Stihl MS 261 vs. MS 251 Chainsaw Showdown: The Ultimate 2024 Review & Comparison
Stihl ms261 review
Stihl Ms261C Chainsaw – Great Running 50Cc Pro Saw New 16″ Bar & Chain -Fastship
Pre-Owned
Stihl Ms261C Chainsaw – Great Running 50Cc Pro Saw New 16″ Bar & Chain -Fastship
Pre-Owned
Stihl Ms261C Chainsaw – Great Running 50Cc Pro Saw New 16″ Bar & Chain -Fastship
Pre-Owned
Actual Cutting Measurements
It’s important to mention that both the Mark 2 and the Mark 261 have a shorter saw body. Husqvarna states on the guide bar that their saw should measure 38cm on their 15″. Stihl’s equivalent is 37 cm. My results actually show that Mark 2 is 34.5 cm and Stihl 36 cm. This is what I demonstrate in the video. You can clearly see the oil sump and silencer sticking out of the new 550.
On a final note, it’s interesting that Husqvarna has 2 drive links more on their 15″ guide bar, with 64 drive links compared to 62 on the Stihl. As Husqvarna has a longer guide bar, this is evident in their build.
Purchase price, guarantees and similar are not considered in this test, it’s something we can continue discussing together!
#14 Stihl Ms 261 C-M
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- For altered performance under various conditions, it features STIHL’s exclusive M-Tronic(tm).
- This vehicle is very fuel efficient.
- The emissions are minimal.
- It’s slim in comparison to other models.
Cons:
- The chain oiler doesn’t produce enough oil sometimes.
- You won’t find it very cost-effective to buy.
What is included
- STIHL gas powered chainsaw.
- Bar and chain 16-20 inches
- 1-year warranty
Specifications
- Dimensions: Couldn’t find.
- Weight: 10.8 pounds.
- Bar length: 16-20 inches
- Power Source: Gas.
- 1-year warranty
FAQ
Overview
Although not the most cost effective chainsaw to purchase, it can almost be forgiven when you start it up for the first time. You get raw power and top-rated features that are exclusive to STIHL. You can almost make up the difference by spending less on fuel and using more bar oil.
It’s a well behaved saw that’s lean in the body, but beefy in the motor. You can get everything you need in a saw and it is one of the most affordable STIHL chainsaws.
Review
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read STIHL MS 261 C-M gas chainsaw reviews.
Stihl Ms 201 Tc-M
The 35.2cc engine of the Stihl MS201 TC–M was released in 2015. It provides a lot of power considering its compact size and light weight. How light is it? It weighs just over 8 pounds when you include the chain and bar. Stihl also added the M-Tronic engine control system to their product. This automatically adjusts fuel mixture as needed.
The saw is efficient and emits low amounts of emissions. The saw’s low vibration and great balance are also benefits. Everything about this saw feels Pro–from the easy-to-access (and tool-free) gas and oil caps to the translucent tank so you can see when it’s time to refuel.
Retail on this saw varies, but expect to see it in the neighborhood of $729 depending on the bar size.
#24 Stihl Ms 193 C-E
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- It is very light.
- It has easy-start features to get you cutting sooner.
- This tool is suitable for small and large jobs.
Cons:
- This can make it unreliable.
- Some of the component feel and look cheap.
What’s included
- STIHL gas powered chainsaw.
- 14 inch bar and chain.
- 1 year warranty.
Specifications
- Dimensions: Couldn’t find.
- Weight: 7.61 pounds.
- Bar Length: 14 inches.
- The power source: Natural Gas.
- Warranty: 1 year warranty.
FAQ
Overview
Don’t let the small bar and lightweight body fool you – this chainsaw packs a real punch. Whether you’re a homeowner with a wood pile to arrange, or a ranch owner with storm felled trees to remove – it can do it all.
This chainsaw stands out because of its versatility, lightweight and easy use. Users also note they do not tire as quickly as they do with a larger saw.
Reviews
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read STIHL MS 193 C-E gas chainsaw reviews.
#36 Stihl Ms 211 C-Be
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- It has the STIHL Easy2Start(tm) system.
- It has a quick chain adjuster to cut down your maintenance time.
- It has a comfortable handle.
- It’s relatively lightweight.
- You can rely on it for years with quality parts.
Cons:
- The larger 18-inch bar and the longer chain make it less powerful.
- It is difficult to keep it going.
- It has a small gas tank.
What is included
- STIHL gas powered chainsaw.
- 12 to 18 inch bar and chain.
- 1-year warranty
Specifications
- Dimensions: Couldn’t find.
- Weight: 10.1 pounds.
- Bar Length: 12 to 18 inches.
- The power source: Natural Gas.
- 1-year warranty
FAQ
Overview
This chainsaw is comfortable, durable, easy to use and is the perfect addition to any homeowner’s tool shed. It undertakes a range of different cutting jobs and can do so with relative ease.
The only problem is its inability to use the 18-inch chain. Many users feel it is not powerful enough, and prefer the 12 or 16-inch chains. It’s still a compact, lightweight chainsaw that has plenty of power!
Reviews
Find out what the opinions of other buyers have been about this product. Read STIHL MS 211 C-BE gas chainsaw reviews.
#29 Stihl Ms 251 Wood Boss
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- It has up to 50 percent reduced emissions.
- You can save a lot of fuel.
- It’s relatively lightweight.
- It is easy to use and very comfortable.
Cons:
- Sometimes it can be hard to get started, especially when you are cold.
- It can be very hard for some users to keep it up.
What is included
- STIHL gas powered chainsaw.
- Bar and chain 16-18 inches
- 1 year warranty.
Specs
- Dimensions: Couldn’t find.
- Weight: 10.8 pounds.
- Bar length: 16-18 inches
- Power Source: Gas.
- Warranty: 1 year warranty.
FAQ
Overview
Aptly named the Wood Boss, this STIHL petrol powered chainsaw can undertake home maintenance with ease and accuracy. The features are extensive and allow the user to complete tasks quickly. It is also easy to use.
Although it is not the strongest, this unit still offers enough power to do basic jobs in standard houses and blocks of lifestyle.
Reviews
Find out what the opinions of other buyers have been about this product. Read STIHL MS 251 WOOD BOSS gas chainsaw reviews.
Chain Brake And Other Safety Features
We want an easy-to-use chain brake that works well. Most manufacturers have this down to a science at this point, so we encounter very few issues here. Most extend high enough to offer easy activation during a kickback event.
We want a safety trigger lock that’s easy to use without getting in the way. Stihl and Husqvarna put theirs on top of the handle. They work great, until they stop working. We are mainly focusing on the feel and placement of the saw. This ensures that we do not have to shift our hands from their natural positions when using the saw. Echo has the most easily to replace trigger locks. We aren’t sure if this is a positive or negative sign.
We also check the chain catch pin and position of the handguards–but most manufacturers have this down to a science.
#25 Stihl Ms 201 C-Em
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- It’s easy to get started.
- It’s reliable.
- This suits many people.
- The engine is equipped with a STIHL(tm), intelligent engine management system.
Cons:
- You can’t buy it.
- Because of the location of certain parts, it can prove difficult to keep clean.
What is included
- STIHL chainsaw with gas engine.
- 12 to 16 inch bar and chain.
- 1 year warranty.
Specifications
- Dimensions: Couldn’t find.
- Weight: 8.16 pounds.
- Bar length: 12-16 inches
- The Power Source is Gas
- 1-year warranty
FAQ
Overview
The durable, lightweight and reliable chainsaw that every farmer or owner of a lifestyle block should keep in his toolshed is essential. It’s lightweight makes it easy to transport around your property.
It’s packed full of features to make life a bit easier. However, on the maintenance side of things it can take up a bit of time. This chainsaw is best suited to someone with a bit of knowledge and expertise on best maintenance practices.
Review
Find out what the opinions of other buyers have been about this product. Read STIHL MS 201 C-EM gas chainsaw reviews.
#20 Stihl Ms 661 C-M
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- It has the highly effective STIHL M-Tronic(tm) engine management technology system.
- It’s a very powerful saw for professionals.
- It’s top rated for its fuel efficiency and low emissions.
- You can start it with the ElastoStart(tm handle).
Cons:
- This is a very heavy saw.
- It’s difficult to maintain.
- You will pay a lot to buy it.
What is included
- STIHL gas powered chainsaw.
- 16 to 32 inch bar and chain.
- 1 year warranty.
Specifications
- Dimensions: Couldn’t find.
- Weight: 16.3 pounds.
- Bar Length: 16 to 32 inches.
- Power Source: Gas.
- 1-year warranty
FAQ
Overview
There are very few reliable professional chainsaws on the market, and this is one of them. This STIHL saw is the best choice if you need a chainsaw that cuts through trees as if they were nothing. It’s exceptionally powerful, is packed full of features and is easy to start every time.
This is not the saw for faint-hearted. It’s powerful, heavy, and requires a strong hand. This is the saw for professional who want a machine that will do its job. It’s also one of the most affordable STIHL chainsaws.
Reviews
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read STIHL MS 661 C-M gas chainsaw reviews.
#7 Stihl Mse 170 C-Bq
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- The quick-release chain adjuster is easy to use and doesn’t need tools.
- It’s lightweight.
- It requires very little maintenance.
- Both the replacement and tool parts cost very little.
Cons:
- Because it must be close to a power source, its use is limited.
What’s included
- STIHL electric powered chainsaw.
- 12 to 16 inch chain and bar.
- 1 year warranty.
Specs
- Dimensions: Couldn’t find.
- Weight: 8.4 pounds.
- Bar length: 12-16 inches
- Power Source: Electric corded.
- 1-year warranty
FAQ
Overview
This STIHL electric powered saw is the perfect choice for those who don’t wish to deal with small-scale domestic cutting. It is packed with features and can handle a variety of tasks.
You will also find a quick-stop feature, a simple chain tension system and lower emissions. Throw away the gas can and get yourself one of these lightweight and agile STIHL electric powered chainsaws.
Review
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. See STIHL MSE170 C-BQ electric corded chainsaw reviews.
#16 Stihl Ms 362 C-M
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- It gives you maximum power in any working condition due to its STIHL M-Tronic(tm) engine management technology.
- It’s fuel efficient.
- It’s a good commercial grade saw for professional use.
- The device has an anti vibration system to reduce user fatigue.
Cons:
- It is difficult to keep it going.
- It’s heavy.
- It’s expensive to purchase.
- It’s not comfortable to operate.
What’s included
- STIHL gas powered chainsaw.
- 16 to 25 inch bar and chain.
- 1 year warranty.
Specifications
- Dimensions: Couldn’t find.
- With wrap handle, weight: 13.2 pounds
- Bar length: 16-25 inches
- Power Source: Gas.
- Warranty: 1 year warranty.
FAQ
Overview
The large-sized chainsaw will suit those who are skilled in maintaining and operating large machines. The chainsaw is a bit heavier than the average saw and has some maintenance problems that only a skilled operator should try to resolve.
Other than that, it’s a powerful saw which has the ability to take on a range of cutting duties. This is also due to the large range of STIHL features this chainsaw is packed with.
Review
Find out what the opinions of other buyers have been about this product. Read STIHL MS 362 C-M gas chainsaw reviews.
Stihl Ms261 Price
How much is a new Stihl MS261?
You can expect to spend $580 in the US. This varies depending on where you live and what taxes are involved. For interest’s sake, the MS271 is priced around $430, so it’s about $150 cheaper.
Can you buy the MS261 online?
I haven’t been able to find it for sale online. You can find it listed online, however you will need to pick it up in person.
There are many Stihl MS261 used chainsaws for sale on eBay. Make sure to verify the history before you part with any money.
Second-hand 261s are selling for almost as much as a new one due to the shortage of chainsaws at the moment. It’s better to grab one if possible.
Also, here are the best places to buy Stihl parts if that’s what you need.
#28 Stihl Ms 311
Pros & Cons
Pros:
- It has increased fuel economy in comparison to previous STIHL models.
- It has larger fuel and oil tanks for longer use without stopping.
- It’s very fuel efficient.
Cons:
- It’s difficult to start.
- It’s hard to maintain.
- It’s heavy.
What is included
- STIHL gas powered chainsaw.
- Bar and chain 16-20 inches
- 1 year warranty.
Specs
- Dimensions: Couldn’t find.
- Weight: 13.67 pounds.
- Bar length: 16-20 inches
- The power source: Natural Gas.
- 1-year warranty
FAQ
Overview
It’s built to last and last it will! The STIHL gas-powered chainsaw is everything an operator will need to take on big trees.
It boasts 4.2 HP, runs efficient on petrol, and even has a large 20.3 oz fuel tank to allow you more time cutting and less time refuelling. Although it is heavy, you can use this tool to help cut large trees.
Review
Check out what other people who purchased this product think about it. Read STIHL MS 311 gas chainsaw reviews.
Stihl Ms 271 Farm Boss Chainsaw
People see “Farm Boss”, and instantly disregard the “Pro” status. We feel this is a notable exception. Over the past few years, Stihl did some incredible things with this product line. In 2011, the MS 271 was first released. But it wasn’t until Stihl awarded the coveted “BOSS” elevated status to the Stihl MS 271 Farm Boss chainsaw in 2015 that it officially replaced the highly-favored MS 270 chainsaw.
New MS 271 reduced emissions by half and added a pre-separation system for air filtration. This would seem like a lot of marketing material, except that the filter was 5 times more durable.
Stihl continues to mess with their air filter systems, creating saws that can run for longer and with less a performance hit–even when the air filter gets significantly clogged up by work. Grab this workhorse of a saw for around $420.
261 Chainsaw Features
Featuring an Ematic chain lubrication system with variable-displacement oil pump the Stihl MS261 decreases the use of bar oil up to 50% so saving you money.
Because it is easy to handle and maintain, the STIHL MS 261 saw was designed for ease of use. It’s a favorite choice in any toolshed.
The new HD2 long-life air filter system, and the air intake preseparation are performance elements. This reduces the need for replacement filters and prevents maintenance problems caused by dirt in the intake. It will also save you money over the life of your filter.
Ease of use features include:
- Captive nuts hold the bar nuts within the cover of the sprocket at all times. It is a useful tool that prevents accidental loss of the bar nuts.
- The single-lever master controller makes it easy to use the saw. Which saves you time and effort while you are working.
- Side chain-tensioner.
- Filler caps that are tool-free can be opened without the need for tools.
The MS261 cold-weather features would be appreciated by owners. Heating elements for the carburetor that keep it from freezing in sub-zero temperature. Heated handles are also available to provide operator comfort and safety.
In short, the STIHL MS261 is a utility-type petrol chain saw that is ideal for any professional.
Stihl Carving E Bar On An Ms 194 C-E
Ask various professional and amateur carvers, and you’ll quickly find they use a variety of saws for carving. One saw that popped up a lot was the rear handle Stihl MS 194 C-E saw. Pop a 10- or 12-inch Carving E bar on this lightweight saw and you get a good mix of power and control.
Priced around $460, this saw won’t exactly break the bank and it provides solid reliability.
Are The Stihl 261cm Good Saws?
It’s easy to see that the MS 261 professional saw is Donegan’s number one seller. This saw is loved by professionals across Ireland for its exceptional power-to-weight ratio, quick acceleration and STIHL’s legendary reliability. For 2020, the MS 261 CM has a Light 04 guidebar and the.
Side-Mounted Chain Tensioning
The tensioning screw can be found on the side of chain saw through the sprocket cover. The tensioning screw is not in direct contact with sharp saw chains.
How Many Horsepower Does A Stihl 362 Have?
The MS 362 chainsaw Oils & Lubricants is the best choice for all of your tree-felling, bucking, and de-limbing needs.
Ms. 261 C-M
For the best Stihl chainsaw for cutting firewood, we refer back to our recommendation of the Stihl MS 261 C-M. This saw is not only our best recommendation, but the M-Tronic engine control system automatically adjusts the fuel mixture to ensure the saw runs no matter where you are cutting. This saw is also made in America.
We tested the MS 261 C-M with purposefully-clogged air filters and almost nothing stops this saw. You can typically pick it up for less than $600.
Stihl Elastostart
When starting internal combustion engines, there are jerky stress due to the compression pressure. ElastoStart’s special starter grip has a damping component that absorbs and then releases the force depending on the compression pattern. Smooth, smooth starting is possible.
Chains and bars
Most chainsaw brands don’t try to reinvent the wheel by making their own bars and chains. Except for Stihl, that is–who make their own. The Oregon chain and bar are also used by other brands. Most of the chainsaws we test use 3/8” pitch, 0.050” gauge chains. Some other saws might opt for “faster” .325-inch pitch chains.
Stihl Anti-Vibration System
The buffer zones are precisely calculated to reduce vibrations from the engine and saw chains. The chainsaw runs much smoother because of this. This allows the user to save their strength and work longer.
How Much Does A Stihl 362 Cost?
Starting a $809.99 with a 18” bar and chain. Brains and brawn come together in this well-rounded professional chainsaw. The MS 362 C-M features the same great power, weight and fuel efficiency as the MS 362, but also features our exclusive STIHL M-Tronic(tm) engine management technology.
What Does A Stihl Farm Boss 271 Cost?
STIHL MS 271 Wood Boss Chain Saw. Starting at $429.95 with a 18” bar and chain. The MS 271 replaces the mighty MS 270 with a saw that’s loaded with features and technology.
