MS 362 vs. MS 391 – Which STIHL Chainsaw is the Best for a 25-Inch Bar?
When you're shopping for a high-performance chainsaw capable of running a 25-inch bar, two stand out from the STIHL lineup: the MS 391 and the MS 362. Though at first glance these two saws seem similar, there are key differences you'll want to consider. Whether you're a homeowner cutting firewood or a professional arborist, understanding the major features and differences between them can help you make an informed choice.
Let’s dive into what makes each of these saws unique, from horsepower to build quality, and even performance on the job.
Price Comparison: MS 391 vs. MS 362
One of the first things buyers tend to notice is the price difference between the MS 391 and the MS 362. The MS 391 runs about $739, while the MS 362 will set you back around $949—a price difference of $210. But what exactly are you getting for that extra cash?
Engine and Horsepower
While the price point is an obvious difference, the engines on these models aren't too far apart in size but have subtle differences worth knowing:
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MS 391:
- 64.1 cc engine
- 4.4 horsepower
- Weighs 13.67 lbs
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MS 362:
- 59 cc engine
- 4.6 horsepower
- Weighs 12.3 lbs
The MS 362 is a bit lighter, making it easier to handle when you're working for extended periods. The weight difference of over a pound is noticeable when you're out in the field.
Commercial vs. Homeowner Use
The MS 391 is STIHL’s largest homeowner saw, often marketed towards someone primarily cutting firewood or maintaining property. But that’s the key difference here: it’s ideal for a homeowner who occasionally needs a powerful machine but isn't using it daily for big jobs.
The MS 362, on the other hand, falls into STIHL’s professional lineup. It's built to withstand daily use by those who work with chainsaws in a professional setting. In this case, the $210 price difference gives you features that make the equipment more robust for commercial use—a heavier-duty build in almost every way.
Build Quality: Poly Body vs. Magnesium Alloy
If you look closely at the construction of these saws, this is where your extra money starts to make more sense. The MS 391 features a poly (plastic) body that houses a metal engine. This design saves some weight, but it won’t dissipate heat as well as metal.
The MS 362 is built with a magnesium aluminum alloy body, which is not only more durable but also lighter and better at dissipating heat. This difference in materials alone is a big reason why professionals tend to lean towards the MS 362 for consistent, heavy-duty use.
Fanciful Felling Features or Grounded Simplicity?
The MS 362 includes a felling line printed on the housing, which helps professional users make more precise directional cuts when felling trees—a small but important detail if accuracy matters to you.
The MS 391, by contrast, doesn’t include this feature because, in STIHL's eyes, it's mainly designed for cutting firewood on the ground.
Mufflers and Sprockets: Durability and Serviceability
Both saws come with durable mufflers, but there's a clear difference in exhaust systems and sprockets—the parts that wear out after extended use. The MS 362 has a stainless-steel muffler, making it more durable than the basic muffler on the MS 391.
Additionally, the MS 362 boasts a rim-style sprocket, which is easier to service and can be changed out more affordably. Replacement parts for the MS 362’s sprocket run at about $8 to $9, whereas a drum sprocket on the MS 391 can set you back around $28.
Over time, as you rack up hours of use, the rim sprocket system on the MS 362 can save you both money and headache. Plus, it’s a breeze to swap out if you want to change pitches or switch to different-sized bars and chains.
M-Tronic Technology: The Smart Carburetor
If you're considering the MS 362, it's well worth knowing it’s available with or without M-Tronic, an advanced carburetor management system. If you opt for the MS 362 C-M, you’ll get this computer-controlled feature that automatically adjusts the fuel mix for different conditions. It means easier startups (especially in cold weather) and better overall performance.
While older versions of M-Tronic carb systems had a few early glitches, the tech is now rock solid—many users rave about how it simplifies using their saw. If you're a traditionalist and prefer the manual choke system, though, STIHL offers a non-M-Tronic version of the MS 362 as well.
RPM Comparison: Speed and Performance Test
Numbers aside, how do these saws actually perform? We tested the RPM (Revolutions Per Minute) of both saws, and here are the results:
- MS 391: Topped out around 12,000 RPM
- MS 362: Hit an impressive 14,000 RPM
That 2,000 RPM difference translates into a much faster chain speed for the MS 362. More speed means quicker cuts, which can save both time and effort, especially in tough conditions.
Faster RPMs and higher horsepower combine to make the MS 362 feel like a beast when you're cutting through large logs or hardwood. For anyone who values a bit of extra power and efficiency, that $210 upgrade starts to feel pretty justifiable.
Conclusion: Which Saw Should You Choose?
If you’re cutting firewood a few times a year and just need a reliable tool for general property maintenance, the MS 391 will serve you well. It’s powerful, durable, and costs less.
But if you're a professional or someone who wants a saw that handles larger jobs and holds up to frequent use, the MS 362 is the one to go with. The extra features, more efficient build, faster RPMs, and better-engineered components justify the higher price. Plus, it’s lighter, which makes a difference when you're working all day.
In the end, it’s the classic decision: buy once, cry once. The MS 362 is the saw that might make you wince at checkout, but you'll thank yourself later, every time you fire it up and start clearing wood like a pro.
Products Discussed In The Video
- STIHL MS 362 Chainsaw - Professional Use Mid Size Chainsaw
- STIHL MS 362 C-M Chainsaw with M-Tronic Engine Management Technology
- STIHL MS 391 Chainsaw - Fuel-Efficient Chainsaws
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1 comment
William
Good info. Easy to follow.