Chainsaws are much more versatile tools than most of us think, and capable of surprisingly intricate jobs as well as the industrial-scale tree surgery you might expect.
There are plenty of excellent manufacturers of chainsaws, Stihl always comes out as one of the best. So we thought we’d take an in-depth look at Stihl chainsaws and get to grips with their specs.
In our guide we’ll be cutting down into the detail of Stihl chainsaws, teaching you how to use them properly, and running through the best Stihl chainsaws you can buy right now.
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Buyer’s Guide to Stihl Chainsaws
What is a Stihl Chainsaw?
Stihl chainsaws are incredibly varied, from budget domestic models to precision saws and powerful professional chainsaws. While the range is varied they all have a few things in common;
- High performance
- Precision ergonomics
- Innovative design
- Low weight
The power ratings range from 1.2kW at the bottom of the scale, with prices in the range of $160 to chainsaws with a power output of 6.4kW and a price tag to match at over $2000.
Whatever you need to cut, Stihl has a chainsaw for the job. Read the rest of our guide for detailed analysis of all aspects of Stihl chainsaws, and how to choose the right one.
About Stihl
Stihl are a German manufacturer specialising in chainsaws, with a wide range of handheld power tools now on sale all over the world. They are widely regarded as one of the best power tool manufacturers in the world, and known for producing everything to an outstandingly high specification.
What to Look for When Buying a Stihl Chainsaw
All Stihl chainsaws have similar specifications, regardless of their power output, but it’s still important to understand what you’re buying so, in simple terms, let’s look at the basic specs of most Stihl chainsaws, and what it all means.
Easy2Start Stihl chainsaws
Chainsaws used to have tough pull cords, which fought against you when you tried to get the motor going but thanks to new, more efficient battery technology, the majority of Stihl chainsaws are button and trigger starts.
However, the more powerful petrol models still have pull cords, which need a good yank. Those with Easy2Start listed in the specs have sprung cords that work with you to get their engines going though.
Always look for Easy2Start when buying a Stihl petrol chainsaw.
Wood Boss Vs Profession Vs Mini Boss
Not all Stihl chainsaws fall into a product range, and the higher-end models in particular are individually designed to exacting specifications. But, domestic models, like the Mini Boss or wood Boss ranges are all easy to compare.
Stihl Mini Boss chainsaws are the lightest chainsaws on the market, with compact blades that are perfect for cutting branches or overgrown brush. They are not advised for use on tall trees or thicker trunks but are brilliant multipurpose tools.
The Stihl Wood Boss chainsaw range is ideal for passionate home gardeners or as a smaller tool for tree surgeons who don’t always want large tools for more delicate work. Wood boss is a great range of petrol-powered chainsaws.
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Stihl Ematic-system
Ematic is a trademarked lubrication system that Stihl install on nearly all of their chainsaws. It helps to prevent jamming, and vastly improves the lives of their chainsaws compared to similar brands.
The Ematic system reduces the use of, and need for chain oil by up to 50%
Anti-vibration
Not all Stihl chainsaws are built with anti-vibration, but most are. Their unique anti-vibration system is targeted at the handles of each tool and dramatically reduces the strain on blood vessels in your hands and arms.
For professional tree surgeons, this is essential as the constant vibrations from chainsaws can have longer-term health impacts.
Length
Chainsaws really do come in all sizes, and the Stihl range puts that into perspective quite nicely, with tiny precision chainsaws that are around 30 cm long, to professional saws built for industrial tree surgery with 630 mm blades.
Different Types of Stihl Chainsaw
When a tool range includes both petrol and electric chainsaws it can be hard to differentiate their power outputs, but Stihl have kWh ratings for all their models.
Their top-end models put out 6.4kWh, but 5.4 is more than enough for professional use. For cheaper models, the kWh output is more like 1.3, which is a significant drop, but still enough for pruning, and tidying up damaged branches around the garden.
Stihl Chainsaw Safety Guide
Chainsaw safety is obviously important, and comes with some very real user warnings. Below we’ve got some of the most important safety rules for using a chainsaw:
- Wear protective goggles
- Wear protective, durable gloves
- Wear chainsaw chaps
- Wear protective clothing (hard hat, ear protection, boots)
- Wear fitted clothing to avoid getting snagged
- Always have a partner nearby in case of emergency, but out of the way of falling branches.
- Make sure the chain tension is right before each use
- Never cut branches wider than the bar. Allow for a bar excess of at least 5cm.
- Stabilise yourself. Whether you’re cutting at ground level, or in the canopy, never use a chainsaw if you are at all unstable.
- Direct any trunks and branches away from people, paths, and property when cutting. Tie any dangerous limbs to high branches to lower them gently if necessary.
Stihl Chainsaw Maintenance
Sharpening a chainsaw regularly helps to extend its life, and reduce strain on the tool and the user. Chainsaw chains can vary from model to model so it’s important to check the chain gauge, bar length, and pitch before using a new chain with your chainsaw.
Check out our guide to chainsaw chains for more information.
Best Stihl Chainsaw Reviews
We are currently reviewing new models and will update this post shortly.
Stihl Chainsaw Frequently Asked Questions
What does MS mean in Stihl chainsaw?
Stihl is a German company so most of their product codes use German for formatting. MS simply stands for Motorsäge (German for chainsaw), while other models often include MSA or MSE. MSA are battery powered chainsaws, while MSE are corded electric models.
Where are Stihl chainsaws manufactured?
Stihl have always manufactured their products in Germany, and continue to manufacture chainsaws in their Waiblingen plant in Germany.
How long do Stihl chainsaws last?
Stihl chainsaws have a run time of 2000 hours. For a professional user that means they are guaranteed for about 5 years of daily work, but for domestic users they should last a lifetime.
Choose the Best Stihl Chainsaw that will Suit Your Sawing Needs
Stihl chainsaws are the best that money can buy, with impeccable manufacturing quality, and every tool fully inspected before it leaves the factory. With precise alignment, and automatic lubrication, you can be confident that you’re using the safest possible tool for an often dangerous task.
If you were unsure about Stihl chainsaws before, we hope you’re convinced now because we’ve put our trust in Stihl chainsaws for a long time, and they really are incredible tools.
Published on August 14, 2022 by Gary Clarke
Last Updated on October 7, 2024
