The Stihl MS 261 - The Best Chainsaw Stihl Currently Makes!

[Hohn]

Those who are serious with their saws match the saw to the work.

Which is why, as a homeowner with small property, I have a battery Makita and nothing else. I don't need a hard use saw, and the capability of such a light 16" bar battery sa is frankly way better than I expected.

The convenience absolutely can't be beaten.

I think partly why the saw works so well for me is that I stay on top of chain sharpness. My Makita doesn't make sawdust, it cuts long strips of wood that resemble easter basket liner.

 

[tradesman]

Commercial versions are beasts…this one is no longer made as is older…but they are great saws

I have the same saw, a little smaller and lighter than the 261, but plenty of power, love the saw, still available in Germany according to my dealer.

 

[f121]

Are you running it on decent fuel? I ran my 261 hot and put it away wet back in the February storms, haven’t got to cleaning it up yet, but I’m certain it’d take a dozen or so pulls to get going and then run spot on, like it always does. Probably should do that before winter.

I dug my 261 out today, getting ready for the winter storms. It still had the fuel in from last February when I caught some metal in a tree and had sparks off the chain, so used the battery saw since.

It started on the 9th pull, let it idle for a couple of minutes for the mtronic to do its thing, then cut a bunch of ash with it. No drama (apart from needing a chain).

A colleague had his new 261 turn up yesterday, I was surprised to see a switch on the top, I’m guessing this is on/off, but neither of my stihl saws have it. Edit: turns out it’s for the heated handle!

 

[Kasal]

@DFB Thanks to you, I finally made up my mind and pulled the trigger. I'd like a 462 or 500, but they're too much for what I need.

 

[tarmy]

you are going to be lovin’ that saw…

 

[badmatt]

MS261 SUPREMACY

 

[D.F.B]

@DFB Thanks to you, I finally made up my mind and pulled the trigger. I'd like a 462 or 500, but they're too much for what I need.

So happy for you!

Looks to be the M-Tronic version as well.

 

[NUTTSGT]

I bought a MS290 Farm Boss back in 2003-04 and it's been a great saw. At the time, it was the saw carrying the FARM BOSS name and what the dealer was selling. At the time, it was priced right for me and paid for itself time and time again, especially after upgrading to a 20" bar. When I needed a bigger saw, I choose an MS362 / 25" and it's been a big brother to the MS290.

If I needed to replace the MS290 with a similar sized saw, it'd probably be a MS261, with a 20" bar.

 

[D.F.B]

I bought a MS290 Farm Boss back in 2003-04 and it's been a great saw. At the time, it was the saw carrying the FARM BOSS name and what the dealer was selling. At the time, it was priced right for me and paid for itself time and time again, especially after upgrading to a 20" bar. When I needed a bigger saw, I choose an MS362 / 25" and it's been a big brother to the MS290.

If I needed to replace the MS290 with a similar sized saw, it'd probably be a MS261, with a 20" bar.

The 261 would be a perfect replacement for a 290/291. Not only is the 261 lighter, but it actually makes more power from a smaller engine.

 

[D.F.B]

This is probably a good time to mention the MS 261 will have a successor in the near future.

Recently, Stihl unveiled what they say is the direct successor to the MS 261 C-M, the all-new MS 300C. This follows a similar path to the new 400.1, which effectively replaces the MS 362 and older MS 400. Overall, the MS 300C takes what made the 261 so good and further refines the package.

Here are the main improvements of 300C vs the old 261 -

- Acceleration in a class of its own: Thanks to M-Tronic 3, the chain catapults from 0 to 10,000 rpm in just 0.2 seconds – a value that is otherwise only known from the STIHL MS 500i.

- Best power-to-weight ratio: At just 4.85 kg (unfuelled/without rail) at a powerful 3.3 kW, it offers the best weight-to-power ratio in its 1.46 kg/kW displacement class.

- Precision in grooving cutting: Two parallel piercing bars serve as visual guidance so that you have full control over the direction and depth of the cut at all times.

- Fatigue-free working: An optimized geometry of the rear handle and knee rest as well as reduced gyroscopic forces due to a newly developed flywheel ensure ergonomic handling that won't let you down even during long uses.



All Australian market MS 261’s came with M-tronic, which is a self-adjusting carburettor, but in other markets you could get a non-Mtronic version as well. I mention this because all MS 300C’s come with the latest M-tronic 3.

It’s also great to see they’ve kept the standout power-to-weight ratio that made the 261 so awesome. Actually, weight has gone down, and with a larger engine and more sophisticated fuel management, the power figure has increased as well. That means the power to weight number 1.46 kg/kW eclipses that of the 261’s 1.6 kg/kW. And the fact it gets 500i fuel injected-like response from a carburettor is pretty impressive.

