If you have ever purchased or considered purchasing a STIHL chainsaw, you may be curious where you can find its model number. So here is what we learned after researching for you if you're having trouble finding the model number of your Stihl chainsaw.
Most STIHL chainsaws have their model numbers on the top side of the saw body next to the right of the muffler. These numbers are etched onto a flat metal surface on the casing or crankcase.
Keep reading as we decode how to read the model number of a STIHL chainsaw. We'll also discuss the STIHL chainsaw parts' numbers and how to find them. Additionally, we'll cover the best STIHL chainsaw models with their pros and cons.
How To Decode A STIHL Chainsaw Model Number?
Model names for STIHL chainsaws don't strictly follow any code, but they do identify the energy source and provide an approximation of the output power and model version.
- The leading letters "MS/MSE/MSA" indicate the model's energy types.
- The next number, when multiplied by 100, represents the saw's output power in kilowatts or horsepower.
- Then the final digit designates the different saw models.
To highlight unique aspects of the model, Stihl uses one or more trailing letters.
'MS/MSE/MSA': What Do Those Letters Mean?
The letter combination at the start of each STIHL chainsaw model name indicates whether the saw is powered by gasoline, plug-in electricity, or batteries.
- "MS" (Motorsäge) means that your model's energy source is gasoline.
- "MSE" (Motorsäge elektrisch) models are powered by a plug-in electric source.
- "MSA" (Motorsäge akku) indicates that batteries power your chainsaw.
What's The Difference Between STIHL Chainsaw Parts Number And Serial Number?
The unit's part numbers (P/N) are helpful for saw identification since they identify the saw series and limit the number of possible saw model names from 1 to 6.
In contrast, you can use the serial numbers (S/N) to search for the saw in STIHL's databases.
Where To Find The Parts Number Of A STIHL Chainsaw?
Many of the parts of a single STIHL chainsaw have part numbers. In general, a STIHL saw has part numbers on many cast metals and nearly all plastic components. The simplest to locate are:
- Locate the part number for the handle assembly on the bottom of the saw.
- You can find the parts number for the brake lever on a sticker on the inside of the lever.
- You can see the air filter covers' parts numbers on the inside of the cover.
Numbers On Chainsaw Blade: What Do They Mean?
The manufacturer uses the numbers imprinted on a chainsaw chain as an identification number to specify the chain's pitch and gauge parameters. These are important factors determining whether a chain is compatible with a chainsaw.
Types Of STIHL Chainsaws
The STIHL product line includes tiny chainsaws for trimming branches and cutting down small trees, medium-sized chainsaws for use on farms and ranches, and big models for use by professionals in forestry and arboriculture.
Learn more about the many chainsaw product categories offered by STIHL below.
Homeowner Chainsaws
Small chainsaw variants from STIHL are available in 12-inch and 16-inch sizes. The smaller 12-inch models are ideal for splitting firewood, trimming huge branches, and even felling small trees, but the larger 16-inch models are made for light tree pruning and storm cleanup.
Consumer-friendly features on STIHL's line of chainsaws include automated chain lubricators, easy-start technology, and anti-vibration handles.
Farm and Ranch Chainsaws
The larger, 18- to 20-inch cutting bars on STIHL's farm and ranch chainsaws enable them to handle trees. They are more robustly built to handle heavy use and larger activities, but they lack some of the consumer-friendly features that STIHL's compact chainsaws offer.
Professional Chainsaws
You can find the top-tier chainsaws from STIHL in its professional series. These chainsaws are powerful enough to cut down large trees, with bars up to 25 inches long.
For forestry experts and arborists, it is a huge advantage since it is designed to withstand regular, heavy-duty use and reliable operation without slowing out or flinging the chain.
In-Tree Chainsaws
You can use this product on trees that are very high above the ground. These were created with arborists in mind, who frequently climb into trees to cut big branches.
How Much Do STIHL Chainsaws Weigh?