Stihl Ms 261 Chainsaw Review
In times like these, low fuel consumption is one of your features? T afford dismissal. The STIHL MS 261 compensator and its advanced combustion technology work together beautifully to achieve optimum combustion, reliable engine strength, high torque over a wide range and superb performance. These features lead to a great fuel economy, too? Reduction to 20 percent.
STIHL MS 261 STIHL
Moreover, the STIHL MS 261 features an Ematic chain lubrication system that reduces bar oil usage by up to 50%; and has a variable-displacement oil pump that also reduces chain oil use by up to 50%. A microprocessor-controlled ignition mechanism, part of the revolutionary engine technology of the chain saw, makes the STIHL MS 261 environmentally friendly by reducing exhaust emissions up to 50%. This ultimately means a more refreshing working environment for chain saw operators.
STIHL MS 261 was developed for easy handling and maintenance. User-friendly elements include the new HD2 long-life air filter system, captive bar nuts inside the sprocket cover (to keep owners from losing them), single-lever master control, side chain tensioner, and tool-free filler caps.
Other Chainsaws you might Like:
Husqvarna 20 Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw
The Husqvarna 460 Rancher gas chainsaw is a robust all-round saw for jobs that need a longer bar.
This easy-to-start chainsaw features an automatic chain oiler to keep the chain lubricated and running smoothly, while the side mounted chain tensioning system allows for quick adjustments while working.
The Husqvarna 460 Rancher gas chainsaw is a robust all-round saw for jobs that need a longer Bar 60.
3cc 20 inch gas chainsaw with guide bar and chain, Torque, max.
3.4 Nm 2 cycle engine with intertia activated chain brake for safety while operating Orange Husqvarna chainsaw Bar cover and 2.
6 ounce 2 cycle fuel Included, Bar and chain oil must be purchased Separately Automatic chain oiler delivers a steady supply of bar and chain oil for safe and effective use
- 460 Rancher Chainsaw
- 2 Cycle Engine
- Automatic Chain Oiler
- Simple Side-Mounted Chain
- The Quick-Release Air Filter
Husqvarna’s 20 Inch 460 Rancher Gas Chainsaw is a robust all-round saw for jobs that need a longer bar.
The automatic chain oiler delivers a steady supply of oil to the bar and chain, while the simple side-mounted chain tensioning system allows for quick adjustments while working.
Looking for a powerful and reliable chainsaw that can handle even the most challenging jobs?
With its simple side-mounted chain tensioning system, you can quickly adjust the chain while you’re in the middle of a job.
And thanks to its automatic chain oiler, you’ll always have a steady supply of bar and chain oil.
So if you’re looking for a saw that can handle anything, the Husqvarna 460 Rancher is perfect for you.
Ics 576153 680Es-14 Gas Powered Concrete Cutting Chainsaw Package With 14 Guidebar And Twinmax Chain
ICS 576153 680ES-14 Gas Powered Concrete Cutting Chainsaw Package with 14 Guide bar & TwinMAX Chain This gas-powered concrete cutting chainsaw package is the ideal tool for fast, clean, and easy cutting of wood, fiberglass, and plastic. The right tool for any job! This gas-powered concrete cutting chainsaw package includes a 14-inch guide bar with a patented auto-tensioner that allows you to cut faster while preventing over-tightening which can damage your saw.
- 14-Inch Guide bar & Twinmax Chain
- Easy To Control Choke Run And Stop Functions
- Prevent Engine Flooding With New Multifunction Lever
- Best Value For Cutting Deep Square Or Irregular Openings
- Expert Tool At An Affordable Price
Looking for a powerful concrete cutting chainsaw package?
Looking for a powerful chainsaw that can easily cut through concrete?
Look no further than the ICS 576153 680ES-14 Gas Powered Concrete Cutting Chainsaw Package with 14 Guideb!
This chainsaw is easy to control and features a twinMAX chain that prevents engine flooding.
Plus, it’s the best value for your money when it comes to cutting deep, square, or irregular openings.
So don’t go another day struggling with a dull saw – get yourself the ICS 576153 680ES-14 Gas Powered Concrete Cutting Chainsaw Package today!
Coocheer Chainsaw, 62Cc 2 Stroke Gas Powered Chainsaw, 20-Inch 3.5 Hp And Handheld Gasoline Chain Saw With Carry Bag For Tree Stumps, Limbs, Tree Felling, And Firewood Cutting(Red)
CooCheer Chainsaw, 62CC 2 Stroke Gas Powered Chainsaw, 20-Inch 3.5 HP and Low-Kickback Chain Bar with Automatic Chain Oiler for Garden or Farm Cutting Jobs Product Features: High Efficient Engine— This 3.5 HP and powerful 62CC engine chainsaw with 2-stoke produces lower emissions and fuel consumption, its speed can be up to 8500 rpm, and deliver steady power to the 20-inch bar and low- kickback chain. COOCHEER Chainsaw, 62CC 2 Stroke Gas Powered Chainsaw, 20-Inch 3.5 HP and Handheld Chain Saw with Air Filter System & Automatic Chain Oiler for Home Use Product Description in paragraph form: It’s a powerful and high efficient engine that can deliver steady power to the 20-inch bar and low kickback chain. This product has
- High Efficient Engine
- Super Air Filter System
- Easy To Install And Use
- High-Quality Structure
- Guide Plate Sets
Do you need a reliable chainsaw that can handle even the most challenging cutting jobs?
Look no further than the COOCHEER Chainsaw!
It also features a super air filter system to keep dust and other debris from entering the engine, and an automatic chain oiler to keep the chain in good working condition.
Looking for a powerful chainsaw that is easy on the environment?
Look no further than the COOCHEER Chainsaw!
This 3.5 HP and 62CC engine chainsaw is perfect for cutting jobs around your garden or farm.
Plus, it features an automatic chain oiler to keep the chainsaw in good working condition.
Stihl Ms 261 Chainsaw Features
I got ms261cm and was deeply impressed. It is sufficient to drop wide (30-40″) trees, but light enough for clearing brush and everything in between. I did some poor work near the field, chopping off small trees and stumps to clear a path and keep chugging.
I don’t think I’ve had it cut off while idling. The dealer tried to sell me another brand with a larger engine. Fortunately, I read the ms261 specs and realized it had as much strength in a 50cc sight as the other brand had in a 60cc sight that was heavier.
I’d like to finally get a larger felling saw, but this was a fine all-around farm saw, mainly used for firewood. It cranks every time, but it’s not bone dry. If the fuel line gets air, starting again is a hassle. Rapid acceleration Two-stroke is the engine’s aggressiveness and pace. Both chainsaws are fast, but Husqvarna wins from idle to full throttle by a narrow margin. During the exam, if only slightly, you can feel it. If the saws have some sort of base rotation, there’s no difference, and overall, they’re both really fast.
Another detail I found was they balance differently. The 261 will lift more, without retaining the grip. However, I don’t think this affects usability.
A Great General Purpose Saw
On paper the 261 is lighter than the current 550. But we don’t know the exact specifics until now, and this will become pretty fast nerdy. Since the Pixel mechanism is “ordinary” on the new 550 I used a 1.3 mm wide 15″ guide bar and chain to measure weights. However, the Stihl doesn’t have a 15″ Picco (1.3 mm) so the tests were run using a 16.” Then, comparing with different guide bar lengths felt wrong and instead we ran it with a full tank and no guide bars or strings, as they were weighted separately instead.
The 261 is approximately half a kilo lighter with a full tank compared to the 550 XP Mark II. Whether that’s a ton or not, it’s up to the user to decide I’ll leave the debate in the forum. Without guide bars and chains, 550 weights 6 kg, while 261 weighs 5.5 kg. Ready to go with Pixel/Picco guide bars (15″ for Stihl 550 and 16″), 550 weights about 6.84 kg, while 261 weights 6.34 kg. More info in the video below.
Ms 261 Is Lighter
I decided to buy an additional saw not only as a backup, but probably as my current main saw and replace the MS271 Farm Boss I’ve been running for a while. I’ve had no issues with the 271, but you can’t get too many saws. Currently having Stihl products and really loving the brand, I looked into the MS291. Having essentially the same displacement, a lighter weight, the M-Tronic framework, caught bar nuts, and magnesium cases, I ended up buying the MS 261C-M over the original 291.
I don’t think either saw was a poor buy, but I can’t say enough nice things about this new saw. I’ve put in 10 fuel tanks and couldn’t be happier. We’re getting an ice storm coming through Oklahoma and down trees everywhere, and I can’t wait to get out and fire the new saw up and cut some more wood.
I love the 271 I have, but the 261 is my go-to-saw. Having never had an issue with my past Stihl goods, I strive to look after my equipment, and I think either saw would have been a great buy. The MS 261C-M is a great running saw, easy to manage, with no problems. Don’t hesitate to see a new Stihl.