9 best Stihl chainsaws (Calm): rating of 2021
Content
Technical support of branded Stihl chainsaws
The history of the Stihl company begins in 1926, when the production of electric miter saws is started 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 liters. with., was presented to the public in 1929. 90 years have passed since the release of the first chainsaw. During this period of time, many changes have occurred in the company, but one thing has remained unchanged - this is the excellent quality of the 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 Shtil's patented technologies that enhance tool performance and ensure maximum operator protection.
2 MIX technology
The 2 MIX technology helps to reduce fuel consumption and minimize exhaust gases. The 2 MIX technology is a unique method of purging the combustion chamber with clean air, thanks to which no residual fuel mixture is released into the atmosphere.
Catalyst
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 body has double walls. This protection prevents the tool from heating up during operation and, accordingly, prevents the possibility of burns to the operator.
Please note that the catalyst is not included in the basic configuration of most of the Stihl chainsaws presented in the model range. The device can be purchased and installed as optional equipment.
Air filter
Stihl has developed innovative high-wear air filters. 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 the Shtil company 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 equipped with an intelligent engine are characterized by easy starting and stable crankshaft speed.
Decompression valve
Installing a decompression valve will 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 of starting the device, the valve automatically closes.
Carburetor heating system
As you know, when the temperature regime is lowered to negative marks, problems with the operation of chainsaws are observed. At sub-zero air temperatures, the carburetor freezes. The developers of the Shtil company 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 thermal relay turns on and power is supplied to the heating element.
Electric heating system for the handle
The electric heating of the handle increases the comfort of using the tool. This system prevents snow adhesion and ice formation. Chainsaw models in which the handle heating system is installed 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.
- Rotational speed of the cutting element.
- Working bus length.
- The capacity of the fuel and oil tanks.
- Dimensions and weight of the tool.
- Handle location.
- Additional options (automatic blocking of the chain, anti-vibration mode, heating of the handle, monitoring the speed 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. Outwardly, the tools combine laconicism, constructivism and ergonomics.
The Shtil company 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 attracted not only potential buyers, but also scammers. The modern market is overflowing with fakes.
The best budget models Calm
Often, budget chainsaws are called household chainsaws. Such working tools will come in handy in the country and in a private yard. We bring to your attention the TOP 3 best budget household chainsaws.
STIHL MS 170
Household saw for high-quality performance of a number of current work, in particular, trimming the garden, clearing the yard from old boards and logs, preparing firewood for the winter. The STIHL MS 170 body is made of impact-resistant material, so mechanical damage to the tool is not terrible. The operator is protected from burns: a special spark-absorbing grill is installed on the muffler.
The chain is lubricated automatically. Users note economical oil consumption and a long service life of the saw headset.
Characteristics:
- type of construction - manual model;
- power, W - 1300;
- engine displacement, cubic meters cm - 30.1;
- tank capacity (fuel / oil) - 250 and 145 ml;
- tire length, cm - 40;
- weight, kg - 3.9.
- compactness;
- low specific gravity;
- maneuverability;
- ease of use.
- palpable vibration;
- lack of a key bracket in the basic configuration;
- over time, the chain is strongly stretched.
Video "Getting Started with the STIHL MS 170 Saw"
In this video, experts tell you how to perform the first assembly of the tool.
STIHL MS 180
Chainsaw MS 180 is the ideal companion for private owners. With this tool, you can tidy up the yard, prepare trees and shrubs for wintering, prepare solid fuel ahead of the heating season, and even perform high-quality cross-cutting of wood.
The device is distinguished by its simplicity of design and ease of use. The absence of metal inserts in the case has significantly reduced the weight of the functional unit. Engine-mounted rubber shock absorbers reduce vibration and protect the operator from injury.
Characteristics:
- type of construction - manual model;
- power, W - 1500;
- engine displacement, cubic meters cm - 31.8;
- tank capacity (fuel / oil) - 250 and 145 ml;
- tire length, cm - 40;
- weight, kg - 3.9.
