I was always skeptical of the Pro saws. I had an MS250 for years and was completely happy with it as a homeowner with a little bit of acreage. Then I got involved in hurricane cleanup efforts and had the chance to use an MS261. That was a revelation! The weight and power are great, but it was the vibration damping that really sold me. Now I have both a 261 and a 461 and when I'm out for a whole weekend running a saw, it's a completely different experience with those pro saws than it was with the homeowner saws. If all you ever do is run the saw for a couple of hours a few times a year, stick with the homeowner saws, they will last you a lifetime if you take care of them. But if you run a saw for a whole day, or multiple days, do yourself a favor and get the pro saw (and you can't get much better than the 261 for almost anything) if you have a few extra dollars to spend.
I furnish my own saws for work, many of us do. Well some guys only run 250s and I run a 201t, 261c and an older 440. I’m not the only guy who falls trees on our job sites. The other guys don’t understand directional falling.
Same scenario with me. Had a 250 for years and was happy with it. Starting doing bigger cutting and jumped up top a pro saw. Night and day. Still love my old 250 though.
Stood in a dealer store for 20 min trying to figure out why the higher number cost less. Came home you research on RUclips and found your video. I’m glad I didn’t go with the 290! I’ll be picking up the 261 soon!
I am the definition of a homeowner, we heat with wood at our cabin. We length and split 4-6 fscecords a year, bought the 291 and put a 20”bar on it. Runs perfectly, has been exactly the right saw for me. If it breaks though, will go to the 261 after this review!
I bought the 291, complained to the store I bought it from and traded it for the 261c . Got a refund . So disappointed in the 291, no adjustable oiler. It does not throw enough oil on the bar n chain and gets too hot. The chains go dull so fast . Idc what stihl says , I used the saw. The eco friendly design of the 291 is just so disappointing. If you want to go through the trouble of sharpening chains every 5-10 cuts go for it .
@@Stephen-vk3ej Certainly not our experience. I only have to sharpen our chain when it hits dirt, or dirty logs. Over 10 years old, zero trouble, runs perfectly. In Canada the MS261 is a couple of hundred dollars more, not worth it for me. If the 291 dies, the 261 is next. But so far a perfect saw for what I do.
@@regmcguire5582 that’s crazy because i could not figure out why my chain kept smoking and sparking . When I realized the bar did not have oil on it , i did further research on the 291 and realized there was no adjustable oiler . It didn’t even use 1 tank of gas to 1 tank of oil either . Nothing I could do . Even the technician that worked on the saws at the store I bought it from thought it was a horrible design not putting an adjustable oiler on the 291. The old farmboss was the best homeowner logging saw. But I will say this all happened to me when I was cutting black oak. Which is a very hardwood. How about you? What kind of wood do you cut with your 291? I would bet the harder the wood the harder is it on the chain at getting hot.
@@Stephen-vk3ej We cut a mix of hardwood (oak and maple) and a pine. My saw uses about a tank of oil for a tank of gas, pretty close. It's a really fair point that it's not adjustable, but the chain never gets hot and cuts fine. I bought the 3-in-1 sharpener years ago, just run that over it every session or two, can keep a chain for at least a year if I don't hit rock. Which is an ever present danger where I live.
This is exactly why I bought my MS261-CM five years ago. It is an absolute ripper in the oak, walnut, and Osage in my neighborhood. It is a pleasure to run and sounds so very angry.
Given the asking price of both saws I feel the MS 250 at $350 recently was a good purchase for a 'homeowner' saw. Sure I wanted a bigger saw, but the money I saved bought a hydraulic log splitter and now I'm stackin' wood.
That's absolutely fair. Both the saws in the video are great in terms of performance, as well as value for money. You should only upgrade to a professional saw based on either your usage or desire.
Spot on video. The 261 is a clear winner. A few things about the 291 vs 261 as Ive run them both a significant amount of time. The ElastoStart is less than great. Ive broken a few of them, even when being nice to them, and they are kinda spendy for what they are. When I break them, I replace them with a standard pull handle which will not break. You dont start to get into real compression issues until you get into the 462 and up class of saws and then you just use the compresion release. The side cover on the 291 even though it doesnt capture the nuts, is actually better as its larger and does a better job evacuating the chips. Ive had this issue on my 261, 362 and on the 500 Ive run. Another thing of note? Muffler mod the 261 and it wakes up even more!
@mainstreetmower I put a Bark Box from WCS on my 362. It's a significant difference, especially with a properly sharpened chain. Figure about a 1/2 hp gain on that saw. On the 261, you need to drill the muffler and TIG or bolt on the Universal Power Port. While the power gains are nice, I'm honestly more worried about getting the exhaust, which creates heat, out of the saw as quickly as possible. I do run a .325 full house chain on a 261 with a 20" bar, and a 3/8 half skip on my 362 with a 28" bar.
Delivery, content & solid information. RUclips videos don't get any better. Thank you. Subscribed tonight. BTW, I have never regretted buying my MS261. DOUG out
Been using my -261 for years. A very reliable saw with a lot of punch. I have only a 15” bar on it as most of the trees I cut are ”normal” size. Starts everytime, no matter hot or cold and the air filter is easy to clean with a vacuum cleaner.
I love my 261. I heat with wood, so I work my saw hard and the 261 will run all day long and do it again the next day. The same can't be said for other "home owner" (non-Stihl) saws that I've had in the past.
I have a 261. Excellent saw. I have always run pro saws. But, another way to look at it is you can get a 291 and an extra bar and chain. For a home owner thats a good value.
I have a 290 Farm boss that I bought about 9 years ago when I was having problems finding a part for my old 032AV. I use it on our ranch for cutting trees when they fall on the fences and also for cutting fire wood. we use 12-15 cord per winter. I also do a lot of volunteer at our local Boy Scout camp. About 5 years ago we had a major windstorm come through the camp and blow down 60,000 board feet of large diameter timber 3-5.5 feet. I decided my Farm Boss was not up to what we were going to do. I went to town and bought a 362CM. The Forest Service would not allow salvage logging on it, so we had to cut it into firewood. I was cutting 10 hours a day for weeks. I could not believe how wuch more saw the 362CM was. I was also amazed at how long a tank of fuel would last. The one time I was a little concerned was about 5 tanks in and it started being a dog. I thought it must be the airfilter. I took the cover off and it was nearly new. I got the manual out and read it again. I got to the part about the computer may take upto 10 tanks for the system to learn itself, so don't be concerned. So I went back to work and wonderd if I had made a mistake. About 2 tanks later, I thought I had grabbed a different saw. It had woken up and was a completely differnt animal. I have cut several hundred cord of firewood with this saw and also cut up many down trees on my fence lines, We have 25 miles of fence. If you don't want to buy a Pro saw, don't try one! You wont be able to go back to a farm saw.
