Father owns a variety of STIHL Saws from when he worked on the Mountain cutting timber. Watching their reliability as a kid I knew what brand of saw I would get. I currently own the smaller ms180 and ms250 saws. They have been very reliable and fulfill my needs for doing work around the home, cutting firewood for the stove, etc.
I’ve had pro saws from the top 3 Husqvarna, Stihl, and Jonsered, all of them were good saws. Once you get to that point, having a good dealer can also be a deciding factor. If the service is t there, you can run into issues fairly quickly.
Hands down one of the most common sense chainsaw videos I have ever watched on RUclips! I often wonder how many like new saws are sitting under workbenches? We're the guy bought way to big of a saw and used it once. Or a 2 foot or 3 foot tree falls on their property and they either think they need or dealer sells them a monster with a 36" bar to make cut in one slice. A 18" or 20" bar would have handled the job with just cutting from both sides. Honestly believe anybody should be required some saw safety training to purchase any saw over 60cc. Again...nice job on leading first time buyers in the best direction!👍
i own 3 saws , a 038 magnum 70cc, tons of power but so freaking heavy, one 346 xp 50cc excellent pro that can cut enithing but still some heavy and this year i bought my ms 180 32cc little devil that is a back saver . agree 100% with ur choice for saw owning
Nice saws and review. I have a 170 and 250. You can change the chain on the 180 and I highly recommend it. Oregon sells a bar and chain combo for like $40 on Amazon. 16” bar with a 3/8” .050 chain at 55 links. Turns the 170 or 180 into a little beast. I also added a side chain adjustment kit and steel bumper spike. All cheap and easy mods that greatly improve the performance of those small saws. I have an uncle that works at a sawmill and he couldn’t believe how well that cheap little saw cuts now…we were laughing about it. I grab it most of the time on our property because it’s so lightweight. My wife also runs it for the same reason. The 250 runs an 18” bar. Great power to weight ratio. I find those 2 saws are all I need. Had a Husky 450 rancher but it just sat there and never saw much use so I sold it. The pro saws are definitely nice but every time I think I need one the 250 has me covered.
My 83 year old dad is no couch potato. He stays very busy on the farm. We have lost a lot of trees lately because of emerald ash borer. My sister got him an ms170 with the 16" bar. He runs the shit out of that saw and loves it. I recently gave him one of my ms180 that has easy start and quick change chain. It came with 14" .043 bar. For him I moded an 18" .050 bar to fit and to tell the truth it rocks. I have an ms210 and a ms250 that I originally got for him and he doesn't like the extra weight. To be honest the ms180 will do just about all the Ms250 will do. I haven't let him try my Ms192 bucket saw yet cause I think he will try to talk me out of it. My ms261 is a beast, it rocks my 18" bar just fine. If I need bigger I have the Mac 10-10, 610, and double eagle 80 with 24" bar to use. Good videos
Great video! I don't cut a lot of wood but find that my MS180 serves me quite well on my small property. I repair and sell a lot of Stihl lawn equipment and do quite well as a hobby. Just finished a refurbishment of an older 260 Pro that I picked up for $75 that had been sitting for years. It cleaned up really well and runs really strong. Been using it to cut live oak into chunks for my wife's Solo stove and it's an absolute beast.
That 361/362 is the standard for a chainsaw in my opinion… I have a 362 and a 461 …. I have 3 bar lengths 20” 28” 32”…. If I had to choose between 1 saw I’d choose my 362… just because it’s been ported and will pull the 32” bar…but unless I get my 461 hopped up I’m goin with the 362 and I totally feel you on the weight … I can feel it…. But that 261/362 are the way to go…very easily serviceable and made with quality materials
You’re absolutely correct, Huskies and Stihls are the best hands down. Like Ford and Chevys. The real truth of the matter is though that by far, most people don’t need a pro level saw. Really only if you use a chainsaw for a living. The average Joe is great with a Stihl farm boss, a good 50cc saw. Echo also makes a great saw, just not pro level ones. What most people need more than anything else is a reputable dealer that offers classes. I’ve just seen too many chainsaw operators in shorts and flip flops to think otherwise. Many many years ago while in forestry school I was taught how to use one. That was only the beginning. I’ll never forget one student making a cut when the saw bucked back and up cutting into his hard hat. It was a miracle it didn’t cut into his head. Back then there was no such thing as a chain brake.
I agree that most don’t need a pro saw, but if you can afford it, you will have it forever. I find myself using my chainsaws a few times a month outside of work, whether normal tree care, storms or helping friends with mitigation projects. My homeowner saw (husky 455 rancher) finally gave up the ghost (just needed a rebuild really), but the switch to stihls pro saws was an easy choice at that point. The husky pro saws are great too. Just better components and easier to service the pro saws in my experience.
I have a 261 and a 462. Love em both! To elaborate the 261 is great for most things, but if I have to get through a lot of wood and larger trees, the 462 just eats. With a 28” bar I stand and buck like Billy, and it saves my back. Especially on the larger logs that slow the 261 down a little.
Completely agree, I cut personal firewood for Me and my parents, couldn’t be happier with my Stihl 044 and Husqvarna 372xp, 28” bar, round file chisel bit with full skip chain, less teeth to file. 🪵🪵🪵🪵
I have the 180 and its AWESOME. I did do a new bar and chain to upgrade to a 050 size chain. It IS a direct replacement. I didnt need to replace the sprocket. Stihl sells a bar that says 180 on it for fitment in a 050 size chain. The teeth are not that wimpy pico chain stuff that will dull fast. This new set up works amazing. It is MUCH lighter then my 261.
I’ve been wanting to change it over, but I notice that everyone going with the bigger chain is also going with a shorter 14” bar. I need at least a 16” bar. I’d like to try one with the .050 drivers on a 16” bar, but I hate to spend the money for something that may not work out. But I have been thinking about it.