To make their chainsaws light, STIHL uses simplified designs. Generally speaking, a chainsaw's engine is larger and heavier as the bar is longer.
Smaller chainsaws with electric and battery power weigh around 8 pounds. STIHL models range in weight from 9 pounds for the smallest gas-powered models to 22 pounds for the most professional model.
How Long Are Stihl Chainsaw Bar Handles?
The bar lengths range from 12" to 29" for small electric models up to huge gas-powered forestry chainsaws.
For light-duty operations like pruning and chopping up branches after a storm, 12" to 14" bar lengths are frequently best. Pro models go over 20", while chainsaws with a range of 16" to 20" are used for chopping firewood and small trees.
Chainsaws come with two handles:
- a wraparound handle that stabilizes the blade and steers it, and
- a trigger handle that controls the chain.
To engage the chain, the operator must press a button or lever on the handle's trigger. The user can cut at different angles while yet keeping a firm hold on the saw, thanks to the broad wraparound handle.
Are There Special Features In STIHL Chainsaws?
The innovative technology that STIHL employs in its products to enhance the convenience of use distinguishes its chainsaws from those made by other manufacturers.
STIHL gas-powered chainsaws include functions like Easy2Start technology, which makes it simpler to start your unit. And with anti-vibration technology, the amount of vibration communicated from the motor and bar to the handle is reduced, reducing operator fatigue.
STIHL also incorporates elements that make product maintenance simpler. Self-lubricating chains, air filters that are simple to reach, and tool-less chain adjusters are a few examples.
What Are The Best STIHL Chainsaws?
The top chainsaws made by STIHL are listed below. Their product line consists of chainsaws in various shapes and sizes.
STIHL MS 250 Gas Chainsaw
With its 18-inch bar and 45.4-cc motor, this STIHL gas chainsaw is a fantastic all-around chainsaw that can cut down small to medium-sized trees.
It is robust enough for professionals to utilize while remaining lightweight for most consumers. It weighs a little less than 12 pounds, which makes it manageable even if it is heavier than other STIHL models.
Users of this STIHL chainsaw will like its user-friendly features, which include automated chain lubrication, a tool-free chain tightener, and an accessible chain tensioner.
STIHL MS 170 Gas Chainsaw
The STIHL MS 170 is the best option for the majority of customers because it is compact, simple to use, and powerful enough to handle a medium-sized tree or huge branches.
It can cut tree trunks or branches with a diameter of up to 16 inches, which is enough for trimming a tree or getting rid of trash after a bad storm. If you aren't accustomed to using chainsaws, this product makes it manageable since it weighs less than 9 pounds.
This model incorporates an anti-vibration handle to reduce fatigue, especially after extended usage, like the majority of Stihl chainsaws.
STIHL Gas Chainsaw MS 180 C-BE
The MS 180's Easy2Start mechanism makes it easy to start the engine without much effort or pull. Once the chainsaw is running, an anti-vibration handle enhances comfort, enabling the user to work for a longer period.
Maintenance is made simpler with a Quick Chain Adjuster, which enables the user to change the tension on the saw's 18-inch bar without the use of tools. The MS 180's carburetor will self-adjust even when the air filter becomes clogged with junk to keep it operating smoothly.
STIHL Farm Boss MS 271
A chainsaw that can handle heavy trees and repeated use is necessary for farms, ranches, and other large properties. The STIHL Farm Boss is capable because of its 18-inch bar length and 50.2-cc engine.
The Farm Boss is also easy to maintain thanks to features like a side-access chain tensioner that is easily accessible with a bar wrench and an air filter cover that the operator can replace without a tool to quickly clear the dirt on the go.
Final Thoughts
STIHL has a large catalog of chainsaws in its product line. Knowing the model number of your unit is essential, especially when it comes to the maintenance and repair of your unit.
You can easily spot the model number as it is stamped on the casing or crankcase.
If you enjoyed this post, you could check out these related articles: