Stihl MS 291 vs MS 261 Chainsaws: The $90 Upgrade That Changes Everything

The differences between these saws are apparent from the outside. Let's explore the key distinctions:

• Body Material: The MS 291's body is made from a polyplastic material. The MS 261 boasts a magnesium alloy body. The magnesium alloy provides increased durability, which is essential for the rigors of commercial use.

• Sprocket Cover: The MS 291 uses a plastic sprocket cover. The MS 261 features a metal one. The metal cover is more robust and can withstand more abuse.

• Handle: The MS 291 has a basic handle with a rope and a simple knot. The MS 261 is equipped with STIHL's ElastoStart handle, which incorporates a spring. The ElastoStart handle reduces snapback and protects your hand from sudden jerks.

• Oil Control: The MS 291 has a preset oil flow that you can't adjust. The MS 261 gives you control over the oil flow with a convenient adjustment point. Being able to control the oil flow to the bar and chain optimizes performance and extends the life of your equipment.

• Decompression Valve: The MS 291 doesn't have a decompression valve. The MS 261 includes one. A decompression valve relieves engine pressure, making the saw easier to start. This is especially useful for commercial users who might be starting and stopping their saws all day long.

• Muffler: Both saws have aluminum mufflers, but the MS 261 has an anodized aluminum muffler. The anodized aluminum is more durable and resistant to rust, making it better suited for demanding commercial applications.

Let's compare the raw power and weight of these two chainsaws:

• Engine Displacement: The MS 291 has a 55.5cc engine, while the MS 261 has a smaller 50cc engine.

• Horsepower: The MS 291 delivers 3.76 hp. Surprisingly, the MS 261 produces more horsepower at 4.0 hp, despite its smaller engine.

• Weight (Powerhead Only): The MS 291 weighs 12.3 lbs without the bar and chain. The MS 261 is lighter at 10.8 lbs.

• Weight (with Bar and Chain): With the bar and chain attached, the MS 291 weighs 14.87 lbs. The MS 261 comes in at 13.49 lbs. That pound and a half difference might not seem like much, but it can make a big difference during long days of cutting.

Think about it: Curling a 15 lb dumbbell in the gym for 5 hours straight would be exhausting. The same principle applies to chainsaws. Lighter weight reduces fatigue and improves maneuverability.

Here's a table summarizing the key performance stats:

What about the internal differences? These contribute significantly to the saws' overall performance and durability.

• Air Filter Access: The MS 291 uses Torx screws to secure the air filter cover. The MS 261 uses a snap-lock system. The snap-lock system offers added convenience. You'll need to keep a Torx wrench handy to access the air filter on the MS 291.

• Air Filter Type: The MS 291 comes with a fleece filter. The MS 261 is equipped with a high-capacity HD2 filter. Fleece filters tend to clog easily. You can purchase the higher-capacity HD2 filter separately for the MS 291 as an upgrade.

• Engine Design: It's important to note that the engines in these two saws aren't just slightly tweaked versions of each other. They are completely different designs.

• Bar Nuts: The MS 291 uses classic bar nuts, which can be easily lost in the field. The MS 261 features captured bar nuts that won't fall off.

• Sprocket Cover Construction: The MS 291 has a plastic sprocket cover, while the MS 261 incorporates more metal components. The metal components enhance the MS 261's durability.

• Sprocket Type: The MS 291 uses a drum sprocket. The MS 261 uses a rim sprocket. A rim sprocket is easier and cheaper to replace because only the rim needs to be changed. A rim sprocket also allows for interchangeability between different pitch chains by swapping the rim. Want to know more about chains, bars, and sprockets? Check out this video that explains it all.

Let's look at the RPM (revolutions per minute) of each saw. This data is hard to find for these specific models. Typically, homeowner saws run around 10,000 RPM. Commercial saws often run upwards of that, from 12,500 to 14,000 RPM.

Here's what was observed in the shop:

• MS 291 (Without Bar and Chain): Approximately 13,000 RPM.
• MS 261 (Without Bar and Chain): Approximately 14,450 RPM.
• MS 291 (With Bar and Chain): High RPM, exact number not stated.
• MS 261 (With Bar and Chain): Approximately 14,220 RPM.

The tests revealed that adding the bar and chain didn't significantly affect the RPM. These are real-world numbers obtained in a shop environment.

There was also a noticeable difference in the starting experience. The MS 261 had a smoother pull, thanks to its decompression valve and M-Tronic technology. The MS 291 felt "chunky" due to its higher compression.

Time for an opinion! The MS 261 is like an "heirloom saw." It's so durable, it's a tool you can pass down to your kids and grandkids.

Let's recap the MS 261's advantages:

• Full magnesium body instead of plastic.
• Upgraded muffler.
• Decompression valve.
• More horsepower.
• Lighter weight.
• Better air filter.
• Adjustable oil control.

For only $90 more, the MS 261 offers significantly more value. If you're looking for a 20-inch STIHL chainsaw, the MS 261 is the clear choice.

Choosing the right chainsaw depends on your needs and budget. While the MS 291 is a capable saw for occasional use, the MS 261 offers superior durability, performance, and features that make it a worthwhile investment for serious users. Consider how often you'll be using your chainsaw and the types of tasks you'll be tackling. If you value long-term reliability and top-notch performance, the STIHL MS 261 is the way to go.

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