Both of those brands like you say Scott are very good saws. We did buy a homeowner STIHL M 170 a couple years ago and have not had any issue at all. Thanks for the video on these. Have a great weekend and God Bless.
I own 2 saws.... ms170 and ms261c That combo does everything i need to do here in Mississippi.... I use the 170 for almost everything except big wood and hardwood... some of our oak, ash, hickory, walnut and the like will smoke a small saw and chain if you're not careful... liked and subscribed, because I love Whiskey and Sunshine too!
II have this exact combo. I own 10 acres in central Ontario. I cut 10 to 12 face cord of maple a year and have had no problems with either one. I’m glad I went with the 261 over the 271 or 291. Cheers
GREAT VIDEO!!! You did a good job explaining everything, I have an older MS660, which I barely get out anymore, I’m getting older, I still use it time to time, I own a Husqvarna 550xp mark ii, it’s my go to, & I own 2 older MS250’s, I got 1 for parts but it cost me under $80 to get running, I get wood dropped off for firewood from a tree service, cut it to 18 inch lengths, split it with splitter, stack it
Thanks for explaining all the saws Scott! I've got a 16" Echo and it has worked flawless for three years. Just had some storm damage so I'll be sawing today. Cheers!
Whiskey, you got a nice truck and some great saws. You can not beat STIHL. You mentioned back pain. IT is real simple, exercise and eat clean every day. Watch some of our videos and start eating clean. Skip the bread and no sausages or high fat meats. Cook from scratch. No frozen dinners. No frozen foods. Eat more fruit and vegetables. Watch the videos.
I used an older O36 for dropping trees and it was pretty good for trees up to 30 inches across then I got a MS 461 and the extra power and longer bar makes dropping trees easier and safer because you have more control and speed to point the tree where you want it. the ms461 is just right, it has good power and isnt too heavy. I take 036 as a back up when getting logs out.
Pretty happy with my setup. One little saw ms-170 and a bigger saw ms-311. Both are screamers with great power to the chain and work fantastic for what I need them for. They are very reliable as well and easy starting even right after an ice storm with very cold temperatures taking care of a downed tree from ice weight and heavy wind. A few pulls and to work we go.Very much worth the money and are the top champions of the saw world. With my two stihl saws there is no more pulling pulling pulling pulling POP POP on choke. More pulling pulling pulling pulling finally running. With the stihls it's a Quick start and getting it done.
I have a Homelite that I love for branch cutting and small trees. 20 years or so have owned. Great on my back. I have a Poulan Pro 50cc and nothing but trouble and heavy. Not dependable at all for 10 years. At 17 lbs it’s hard on my back . Homelite is 14 lbs and super easy on my back . I have thought of that 261 being listed at 11 lbs and thinking with chain and bar weighing at another 2.5 lbs . The price like you said is high. The 271 Farm Boss is 12lbs rated power and assuming another 2.5 lbs for bar and chain. Which is only $449. At dealer. Not sure which one to choose. 3 lbs doesn’t seem like much to complain about but big difference to me.
That a tuff choice. The ms 271 is a good saw too, as is the ms 291. They are all comparable in size and weight. But the ms261 has more rpm/chain speed. They’re expensive, but to me, they’re worth every penny. I could say the same for a Husqvarna 550xp. They are designed to be fast, and light. Smaller “pro saws” are purpose built for limbing, but they make wonderful firewood saws too. Don’t get me wrong, I still keep a big saw around, but I haven’t used mine in probably 2 years. The 261/271 sized saw is about perfect for the modern homesteader.
I recently bought the ms291 which is right in between the ms261 and the ms361. It's 56ccs so it's got a really good power to weigh ratio which makes it easier to handle while still being on the heavy duty end. Thanks for the video!
As much as I absolutely LOVE all chainsaws, I don't need anything above a pole power saw. I have only one acorn tree in my yard but other trees from adjoining properties' tree limbs invade my fence-line. Do you ever use any limb/wood chippers? I may eventually buy me a small chipper for these tree limbs.
Always been a Stihl guy. Had a 026 till my garage burned down. Replaced it with 2 MS170s and a MS271. Love that 271, its a hog. Does well for my firewood which I Burn 4 cord a year. Ps: hey fellow Mainer!
Something reviews always gloss over is weight . If you're cutting at a log pile all day it's not a huge deal but if you do trail clearing, alot of walking and moving around with the saw, keeping roads open, it's not fun to lug around 12-13+ pounds saw all day. I have a 372XP/20", an MS362/18" , an MS261/16", ms250/16" , 026, ms170/14" 325 and an 017/14"/325 . I'm pretty good shape 50's guy ...the 261 and 250 are nice if you're walking around with the saw alot , clearing trail and land, maybe on/off an ATV . ....When im cutting firewood in one place, i have the 372xp there for bigger logs and run mostly the ms362 . Unless you're a professional logger or arborist , your arm will get tired above 50cc saws . Even the little ms170 and 017 are no slouch . I have 14 inch bars on them with 0.325 chain instead of the stock, narrow bar and chain. They rev out about 10% less than stock but still cut fine, especially with opening the exhaust a little . Most people that cut wood once a year and clear a little trail are fine with an ms250 or ms261 . There's alot of benefit to small saws .
It’s funny, a decade ago, I never would’ve bought a 50-55cc saw. I always ran Husky 272XPs, or Jonsered 670s, and always with a 20” bar. But I’ve dislocated my shoulder a few times, and I’m getting older. Now, my favorite saws are a bit smaller, and lighter. I kept my old Ms361 for years, just because it was nice when sawing in a pile, as you mentioned. But these new smaller high rpm saws are really great.
I bought pro stihls almost 30 yrs ago, b4 they even had homeowners line. It's a shame they came out with the sub par saws but they had too, homelite and husky went b4 them, they had no choice. But both of mine still run and heat 2 houses 4 mos a year. Buy it once and be done. I would have had more money in several cheap saws by now. But for the guy who cuts half a load a season for a pretty fire, it's all good, but for the guy who's hearing exclusively with wood, go pro. It's a lot of money, but it's well worth it. When the 0 went from the beginning to the end of the model, they went downhill. 021 and 210 supposed to be same saw, but its just not.
Hey love thanks for sharing those look like great saws am I have to tell my husband to look into it hope you guys are having an amazing start of the week talk to you soon
Nice saw collection! I own a gta 26 a ms180 cbe and a ms261c. I think it’s the perfect trio for myself who’s a homeowner with 20 acres and uses firewood to heat the home.
I’ve been on the fence between the 271 and 261. Do I need a pro model? No, but there seem to be quite a few advantages to having it. $190 more, that could be the amount spent going out to dinner twice. $ towards a better seems to be the wiser choice. Thanks for the advice and the comments left.
@@barondavis5692 Pro saw will deff last u twice as long.. AND u can sell if for 200 bucks more after 15-20 years.. And u will like it more using it all that time.. u cant ask for more really.. (only downside is de cost).
Most of the newer Stihl saws model ending with a 1, e.g. 261 very expensive right now to repair if not under warranty. There isn't much aftermarket for them except the 251. Stihl replacement parts are very costly.
Ive been considering a Stihl MS 251 with an 18" bar. Currently have an Echo 330t, 14" bar, which I used for light work in my yard. Helene came thru . We've over 100 white pines and 12 or so large white oaks down that I need to work up.
the most important thing to keeping a saw alive is running a sharp chain. a dull chain is the death of a saw and the bar too. learn how to sharpen everyone it just takes practice. and dont run ur saw dull it will burn it up way faster
Completely agree. I have an ms291, went to a 20” bar a couple of years ago. Bought a Stihl 2 in 1 sharpener works amazing. Sharpen the chain basically every time, makes a huge difference
I have in the past had to dress a bar for a friend so he could get cutting. Someone had run the saw without chain oil and way too tight. It worked out just fine. I had to finish dressing the bar with a hard arkansas sharpening stone but it all worked out fine. I had also taken a chainsaw away from one of the guys because when our backs were turned he took the chain brake apart claiming it was broken.
I’m dealing with arthritis issues in my shoulders and hands. Saying that, I still need to sling a saw on occasion. I’ve always used sthil saws over the years. I’m gonna need a bigger saw soon. Do you think the compression release buttons are worth it in the larger saws?
We use mixed fuel. I like to buy the pre mixed to keep around, but I also mix my own using ethanol-free. We have to travel a bit to get it though. It runs much better and cleaner I think.
Hey, I’m looking for a good chainsaw to clean up my 4 wheeler trails and cutting firewood and was looking into the Ms 180, and I found this video. I think I’m going for the right one. If you happen to see this, feedback would be much appreciated. Thank you for the video!
I would say in depends how much firewood you plan on cutting, and how big the wood is. These little saws are great for wood that’s smaller than 8” or so. Don’t get me wrong, they will cut it just fine, but a larger saw with a .325 pitch chain will do much better. My son has a MS250, and there’s quite a difference in power when you bump up to that size from the 180. I would say that the 180 would be a good saw to carry for trail work, but I wouldn’t try to use it to saw my winters firewood. It’s just a bit small for that. If you’re heating your home with wood that you plan on cutting yourself, I’d definitely jump up to something like a MS 271, or even a MS 251. Something with either a .325 pitch, or a 3/8 pitch chain.
Could you put a shorter more robust bar with a more robust chain on the 180? I've seen where some people have and what are the problems with doing that?
You can put use the heavier chain, but I think I’d go with a shorter bar. I’ve seen many. The new chain that they’re putting on the “lite” bars would be about the best option, if you go larger. I’d just get the 14” bar. It may work on a 16”, but I’ve never done, or seen it personally.
The Stihl dealer told me i couldn't without changing the sprocket because of the pitch, but I heard you could without a new sprocket as long as you have the right bar with the same pitch.
In my humble opinion, the MS261 is the best saw available for the homestead. There are times that I wish it were bigger, but there are also times that I wish it were smaller. But they’ll run with a 65cc saw just as long as they’re sharp. It’s fast, powerful and light. What more could you want? It would be perfect, if they weren’t as expensive.
To me those little battery powered hand-sized chainsaws are completely pointless. At that point just use a sawzall. Faster cutting, no need to sharpen blades, no need for bar oil, and it has MANY other uses.
I agree for the most part about that. I used a sawzall before getting the small chainsaw. It worked great. Although its heavy and bulky. I like the small, light portability of the handheld saw.
sawszall is Not ANYWHERE Near as good as a cordless saw!!.....trust me, not even in the same galaxy. I suggest you buy one and Try it first..... I have a Milwaukee pole saw, and that thing absolutely Rips threw trees fully buried. Sawszall is just Not designed for wood, it's just not.....even with a wood blade, it's still a reciprocating motor, they overheat fast.
Great video and nice line up! I have a 170 and 250 which have both served me very well for years and was thinking about finally getting a pro saw. I’ve been researching the 261C a lot because of the better build and the 50cc with 4hp vs the 3hp of the 250 both being a little over 10 lbs. My 45cc 250 has the factory 18” bar and .325 chain, but I see that Stihl recommends a 16” bar for the 261C. Does your 261C have the 16” bar? That was the one thing you didn’t mention in your very comprehensive video! My 4th saw later might be the 362C with the factory 20” bar! 😀 Thanks for the great info!! 👍🏼😎😀🪚
You will be very happy with a MS261c (cs). There’s no comparison to the 250. So much more power, and RPM at about the same weight. I have two different bars for my 261. I run a 18” bar .325 pitch, and the “yellow” pro chain. The green label chain is good too, maybe a little more forgiving as far as dirty wood goes. But with the 18” bar, and yellow “pro chain” it’s like a laser beam. That being said, if I’m cutting smaller wood, I will also run a 20”bar, and chain. And don’t be intimidated by the digital carburetor thing either. In my experience, it works very well. I’ve got mixed feelings about the MS362. When I need a bigger saw, I have the MS361. I’ve yet to see a 362 that will match the 361. So I’ll wait until they come up with something better. But my 361 uses 18”, and 20” bars too, only it’s the full size 3/8 pitch stuff. At this point in my life, and living off the grid like we do, if I had to choose one saw to depend on, it would be my ms261. Hands down.
@@scottfromwhiskeynsunshine305 Oh wow, great info thank you very much! Looks like the 261C will be in my future and no need for a 362, I’m 55 I should be set! 👍🏼😎 I really appreciate your time and infinite wisdom!! Thanks also for the carb advice. Stay warm up there in Maine, we are having a warming trend down here in Maryland! 🥶🥵😀 👍🏼👍🏼😎
No problem. You’re very welcome. Also, the last I knew, you can still get either model of 261. One has the strato tune, but the other has the regular adjustment screws on the carburetor. I would say either are fine. I have no issues adjusting a carburetor, but I’m constantly amazed by how well the little microprocessor works. I’m 56 myself, so I definitely get it. Especially since I started having back issues. Another couple great saws are the MS271 and MS290. I’ve run them both, and the power is close to the MS261, but they’re a little heavier. Still, great saws.
@@scottfromwhiskeynsunshine305 Great, thanks again for more info indeed! I may go with the microprocessor version for fun, like you mentioned in the video if there is any issue it’ll happen early while still under warranty. I only cut at sea level and rarely in extreme conditions hot or cold. 👍🏼 Those other two saws sound pretty nice too, thanks! It’s interesting that Stihl designates all of their Professional saws with the middle number being an even number, I didn’t know that for a long time. The only saw exempt from that code is your mighty 180! 👍🏼 My 170 was a game changer for limbing when I got it. Both great light saws. 😎 Thanks again Scott! 😀
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Father owns a variety of STIHL Saws from when he worked on the Mountain cutting timber. Watching their reliability as a kid I knew what brand of saw I would get. I currently own the smaller ms180 and ms250 saws. They have been very reliable and fulfill my needs for doing work around the home, cutting firewood for the stove, etc.
I’ve had pro saws from the top 3 Husqvarna, Stihl, and Jonsered, all of them were good saws. Once you get to that point, having a good dealer can also be a deciding factor. If the service is t there, you can run into issues fairly quickly.
What size bar are you pulling with the 261?
I got a 170 and this is one of my most used chainsaw. Light and quiet good enough to cut some firewood.
Hands down one of the most common sense chainsaw videos I have ever watched on RUclips!
I often wonder how many like new saws are sitting under workbenches? We're the guy bought way to big of a saw and used it once. Or a 2 foot or 3 foot tree falls on their property and they either think they need or dealer sells them a monster with a 36" bar to make cut in one slice. A 18" or 20" bar would have handled the job with just cutting from both sides. Honestly believe anybody should be required some saw safety training to purchase any saw over 60cc.
Again...nice job on leading first time buyers in the best direction!👍
Thank you very much.
I take my saws fairly seriously because here, they are pretty much a necessity.
100% true!
Agree that this was a great video!
i own 3 saws , a 038 magnum 70cc, tons of power but so freaking heavy, one 346 xp 50cc excellent pro that can cut enithing but still some heavy and this year i bought my ms 180 32cc little devil that is a back saver . agree 100% with ur choice for saw owning
Nice saws and review. I have a 170 and 250. You can change the chain on the 180 and I highly recommend it. Oregon sells a bar and chain combo for like $40 on Amazon. 16” bar with a 3/8” .050 chain at 55 links. Turns the 170 or 180 into a little beast. I also added a side chain adjustment kit and steel bumper spike. All cheap and easy mods that greatly improve the performance of those small saws. I have an uncle that works at a sawmill and he couldn’t believe how well that cheap little saw cuts now…we were laughing about it. I grab it most of the time on our property because it’s so lightweight. My wife also runs it for the same reason. The 250 runs an 18” bar. Great power to weight ratio. I find those 2 saws are all I need. Had a Husky 450 rancher but it just sat there and never saw much use so I sold it. The pro saws are definitely nice but every time I think I need one the 250 has me covered.
Great video, the MS250 was $399.99 with 18 inch bar though, but I have 2 of the little devils, they still run great
Nothing like the sound of a chainsaw running in the New England woods. I miss NH.
It echos across the vast mountains. I love it too.
My 83 year old dad is no couch potato. He stays very busy on the farm. We have lost a lot of trees lately because of emerald ash borer. My sister got him an ms170 with the 16" bar. He runs the shit out of that saw and loves it. I recently gave him one of my ms180 that has easy start and quick change chain. It came with 14" .043 bar. For him I moded an 18" .050 bar to fit and to tell the truth it rocks. I have an ms210 and a ms250 that I originally got for him and he doesn't like the extra weight. To be honest the ms180 will do just about all the Ms250 will do. I haven't let him try my Ms192 bucket saw yet cause I think he will try to talk me out of it. My ms261 is a beast, it rocks my 18" bar just fine. If I need bigger I have the Mac 10-10, 610, and double eagle 80 with 24" bar to use. Good videos
Great video! I don't cut a lot of wood but find that my MS180 serves me quite well on my small property. I repair and sell a lot of Stihl lawn equipment and do quite well as a hobby. Just finished a refurbishment of an older 260 Pro that I picked up for $75 that had been sitting for years. It cleaned up really well and runs really strong. Been using it to cut live oak into chunks for my wife's Solo stove and it's an absolute beast.
