This guide will help you locate the Best STIHL Chainsaw for homeowners. As you may know, STIHL outdoor equipment is widely considered the top-rated equipment you can buy. The STIHL chainsaw is widely used by professionals in the lumber industry and is also the first choice for many homeowners.
Today we will feature the Top 10 best-selling STIHL chainsaw lineup, from gas-powered to electric, and explain Why each of the models in our list is considered the best overall in its category.
Having used many different Chainsaws over the years, I love the dependability and durability of the Stihl brand, which in my opinion – is unmatched. These are the two reasons why most wood timbering experts consider Stihl the best chainsaw you can buy.
I also suspect most homeowners are not just looking for a cheap chainsaw; they need performance and dependability, and Stihl chainsaws can check those three boxes better than most brands.
10 Best Stihl Chainsaws – Buyers Guide
We’ve listed the Best STIHL Chainsaws for homeowners in order of “Popularity” – Click any link below to view additional information and prices – from the #1 online retail outlet for Stihl Leaf Blowers: Ace Hardware.com
1) STIHL MS170 – 16″ – 30.1 cc Gas Powered Chainsaw
Perhaps as the best homeowner chainsaw on the market – the STIHL MS-170 is equally appreciated by homeowners with medium to larger-sized properties.
STIHL MS 170 SPECIFICATIONS:
- Antivibration Handle
- Bar Length: 16 in.
- Brand Name: STIHL
- CARB Compliant: Yes
- CSA Listed: No
- Chain Brake: Yes
- Weight: 8.9 lbs.
- Engine Displacement: 30.1 cc
- Engine Type: 2 Cycle (Gas/Oil Mix)
- Maximum Cutting Diameter: 17 in.
- Model Number: MS 170
- Start Type: Pull Start
- Tension Adjustment Type: Quick-Adjust
- Powered By: Gas
STIHL – MS 170 – 16″ Gas Powered Chainsaw
2) STIHL MS 250 – 18″ 45.4 cc – Gas Powered Chainsaw
While the STIHL MS – 170 (above) is the best-selling STIHL chainsaw for homeowners, it has certain limitations over bigger STIHL chainsaw models. Namely, Power and Chainsaw bar length.
And while the MS-170 is ideally suited for occasional log cutting and trimming of fallen branches around the house; If you intend to cut larger trees or use a chainsaw more than occasionally, we recommend the STIHL MS250- with 18″ bar and 45.4 cc engine.
Pound for pound, the STIHL MS250 may be the best Stihl chainsaw ever. It’s also our favorite chainsaw for the more “skilled” and demanding consumer. It’s perfect for the homeowner who needs to wield a bigger chainsaw with more power and is ok with a slightly heavier chainsaw.
STIHL MS 250 SPECS:
- Antivibration Handle
- Master Control Lever
- Bar Length: 18 in.
- Brand Name: STIHL
- CARB Compliant: Yes
- Engine Displacement: 45.4 cc
- Engine Type: 2 Cycle (Oil/Gas Mix)
- Maximum Cutting Diameter: 35 in.
- Model Number: MS 250
- Start Type: Pull Start
- Tension Adjustment Type: Quick-Adjust
- Weight: 10.4 lb.
- Powered By: Gas
STIHL – MS 250 – 18″ Gas Powered Chainsaw
3) STIHL MS 271 – 20 in. – 50.2 cc Gas Powered Chainsaw
The STIHL MS271 is consistently rated the Best 20″ STIHL Chainsaw in the STIHL lineup. Combining the power of a 20″ chainsaw bar with a whopping 50.2cc engine; the MS271 is for serious timbering. This professional-grade chainsaw also includes a high-efficiency run time – up to 20% longer between re-fuelings.
The STIHL MS 271 also features a pre-separation air filter system that lasts up to 5 times longer than conventional air filters.
At 12.3 lbs, this chainsaw requires a little more muscle to use all day, but throw in the superior STIHL anti-vibration system and side-access chain tensioner. You also have one of the most capable chainsaws for home, farm, or even professional use.
STIHL MS 271 SPECS:
- Anti-vibration Handle: Yes
- Bar Length: 20 in.