At the moment, the MS 300C is only confirmed for the European market, expected to go on sale in May 2026. Considering we are still waiting for the MS 400.1, I get the feeling it will be while before these new 300’s land outside of Europe. Still, it’s a tantalizing prospect.

Also, it would appear Stihl are FINALLY cleaning up their naming structure. For example, who would expect the 261 is actually the better and more expensive saw compared to the 271? The same applied to the 362 vs the 391. Putting the pro saws into a nice round number makes it easier to understand, 300, 400, 500.................it would be logical for the 661 and 881 successors to follow the same path.

My personal take on the new MS 300C, I'd say you guys in America will still have access to the 261 for quite a while. In the Australian market, new models replace rather than add to the lineup. For example, you guys still have the MS 250 as a cheaper alternative the newer MS 251, whereas we only get the latest version. The same applies to a bunch of entry to farm-class saws. That concept doesn't really apply to the pro-grade saws, mainly because they come from Germany, the farm stuff comes out of Virginia Beach where there is more control over production. However, the 261 is so well regarded in the market that I'd be surprised if it was deleted in the near future.

 

[NUTTSGT]

The 261 would be a perfect replacement for a 290/291. Not only is the 261 lighter, but it actually makes more power from a smaller engine.

Fortunately, my 20+ year old Stihl is still running strong and doesn't need replaced.

 

[jblnut]

Fortunately, my 20+ year old Stihl is still running strong and doesn't need replaced.

No need to replace it. Add to the fleet !!


Then you can stick them on a shelf all lined up and have people ask you “why do you need so many chainsaws!?” And you can calmly reply “why do you NEED to ask such stupid questions ?”

 

[NUTTSGT]

No need to replace it. Add to the fleet !!

Ohhhh, I have no doubt I will be adding to the fleet in the next couple of years. Current fleet is MS290, MS362, Dewalt 20V and a older Sihl 044, apart with a big bore kit for it.

If the MS261 is replaced with a MS300, I may have to check that out or try to find a deal on an older NOS MS261 at an Ag-Pro dealer. *I found out that prices are pretty much set by Stihl with no dealer wiggle room....however, unsold previous years models can be price dealt per dealer inventory.


BTW, I might add, I was never notified that I was selected to purchase that special edition MS500i. I would have loved to add that to the collection.

 

[f121]

This is probably a good time to mention the MS 261 will have a successor in the near future.

Recently, Stihl unveiled what they say is the direct successor to the MS 261 C-M, the all-new MS 300C. This follows a similar path to the new 400.1, which effectively replaces the MS 362 and older MS 400. Overall, the MS 300C takes what made the 261 so good and further refines the package.

Here are the main improvements of 300C vs the old 261 -

- Acceleration in a class of its own: Thanks to M-Tronic 3, the chain catapults from 0 to 10,000 rpm in just 0.2 seconds – a value that is otherwise only known from the STIHL MS 500i.

- Best power-to-weight ratio: At just 4.85 kg (unfuelled/without rail) at a powerful 3.3 kW, it offers the best weight-to-power ratio in its 1.46 kg/kW displacement class.

- Precision in grooving cutting: Two parallel piercing bars serve as visual guidance so that you have full control over the direction and depth of the cut at all times.

- Fatigue-free working: An optimized geometry of the rear handle and knee rest as well as reduced gyroscopic forces due to a newly developed flywheel ensure ergonomic handling that won't let you down even during long uses.



All Australian market MS 261’s came with M-tronic, which is a self-adjusting carburettor, but in other markets you could get a non-Mtronic version as well. I mention this because all MS 300C’s come with the latest M-tronic 3.

It’s also great to see they’ve kept the standout power-to-weight ratio that made the 261 so awesome. Actually, weight has gone down, and with a larger engine and more sophisticated fuel management, the power figure has increased as well. That means the power to weight number 1.46 kg/kW eclipses that of the 261’s 1.6 kg/kW. And the fact it gets 500i fuel injected-like response from a carburettor is pretty impressive.

At the moment, the MS 300C is only confirmed for the European market, expected to go on sale in May 2026. Considering we are still waiting for the MS 400.1, I get the feeling it will be while before these new 300’s land outside of Europe. Still, it’s a tantalizing prospect.

Also, it would appear Stihl are FINALLY cleaning up their naming structure. For example, who would expect the 261 is actually the better and more expensive saw compared to the 271? The same applied to the 362 vs the 391. Putting the pro saws into a nice round number makes it easier to understand, 300, 400, 500.................it would be logical for the 661 and 881 successors to follow the same path.

