Stihl Vs Husqvarna Chainsaw: What Makes A Quality Chainsaw

There seems to be a dispute among the loggers' community in regards to which brand is better: Stihl vs Husqvarna chainsaw.

Both sides of the argument present valid rationale as to why they deem one brand better than the other, but we're going to settle this debate right here and now in hopes of crowning an undisputed champion. Let's begin.

Stihl Chainsaw Vs Husqvarna: A Brief History Lesson

Founded in 1926, Stihl is a German company that specializes in creating quality chainsaws and various other handheld power equipment. Stihl is probably the only company that manufactures and sells its own chainsaws independently without relying on e-commerce means of distribution. This company fully embodies its bold claim of being the best chainsaw brand on the market.

Founded in 1689, Husqvarna has established itself as one of the pillars of this industry. In 1978, the company was acquired by Electrolux and had experienced significant expansion in size and reputation since then. Husqvarna is widely known for its use of highly innovative technology and has always been recognized as a very consistent and reliable brand of chainsaws.

Brand Comparison

To help you grasp the differences between Stihl and Husqvarna chainsaws, we’re going to break this into multiple sections that tackle different aspects of what makes a quality chainsaw.

Durability

Professional-grade chainsaws are designed to cater to the needs of loggers, making them a lot heavier than homeowner chainsaws and much more durable, as they tend to have no sort of plastic in their construction whatsoever. You’ve probably heard countless testimonials about how long-lasting Husqvarna chainsaws are, which is all well and good, but that doesn’t mean turning your back on Stihl is a good idea.

Just like Husqvarna, Stihl chainsaws are constructed with superior craftsmanship and complete attention to details.

Further, Stihl saws are well-known for their insanely powerful engines, which makes them a formidable opponent.

Overall, both brands deliver excellent build quality, but we have to give this one to Husqvarna because of their long history and reputation that dates back to the late 1600s.

Power

Power is something that’s entirely dependant on the product itself and the engine that it bears. It all really boils down to the two products you’re trying to choose from. It’s quite obvious, however, that the majority of professional loggers opt for Husqvarna saws and deems them more suitable for their line of work because of their sharp blades that make for strong cuts with laser precision.

On the other hand, Stihl is much more preferred by homeowners as they provide enough power and strength for causal lawn-care work around the house like cutting or evening out branches of a tree. This one is a draw between the two brands as it mainly depends on the product and how you intend to use it.

Fuel Tank

The fuel tank determines how long you can use the chainsaw without having to stop it and add fuel frequently. This may not be all that important for homeowners, but it’s a major concern for professional loggers because it could take away from their time.

Generally speaking, Husqvarna chainsaws tend to have more large fuel tanks than their Stihl counterparts, which is both good and bad because more fuel in the tank means additional weight to the already-heavy saw. This is a stalemate. The choice is all yours.

Maintenance

Maintenance is time and money. Stihl chainsaws seem to have the upper hand when it comes to maintenance. Their relatively lightweight and simplistic design makes them ideal for beginner loggers and homeowners. On the other hand, Husqvarna saws require regular maintenance because of their sheer power and heavier construction. Stihl takes this one for sure.

Handling

Both brands offer some sort of vibration reduction technology that helps minimize impact resulted from the vibration of the engine. You’re probably very familiar with the hand-arm syndrome if you’re a professional.

Stihl chainsaws feature the Anti-Vibration handles, while Husqvarna saws come with the LowVib Technology which absorbs vibration with the aid of dampeners. Both brands are pretty reliable when it comes to overcoming vibrations.

Price

Stihl takes this one by storm because their chainsaws usually tend to have lower price tags than Husqvarna’s. Other brands on the market offer gasoline-powered chainsaws, but you have to take the quality into your consideration, and quality is something that Stihl achieves brilliantly. This factor makes Stihl one of Husqvarna’s biggest competitors since they both share the same power and functionality.

Common Features

Since both manufacturers specialize in the same line of products, you should expect to see very similar features but with some slight variations. A few of the features that you’re likely to find in a Stihl or Husqvarna chainsaw include:

Reduced Kickback Chain - One of the many different ways of preventing the risk of injury from kickback, which can occur when an object comes in contact with the chain moving at the tip or the nose of the guide bar. It can also happen when the wood pinches the chain. The kickback chain counteracts the kickback that occurs with the aid of an extra guard linking on the chain.

Reduced Kickback Bar - Similarly, this is another safety measure found in both chainsaws that help reduce the risks of kickback. It’s basically a bar that features a pretty small tip that helps in limiting the cutting area responsible for generating kickback.

Chain Catcher - This tool is responsible for stopping the chain instantaneously whenever the front guard is moved forward or when the device experiences some kickbacks. The chain break is usually made of aluminum so that it doesn’t damage the chain. You can easily change a chain when it becomes worn out.

Bar Tip Guard - The tip guard keeps the nose safe from coming in contact with abrasive objects and helps prevent the dulling of the chain. It also helps protect the nose from accidental contact with obstructions such as the ground. This is also one of the attachments that help prevent any potential kickback. Note that tips guards shouldn’t be used when you’re using a wedge.