That 361/362 is the standard for a chainsaw in my opinion… I have a 362 and a 461 …. I have 3 bar lengths 20” 28” 32”…. If I had to choose between 1 saw I’d choose my 362… just because it’s been ported and will pull the 32” bar…but unless I get my 461 hopped up I’m goin with the 362 and I totally feel you on the weight … I can feel it…. But that 261/362 are the way to go…very easily serviceable and made with quality materials
You’re absolutely correct, Huskies and Stihls are the best hands down. Like Ford and Chevys. The real truth of the matter is though that by far, most people don’t need a pro level saw. Really only if you use a chainsaw for a living. The average Joe is great with a Stihl farm boss, a good 50cc saw. Echo also makes a great saw, just not pro level ones. What most people need more than anything else is a reputable dealer that offers classes. I’ve just seen too many chainsaw operators in shorts and flip flops to think otherwise. Many many years ago while in forestry school I was taught how to use one. That was only the beginning. I’ll never forget one student making a cut when the saw bucked back and up cutting into his hard hat. It was a miracle it didn’t cut into his head. Back then there was no such thing as a chain brake.
I agree that most don’t need a pro saw, but if you can afford it, you will have it forever. I find myself using my chainsaws a few times a month outside of work, whether normal tree care, storms or helping friends with mitigation projects. My homeowner saw (husky 455 rancher) finally gave up the ghost (just needed a rebuild really), but the switch to stihls pro saws was an easy choice at that point. The husky pro saws are great too. Just better components and easier to service the pro saws in my experience.
I have a 261 and a 462. Love em both! To elaborate the 261 is great for most things, but if I have to get through a lot of wood and larger trees, the 462 just eats. With a 28” bar I stand and buck like Billy, and it saves my back. Especially on the larger logs that slow the 261 down a little.
Completely agree, I cut personal firewood for Me and my parents, couldn’t be happier with my Stihl 044 and Husqvarna 372xp, 28” bar, round file chisel bit with full skip chain, less teeth to file. 🪵🪵🪵🪵
I have the 180 and its AWESOME. I did do a new bar and chain to upgrade to a 050 size chain. It IS a direct replacement. I didnt need to replace the sprocket. Stihl sells a bar that says 180 on it for fitment in a 050 size chain. The teeth are not that wimpy pico chain stuff that will dull fast. This new set up works amazing. It is MUCH lighter then my 261.
I’ve been wanting to change it over, but I notice that everyone going with the bigger chain is also going with a shorter 14” bar.
I need at least a 16” bar. I’d like to try one with the .050 drivers on a 16” bar, but I hate to spend the money for something that may not work out.
But I have been thinking about it.
Both of those brands like you say Scott are very good saws. We did buy a homeowner STIHL M 170 a couple years ago and have not had any issue at all. Thanks for the video on these. Have a great weekend and God Bless.
Yes, great saws all around. Thank you for watching! Take care
I finally got my MS 261 non C with a 20” bar, I love it, thank you Scott!! 👍🏼😎😀🪚🪵⛽️
Nice! It's such a great little saw.
Excellent review. I love Stihl and you proved that they make a saw for every job.
I own 2 saws.... ms170 and ms261c
That combo does everything i need to do here in Mississippi.... I use the 170 for almost everything except big wood and hardwood... some of our oak, ash, hickory, walnut and the like will smoke a small saw and chain if you're not careful... liked and subscribed, because I love Whiskey and Sunshine too!
A great combination of saws for sure. So glad to have you here!
@@WhiskeynSunshineOffGrid yessir!
II have this exact combo. I own 10 acres in central Ontario. I cut 10 to 12 face cord of maple a year and have had no problems with either one. I’m glad I went with the 261 over the 271 or 291. Cheers
GREAT VIDEO!!! You did a good job explaining everything, I have an older MS660, which I barely get out anymore, I’m getting older, I still use it time to time, I own a Husqvarna 550xp mark ii, it’s my go to, & I own 2 older MS250’s, I got 1 for parts but it cost me under $80 to get running, I get wood dropped off for firewood from a tree service, cut it to 18 inch lengths, split it with splitter, stack it
Awesome, thank you!
Thanks for explaining all the saws Scott! I've got a 16" Echo and it has worked flawless for three years. Just had some storm damage so I'll be sawing today. Cheers!
No problem. Thanks for watching! Much appreciated!
Whiskey,
you got a nice truck and some great saws. You can not beat STIHL.
You mentioned back pain. IT is real simple, exercise and eat clean every day.
Watch some of our videos and start eating clean. Skip the bread and no sausages or high fat meats.
Cook from scratch. No frozen dinners. No frozen foods. Eat more fruit and vegetables. Watch the videos.
Great tutorial. I haven't had the need for a chainsaw. But if I need to, your video has helped me pick.
Glad I could help! Thank you!
The guys tease me about my stihl ms 170 BUT i love it i cut a couple of cords with it. Thx u for this review.
I used an older O36 for dropping trees and it was pretty good for trees up to 30 inches across then I got a MS 461 and the extra power and longer bar makes dropping trees easier and safer because you have more control and speed to point the tree where you want it. the ms461 is just right, it has good power and isnt too heavy. I take 036 as a back up when getting logs out.
Pretty happy with my setup. One little saw ms-170 and a bigger saw ms-311. Both are screamers with great power to the chain and work fantastic for what I need them for. They are very reliable as well and easy starting even right after an ice storm with very cold temperatures taking care of a downed tree from ice weight and heavy wind. A few pulls and to work we go.Very much worth the money and are the top champions of the saw world. With my two stihl saws there is no more pulling pulling pulling pulling POP POP on choke. More pulling pulling pulling pulling finally running. With the stihls it's a Quick start and getting it done.