- case resistant to deformation, shock and other mechanical damage;
- quick start;
- lack of vibration;
- low noise performance;
- ease of handling and maintenance.
- high fuel consumption;
- lack of primer;
- the filter quickly clogs;
- flimsy switch.
STIHL MS 180 Complete Review Video
This video presents the main technical characteristics of the MS 180.
STIHL MS 181 C-BE
A robust and reliable tool for everyday use - this is how the MS 181 C-BE can be described. The manufacturer has provided for the maximum level of operator protection. It has an automatic chain stop, anti-vibration system, chain catcher and rear guard.
STIHL MS 181 C-BE is distinguished by its economical oil and fuel consumption. In this case, the efficiency of the device is at a height.
Characteristics:
- type of construction - manual model;
- power, W - 1500;
- engine displacement, cubic meters cm - 31.8;
- tank capacity (fuel / oil) - 280 and 180 ml;
- tire length, cm - 40;
- weight (without bar and chain), kg - 4.3.
- high performance;
- easy and quick start;
- economical consumption of oil and fuel;
- maneuverability;
- ease of use.
- not suitable for cutting thick and massive logs.
Video "Review of the STIHL MS 181 C-BE saw"
This video describes the STIHL MS 181 C-BE chainsaw.
The best saws in the middle price segment
The category "middle price segment" often means semi-professional tools. The semi-professional gasoline saw is the best option for performing a number of construction, installation and logging works.
STIHL MS 271
The ideal tool for making high-quality and even cuts in wood materials and natural wood. It copes well with boards and logs of medium diameter. The reliable and durable STIHL MS 271 chainsaw can be used for gardening and gardening, preparing firewood for the winter, building sheds and garden pavilions.
The advantages of the model include a 20% reduction in fuel consumption and a 50% reduction in exhaust emissions.
Characteristics:
- type of construction - manual model;
- power, W - 2600;
- engine displacement, cubic meters cm - 50.2;
- tank capacity (fuel / oil) - 500 and 240 ml;
- tire length, cm - 50;
- weight, kg - 5.6.
- reliable air filter;
- the presence of an anti-vibration mode;
- automatic chain brake;
- convenient access to the fuel tank;
- high productivity;
- negligible exhaust emissions.
- users' complaints about the rapid wear of the piston;
- noticeable level of acoustics.
STIHL MS 271 Overview Video
This video describes the options and functionality of the MS 271.
STIHL MS 310
The STIHL MS 310 has a wide range of uses. The tool can be used for numerous household jobs, in the furniture industry, the construction industry, gardening and landscaping.The manufacturer provides a high degree of operator protection: automatic chain stop system, chain catcher, closed sprocket and hand protection. Rubberized shock absorbers reduce hand strain and vibration.
A distinctive feature of the MS 310 chainsaw is the ability to work in summer and winter modes. Winter mode means heated grips and carburetor.
Characteristics:
- type of construction - manual model;
- power, W - 3240;
- working volume, cubic meters cm - 59;
- tank capacity (fuel / oil) - 690 and 330 ml;
- tire length, cm - 45;
- weight, kg - 5.9.
- endurance;
- performance;
- ease of use;
- universal application;
- summer and winter operating modes;
- a good combination of quality and value.
- no serious deficiencies were identified.
Video "Comparison of chainsaws STIHL MS 290, MS 310 and MS 390"
This video provides a comparative analysis of three semi-professional tools.
STIHL MS 241 C-M
Used in forestry, the MS 241 C-M saw is distinguished by its reliability, practicality and high functionality. The increased service life guarantees a long service life of the tool. The high-quality guide bars and saw chains used in the process of work allow you to perform high-quality and accurate cutting of soft, hard, dirty and even frozen wood. At the same time, the threat to the life and health of the operator is minimal.
Characteristics:
- type of construction - manual model;
- power, W - 2200;
- engine displacement, cubic meters cm - 42.6;
- tank capacity (fuel / oil) - 470 and 200 ml;
- tire length, cm - 40;
- weight (without bar and chain), kg - 4.7.
- compactness and maneuverability;
- reliability;
- high strength of the body;
- simplified launch system;
- universal filtration system.
- no significant shortcomings were found.
Video "Review and feedback on the STIHL MS 241 C-M chainsaw"
Want to know what users say about the MS 241 C-M? Watch this video carefully.
The best Stihl premium saws
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 distinguished by productivity and increased resource, power and versatility.
STIHL MS 461
Model MS 461 is used for sawing logs of various diameters and for felling trees. The device is often used in the construction and furniture spheres, in landscape design and gardening, as well as for performing a number of works by utility companies.
Users note the easy and quick start of the engine, as there is a decompression valve and carburetor heating. The function block is operated with an ergonomic control lever. Fitted rubber springs and bollards reduce vibration and reduce stress on the operator's hands.
Subject to certain safety precautions, the STIHL MS 461 saw does not pose a threat to human life and health. There are muffler spark arrestors and a QuickStop emergency brake with chain catcher function.
Characteristics:
- type of construction - manual model;
- power, W - 4400;
- engine displacement, cubic meters cm - 76.5;
- tank capacity (fuel / oil) - 800 and 320 ml;
- tire length, cm - 45;
- weight, kg - 6.6.
- reduction of fuel consumption by 20%;
- low acoustics;
- microprocessor ignition system;
- ease of use and maintenance;
- convenient location of the air filter.
- 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 C-M"
This video features features and descriptions of two professional tools.
STIHL MS 661 C-M
Powerful and reliable professional chainsaw for various types of work in large quantities. According to the manufacturer, the MS 661 C-M model successfully copes even with extreme loads.
The advantages of the MS 661 C-M chainsaw include a well-thought-out anti-vibration system, economical fuel consumption and constant optimal engine power. Users note the safe operation of the device, as well as an easy-to-use oil pump with the ability to regulate power. The MS 661 C-M is equipped with an automatic QuickStop chain brake and an HD2 air filter with a polyethylene filter element.
Characteristics:
- type of construction - manual model;
- power, W - 5400;
- engine displacement, cubic meters cm - 91.1;
- tank capacity (fuel / oil) - 850 and 400 ml;
- bar length - supplied without cutting element;
- weight, kg - 7.4.
- ease of assembly;
- lightweight launch;
- high torque;
- simplified fuel supply system;
- strong attachments for the attachment of the cutting element;
- protection from the effects of precipitation;
- improved access to the air intake.
- overpriced components.
STIHL MS 880
The STIHL MS 880 chainsaw is the undisputed leader in the number of positive consumer reviews. This model has an increased service life, copes with extreme loads and demonstrates excellent performance. The main field of application of the tool is forestry and agriculture.
The high-performance Rapid Super chain guarantees reliable performance and high cutting quality. The improved anti-vibration system relieves stress and strain on the hands. Operator safety is thought out to the smallest detail. It has an automatic chain brake and lateral chain tension.
The function of gradually increasing power increases the operating time of the working tool.
Characteristics:
- type of construction - manual model;
- power, W - 6400;
- engine displacement, cubic meters cm - 121.6;
- tank capacity (fuel / oil) - 1300 and 700 ml;
- tire length, cm - 91;
- functional block weight, kg - 10.
- high power;
- excellent productivity;
- versatility of application;
- reliability and strength of the case;
- convenient control;
- anti-vibration mode;
- auto brake system.
- heavy weight;
- difficulty moving.
Video "STIHL MS 880 - the best and most powerful chainsaw"
This video demonstrates how a professional tool works.
The Calm chainsaw rating presented in our article is based on feedback from users and representatives of service centers. However, do not dwell solely on these models. The model range of Stihl chainsaws is very diverse, choosing the most convenient tool in work will not be difficult.