I purchased a 261 a couple of years ago to compliment a 461 and the old 036 and have to say it is all the saw anyone will need for most applications. The one thing I would ask Stihl to improve is the chain oil adjustment screw, it should be torx like the rest of the machine screws and tool instead of poorly made slotted screw, otherwise top-notch equipment.
If you are trying to up sell you have to explain the advantages of Mtronic. It's like near fuel injection, without the complication, and cost. It will adjust the fuel mixture from the first start of the day when it is still cold, to peak late day temperatures. Same goes for changes in altitude. Same goes for air filters getting plugged up. Also provides some interesting diagnostics.
I hear you. We thought that Mtronic is being talked about so much lately that most viewers would know about it. But your input is very valuable and we'll definitely cover the features in more detail in future videos!
I bought a 462 with a standard carb. My buddy bought a 462 with mtronic. Mine would start but ran rough. 3 minutes with a screwdriver and I was off running smooth. He fired his saw at 3000' at his house and ran it a little. We went to his cabin at 8000' and his flat out wouldn't start. We drove back down to 4000', fired it up, and then drove back up the mountain with it running in the back of the truck. 😂
I have an Ms290 I got for 100 bucks after someone didn’t put oil in the gas, I swapped a ms390 cylinder and piston into it and now it’s the best saw I’ve ever used, power to weight is is wild
261 is very popular saw in Finland among also professionals and farmers... we dont use so long bars usually. Of course those who fall very big trees need longer bars...then ms 400, or even 500i if needed...
The 261 is the best allround saw in my opinion. I got the 026, 260, 261 without M Tronic, 261 with M-Tronic and a new 261 with M-Tronic 3.0. These saws are the most used, cause lightweight, pretty powerful and easy to start.
I have the MS 261 C-E. My brother has the MS 291. When we run our saws side-by-side, there is no difference in the performance. None. We cut mostly hardwoods -- ash, hickory, maple. Neither saw is any quicker or more powerful in real-world use. He did lose a nut once when changing his chain in the field, so that was a PITA. I love my 261's captive nuts and the quick-disconnect hood. The magnesium cover also allows for a double-dog setup. I also like the decompression valve and auto-choke for easier starting. His 291 is harder to pull and has a more complicated traditional choke protocol. But these differences are very minor. Buy once, cry once ... so I went with a 261. But the 291 is a beast. I'd take either one and never look back.
I picked up a used 041AV a couple of years it will pull a chain at 10800RPMs in the cut on dead hard maple with a roller tipped 20in bar and a sharp full house full chisel chain. Chainsaws have came a long way since those days.
I’ve had a 291 for years. It’s a great saw, I’ve been very happy with it, but a while ago the oil tank cracked. To fix I’d have to change the entire case. Instead I bought a 261 - fantastic saw. Yes it’s a much better machine.
Obviously the 261 is better. But I have 291 that’s been running hard for 8 years. It’s been muffler modded and retuned and it pulls a 20 inch bar just as good as a 261. It’s paid for it’s self many many times over.
I have both saws but my 261 is the standard carb not the mtronic because I would prefer to adjust it myself. Very comparable in performance with the 261 having a small advantage stock even tho it feels like you can push on the 291 a little more. My 291 has had some mods done to it now and will out cut the 261 but that will change when the warranty expires on the 261. My advice would be to run a thinner bar and chain oil on the 291 the difference in bar temp using stihl bar oil vs the cheap mystic brand at my local fleet farm is around 80 degrees but it is not as much of an issue on the 261 as the lowest setting on the adjustable oiler is equal to the non adjustable 291. Between my 291 and 180 I have cut around 40 full cords and the 261 has 5 to 10 full cords under its belt without a single issue
@@NelsonJ1 depends on the usage. If your going to use it regularly spend the extra money and get the 261. If its only occasional the 291 is more than enough. The 40 cords between my 291 and 180 came in the first year and a half of ownership without a single issue I only bought the 291 because during covid supply chain issues all the close by stihl dealers didn't have the 261,391, or 362 in stock
@@mainstreetmower IMHO the two best power to weight saws Stihl ever made 026 and 044 I still love mine after all these years the newer 261 are not bad either. 😉
In Oz there is a $400 difference in price. The ms291 here is $1199 and ms261c $1599 dollars! We're definitely getting ripped off here. However I still went for the 261c because it's lighter for one and still made in Germany 😅
In Australia, the MS261 isn't even available anymore (even on the Stihl Australia website), but there IS an MS271 ($AUD 999), the MS291 ($AUD 1,199), and the MS261C-M ($AUD 1,599), so yeah, the entry level professional is $400 over the higher end homeowner....
G'day Ute, When I bought my 291 I thought it was better than the 261 how sad was I when I found out, and like old mate said it was a pig to start, first thing I did was fit Elasto start . Anyway I ended up sending it to Kev, Mr Hangerone you tube , he ported it more power and easier to start 👍.
A few corrections The 291 is a farm saw. stihl has 3 classes a home owner saw, a farm saw and the pro saws. The elasto start is not for " snap back " protection. IF you look at the 026 ms260 normal start design. Home owner saws ms 170 to the ms250 then you go 270-390 farm class then 260 to 440 pro saws ( the upgraded model names like 017 170 171 etc )
Unfortunately in the last 4 yrs I’ve had multiple saws stolen so I’ve bought different models for replacement, I was suggested the 261 by my dealer but was skeptical as I’d just lost my 400 a bigger saw.. the 261 is the best saw out of all the saws I’ve ever lost.. the thing absolutely rips through wood and has no problem with a 28” bar and .063 chain.. when I need a 32” bar I use my 462 which is also a beast but a bit heavy for all day operation..
Last I checked they are $120 different in price not $90. The MS251 is a slightly smaller saw but is $300 less money. I have an 029 and in 27 years never had an issue with it and never lost a bar nut. I do like the new gas caps which are on my Stihl pole saw but I did have to replace them and never had to replace the old screw in 029 caps. I would buy another 029 if they sold them.
Hey, I thought my 261CM was the world's best 16" saw and my 400CM was the world's best 20" saw - no? 😄 Seriously, though, I have 16" and 20" bars for my 261 and if I could have only one saw, it would certainly be a 261CM.
The piston is a lightweight aluminum type metal and not letting it warm up can score the piston if the cylinder isn't allowed to warm the piston warms quicker.
Also not noted is that the homeowner saw have a completely different engine design...the cylinder and block are one piece...major problem for repairs...the pro saws have a seperate cylinder from the block..making easier cylinder and piston repair plus the ability to big bore them..plus nikosil coated cylinders
During covid i couldn't get parts and needed a saw so brought a 251 to get me by...... it wasn't great compared to a pro saw. I sold it before it broke.
People who use pro saws can easily tell the difference if they downgrade to a residential one. The difference might not be huge for residential users, but that was exactly the point of this video. Upgrading to a pro saw for just $80 is really a great deal.
I love my 261, I owned a 550xp before and it was a nice saw but the 261 is lighter and cuts a little faster, it cost me about 740$ with tax in Maine USA.
I'm wondering why you didn't really mention the differences between M Tronic and the standard carburetor 🤔🤔 That's one of the key features of the 261 and other pro saws. They're not only easier to start, they generate more power and more torque. As well they don't have to be adjusted and it doesn't matter in which height or temperature you are, cause M Tronic always sets the carburetor right. That's the feature which ist most important between these saws. Here in Germany it isn't allowed to use these conventional carburetor saws for commercial forest work.
That's a great point. We overlooked explaining that key feature in this video but then realized how many people were curious about it. So we made sure to go over it in the next video which was a comparison between MS 362 and 391. Thank you for pointing it out 🙂
If my 15yo 250 will ever die the 261 is on my short list to replace it. Minor increase in weight but major HP increase percentage wise. Btw spec on my 250 is 12,5k rpm with bar and chain. Had to tweak it down this afternoon as I discovered it was running in the 13,5 range.
I’ve had a 250 about the same length of time. Gypsy moths have been killing large oaks on my property. I moved up to get the 261 for larger trees and it’s been a game changer. It cuts large oaks like butter. It’s expensive, but for an older guy like myself, it was worth the money.
I like the ms - 261 less m - tronic. The m - tronic is nice until the carburetor components fail then you are at the mercy of the dealer for trouble shooting on their lab top with their software. Ill stay with sthils model on the auto compensation carburetor. Husqvarna uses the auto tune on their Comercial saws too. The systems on each brand perform well until they fail. On both brands on you tube a owner may be able to go through a procedure that will reset the carburetors computures chip that will not send the owner for repairs at the dealer.
I hear you, personally I’d probably go old school too but…..we sell tons of m-tonic saws and almost never work on them. And tuning the MS261 requires a special tool controlled by the EPA that only the dealers have access to
261 by far the best it has a magnesium crank case an the 291 has a plastic crank case it won’t take the heat 291 is a home owner saw 261 is a professional saw I have a bunch of them best saw for the money mix you gas strong with oil keep them clean air filter wise !
Great video and thanks for the detailed comparison. I have owned Stihl saws for 30+ years but recently had my 038 AV stolen! I do not want to buy a new saw so can u suggest a few comparable options in the "used" saw market other than another 038? Thanks and have a great week!
Most of the STIHL chainsaws last a lifetime, as you must know being a owner for 30+ years. Buying used does get a little tricky since you gotta look out for bigger damage that the previous owner might have done. I don't have an exact blueprint for that as of now, but maybe we can come up with a guide about choosing a used chainsaw. Just depends on how much interest is there in that topic
@@mainstreetmower i wash my 261 cm with a lot of water, every 6 tanks, since 3 years and many wood, there is really no rust on this saw, so yes, high quality material, especially on muffler.
Several models of the stihl home owner line had glue on transfer port covers, that would be the first thing I would stay away from. All of the the professional series Stihls are best in the business .
Get a pro saw ..you will pass it on to your grandchildren if you just cut firewood .... these saws should run for 2000 hours if you look after them ... and there's a lot to learn in those few words. Just as important is the bar length ... and its not the trees you cut ..its how tall you are ...if you are 6'3" you need a 24" bar ... shorter person can go a shorter bar ...why ? it allows you to keep a straight back and the bar tip will be just off the ground ... My pick is a MS500i ... good review.
I have a 311 and a 350 with 20” bars and it’s all those saws want. How can either of these effectively pull a 20” bar?? I was in bodenstieners last year and they had 311s with 24” bars. Could hardly believe anyone is happy with them. I now have a 500i with a 24” bar and I wouldn’t want a longer one.
The clamshell engine construction of the 291 isnt ideal when it comes time for a rebuild. A piston and cylinder can cost $300 alone. I do have a 291 and a 260. The 260 is a breeze to do a piston and rings if needed.
But for a few dollars more you can move up to a 362 or a 400. Id be scared to tackle a 30 inch white oak with a 261. Anything smaller than a 036 size is a limbing saw
I was fed up with my Poulan Pro, went down to the Stihl dealer and asked which was the best overall saw….they said the 261, I bought it. Great saw, I’ll never wear it out.
STHIL lies about everything, i don't even talk to those reps in their crappy stores when i walk thru unless i want to start an argument about plastic cams and other trash they do and their crappy 4-stroke line running on 50mix ... no ... of course i own enough of their trash, but no plans to buy any more of it. The Chinese gear is starting to show-up the "STIHL made in Asia" gear for sure! Bring it on!
The ms271 is also able to run a 20 inch bar and is a 52 cc engine and is closer to the specs of the ms 261 on everything but power. So it would be a better and closer comparison then using the ms291. Plus the ms 271 is a farm/ranch saw. And you're wrong on the 291 being a home owners saw. It's a farm/ranch saw. Stihl has 3 levels of saws home owner, farm/ranch, and pro, which you would know this if you did the proper research and know the stuff you was doing videos on before making your video.
Your right, I bought a used 290 which was a "farm boss",, good saw for me and very popular for Stihl. It was finally replaced by the 291, which is their replacement saw for the 290. I also bought a 261c which I also like. For me, both saws are great! Love the features of the 261. Purchased in Canada, so buy them on sale!
STIHL makes saws two different ways. Ones an engine surrounded by plastic and lighter duty features i.e. (MS162, 172, 182, 194, 212, 251, 271, 291, 311, 391) the others are built on a totally different split crank magnesium alloy level. You’re right that STIHL gave bigger cc homeowner saws their own special category “farm/ranch”, but there really is no difference, and they’ve stopped using that marketing lingo for a while now. I could have used a MS271 to compare, it is $519 making it $180 cheaper. But I don’t recommend running a 20” bar on this horsepower. I like the MS271 especially with a 18”, and if your going 18”, i’d probably recommend just going with a MS250
@@mainstreetmower the 271 is sold with a 20" bar option. And to figure out if your saw can safely run a bar or not is simply, for every 10 cc the motor is that's 4" of bar (which is the standard rule of thumb that all chainsaw manufactures use for all chainsaws 60 cc and less). In other words a 50 cc saw can run a max of 20" bar, and 60 cc can run 24". Once the saws get up to 70 cc it changes.
Sorry you had that experience with the 291 but it is not a bad saw. We've had residential users that have been using it for years with no problem. Yes, it's definitely a step down when you compare it to the 261.
I was always skeptical of the Pro saws. I had an MS250 for years and was completely happy with it as a homeowner with a little bit of acreage. Then I got involved in hurricane cleanup efforts and had the chance to use an MS261. That was a revelation! The weight and power are great, but it was the vibration damping that really sold me. Now I have both a 261 and a 461 and when I'm out for a whole weekend running a saw, it's a completely different experience with those pro saws than it was with the homeowner saws.
If all you ever do is run the saw for a couple of hours a few times a year, stick with the homeowner saws, they will last you a lifetime if you take care of them. But if you run a saw for a whole day, or multiple days, do yourself a favor and get the pro saw (and you can't get much better than the 261 for almost anything) if you have a few extra dollars to spend.
Spoken like a champ,this is excellent n good advice for the novice ,well done, like u attitude. All the best for the future 😊
I furnish my own saws for work, many of us do. Well some guys only run 250s and I run a 201t, 261c and an older 440. I’m not the only guy who falls trees on our job sites. The other guys don’t understand directional falling.
Totally agree! Pro saws are in a whole other league!
Same scenario with me. Had a 250 for years and was happy with it. Starting doing bigger cutting and jumped up top a pro saw. Night and day. Still love my old 250 though.
Well said, Shipmate.
DOC DOUG out
Stood in a dealer store for 20 min trying to figure out why the higher number cost less. Came home you research on RUclips and found your video. I’m glad I didn’t go with the 290! I’ll be picking up the 261 soon!
I bought a 261 when they first came out, and comparing it to the old 290, it was a huge difference, the weight and decompression valve sold me.
Absolutely. The price gap doesn't necessarily reflect all the better things you get with a 261 over the 290
This is one of the best reviews I have seen on equipment. Thank you. I have to come back see your other videos.
That's awesome. Hope you like the other content as well 🙂
@@mainstreetmower good video, funniest part was pulling with everything to get the 291 started good thing you never have to start the 661 or 881s.
I am the definition of a homeowner, we heat with wood at our cabin. We length and split 4-6 fscecords a year, bought the 291 and put a 20”bar on it. Runs perfectly, has been exactly the right saw for me. If it breaks though, will go to the 261 after this review!
Awesome, glad the 291 is working right for you. Thank you for watching 🙂
I bought the 291, complained to the store I bought it from and traded it for the 261c . Got a refund . So disappointed in the 291, no adjustable oiler. It does not throw enough oil on the bar n chain and gets too hot. The chains go dull so fast . Idc what stihl says , I used the saw. The eco friendly design of the 291 is just so disappointing. If you want to go through the trouble of sharpening chains every 5-10 cuts go for it .
@@Stephen-vk3ej Certainly not our experience. I only have to sharpen our chain when it hits dirt, or dirty logs. Over 10 years old, zero trouble, runs perfectly. In Canada the MS261 is a couple of hundred dollars more, not worth it for me. If the 291 dies, the 261 is next. But so far a perfect saw for what I do.
@@regmcguire5582 that’s crazy because i could not figure out why my chain kept smoking and sparking . When I realized the bar did not have oil on it , i did further research on the 291 and realized there was no adjustable oiler . It didn’t even use 1 tank of gas to 1 tank of oil either . Nothing I could do . Even the technician that worked on the saws at the store I bought it from thought it was a horrible design not putting an adjustable oiler on the 291. The old farmboss was the best homeowner logging saw. But I will say this all happened to me when I was cutting black oak. Which is a very hardwood. How about you? What kind of wood do you cut with your 291? I would bet the harder the wood the harder is it on the chain at getting hot.
@@Stephen-vk3ej We cut a mix of hardwood (oak and maple) and a pine. My saw uses about a tank of oil for a tank of gas, pretty close. It's a really fair point that it's not adjustable, but the chain never gets hot and cuts fine. I bought the 3-in-1 sharpener years ago, just run that over it every session or two, can keep a chain for at least a year if I don't hit rock. Which is an ever present danger where I live.
This is exactly why I bought my MS261-CM five years ago. It is an absolute ripper in the oak, walnut, and Osage in my neighborhood. It is a pleasure to run and sounds so very angry.
haha love it. 🙂
Given the asking price of both saws I feel the MS 250 at $350 recently was a good purchase for a 'homeowner' saw. Sure I wanted a bigger saw, but the money I saved bought a hydraulic log splitter and now I'm stackin' wood.
That's absolutely fair. Both the saws in the video are great in terms of performance, as well as value for money. You should only upgrade to a professional saw based on either your usage or desire.
I would like to know where you found a hydraulic splitter for $250-300 ? 🤨
Spot on video. The 261 is a clear winner.
A few things about the 291 vs 261 as Ive run them both a significant amount of time.