Very nice! They are definitely get the job done.
Love your approach and descriptions of each piece of equipment! Great video!
Thank you
Great video, really appreciate it. Was thinking I would get the 261 but now I’m considering the 180 instead and the little battery one. Thanks
You’re welcome
I have a Homelite that I love for branch cutting and small trees. 20 years or so have owned. Great on my back. I have a Poulan Pro 50cc and nothing but trouble and heavy. Not dependable at all for 10 years. At 17 lbs it’s hard on my back . Homelite is 14 lbs and super easy on my back . I have thought of that 261 being listed at 11 lbs and thinking with chain and bar weighing at another 2.5 lbs . The price like you said is high. The 271 Farm Boss is 12lbs rated power and assuming another 2.5 lbs for bar and chain. Which is only $449. At dealer. Not sure which one to choose. 3 lbs doesn’t seem like much to complain about but big difference to me.
That a tuff choice. The ms 271 is a good saw too, as is the ms 291. They are all comparable in size and weight.
But the ms261 has more rpm/chain speed. They’re expensive, but to me, they’re worth every penny.
I could say the same for a Husqvarna 550xp. They are designed to be fast, and light.
Smaller “pro saws” are purpose built for limbing, but they make wonderful firewood saws too. Don’t get me wrong, I still keep a big saw around, but I haven’t used mine in probably 2 years.
The 261/271 sized saw is about perfect for the modern homesteader.
I recently bought the ms291 which is right in between the ms261 and the ms361. It's 56ccs so it's got a really good power to weigh ratio which makes it easier to handle while still being on the heavy duty end. Thanks for the video!
Awesome!
291 has more cc but less hp than the 261
@@omilu808 the 291 is not a pro saw.. just the 261-362.. (50-60cc). Also not made in Germany.. Would never get one over a pro saw..
As much as I absolutely LOVE all chainsaws, I don't need anything above a pole power saw. I have only one acorn tree in my yard but other trees from adjoining properties' tree limbs invade my fence-line. Do you ever use any limb/wood chippers? I may eventually buy me a small chipper for these tree limbs.
No, we don’t…yet. I’d love to have a chipper that was self contained, or a 3 point hitch type for our tractor.
So many things that I’d “like” to have.
Always been a Stihl guy. Had a 026 till my garage burned down. Replaced it with 2 MS170s and a MS271. Love that 271, its a hog. Does well for my firewood which I Burn 4 cord a year. Ps: hey fellow Mainer!
Hey!! Sorry to hear about your garage, but glad you found a Stihl you love. Nothing like having the right tool for the job.
Great comparison thank you!!!
The ms 241/241c used to be stihl's smallest professional ground saw, it's too bad they discontinued it really wish they'd bring it back.
038 magnum and a 170 does it for me.
Something reviews always gloss over is weight . If you're cutting at a log pile all day it's not a huge deal but if you do trail clearing, alot of walking and moving around with the saw, keeping roads open, it's not fun to lug around 12-13+ pounds saw all day. I have a 372XP/20", an MS362/18" , an MS261/16", ms250/16" , 026, ms170/14" 325 and an 017/14"/325 . I'm pretty good shape 50's guy ...the 261 and 250 are nice if you're walking around with the saw alot , clearing trail and land, maybe on/off an ATV . ....When im cutting firewood in one place, i have the 372xp there for bigger logs and run mostly the ms362 . Unless you're a professional logger or arborist , your arm will get tired above 50cc saws . Even the little ms170 and 017 are no slouch . I have 14 inch bars on them with 0.325 chain instead of the stock, narrow bar and chain. They rev out about 10% less than stock but still cut fine, especially with opening the exhaust a little . Most people that cut wood once a year and clear a little trail are fine with an ms250 or ms261 . There's alot of benefit to small saws .
It’s funny, a decade ago, I never would’ve bought a 50-55cc saw.
I always ran Husky 272XPs, or Jonsered 670s, and always with a 20” bar. But I’ve dislocated my shoulder a few times, and I’m getting older. Now, my favorite saws are a bit smaller, and lighter. I kept my old Ms361 for years, just because it was nice when sawing in a pile, as you mentioned. But these new smaller high rpm saws are really great.
I can relate to the back problems. I'm working on disability because of the severity of my DDD & Spondylosis as well, not to mention other issues.
That is tough. Sorry to hear about that. That definitely makes things difficult.
Going to get MIke to watch this one....we always have trouble with whatever one we ever have!
Sorry you have trouble with the Dawn. Hopefully Scott can help.
Really great explanations of the various type saws. Thanks for the info. Ryan’s walked in and asked if I was researching how to cut trees for him lol
Lol, Glad it was helpful! Thank you!
I bought pro stihls almost 30 yrs ago, b4 they even had homeowners line. It's a shame they came out with the sub par saws but they had too, homelite and husky went b4 them, they had no choice. But both of mine still run and heat 2 houses 4 mos a year. Buy it once and be done. I would have had more money in several cheap saws by now. But for the guy who cuts half a load a season for a pretty fire, it's all good, but for the guy who's hearing exclusively with wood, go pro. It's a lot of money, but it's well worth it. When the 0 went from the beginning to the end of the model, they went downhill. 021 and 210 supposed to be same saw, but its just not.
Excellent info and explanation of the different chainsaws, Scott.
Thanks Rick!
I have a 170 MS 250 036 and a 066
Great video. Thanks!
You’re welcome!
Hey love thanks for sharing those look like great saws am I have to tell my husband to look into it hope you guys are having an amazing start of the week talk to you soon
Thank you my friend! Take care
Good morning my friend, good to see you again. A very nice educational video.
Good morning Micky! Good to see you. Hope you are doing well.
Nice saw collection! I own a gta 26 a ms180 cbe and a ms261c. I think it’s the perfect trio for myself who’s a homeowner with 20 acres and uses firewood to heat the home.
Right on! They get the job done.
@@WhiskeynSunshineOffGrid yes sir 👍
his accent is amazing
I’ve been on the fence between the 271 and 261. Do I need a pro model? No, but there seem to be quite a few advantages to having it. $190 more, that could be the amount spent going out to dinner twice. $ towards a better seems to be the wiser choice.
Thanks for the advice and the comments left.
If you have the extra cash, I’d go with the 261, every time. The 271, and 291 are still good saws, but the 261 is better.
@@WhiskeynSunshineOffGrid Thanks for the reply and confirming my thoughts.
@@barondavis5692 Pro saw will deff last u twice as long.. AND u can sell if for 200 bucks more after 15-20 years.. And u will like it more using it all that time.. u cant ask for more really.. (only downside is de cost).
@@larsvegas1505 Thanks for the advice. I’m no longer on the fence, I got the 261 for all the reasons you stated and it’s lighter. 👍
@@barondavis5692 Id still love to get one but im already spoiled with a 362 and a 201 for home use.. 261 is a nice middle ground.
Most of the newer Stihl saws model ending with a 1, e.g. 261 very expensive right now to repair if not under warranty. There isn't much aftermarket for them except the 251. Stihl replacement parts are very costly.
Thanks Scott for another great video great saws thanks for your knowledge 👍
Thanks 👍
Good stuff. Thanks.
Our pleasure!
Got good information being received and learn a lot.
Thank you!
I own both stihl 025 and a GTA 26 chainsaws.
Wow. That’s fascinating.
Thanks brother
You're welcome
Ms 271 for 4 acres . 18-20 inch bar . Has been good for me
Awesome to hear!
Ive been considering a Stihl MS 251 with an 18" bar. Currently have an Echo 330t, 14" bar, which I used for light work in my yard. Helene came thru . We've over 100 white pines and 12 or so large white oaks down that I need to work up.
Myself, I’d go with the MS271.
I just haven’t been around the new MS251s much, but I know some folks preferred the old MS250.
the most important thing to keeping a saw alive is running a sharp chain. a dull chain is the death of a saw and the bar too. learn how to sharpen everyone it just takes practice. and dont run ur saw dull it will burn it up way faster
Good advice! Especially with these smaller saws!
Completely agree. I have an ms291, went to a 20” bar a couple of years ago. Bought a Stihl 2 in 1 sharpener works amazing. Sharpen the chain basically every time, makes a huge difference
I have in the past had to dress a bar for a friend so he could get cutting. Someone had run the saw without chain oil and way too tight. It worked out just fine. I had to finish dressing the bar with a hard arkansas sharpening stone but it all worked out fine.
I had also taken a chainsaw away from one of the guys because when our backs were turned he took the chain brake apart claiming it was broken.
love my stihl 290 - if anyone wants to listen.....never disappoints me after 5 years of service as a 2nd saw
1:20 foot stomp 😂
I’m dealing with arthritis issues in my shoulders and hands. Saying that, I still need to sling a saw on occasion. I’ve always used sthil saws over the years. I’m gonna need a bigger saw soon. Do you think the compression release buttons are worth it in the larger saws?
On the larger saws, yes absolutely. Especially for those of us that are getting older.
Id look into the 500i then (if u need a saw that big).. injecton engines do start better.. more reliable.
The MS180C uses a 4mm round sharpening file, yes.
Yes, that is correct
Is the Stihl chainsaws there mixed-fuel or regular unleaded? I like using ethanol-free fuels for my straight-fuel power equipment.
We use mixed fuel. I like to buy the pre mixed to keep around, but I also mix my own using ethanol-free. We have to travel a bit to get it though. It runs much better and cleaner I think.
Thank you sir. Very good info share. This will help me with my chainsaw purchase for my homestead. You just won me as a subcriber. Thanks again Sir.
I’m glad you found it helpful. Thank you for sticking with us.
@@WhiskeynSunshineOffGrid yes sir. Your welcome.
Hey, I’m looking for a good chainsaw to clean up my 4 wheeler trails and cutting firewood and was looking into the Ms 180, and I found this video. I think I’m going for the right one. If you happen to see this, feedback would be much appreciated. Thank you for the video!
I would say in depends how much firewood you plan on cutting, and how big the wood is. These little saws are great for wood that’s smaller than 8” or so. Don’t get me wrong, they will cut it just fine, but a larger saw with a .325 pitch chain will do much better. My son has a MS250, and there’s quite a difference in power when you bump up to that size from the 180.
I would say that the 180 would be a good saw to carry for trail work, but I wouldn’t try to use it to saw my winters firewood. It’s just a bit small for that.
If you’re heating your home with wood that you plan on cutting yourself, I’d definitely jump up to something like a MS 271, or even a MS 251. Something with either a .325 pitch, or a 3/8 pitch chain.
@@scottfromwhiskeynsunshine305 thank you, I’ll probably jump up to the 250 at least just to be on the safe side! I appreciate the reply
Are you getting into much hardwood with the 261 and 361 (362)?
Yes, most of my firewood is hardwood. Actually I cut mostly hardwood. Unless it’s storm damage
Could you put a shorter more robust bar with a more robust chain on the 180? I've seen where some people have and what are the problems with doing that?
You can put use the heavier chain, but I think I’d go with a shorter bar. I’ve seen many. The new chain that they’re putting on the “lite” bars would be about the best option, if you go larger. I’d just get the 14” bar.