Trigger Knockout - This function doesn’t allow the throttle trigger to work unless you press the button. As a result, it helps prevent any accidental engagement.

Chain Oiler - This is an automatic function that pumps oil onto the cutting bar without the need for any manual intervention from you. This is a great function to look for because it allows you to operate the chainsaw without having to stop for lubrication.

Anti Vibration - Such systems are a standard feature that should be found in all modern saws. Not to state the obvious, but this function increases your control over the machine and reduces potential fatigue that could have otherwise been resulted by vibration. It’s often very hard to pay attention to this feature since you don’t even notice it working most of the time.

Husqvarna Chainsaw Advantages

• Faster and stronger cutting performance
• You can easily buy Husqvarna chainsaw online
• More fuel-efficient with fewer emissions from the exhaust
• Longer operation time due to larger fuel tanks
• Equipped with a kickback guard and chain catcher
• Feature an emergency instantaneous stop button
• Reduced resistance in the starter cord
• An ideal choice for professionals
  
  

Stihl Chainsaw Advantages

• Relatively lightweight and easier handling
• Much more affordable than Husqvarna saws
• Doesn’t require frequent maintenance
• Automatic lubrication for the chainsaw and chain
• Feature anti-vibration handles for smoother operation
• Reduced kickback due to Quickstop technology
• Various safety tools such as the chain catcher
• An ideal choice for homeowners
  
  

FAQs

Which Stihl chainsaw do you recommend using?

There are plenty of good options that you can with. The Stihl MS 251 C-BE is an ideal saw to try as it’s easy to start, extremely powerful, lightweight, and it features a very convenient tension adjuster. It’s just a little expensive, and it’s a gas guzzler. Another option you can go with is the Stihl MS 271 FARM BOSS because of its great size, air ventilation system, and ease of use.

Which Husqvarna chainsaw do you recommend using?

The most popular Husqvarna chainsaw that you can get your hands on is without a doubt the Husqvarna 460 Rancher. It’s incredibly reliable, equipped with a plethora of safety features, can cut through the hardest of wood, has high-quality construction, and experiences the least vibration or kickback out of the top-tier chainsaws on the market. The Husqvarna 455 Rancher is also another chainsaw that’s worth your while just like its big brother.

Is a 10% (E10) blend of ethanol right for my gas-powered STIHL chainsaw?

All STIHL engines can operate with a mixture of ethanol up to 10% (E10) in the gasoline/oil mix. If you don't use your chainsaw for more than a month, it is recommended to empty the tank and restart and the unit until all the fuel in the carburetor is consumed.

Besides, STIHL recommends not using fuel with more than 10% ethanol, to avoid engine damages and void the warranty. Further information.

How often should I clean the carburetor and air filters on my Husqvarna 2-cycle chainsaw?

The maintenance operations of these parts must be done every 30 hours or even more often if used in extreme conditions.

When should I replace the chain of my Husqvarna chainsaw?

The chain should be replaced when the cutting teeth are less than 4 mm.

Is it normal if a chainsaw overheats?

Like all engines, chainsaws operate at high temperatures and can be subjected to overheating, especially in summer. Therefore, it is necessary to let them cool. Dust and wood chips or other residues can contribute to overheating. The muffler must also be kept clean to avoid heating problems.

Why does a chainsaw smoke?

If it's smoking, you must shut off your chainsaw. A chainsaw can heat up during use, but it should never overheat producing smoke. The most common causes of overheating are the lack of air or lubrication to the chain or the engine of the chainsaw.

Do I need to sharpen my chainsaw chain?

Yes, sharpening the chain is important for the safety and durability of the instrument. For this purpose, a chain sharpener for chainsaws should be used.

How many times can a chainsaw chain be sharpened?

A chain can be sharpened 3 to 5 times. The factors to be considered are the lubrication, the state of the bar, and the operating conditions as it is used (the type of wood being cut).

Can you cut wet wood with a chainsaw?

Yes, it is not a problem to cut wet wood. Indeed, extra humidity will help delay overheating.

What safety equipment is required to work with a chainsaw?

Appropriate clothing: the clothing must be robust and adherent, and at the same time, allow freedom of movement. Moreover:

• Protect your hands with resistant and non-slip gloves
• Wear sturdy steel toe boots with non-slip soles
• Never use a chainsaw without goggles or goggles
• Wear an approved helmet or helmet
• Always protect your ears.

Avoid:

• Wide jackets
• Ties
• Jewelry
• Flared trousers/cuffs
• Unconfined long hair 

Video: Chainsaw Stihl Vs Husqvarna... Might be surprised!!

Conclusion

Overall, both Stihl and Husqvarna chainsaws will definitely provide an outstanding performance that will get the job done.

As the main frontrunners in this industry, it’s hard to determine a clear winner.

Preference is critical in this situation, and the only deciding factor as to which one you should go for is mainly based on your needs.

A possible solution would be to rent a chainsaw from each brand and test it, then base your opinion on the experience.