- Brand Name: STIHL
- CARB Compliant: Yes
- Chain Brake: Yes
- Engine Displacement: 50.2 cc
- Engine Type: 2 Cycle
- Model Number: MS 271
- Weight: 12.3 lbs.
- Start Type: Pull Start
- Tension Adjustment Type: Manual
- Powered By: Gas
STIHL MS 271 – 20″ Gas Powered Chainsaw
For those looking for all the best features expected from STIHL – The Wood Boss MS 271 meets all those needs. The MS 271, with its high-torque, 2.78cc engine displacement, is also considered a fuel-efficient chainsaw.
This powerful and medium-weight STIHL chainsaw provides 20% fuel savings over a typical gas-powered engine, with 50% fewer carbon emissions. Coming in at #4 of all STIHL chainsaws sold, it has become an extremely popular model.
The 20″ chainsaw bar is ideal for heavy use, and the Master Control Lever is an easy-to-use single-lever, operating the choke, starting throttle lock, and the on-off switch.
STIHL MS 271 SPECS:
- Anti-vibration Handle: Yes
- Bar Length: 20 in.
- Brand Name: STIHL
- Weight: 10.8 lbs.
- CARB Compliant: Yes
- Engine Displacement: 2.78 cc
- Engine Type: 2 Cycle (oil/gas mix)
- Model Number: MS 271
- Start Type: Pull Start
- Sub Brand: Wood Boss
- Tension Adjustment Type: Quick-Adjust
- Powered By: Gas
STIHL MS 271- 20″ Wood Boss -Gas-Powered Chainsaw
5) STIHL MS 251 C-BE 18 in. 2.78 cc Wood Boss – Gas Chainsaw
Like the STIHL MS 251 model above, this STIHL workhorse offers all the same features, plus the additional feature of the “Easy2start” system. The Stihl easy2start system makes starting Stihl outdoor power tools almost effortless, eliminating the need for a strong pull of the starting cord.
Also, like the MS 251, the MS 251C-BE has incredible fuel efficiency and the ultimate convenience of the Master Control Lever described above.
This is sort of the ultimate gas-powered chainsaw for homeowners – as long as your budget allows it 🙂
STIHL MS 252 C- BE – SPECIFICATIONS:
- Anti-vibration Handle: Yes
- Bar Length: 18 in.
- Weight: 10.8 lbs.
- Brand Name: STIHL
- CARB Compliant: Yes
- Engine Displacement: 2.78 cc
- Engine Type: 2 Cycle
- Model Number: MS 251 C-BE
- Start Type: Pull Start
- Tension Adjustment Type: Quick-Adjust
- Powered By: Gas
STIHL MS 251 C-BE – 18″ Gas Powered Chainsaw
6) STIHL MS 180 – 16″ Gas Powered Chainsaw
You can use the Stihl MS 180 for any small jobs around the house, including; cutting small logs, trimming branches, cutting small trees, and clearing fell limbs after a storm. If you’re looking for a reliable, light-duty, and Lightweight chainsaw for occasional use, the MS 180 is a value you should consider.
- STIHL MS 180 SPECIFICATIONS:
- Anti-vibration Handle: Yes
- Bar Length: 16 in.
- Weight: 8.6 lbs
- Brand Name: STIHL
- CARB Compliant: Yes
- CSA Listed: No
- Chain Brake: Yes
- Engine Displacement: 31.9 cc
- Engine Type: 2 Cycle
- Model Number: MS 180
- Start Type: Pull Start
- Tension Adjustment Type: Quick-Adjust
- Powered By: Gas
STIHL MS 180 – 16″ Gas Powered Chainsaw
7) STIHL MS 180 – C- BE – 16″ With Easy-2-Start System
The Stihl MS 180 – C – BE 16″ chainsaw with an “easy2start” system makes starting Stihl outdoor power tools almost effortless, eliminating the need for a strong pull of the starting cord. The specific design may vary by model, but in each case, a quick pull overcomes the engine’s compression to minimize the strength and effort required to start.
The Intellicarb compensating carburetor automatically adjusts the air/fuel ratio when the air filter becomes restricted or partially clogged and maintains the engine’s correct RPM.
Designed perhaps as one of the most convenient, easy-to-use chainsaws on the market – the STIHL MS 180 – C- BE, with its Easy-2-Start feature – is equally appreciated by homeowners with small, medium, or larger-sized properties.
STIHL MS180-C-BE – SPECIFICATIONS:
- Anti-vibration Handle: Yes
- Bar Length: 16 in.
- Weight: 8.6 lbs.
- Brand Name: STIHL
- CARB Compliant: Yes
- CSA Listed: No
- Chain Brake: Yes
- Engine Displacement: 31.8 cc
- Engine Type: 2 Cycle
- Model Number: MS 180 C-BE
- Start Type: Pull Start
- Tension Adjustment Type: Quick-Adjust
- Powered By: Gas
STIHL MS 180 – C- BE – 16″ Gas Powered Chainsaw
8) STIHL MSA 140 C-BQ – 12″ Battery-Powered Chainsaw
One of our favorites, The STIHL MSA – 140 – C BQ – is often rated as the best Stihl Battery-powered Chainsaw. Unlike electric corded chainsaws, the MSA chainsaw lineup allows you to go anywhere without being tethered to a cord. And with a 45-minute estimated run-time, this little beauty will tackle limbs and small trees easily in one charge!
- Great for maneuverability and extended use – The AK30 battery duration is approx. 80% longer than the AK20 Model below.
- The chain brake can be activated by inertia, stopping the chain within fractions of a second
- Lightweight and compact, Stihl electric motors require minimal maintenance and feature low noise levels and reduced vibration.
- Soft rubber texture is easy to grip and makes the product comfortable to hold for extended periods.
Video for the Stihl Battery Powered MSA 140 Chainsaw:
STIHL MSA 140 – C-BQ – SPECIFICATIONS:
- Bar Length: 12 in.
- Brushless Motor
- AK30 (36 Volt / 4.8 Amp Hour (Ah) Lithium-Ion Battery
- Quick-stop Chain Break system
- Ematic™ Lubrication System
- Brand Name: STIHL
- CARB Compliant: Yes
- CSA Listed: Yes
- Chain Brake: Yes
- Maximum Cutting Diameter: 25 in.
- Model Number: MSA 140 C-BQ
- Tension Adjustment Type: Tool-Free
- Weight: 9 lb.
- Powered By: Battery
- Kit or Tool Only: Kit (Battery & Charger)
- Battery Run Time: 45
STIHL MSA 140 C-BQ – 12″ Battery-Powered Chainsaw
9) STIHL MSA 120 C- B – 12″ Battery-Powered Chainsaw
The STIHL MSA 120 C-B – 12″ Battery-powered chainsaw is another top-of-the-line cordless chainsaw from STIHL and their maintenance-free battery-powered chainsaw products. It is also the lightest Stihl chainsaw you can buy.
For reference, the MSA 120 – C -B chainsaw is identical to The STIHL MSA 140 above, with one big exception. This MSA 120 chainsaw battery kit includes the smaller AK20 (36 volts) – 2.8 Ah battery vs. the MSA 140 with AK30 (36 volts) 4.8 Ah lithium-ion battery – which has a duration of about 80% longer run time.
If you can afford it, you might consider bumping up to the MSA 140 model for longer run times.
The smaller 2.8 Amp hour battery does provide up to 100 cuts per charge. We recommend the Stihl MSA 120 for homeowners with few trees, only occasional chainsaw needs, and a lightweight, easy-to-maintain piece of equipment.
STIHL MSA 120 – C-B – SPECS:
- Bar Length: 12 in.
- Brand Name: STIHL
- AK20 (36 volt / 2.8 Amp Hour – Lithium-Ion Battery)
- Rated Up to 100 Cuts on a Single Charge
- CARB Compliant: Yes
- CSA Listed: Yes
- Chain Brake: Yes
- Maximum Cutting Diameter: 24 in.
- Model Number: MSA 120
- Start Type: Pull Start
- Tension Adjustment Type: Quick-Adjust
- Kit or Tool Only: Kit (Battery & Charger)
STIHL MSA 120 12 in. Battery Powered Chainsaw
10) STIHL Farm Boss MS 271-Z 325 – 18 in. 3.06 cc – Gas Chainsaw
STIHL MS 271 – Z – 325 – SPECS:
- Anti-vibration Handle: Yes
- Bar Length: 18 in.