It may work on a 16”, but I’ve never done, or seen it personally.
The Stihl dealer told me i couldn't without changing the sprocket because of the pitch, but I heard you could without a new sprocket as long as you have the right bar with the same pitch.
What else could I possibly say, STIHL RUNS THE YARD. 😊👍🏿 #stihlpower #stihlisyourdaddy
You can even use it for Thanksgiving
Cannot find any one reviwing MS382. What might be the reason?
I noticed that too. Not sure why.
my ms 271 rocks w a 20 in bar. Have had it for 2-3 yrs and cut a ton of wood. not everyone needs a pro saw $$
Nice! That is so true.
Thank you you.. up here In maine we need chainsaw,... great share I will share as well have a wonderful day
Thank you! You too!😀
💥🤘
Here in NC there right around $1000
the ms 362
That's about $100 more than I've seen lately around here.
not often I am listening to a youtube video and they mention the town I live in. Lol Actually, its the first time I have.
Nice! 😎 Glad we could be the first!
Is it you Uncle Jesse? Where are the good ol' boys?
😎
Clicked this video and before you said you lived in Maine, I said bet this guy lives in Maine. Sure enough
Lol
Where in maine?
We are in Western Maine. Are you in Maine too?
@@WhiskeynSunshineOffGrid Bangor
Love my 261cm
In my humble opinion, the MS261 is the best saw available for the homestead. There are times that I wish it were bigger, but there are also times that I wish it were smaller.
But they’ll run with a 65cc saw just as long as they’re sharp. It’s fast, powerful and light. What more could you want? It would be perfect, if they weren’t as expensive.
Want the best saw for the job. Then buy a Husqvarna or an Echo
But if you are stuck in desperate need then it would have to be a Stihl. Sadly
Everyone is entitled to their own opinion. I ran Husqvarna for many years, until their saws, and the service tanked.
nu
I have Old Mummy-Fart Poulans. As good as any.
Don't get me started on the steaming piles of 💩 modern Poulans are.
To me those little battery powered hand-sized chainsaws are completely pointless. At that point just use a sawzall. Faster cutting, no need to sharpen blades, no need for bar oil, and it has MANY other uses.
I agree for the most part about that. I used a sawzall before getting the small chainsaw. It worked great. Although its heavy and bulky. I like the small, light portability of the handheld saw.
Have you ever used one?
sawszall is Not ANYWHERE Near as good as a cordless saw!!.....trust me, not even in the same galaxy. I suggest you buy one and Try it first..... I have a Milwaukee pole saw, and that thing absolutely Rips threw trees fully buried. Sawszall is just Not designed for wood, it's just not.....even with a wood blade, it's still a reciprocating motor, they overheat fast.
Great video and nice line up! I have a 170 and 250 which have both served me very well for years and was thinking about finally getting a pro saw. I’ve been researching the 261C a lot because of the better build and the 50cc with 4hp vs the 3hp of the 250 both being a little over 10 lbs. My 45cc 250 has the factory 18” bar and .325 chain, but I see that Stihl recommends a 16” bar for the 261C. Does your 261C have the 16” bar? That was the one thing you didn’t mention in your very comprehensive video! My 4th saw later might be the 362C with the factory 20” bar! 😀
Thanks for the great info!! 👍🏼😎😀🪚
You will be very happy with a MS261c (cs).
There’s no comparison to the 250. So much more power, and RPM at about the same weight.
I have two different bars for my 261. I run a 18” bar .325 pitch, and the “yellow” pro chain.
The green label chain is good too, maybe a little more forgiving as far as dirty wood goes. But with the 18” bar, and yellow “pro chain” it’s like a laser beam.
That being said, if I’m cutting smaller wood, I will also run a 20”bar, and chain. And don’t be intimidated by the digital carburetor thing either. In my experience, it works very well.
I’ve got mixed feelings about the MS362. When I need a bigger saw, I have the MS361.
I’ve yet to see a 362 that will match the 361. So I’ll wait until they come up with something better. But my 361 uses 18”, and 20” bars too, only it’s the full size 3/8 pitch stuff.
At this point in my life, and living off the grid like we do, if I had to choose one saw to depend on, it would be my ms261. Hands down.
@@scottfromwhiskeynsunshine305 Oh wow, great info thank you very much! Looks like the 261C will be in my future and no need for a 362, I’m 55 I should be set! 👍🏼😎 I really appreciate your time and infinite wisdom!! Thanks also for the carb advice. Stay warm up there in Maine, we are having a warming trend down here in Maryland! 🥶🥵😀 👍🏼👍🏼😎
No problem. You’re very welcome. Also, the last I knew, you can still get either model of 261. One has the strato tune, but the other has the regular adjustment screws on the carburetor. I would say either are fine. I have no issues adjusting a carburetor, but I’m constantly amazed by how well the little microprocessor works. I’m 56 myself, so I definitely get it. Especially since I started having back issues. Another couple great saws are the MS271 and MS290. I’ve run them both, and the power is close to the MS261, but they’re a little heavier. Still, great saws.
@@scottfromwhiskeynsunshine305 Great, thanks again for more info indeed! I may go with the microprocessor version for fun, like you mentioned in the video if there is any issue it’ll happen early while still under warranty. I only cut at sea level and rarely in extreme conditions hot or cold. 👍🏼 Those other two saws sound pretty nice too, thanks! It’s interesting that Stihl designates all of their Professional saws with the middle number being an even number, I didn’t know that for a long time. The only saw exempt from that code is your mighty 180! 👍🏼 My 170 was a game changer for limbing when I got it. Both great light saws. 😎 Thanks again Scott! 😀
Sound like trump and I love it lol
😂
Great video, the MS250 was $399.99 with 18 inch bar though, but I have 2 of the little devils, they still run great