My personal take on the new MS 300C, I'd say you guys in America will still have access to the 261 for quite a while. In the Australian market, new models replace rather than add to the lineup. For example, you guys still have the MS 250 as a cheaper alternative the newer MS 251, whereas we only get the latest version. The same applies to a bunch of entry to farm-class saws. That concept doesn't really apply to the pro-grade saws, mainly because they come from Germany, the farm stuff comes out of Virginia Beach where there is more control over production. However, the 261 is so well regarded in the market that I'd be surprised if it was deleted in the near future.

I’m very interested to try this, I recently used a new 261 with the skinny chain and was impressed how quick it cut compared to mine.

My only complaint is that there is now a ms300 and a msa300, which might get confusing. Or maybe the idea is that they are equivalent? At some point I’ll get around to doing a review on my msa300.

 

[rd65]

I bought an 025/18" at a pawn shop thinking 026 in my head. I was very wrong. Still haven't gotten it to run decent but haven't put the needed time into it either. I have an 032/20" I bought at an auction that does ok, and an old Craftsman 2.0 w/ 14" bar that is my preferred unit. I'm just a homeowner that does occasional cutting for fire pit wood.

 

[bassJAM]

I bought a MS290 Farm Boss back in 2003-04 and it's been a great saw. At the time, it was the saw carrying the FARM BOSS name and what the dealer was selling. At the time, it was priced right for me and paid for itself time and time again, especially after upgrading to a 20" bar. When I needed a bigger saw, I choose an MS362 / 25" and it's been a big brother to the MS290.

If I needed to replace the MS290 with a similar sized saw, it'd probably be a MS261, with a 20" bar.

Stihl sold a BOATLOAD of MS290 Farm Boss saws back in the day! I lived further out in the country at the time and I swear everyone on the street had one. Most landscaping crews I knew of who occasionally might drop a tree or take care of deadfall had one too. When Dad started heating our home around 03 with wood he went in to the Stihl dealer wanting a Farm Boss, but the owner talked him into a MS310 which is basically a MS290 bored out for a handful more cc's. He's still using it, 3 cords a year.

 

[D.F.B]

There are many among the Stihl chainsaw community that state unless it's a "pro grade" saw, then you've bought ****. Blanket statements like that really annoy me.

Professional saws are always the better machine. They are stronger yet lighter, the byproduct of the integral crankcase, saw body and oil tank. Because of the stiffer bottom end, the result of the magnesium case, they make more power from a smaller or similar sized engine. Pro saws can be repaired beyond what can be done to a clamshell homeowner or farm class saw, while also having superior HD2 air filters, more advanced anti-vibration measures, and superior engine management (M-tronic). That all means you'll have a longer-lived saw that does job quicker, easier, and safer, in turn reducing user fatigue. When something goes wrong, chances are it can be repaired rather than junked. So yes, if you can swing the additional price, a pro-grade saw is always worth the extra spend. But.........................

Even though the benefits are obvious, not everyone wants or needs a saw capable of professional use. In these cases, I'd much prefer someone buy a homeowner or farm class Stihl instead of some no-name piece of trash purchased from a box store. or online. Yes, the price difference is often significant, but you get that back in the long run via a massive dealership network. Rather than being left on hold attempting to file a warranty claim or replacement, that Stihl dealer network carries a lot of weight. Firstly, they will help get you into the right saw to meet your needs, the sweet spot if you will. Then, you have someone to talk to directly if something goes wrong, and in turn provide service, repair and parts replacement. Your Home Depot or Amazon purchase will provide none of that.

In reality, the homeowner class is basically served by the battery market now. But even still, that dealer network is a backup. A rather prominent manufacturer of battery outdoor power equipment is forcing customers into a pass-the-buck situation, such as returning the tool back to the seller at your expense, who then send you back to the manufacturer, who then send you back to the seller..................until you give up and just buy another one.

 

[D.F.B]

Ohhhh, I have no doubt I will be adding to the fleet in the next couple of years. Current fleet is MS290, MS362, Dewalt 20V and a older Sihl 044, apart with a big bore kit for it.

If the MS261 is replaced with a MS300, I may have to check that out or try to find a deal on an older NOS MS261 at an Ag-Pro dealer. *I found out that prices are pretty much set by Stihl with no dealer wiggle room....however, unsold previous years models can be price dealt per dealer inventory.


BTW, I might add, I was never notified that I was selected to purchase that special edition MS500i. I would have loved to add that to the collection.

I love the gunmetal finish on the crankcase, clutch cover and recoil assembly, it's a refreshing change to the usual orange on white theme they have done forever.

My local dealer was encouraging me to sign up to the ballot. We both agreed that this would be a shelf sitter, which defeats the purpose of having such a capable machine. And at $3499, that's $1050 more expensive than the standard 500i. That's a lot of money for some different paint, black plastic, and a special badge. I'd love one, but I see no reason to spend that much money on something that would never be used.

MS 500i Centennial Edition Chainsaw | STIHL

Celebrate 100 years of STIHL with the limited STIHL MS 500i Centennial Edition in bold black. Sign up for exclusive early access ahead of the official release.

www.stihl.com.au

MS 500i Petrol Chainsaw | STIHL Australia

STIHL MS 500i high-performance petrol-driven saw with STIHL injection: STIHL 2-MIX engine ✓ Rapid acceleration ✓ For large timber ✓

www.stihl.com.au

The 271 was sold shortly after I took this shot last year. If was to add one to the collection, it would be a battery powered top handle.

 

[rd65]

There are many among the Stihl chainsaw community that state unless it's a "pro grade" saw, then you've bought ****. Blanket statements like that really annoy me.

Professional saws are always the better machine. They are stronger yet lighter, the byproduct of the integral crankcase, saw body and oil tank. Because of the stiffer bottom end, the result of the magnesium case, they make more power from a smaller or similar sized engine. Pro saws can be repaired beyond what can be done to a clamshell homeowner or farm class saw, while also having superior HD2 air filters, more advanced anti-vibration measures, and superior engine management (M-tronic). That all means you'll have a longer-lived saw that does job quicker, easier, and safer, in turn reducing user fatigue. When something goes wrong, chances are it can be repaired rather than junked. So yes, if you can swing the additional price, a pro-grade saw is always worth the extra spend. But.........................

Even though the benefits are obvious, not everyone wants or needs a saw capable of professional use. In these cases, I'd much prefer someone buy a homeowner or farm class Stihl instead of some no-name piece of trash purchased from a box store. or online. Yes, the price difference is often significant, but you get that back in the long run via a massive dealership network. Rather than being left on hold attempting to file a warranty claim or replacement, that Stihl dealer network carries a lot of weight. Firstly, they will help get you into the right saw to meet your needs, the sweet spot if you will. Then, you have someone to talk to directly if something goes wrong, and in turn provide service, repair and parts replacement. Your Home Depot or Amazon purchase will provide none of that.

In reality, the homeowner class is basically served by the battery market now. But even still, that dealer network is a backup. A rather prominent manufacturer of battery outdoor power equipment is forcing customers into a pass-the-buck situation, such as returning the tool back to the seller at your expense, who then send you back to the manufacturer, who then send you back to the seller..................until you give up and just buy another one.

You sound like a dealer or Stihl rep. You are towing the company line by giving dealers so much credit on steering customers to the "right" unit. Here you can walk into a store like Ace Hardware and buy a Stihl product and I am sure most of those employees have no knowledge about the equipment. Personally, I would take Stihl over other brands, except maybe Echo. The Echo products I work on, I do small tool repairs for a larger city Public Works Department, seem well made with lots of parts available. When I bought my backpack blower for home, I bought an Echo over Stihl - I am not a fan the Stihl 4Mix engine. The one thing I absolutely hate about Stihl and other companies that do this, is not making parts diagrams available online. This is asinine. I had to jump through hoops for almost two years in order to gain access to Stihl online diagrams and manuals.

 

[D.F.B]

You sound like a dealer or Stihl rep. You are towing the company line by giving dealers so much credit on steering customers to the "right" unit. Here you can walk into a store like Ace Hardware and buy a Stihl product and I am sure most of those employees have no knowledge about the equipment. Personally, I would take Stihl over other brands, except maybe Echo. The Echo products I work on, I do small tool repairs for a larger city Public Works Department, seem well made with lots of parts available. When I bought my backpack blower for home, I bought an Echo over Stihl - I am not a fan the Stihl 4Mix engine. The one thing I absolutely hate about Stihl and other companies that do this, is not making parts diagrams available online. This is asinine. I had to jump through hoops for almost two years in order to gain access to Stihl online diagrams and manuals.

Not a dealer or connected to the brand, just explaining why spending more on a Stihl product has a flow on effect. Even if you buy the Stihl product at a hardware store, you at least have a servicing network to take care of you.

 

[Kasal]

So happy for you!

Looks to be the M-Tronic version as well.

yes it is