- Brand Name: STIHL
- CARB Compliant: Yes
- Engine Displacement: 3.06 cc
- Engine Type: 2 Cycle
- Model Number: MS 271-Z 325
- Start Type: Pull Start
- Sub Brand: Farm Boss
- Tension Adjustment Type: Quick-Adjust
- Weight: 12 lb.
- Powered By: Gas
STIHL Farm Boss MS 271-Z 325
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Stihl Chainsaw:
Gas-Powered vs. Battery-Powered Stihl Chainsaw:
There are pros and cons of using Gas vs. Battery-powered lawn equipment. Gas equipment is louder (some neighbors may even say obnoxious), whereas battery-powered products are generally much quieter.
Many users are unaware that the average gas-powered chainsaw has an operating noise level of 110 decibels at full speed, above the hearing damage threshold. The average battery-powered chainsaw is rated at less than 75 decibels*. Similar to a vacuum cleaner.
* By Comparison – CDC.GOV rates normal conversation at 60 decibels.
What is the Best STIHL Chainsaw?
The term “Best” is relative to the User. Based on popularity, the best chainsaw for homeowners is Stihl MS 170 – 16″ Gas Powered Chainsaw. Due to tons of user-friendly features, lightweight, easy pull-start, and optimal 16″ chainsaw blade length. The STIHL MS 170 is a stand-out for most homeowners’ chainsaw needs.
Are Stihl Chainsaws Any Good?
Stihl Equipment is considered one of the world’s best, most reliable lawn equipment brands. But you can also check out the STIHL FAQ page to ask questions and see this excellent brand’s features.
And Stihl’s Chainsaw products are the best-selling product line – even more than STIHL leaf blowers. With a 94-year-old history, Stihl delivers outstanding performance, a wide choice of chainsaw types and prices, and a 2-year limited warranty from over 9,000 Stihl service dealers in the United States.
Do Stihl Chainsaws ever Go on sale?
Yes! Ace Hardware (click our product links above to go to Ace Hardware .com) regularly offers sale promotions for Stihl lawn equipment.
Which is a better Chainsaw – Stihl or Husqvarna?
There is always a healthy “Debate” on the best blower; Stihl or Husqvarna. These lawn equipment companies make strong performing – and quality chainsaw products.
So many factors need to be considered, such as Performance (CFM), Weight, and Price, for the Type (Gas, Battery-Powered) of the chainsaw you’re interested in buying.
In the end, at least in our opinion, it comes down to a “Chevy vs. a Ford” truck-type decision. It’s just a matter of personal preference between two renowned brands. The choice is Yours.
How To Mix Oil and Gas for a 2-Cycle Chainsaw:
All two-stroke engines require a proper mix ratio of Oil and Gasoline to operate efficiently and protect the engine. Most two-stroke engine manufacturers specify a mix ratio of 50:1. Which is 50 parts gas to 1 part oil. For this simple mix ration, you need a suitable gas can with a fresh gallon of gasoline and a 2.6 oz. Bottle of two-cycle engine oil:
Here is a Quick Video from Stihl: How To Mix Fuel (Oil and Gas)
Wrapping Up
It’s no doubt that Stihl leads the Chainsaw Market for Homeowners in quality and dependability, and for anyone who has used Stihl equipment – there is no other product they would rather own.
With an unmatched heritage in outdoor gear, as noted by Wikipedia, Stihl has been producing outdoor lawn equipment for nearly 100 years.
In that timeframe, Stihl has positioned itself as the leader and innovator of the best lawn equipment, including its outstanding line-up of the best chainsaws on the market.
Whether you’re looking to improve the reliability and performance of lawn equipment or are just interested in upgrading your current Stihl equipment to newer equipment, we think Stihl lawn equipment should be one of the first brands to consider.
Additional References & Reading:
- STIHL Equipment Features and Technology and Main Features – STIHL.Com
- Best Chainsaw Sharpeners You Can Buy – Besthomegear.com
- How To Fill Gas & Oil on a STIHL Chainsaw – STIHLUSA.Com
- Best Electric Trimmer Blower Combo – Besthomegear.com
- STIHL vs. Husqvarna Chainsaws – TheBalancesmb.com
- Typical Sound Comparison (60-70 DB) – Decibel Level Chart – EHS.Yale.EDU
