to transport the saw in the trunk of a car, take it to the dacha or fishing. The time-tested design is very reliable, but is not without its drawbacks; the lack of inspection windows makes it difficult to control the remaining fuel and oil. The saw has no other disadvantages.
Advantages:
- easy start function;
- combination of price and capabilities;
- excellent build quality and components;
- copes with hard wood;
- low noise level;
- anti-vibration system.
Flaws:
- There are no inspection windows to monitor fuel and oil residues.
STIHL MS 180-16
One of the simplest models of the company, it has such valuable qualities as unpretentiousness and reliability. Its power is not enough for work in logging, but in everyday life this tool is optimal. An inexpensive and good saw can cut firewood, fell a dead tree on the site, or cut down interfering branches. A chainsaw is also indispensable during construction. Unlike the more powerful models in the line, the MS 180-16 weighs only 4 kg, which allows it to be used in cases where the operator does not have a stable position. Another important feature is a compensator that saturates the fuel mixture with oxygen when the filter is clogged. According to user reviews, this Shtil chainsaw has no significant drawbacks; the main drawback is the small tank volume and unstable cold start.
Advantages:
- low price;
- light weight;
- moderate fuel consumption;
- one-handed control;
- well-developed ergonomics;
- can work with a clogged filter.
Flaws:
- small tank 0.25 l;
- In cold weather, the first start is difficult.
STIHL MS 170
The lightest chainsaw in the line is perfect for carpentry and other work where high precision and quality of cutting are required. To compensate for the low power, the manufacturer increased the engine speed and installed a narrower chain, which ultimately had a positive effect on the productivity and cleanliness of the cut. Despite the fact that the saw is sold at a low price, the quality of its workmanship corresponds to the impeccable reputation of the brand. Using this chainsaw, you will not encounter problems typical of consumer goods, such as oil leaks or difficult starting. The only drawback of the chainsaw is the plastic toothed stop; the metal one is installed on top, but you have to buy it separately.
Advantages:
- convenient control;
- light weight;
- affordable price;
- high quality workmanship and resource;
- smooth cutting of any materials without chipping;
- efficiency;
- no chain oil leaks even during long-term storage.
Flaws:
- The metal toothed stop is not included in the scope of delivery.
Reviews about Stihl MS 180-14
Advantages:
Good price, decent power, low noise level, normal consumption of gasoline (20 - 30 minutes of work or one completely bucked medium tree) and oil (one tank of oil for 2 tanks of gasoline mixture), does not smoke, almost no burning smell (I use a regular 92 + 1/50 of the most common oil for 2-stroke engines).
Flaws:
The air damper position switch began to work poorly after about six months of operation, due to the fact that the axle flew out of its intended place. As a result, it is not always possible to switch from a “half-open” damper to mode 1 when starting, and what’s even worse, it is not always possible to switch to position 0 from position 1. It is relatively easy to treat, but this is not pleasant, because it is a design defect. Gasoline leaks when refueling (apparently from under the cap, especially if you pour it “under the cap”). It’s a bit difficult to start (it took about a year to get used to starting it up). During work, I lost 2 nuts (apparently from vibration, although I always tightened them decently), which secure the casing, replaced them with similar ones, I got the impression that when tightly tightened with new nuts, the chain “sags” after tightening (it seems that the casing is deformed), it takes a little let off.
A comment:
I'm happy with the purchase (although I must admit I expected even more from the German Stihl - perfect work and assembly), it works well, and is very helpful in the garden. I cut down the trees of the entire 80-meter trench (currently I’ve already cut through 7 liters of gasoline), and I also recently sawed dry oak the thickness of 2 tires. On one tank, cutting 2-2.5 of this oak was enough. Since the saw is not intended for professional use, you should not overload it (it’s better not to knock out more than 4-6 tanks at a time). You should not allow the chain to get caught when working on metal or stone, the chain becomes dull almost instantly (to speed up the work it is worth having 2). You should also watch the chips very carefully; as soon as dust begins to appear, they must be sharpened immediately, since working with a dull chain overheats the tire very strongly and quickly (unknowingly, the tire was worn out, the paint was peeled off, now I am more attentive to this point). It starts up a little hard, you also need to be very careful not to miss the first explosion. You shouldn’t pull the damper open for a long time (lowest position), you need to change modes. In general, it is a good saw, but like any tool that comes from the professional sphere, it is somewhat difficult for a beginner to master, so you should carefully read the instructions and forums - it’s all a matter of experience. When it appears, sawing is a pleasure with this very good chain saw. Be attentive to the saw (sharpen the chain and clean the saw from chips) and experience and pleasure will come very quickly.
Which chainsaw is better to choose?
Lightweight Stihl household chainsaws are great for home use - various gardening work, firewood collection, private construction. They are distinguished by their low weight, compact design, and short tire length. Medium ones are suitable for private construction and rare use in industrial conditions. Heavy and powerful saws are optimal for use in harsh conditions:
- in construction;
- when felling forest;
- for rescue and other work where maximum performance is needed.
Our rating of Stihl chainsaws, which brings together the top models, will help you choose the best unit. Which one is better is up to the buyer to decide. Having become familiar with the pros and cons of gasoline vehicles, it is easier to understand the wide variety of modifications and make a successful purchase.
