Stihl MS 661 Mag Vs MS 500i Vs MS 362 Vs MS 261 Testing | What Chainsaw is THE BEST

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.