Stihl MS 661 Mag Vs MS 500i Vs MS 362 Vs MS 261 Testing | What Chainsaw is THE BEST
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- Опубликовано: 29 сен 2023
- Here are some Specs and Testing info on the Chainsaws that were tested.
→ Stihl MS 261 Chainsaw
POWERHEAD WEIGHT 10.8 lbs.
OILOMATIC CHAIN .325" RM3
ENGINE POWER 4.0 bhp
FUEL CAPACITY 16.9 oz.
DISPLACEMENT 50.2 cc
→ Stihl MS 362 C-M Chainsaw With M-Tronic engine management
POWERHEAD WEIGHT 12.35 lbs.
OILOMATIC CHAIN 3/8" RS3
ENGINE POWER 4.69 bhp
FUEL CAPACITY 20.3 oz.
DISPLACEMENT 59.0 cc
→ Stihl MS 500i I with electronically controlled fuel injection
POWERHEAD WEIGHT 13.9 lbs.
OILOMATIC® CHAIN 3/8" RS3
ENGINE POWER 6.7 bhp
FUEL CAPACITY 26.5 oz.
DISPLACEMENT 79.2 cc
→ Stihl MS 661 C-M Chainsaw With M-Tronic engine management
POWERHEAD WEIGHT 16.5 lbs.
OILOMATIC® CHAIN 3/8" RS3
ENGINE POWER 7.2 bhp
FUEL CAPACITY 28.7 oz.
DISPLACEMENT 91.1 cc
→ Test Results on "smaller" log
-261
Cut #1 25.75
Cut #2 24.10
Cut #3 25.65
Average 25.16
- 362
Cut #1 15.71
Cut #2 16.65
Cut #3 17.11
Average 16.46
-500i
Cut #1 11.49
Cut #2 11.89
Cut #3 11.02
Average 11.46
- 661 Mag
Cut #1 9.20
Cut #2 8.43
Cut #3 7.99
Average 8.54
Cuts on the Larger Log
-500i
Cut #1 12.89
Cut #2 11.96
Cut #3 12.67
Average 12.51
- 661 Mag
Cut #1 11.05
Cut #2 10.84
Cut #3 9.13
Average 10.34
Obviously, there is more to a saw than it's cut times in wood. Especially when we think about the MS261 as that is cutting at a much larger load than what the saw was designed for. With that said, if you were only going to buy one chainsaw, this testing might impact your decision.
The surprise for me was the 500i against the 661 Mag. I expected the fuel-injected 500i to come alive and take the 661 Mag in these tests, but it did not.
This was a blast to put together and I hope it helps people decide what to purchase.
#chainsaw #stihl #stihlchainsaws
The Stihl MS 500i: A Review
The Stihl MS 500i is a professional-grade chainsaw that was first released in 2017. It is the first chainsaw on the market with electronically controlled fuel injection, and it has quickly become a favorite among professional loggers and arborists.
Power and Performance
The MS 500i is powered by a 79cc engine that produces 5.0 kW of power. This is enough power to handle even the most demanding tasks, such as felling large trees or bucking up thick logs. The fuel injection system ensures that the engine always runs at peak performance, regardless of the conditions.
Weight and Handling
Despite its power, the MS 500i is surprisingly lightweight. It weighs only 6.6 kg (14.6 lbs), which makes it easy to maneuver and use for extended periods. The saw is also well-balanced, which helps to reduce fatigue.
Features
The MS 500i is packed with features that make it a professional-grade chainsaw. These features include:
Heated handles: Keep your hands warm in cold weather.
Anti-vibration system: Reduces vibration to prevent fatigue.
Tool-less chain tensioner: Makes it easy to adjust the chain tension.
Side-mounted chain brake: Provides quick and easy access to the chain brake.
Ematic lubrication system: Reduces oil consumption and keeps the chain lubricated.
Price
The Stihl MS 500i is a high-end chainsaw, and it comes with a high-end price tag. The saw typically costs around $1,600. However, if you are a professional logger or arborist, the MS 500i is worth the investment. It is a powerful, reliable, and durable chainsaw that will make your job easier.
Overall
The Stihl MS 500i is a game-changer in the chainsaw world. It is the most powerful and advanced chainsaw on the market, and it is perfect for professional users. If you are looking for the best chainsaw money can buy, the Stihl MS 500i is the way to go.
Here are some additional things to consider before buying the Stihl MS 500i:
This chainsaw is designed for professional use. It is not a toy, and it should not be used by inexperienced users.
The MS 500i is a loud chainsaw. You will need to wear hearing protection when using it.
This chainsaw requires regular maintenance. Be sure to read the owner's manual carefully and follow the recommended maintenance schedule.
If you are looking for a powerful and professional-grade chainsaw, the Stihl MS 500i is a great option. However, it is important to make sure that you are up to the task of using this chainsaw before you buy it.
I hope this blog post has been helpful. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below. 
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Great test!! Surprised by the lackluster 261 performance. The chain looked dull even though it was new. Maybe it needed a reset. For a two stihl combo I would choose the 261/462 or 261/500. Dealers choice would be 550XP/572XP or 462CM. Smaller CC (18-20") and larger cc (25-28).
I would definitely say that the chain was dulled on the 261, you could clearly see the bar burning up in the cut. I have a 261C and I absolutely love it, gobs of power for such a little saw and definitely performs better then the one in this test.
I just bought the MS362R, I own the MS271 Farmboss. Should be a big difference, but I own MS170, and MS180, and for cutting up Mountain Oak they do great. I try to use the smallest saw possible. I’m retired, I have all day to cut, but my body isn’t of a 30yo.
I would chose the 462 and the 261 it’s the perfect combination they complement each other
Got an MS362 love it!
Same here I run the shit out of my Stihl ms-362cm and I properly maintain it between jobs run amsoil saber 50:1 and going strong after 4 years of more than just home use.
Two saws are crucial especially away from home.
I just scored a super deal on a lightly used 362cm and am glad to see it comes pretty close to that 500i.
Excellent as always, will share and recommend as I usually do! Appreciate the effort in making common sense and valuable content! Stay safe! Props for using proper safety equipment!
Thank you!
I have a 261 and absolutely love it for being such a light saw with good power. I would say that the chain was dull on this test but regardless all of them are good for their intended purpose. Been eyeballing the 500i though 😅
Thoes saw are awesome! Great video
Great video. Thanks for posting.
Fantastic video. No bs. I liked it a lot.
the 261 seemed dull. ive seen other testing and its not 15 seconds slower than 362. either that or you have a 20 inch bar on it. put a 16 on the 261 its impressive
I have both and this is pretty much right. The ms362 feels about twice as fast when your using it.
It might not be dull. I think he needs to file the rakers because the chain doesn’t crab the wood at all
@@jay-by1se its not twice as fast. its only a little over half a horsepower difference. you can watch other comparison videos on RUclips.
I would buy the 261 and convert it to use the 3/8 chain since the mount is the same as the 661. That way you have more versatility. the 2nd Saw would be the 661. I own both saws and my 261 is a beast. I keep telling myself it is only 50cc but it is hard to believe.
The 661 has more power than my 076 with a fresh rebuild. I did the same as you and raced them against each other using the same bar and chain. 076 went first so the chain was the sharpest, then using an adapter put the same bar and chain on the 661 and beat that 076 easily. I sold the 076. Then switched to 3/8 chain from .404 and times improved again.
Great test
I too was curious about the 261 for limbing. 661 usually wins in hard wood, 500 in soft wood.
I have the MS180 C-BE, but needed something bigger for the larger trees. I purchased a MS362c on eBay. Hope to test it our soon. I agree about owning two saws for different purposes. Very informative video. I will post my review on my channel in a few days about the the eBay purchase. Thanks.
Lots of time and money are invested in this video. If you liked it and are willing to help me out, please share it. It will help to get this video more views and move up on the list of recommended videos. Thank you for any help!
Thank you for sharing your saws man 🏴☠️👌.
Im watching this again 🤩👍
Gotta let that 500 idle for 5 minutes prior to work.
I would love to have my old 460 stihl in that lineup yes it may not be fare to all the other saws he's using but hey when you need wood cut fast you'll fix up your saw to do what you need it to
Great video man. Truly.
i have a Stihl MS 661 and i wouldnt trade it for a 500i, for me the extra torque is important couse i need her for Milling sometimes. good video by the way, i like that you made it just straight forward and didnt use the spikes and leavering like some do, but you did even and constant cuts.
Really wish we could of seen ya starting these..CAUSE GOD KNOWS ME AND THE ECO START SYSTEMS ON MY MS-362 DONT GET ALONG.. Great video
500I for me! The 462 is an animal too!
I wanna see the 881 vs 500i. That 881 is a HOG of a saw. I believe the new model even has a mode you can switch by the deco valve. Hog mode toggle switch for those BIG BOY cuts
The 261 when switched over to 3/8th pitch, running an 18” bar and full comp chain (20” bar with either .325 or 3/8th pitch seems to lug the saw to much), and porting the muffler makes the 261 an absolute blast to run, makes the power to weight ratio way better vs a 362, for a mid size saw I feel the ms400 is a better middle of the road saw vs the 362. I think I actually prefer running my 261 over my 500, and the 500 is absolute joy to run. I actually got rid of my 362 once I picked up my 261
16 inch bar is a laser beam
I run an 18” bar on mine and it’s a dream and I haven’t even ported it yet
My experience with Stihl has not been a good one. I got a farm boss, I know it’s not par with these models but it’s still a Stihl 😝
I have had other cheaper brands that have outperformed the higher price Farm Boss.
Now, my last purchase was that small top Handel Echo!
By far one of the best overall2 stroke tool I’ve ever owned! That little thing is a Tasmanian devil!
Sorry I didn’t put model #s but it’s to damm early for my 🧠
I’m sure I got a dud but it was unfortunate that it was my first dab with the brand. Not looking for a second shot with them 🤷🏻♂️
Like always, awesome review!! 🤙🏽🤙🏽🤙🏽
The farm boss is the 271, but there are 4 models in the “farm and ranch category” such as 271, 291, 311, and 391.
I have a 271, runs great and has decent power for what I do, but I kick myself for not spending a couple hundred more and grabbing the 261, which is the entry level pro model 50cc saw. It’s 2 lbs lighter and has 0.5 more HP than the 271, and with a little work, the 261 becomes a crazy saw for 50cc with a muffler mod and porting.
@@Mark-uh4zd yes! 271 is the model, glad to hear you got good luck with it. Mine keeps bogging down under load. I did have it serviced by a certified Stihl dealer and still underpowered. 🤷🏻♂️
Молодец , очень интересно .
The 261 It might not be dull. I think he needs to file the rakers because the chain doesn’t crab the wood at all
Love your vids WSaddict this chainsaw video is 2nd to none, but what would be interesting if you compared GAS SAW v.s. ELECTRIC SAW (CHAIN). Looking to get the 20" DeWalt electric chainsaw & would love your in put. I am already on the FLEXVOLT platform with 2 batteries
1- 9 ah
1- 6 ah
I have the 20 volt Dewalt and I enjoy that saw for small stuff. Glad to do that review. I will order new chains. Going to go broke ordering parts. Lol. It would be the 261 vs dewalt FV?
Unless you’re pruning or taking down saplings, no electric chainsaw is going to compete with gas.
I own a lot of DeWalt including FLEXVOLT batteries. I would still go with the Ego if I wanted an electric saw. No electric chainsaw is going to take down and chop up a serious tree. But Ego has superior power compared to other power tool brands, even FLEXVOLT.
Man, The guy who sold you them saws must be a pretty outstanding guy! Lol. Anyway, what are you doing with those pieces of wood? I will take them off your hands if you still have them. Let me know the next time you are in TRI COUNTY EQUIPMENT.
new chain or not that chain on the 261 was not right, I have a 261,036,361 and a 440 I run a 18 inch bar on the 261 and 20 inch on the other 3. In 16 inch oak the 261 is 4 seconds slower than the 361 and 8.5 seconds slower than the 440
i thought the same thing. my 261 is faster than that but i don't have a 20 bar on mine
I have 18 " bar on my 261 - it is cutting way better that this .... That chain must not be right .
I missed cahnce Stihl MS661C Magnum on ebay 665 euros.
362 is all you need to be honest. Anything bigger than a 362 youre talking really big trees.
Indeed
Just get a 462
I was just going to say. I have a 361 and feel like I don't need anything else.
Get yourself a 462, the 500i has a little more weight and really isn’t worth the efi in my opinion
I totally agree. Get a 261 and 462 perfect combination
Really? Some people rave about the 500i. I have a 271 but will need something bigger when I move out into the woods. I’ll have to try a 462
@@Mark-uh4zd oh yeah alot of people actually prefer the 462 over the 500i the throttle response is different on the 500i a lot more electronics on the 500i compared to the 462, some even say that the 462 cuts faster and is basically nearly the same power as the 500i you’ll pay quite a bit more for the 500 compared to the 462
@@Mark-uh4zdyeah the 500i from my research is an animal when you port them but as far as stock for stock the 462 is a better value
The 661 is a big doggy saw
Nice compare! Maybe next time you ll use alltime the same bar and chain (except 261). My absolute favorite saw is the 462! Here is my lineup: ruclips.net/video/ss_oyf3MMmg/видео.html
Gut Holz!
For a homeowner, the Holzforma G444 on 100LL avgas, a full chisel chain and 5 minutes from someone who knows how to turn the screws to tune a chainsaw carburetor and one will have a reliable, do everything saw that gives all these more than a run for their money.
For a career logger or arborist, maybe not.
Don't waste your money for the brand name unless you want to.
I mean, why not spend the extra money. It’s one of those buy once, cry once type of deals for most people. The brand name saw will last any homeowner a lifetime with maintenance, and an arborist or feller def wants name brands for durability.
Good brand name tools will last forever with care and proper maintenance
After a year with the 462, my next saw will be a Husqvarna. Runs great, always had great Stihl saws. But if I shut this new one off after cutting on 85-95 degree days, good luck getting it started. The gas boils and the cap doesn’t vent the pressure. How long has Stihl been making saws, unacceptable.
Funny story….this is why I switch from Husky to Stihl. It didn’t even need to be warm out for my 572 to shut down for the day. My 500i was hard to start once, my 400c starts like a dream no matter what. I swear these problems must happen in batches.
🙄👍👍👍