The ElastoStart is less than great. Ive broken a few of them, even when being nice to them, and they are kinda spendy for what they are. When I break them, I replace them with a standard pull handle which will not break. You dont start to get into real compression issues until you get into the 462 and up class of saws and then you just use the compresion release.
The side cover on the 291 even though it doesnt capture the nuts, is actually better as its larger and does a better job evacuating the chips. Ive had this issue on my 261, 362 and on the 500 Ive run.
Another thing of note? Muffler mod the 261 and it wakes up even more!
Thanks for first hand insight! We are going to order a barkbox and test it out. Should we get one from West Coast Saw?
@mainstreetmower I put a Bark Box from WCS on my 362. It's a significant difference, especially with a properly sharpened chain. Figure about a 1/2 hp gain on that saw. On the 261, you need to drill the muffler and TIG or bolt on the Universal Power Port. While the power gains are nice, I'm honestly more worried about getting the exhaust, which creates heat, out of the saw as quickly as possible.
I do run a .325 full house chain on a 261 with a 20" bar, and a 3/8 half skip on my 362 with a 28" bar.
WCS sells the 261 muffler mod for $175. At that price, it better cut the wood and stack it for me, too.
Delivery, content & solid information. RUclips videos don't get any better. Thank you.
Subscribed tonight.
BTW, I have never regretted buying my MS261.
DOUG out
Come from a husky 372xp( and it has been a great saw), to a ms261c, and after half hour using it, turn into my favourite one.
haha that's awesome. Thanks for sharing 🙂
Been using my -261 for years. A very reliable saw with a lot of punch. I have only a 15” bar on it as most of the trees I cut are ”normal” size. Starts everytime, no matter hot or cold and the air filter is easy to clean with a vacuum cleaner.
Right on! Thanks for sharing 🙂
I love my 261. I heat with wood, so I work my saw hard and the 261 will run all day long and do it again the next day. The same can't be said for other "home owner" (non-Stihl) saws that I've had in the past.
What other homeowner chainsaws have you tried? thanks for sharing 🙂
I have a 261. Excellent saw. I have always run pro saws. But, another way to look at it is you can get a 291 and an extra bar and chain. For a home owner thats a good value.
Absolutely agreed. For a homeowner, the 291 is an excellent option.
I have a 290 Farm boss that I bought about 9 years ago when I was having problems finding a part for my old 032AV. I use it on our ranch for cutting trees when they fall on the fences and also for cutting fire wood. we use 12-15 cord per winter. I also do a lot of volunteer at our local Boy Scout camp. About 5 years ago we had a major windstorm come through the camp and blow down 60,000 board feet of large diameter timber 3-5.5 feet. I decided my Farm Boss was not up to what we were going to do. I went to town and bought a 362CM. The Forest Service would not allow salvage logging on it, so we had to cut it into firewood. I was cutting 10 hours a day for weeks. I could not believe how wuch more saw the 362CM was. I was also amazed at how long a tank of fuel would last. The one time I was a little concerned was about 5 tanks in and it started being a dog. I thought it must be the airfilter. I took the cover off and it was nearly new. I got the manual out and read it again. I got to the part about the computer may take upto 10 tanks for the system to learn itself, so don't be concerned. So I went back to work and wonderd if I had made a mistake. About 2 tanks later, I thought I had grabbed a different saw. It had woken up and was a completely differnt animal. I have cut several hundred cord of firewood with this saw and also cut up many down trees on my fence lines, We have 25 miles of fence. If you don't want to buy a Pro saw, don't try one! You wont be able to go back to a farm saw.
I purchased a 261 a couple of years ago to compliment a 461 and the old 036 and have to say it is all the saw anyone will need for most applications. The one thing I would ask Stihl to improve is the chain oil adjustment screw, it should be torx like the rest of the machine screws and tool instead of poorly made slotted screw, otherwise top-notch equipment.
Good point, thanks for sharing 🙂
If you are trying to up sell you have to explain the advantages of Mtronic. It's like near fuel injection, without the complication, and cost. It will adjust the fuel mixture from the first start of the day when it is still cold, to peak late day temperatures. Same goes for changes in altitude. Same goes for air filters getting plugged up. Also provides some interesting diagnostics.
I hear you. We thought that Mtronic is being talked about so much lately that most viewers would know about it. But your input is very valuable and we'll definitely cover the features in more detail in future videos!
or explain that the 261 is available in both mtronic and non mtronic version for those who prefer doing their own tuning.
I bought a 462 with a standard carb. My buddy bought a 462 with mtronic.
Mine would start but ran rough. 3 minutes with a screwdriver and I was off running smooth.
He fired his saw at 3000' at his house and ran it a little. We went to his cabin at 8000' and his flat out wouldn't start. We drove back down to 4000', fired it up, and then drove back up the mountain with it running in the back of the truck. 😂
Solid advice here. Both are nice chainsaws but I’m sure you saved some people the buyers remorse with this video.
Glad it helped you out. 🙂
Great explanation that really gets to the details, thank you.
I'm glad you found it helpful 🙂
I have an Ms290 I got for 100 bucks after someone didn’t put oil in the gas, I swapped a ms390 cylinder and piston into it and now it’s the best saw I’ve ever used, power to weight is is wild
Great practical comparison. Thanks for putting this video together. together. Very useful info for when my 30-year old Farm Boss needs to be replaced.
I replaced my 30 plus year old 024 farm boss with the a 261. Couldn’t be happier and I’m running a 20”;bar
You're welcome!
@@andrewturco9423 nice upgrade could have also dropped a new 026 piston/cylinder in the 024.
Cool beans. Thanks! I have a 27 year old 029 FarmBoss .... only use it every year or two .... starts every time ... never had an issue.
Awesome, good to know 🙂
261 is very popular saw in Finland among also professionals and farmers... we dont use so long bars usually. Of course those who fall very big trees need longer bars...then ms 400, or even 500i if needed...
Good to know, thanks for sharing 🙂
The 261 is the best allround saw in my opinion. I got the 026, 260, 261 without M Tronic, 261 with M-Tronic and a new 261 with M-Tronic 3.0. These saws are the most used, cause lightweight, pretty powerful and easy to start.
I’m deciding between 261 vs 261c, which one you prefer?
@ 261, simple and reliable
That's great insight, specially from someone who uses all the models you mentioned. Thank for sharing 🙂
@@mainstreetmower I loved the blower vid, picked up the BR800s
@ no problem, greetings from germany, the „Land of the Stihls and Dolmars“ 😁
I have the MS 261 C-E. My brother has the MS 291. When we run our saws side-by-side, there is no difference in the performance. None. We cut mostly hardwoods -- ash, hickory, maple. Neither saw is any quicker or more powerful in real-world use. He did lose a nut once when changing his chain in the field, so that was a PITA. I love my 261's captive nuts and the quick-disconnect hood. The magnesium cover also allows for a double-dog setup. I also like the decompression valve and auto-choke for easier starting. His 291 is harder to pull and has a more complicated traditional choke protocol. But these differences are very minor.
Buy once, cry once ... so I went with a 261. But the 291 is a beast. I'd take either one and never look back.
That's very insightful. Thank you for sharing 🙂
I picked up a used 041AV a couple of years it will pull a chain at 10800RPMs in the cut on dead hard maple with a roller tipped 20in bar and a sharp full house full chisel chain. Chainsaws have came a long way since those days.
for sure
I’ve had a 291 for years. It’s a great saw, I’ve been very happy with it, but a while ago the oil tank cracked. To fix I’d have to change the entire case. Instead I bought a 261 - fantastic saw. Yes it’s a much better machine.
Right on
I know it’s a small thing to mention but m-tronic advantages are pretty impressive.
Absolutely agreed.
Great video. I sincerely appreciate your explanation of the differences and advantages of going to the pro saw.
Im glad this helped. Thank you for watching 🙂
MS261 is a great saw. Had one in my work truck as I had to clear failed trees, branches and such from service roads and trails.
Great saw
Obviously the 261 is better. But I have 291 that’s been running hard for 8 years. It’s been muffler modded and retuned and it pulls a 20 inch bar just as good as a 261. It’s paid for it’s self many many times over.
Glad to hear that. Both the saws in the video are great in terms of performance, as well as value for money.
Brilliant comparison 💥 💥💥
Thank you 🙂
I have both saws but my 261 is the standard carb not the mtronic because I would prefer to adjust it myself. Very comparable in performance with the 261 having a small advantage stock even tho it feels like you can push on the 291 a little more. My 291 has had some mods done to it now and will out cut the 261 but that will change when the warranty expires on the 261. My advice would be to run a thinner bar and chain oil on the 291 the difference in bar temp using stihl bar oil vs the cheap mystic brand at my local fleet farm is around 80 degrees but it is not as much of an issue on the 261 as the lowest setting on the adjustable oiler is equal to the non adjustable 291. Between my 291 and 180 I have cut around 40 full cords and the 261 has 5 to 10 full cords under its belt without a single issue
Thanks for the feedback
Which would you recommend to a farm owner?
@@NelsonJ1 depends on the usage. If your going to use it regularly spend the extra money and get the 261. If its only occasional the 291 is more than enough. The 40 cords between my 291 and 180 came in the first year and a half of ownership without a single issue I only bought the 291 because during covid supply chain issues all the close by stihl dealers didn't have the 261,391, or 362 in stock
I have 291 about a year.And it's great chainsaw.Stars easy.
291 is great, no doubt.
I have a 25 year old MS 361 whose performance would back your views completely. Small acreage but it gets a workout
Awesome. That reaffirms that the MS 361 is indeed an heirloom saw.
@@mainstreetmower IMHO the two best power to weight saws Stihl ever made 026 and 044 I still love mine after all these years the newer 261 are not bad either. 😉
@@iffykidmn8170 Those were incredible no doubt.
@@mainstreetmower simple base gasket delete and muffler mod turns them into a whole new animal.
Well if I was looking for a saw, the 261 would my choice!
Great choice 🙂
In Oz there is a $400 difference in price. The ms291 here is $1199 and ms261c $1599 dollars! We're definitely getting ripped off here. However I still went for the 261c because it's lighter for one and still made in Germany 😅
In Australia, the MS261 isn't even available anymore (even on the Stihl Australia website), but there IS an MS271 ($AUD 999), the MS291 ($AUD 1,199), and the MS261C-M ($AUD 1,599), so yeah, the entry level professional is $400 over the higher end homeowner....
G'day Ute, When I bought my 291 I thought it was better than the 261 how sad was I when I found out, and like old mate said it was a pig to start, first thing I did was fit Elasto start . Anyway I ended up sending it to Kev, Mr Hangerone you tube , he ported it more power and easier to start 👍.
I bet they’ll be increasing price on the MS261 in the US soon too. It’s surprising low at the moment
Thanks for this. I bought a new 261 last summer and the dealer didn't show me or talk about any of the features you mentioned here.
It's great you're getting to know your saw, let me know if you have any other questions!
A few corrections The 291 is a farm saw. stihl has 3 classes a home owner saw, a farm saw and the pro saws. The elasto start is not for " snap back " protection. IF you look at the 026 ms260 normal start design. Home owner saws ms 170 to the ms250 then you go 270-390 farm class then 260 to 440 pro saws ( the upgraded model names like 017 170 171 etc )
What's wild is my 391 that is 6 years old, has a compression relief, has a metal chain cover, as an anodized muffler
Wow Pol Espargaro has hung up his leathers and is now reviewing chainsaws!
jaja veo el parecido
I don't have any wood to cut but I want a dozen!!
hahaha lets goooo
I've always wondered why Stihl would give their lesser saws a higher model number ?
QUESTION: Is Stihl doing away with the 400? I have two 400’s and a 261 and love them.
No. They are offering a new version of the 400 for 2025.
Refresh, going to be an aluminum piston on the new one.
Unfortunately in the last 4 yrs I’ve had multiple saws stolen so I’ve bought different models for replacement, I was suggested the 261 by my dealer but was skeptical as I’d just lost my 400 a bigger saw.. the 261 is the best saw out of all the saws I’ve ever lost.. the thing absolutely rips through wood and has no problem with a 28” bar and .063 chain.. when I need a 32” bar I use my 462 which is also a beast but a bit heavy for all day operation..
That’s awesome!
Last I checked they are $120 different in price not $90. The MS251 is a slightly smaller saw but is $300 less money. I have an 029 and in 27 years never had an issue with it and never lost a bar nut. I do like the new gas caps which are on my Stihl pole saw but I did have to replace them and never had to replace the old screw in 029 caps. I would buy another 029 if they sold them.
You check on mainstreetmower.com, the difference is only $90. But your 029 definitely proves that STIHL saws are proper heirloom saws.
Hey, I thought my 261CM was the world's best 16" saw and my 400CM was the world's best 20" saw - no? 😄 Seriously, though, I have 16" and 20" bars for my 261 and if I could have only one saw, it would certainly be a 261CM.
Stick a 28 inch light bar on the 400 with a full skip chain and it'll live there
Great comparison. Buy once, cry once!
I em old school, I will pick the one with a adjustable carburettor
That's fair. The best saw is the one that suits your style the best 🙂
MS 311...is a beast....I know that
For sure. Love the 311
The piston is a lightweight aluminum type metal and not letting it warm up can score the piston if the cylinder isn't allowed to warm the piston warms quicker.
In Canada it's a 200$ CAD difference. (about 145$ USD)
Wow, that's bit much than here in US
It’s worth it.
Need more saw videos 🤙
Another one dropping this week 🙂
I have a 25+ year old 036 Pro that still runs great... I guess that's a step up from the 261? Maybe a 362?
Thanks Stu
Absolutely 🙂
Also not noted is that the homeowner saw have a completely different engine design...the cylinder and block are one piece...major problem for repairs...the pro saws have a seperate cylinder from the block..making easier cylinder and piston repair plus the ability to big bore them..plus nikosil coated cylinders
During covid i couldn't get parts and needed a saw so brought a 251 to get me by...... it wasn't great compared to a pro saw. I sold it before it broke.
People who use pro saws can easily tell the difference if they downgrade to a residential one. The difference might not be huge for residential users, but that was exactly the point of this video. Upgrading to a pro saw for just $80 is really a great deal.
@@mainstreetmower yep..... I find it hard to use anything but my 500i's now
I love my 261, I owned a 550xp before and it was a nice saw but the 261 is lighter and cuts a little faster, it cost me about 740$ with tax in Maine USA.
Glad to hear you're enjoying your 261!
witch blower should I get if I do leave clean ups at 3 residential properties a year. The br600 or br800
You’d be happy with either, I’d say BR600, it’s cheaper lighter and very reliable. Assuming time is not your highest priority
I'm wondering why you didn't really mention the differences between M Tronic and the standard carburetor 🤔🤔
That's one of the key features of the 261 and other pro saws.
They're not only easier to start, they generate more power and more torque.
As well they don't have to be adjusted and it doesn't matter in which height or temperature you are, cause M Tronic always sets the carburetor right.
That's the feature which ist most important between these saws.
Here in Germany it isn't allowed to use these conventional carburetor saws for commercial forest work.
That's a great point. We overlooked explaining that key feature in this video but then realized how many people were curious about it. So we made sure to go over it in the next video which was a comparison between MS 362 and 391. Thank you for pointing it out 🙂
If my 15yo 250 will ever die the 261 is on my short list to replace it. Minor increase in weight but major HP increase percentage wise. Btw spec on my 250 is 12,5k rpm with bar and chain. Had to tweak it down this afternoon as I discovered it was running in the 13,5 range.
That's great.
I’ve had a 250 about the same length of time. Gypsy moths have been killing large oaks on my property. I moved up to get the 261 for larger trees and it’s been a game changer. It cuts large oaks like butter. It’s expensive, but for an older guy like myself, it was worth the money.
Enlightening!!
Glad it was helpful 🙂
Is it normal for the decompression valve to pop out every time that I pull the starter on the 261cm.
yes.
Anytime the saw attempts to start it will pop up
26,36,46...if you have that on your Stihl,you have good chainsaw.
Goodday sir,,i like that chainsaw,,how much that ms261,? watching from phillipine
Hi there, you can check out all the equipment discussed in this video on our website. Here's the link: www.mainstreetmower.com
I like the ms - 261 less m - tronic. The m - tronic is nice until the carburetor components fail then you are at the mercy of the dealer for trouble shooting on their lab top with their software. Ill stay with sthils model on the auto compensation carburetor. Husqvarna uses the auto tune on their Comercial saws too. The systems on each brand perform well until they fail. On both brands on you tube a owner may be able to go through a procedure that will reset the carburetors computures chip that will not send the owner for repairs at the dealer.
If there are mtronic issues, the solenoid is like $25 to replace
I hear you, personally I’d probably go old school too but…..we sell tons of m-tonic saws and almost never work on them.
And tuning the MS261 requires a special tool controlled by the EPA that only the dealers have access to
I have a non mtronic 261 and love it. Is there really that much of a improvement with the m tronic?
No both saws are awesome
Is Stihls numbering scheme confusing on purpose? It seems they really should differentiate between homeowner and pro saws better.
It might be a bit confusing but only until you fully understand it. Check out our video on STIHL 2024 catalogue, we go over all of it in depth in it.
261 by far the best it has a magnesium crank case an the 291 has a plastic crank case it won’t take the heat 291 is a home owner saw 261 is a professional saw I have a bunch of them best saw for the money mix you gas strong with oil keep them clean air filter wise !
Absolutely right, the 261 is an incredibly tough saw! And with only a $90 price difference from a home owner saw... no brainer!
Nice video
Thanks! 🙂
Great video and thanks for the detailed comparison. I have owned Stihl saws for 30+ years but recently had my 038 AV stolen! I do not want to buy a new saw so can u suggest a few comparable options in the "used" saw market other than another 038? Thanks and have a great week!
Most of the STIHL chainsaws last a lifetime, as you must know being a owner for 30+ years. Buying used does get a little tricky since you gotta look out for bigger damage that the previous owner might have done. I don't have an exact blueprint for that as of now, but maybe we can come up with a guide about choosing a used chainsaw. Just depends on how much interest is there in that topic
@@mainstreetmower ok thanks. I need to buy one shortly so this will not likely help me.......sorry.
@@andrewborbas9356 No worries. All the best 🙂
Great video buddy 👍say hello to Chip America is back again Buy American
Thank you Harry 🙂
Good video and info, but the 2 camera angles are a distraction
Noted, thanks for the input 🙂
If the mufflers were aluminum, it wouldn't rust. I believe the 291 is mild steel with a nickel plating, but the 261 is stainless steel.
Dunce hat for me, I’ve learned they are both stainless steel, the MS261 has a higher quality passivated stainless steel.
@@mainstreetmower i wash my 261 cm with a lot of water, every 6 tanks, since 3 years and many wood, there is really no rust on this saw, so yes, high quality material, especially on muffler.
@@LE_GRATIN Love to see people take care of their units like that. Good job 🙂
Several models of the stihl home owner line had glue on transfer port covers, that would be the first thing I would stay away from. All of the the professional series Stihls are best in the business .
Agreed
my 291 was great till tree rolled on him! started easy,new 271 is hard to jerk for 68 yearold. is 261 still for sale new?
Get a pro saw ..you will pass it on to your grandchildren if you just cut firewood .... these saws should run for 2000 hours if you look after them ... and there's a lot to learn in those few words. Just as important is the bar length ... and its not the trees you cut ..its how tall you are ...if you are 6'3" you need a 24" bar ... shorter person can go a shorter bar ...why ? it allows you to keep a straight back and the bar tip will be just off the ground ... My pick is a MS500i ... good review.
All good points, cheers nz!
I have a 311 and a 350 with 20” bars and it’s all those saws want. How can either of these effectively pull a 20” bar?? I was in bodenstieners last year and they had 311s with 24” bars. Could hardly believe anyone is happy with them. I now have a 500i with a 24” bar and I wouldn’t want a longer one.
Exactly. In Ireland a 261comes with an 18" bar max with smaller options
The clamshell engine construction of the 291 isnt ideal when it comes time for a rebuild. A piston and cylinder can cost $300 alone. I do have a 291 and a 260. The 260 is a breeze to do a piston and rings if needed.
Good point.
291 all day
Let's goooo
Aluminum muffler? Anodized muffer? I think you mean a galvanized steel muffler vs a stainless steel muffler.
Yes you are right, I’m feeling dumb about that one
But for a few dollars more you can move up to a 362 or a 400. Id be scared to tackle a 30 inch white oak with a 261. Anything smaller than a 036 size is a limbing saw
What's the difference between the MS 261c and the ms261c-m
They are the same, the M doesn’t make it on the badge on the side of the saw
@@mainstreetmowerisn’t the M for the heated handle ?
I was fed up with my Poulan Pro, went down to the Stihl dealer and asked which was the best overall saw….they said the 261, I bought it. Great saw, I’ll never wear it out.
@@foxlake6750 Awesome. Enjoy your new saw 🙂
Tell the guy behind you to get off his phone lol
Done 🙂
Aluminium muffler? Anodized aluminium muffler? Nope.
You mean steel (cold passivated zinc coated) vs stainless steel.
Thank you correcting me on that, I have been searching
You lost me at M-Tronic. Dealer service only, right ?
$90 diff? No brainer for me!
Right!
Aluminum can not rust nor can steel be anodized.
Aluminium do not rust.... oxyde can appear, but it is not rust.
Question, Is the Stihl ms 261c-m chainsaw made in the USA, or Germany, just wondering
Currently the MS261 is being produced in the USA 🇺🇸
Echo that
On it. 🙂
Not a debate buy pro saw..plastic clamshell,,or magnesium metal computer carb..self tuning...NO BRAINER FOLKS SERIOUSLY
Absolutely agreed!
😢 did he really just no load full Throttle a brand new saw......bro you may wanna go back to stihl tech class
It’s for the sake of the video 😄
STHIL lies about everything, i don't even talk to those reps in their crappy stores when i walk thru unless i want to start an argument about plastic cams and other trash they do and their crappy 4-stroke line running on 50mix ... no ... of course i own enough of their trash, but no plans to buy any more of it. The Chinese gear is starting to show-up the "STIHL made in Asia" gear for sure! Bring it on!
The air filter terminology is, frocked and pleated.
Thanks
Heard bad things abdthat electronic system
The ms271 is also able to run a 20 inch bar and is a 52 cc engine and is closer to the specs of the ms 261 on everything but power. So it would be a better and closer comparison then using the ms291. Plus the ms 271 is a farm/ranch saw. And you're wrong on the 291 being a home owners saw. It's a farm/ranch saw. Stihl has 3 levels of saws home owner, farm/ranch, and pro, which you would know this if you did the proper research and know the stuff you was doing videos on before making your video.
Your right, I bought a used 290 which was a "farm boss",, good saw for me and very popular for Stihl. It was finally replaced by the 291, which is their replacement saw for the 290.
I also bought a 261c which I also like. For me, both saws are great! Love the features of the 261.
Purchased in Canada, so buy them on sale!
STIHL makes saws two different ways. Ones an engine surrounded by plastic and lighter duty features i.e. (MS162, 172, 182, 194, 212, 251, 271, 291, 311, 391) the others are built on a totally different split crank magnesium alloy level. You’re right that STIHL gave bigger cc homeowner saws their own special category “farm/ranch”, but there really is no difference, and they’ve stopped using that marketing lingo for a while now. I could have used a MS271 to compare, it is $519 making it $180 cheaper. But I don’t recommend running a 20” bar on this horsepower.
I like the MS271 especially with a 18”, and if your going 18”, i’d probably recommend just going with a MS250
@@mainstreetmower the 271 is sold with a 20" bar option. And to figure out if your saw can safely run a bar or not is simply, for every 10 cc the motor is that's 4" of bar (which is the standard rule of thumb that all chainsaw manufactures use for all chainsaws 60 cc and less). In other words a 50 cc saw can run a max of 20" bar, and 60 cc can run 24". Once the saws get up to 70 cc it changes.
Stihl ms291 is a poor saw major problems with chain oiling stay clear and buy the 261
Sorry you had that experience with the 291 but it is not a bad saw. We've had residential users that have been using it for years with no problem. Yes, it's definitely a step down when you compare it to the 261.
When you get older you will regret ruining your hearing!
Copy that sir. I sort of realized that the next day when we were recording another chainsaw video. I made sure to put ear muffs for that one. 🙂
These both stink, and are loud. Any chainsaws using the AR3000l ?
🙉🥇MS261 ✔️🫡
Let's gooo 💯