STIHL MS 261 chain saw

It is regarded as the classic among professional chain saws: the STIHL MS 260. Now the Waiblingen manufacturer presents the successor to the proven legend. With pioneering engine technology, a newly developed filter concept and a low vibration level, the STIHL MS 261 is supremely equipped to become the new ideal tool for thinning work, harvesting small-sized timber and logging in medium stands.

The STIHL MS 260 has long been the world’s top-selling professional chain saw for forestry. That’s a hard act to follow. However, the new STIHL MS 261 has the extra power, equipment and convenience to enable it to be a worthy successor. At 2.8 kW it has 0.2 kW more power than the MS 260. As well as the perceptibly improved speed dynamics, the new machine is characterized by higher torque and, thus, even better lugging power. In addition, the 2‑MIX technology is extremely economical in terms of consumption and environmentally friendly. In comparison with machines with a conventional two-stroke engine without 2‑MIX technology, the STIHL MS 261 uses up to 20 per cent less fuel. Exhaust emissions are reduced by up to 50 per cent and the machine already effortlessly complies with the strict EU II exhaust emission standard due to come into force in 2012. The microprocessor-controlled ignition system plays a not insignificant part in this, by ensuring that the fuel mix burns optimally and with low emissions.

Easy to maintain and service

The longlife air filter system with cyclone pre-separator achieves filter lives up to five times longer than the previous model. The newly developed HD2 filter is made from a water- and oil-repellent polyethylene filter material. It has up to 70 per cent finer pores than fleece and polyamide filters and can thus filter out even ultra-fine dust, and furthermore it is easy to clean. The PET-coated round filter cartridge with quick-release lock enables the filter to be fitted and removed in next to no time. The air filter, spark plugs and cylinder fins are just as readily accessible, being housed under the shroud which likewise has quick-release locks.

Low vibration level

As well as high power, innovative engine technology and low maintenance, the STIHL MS 261 is also convincing in terms of ease of operation. A perfectly adjusted antivibration system with Cellasto antivibration elements and special springs between the engine block and the handles reduces the vibration level to 3.5 m/s².  The chain saw is easier to guide and the operator is less fatigued. The low-vibration STIHL .325” Rapid Super Comfort saw chain, fitted as standard on the new chain saw, also contributes to this.

Convenience extending to the details

The decompression valve, in conjunction with the ElastoStart starter grip, reduces the effort needed to pull the starter rope and makes starting perceptibly easier. And convenience is also evident in other details: the MS 261 is the first STIHL chain saw to have captive nuts on the sprocket cover that will not get lost when changing over the cutting attachment. Chain side tensioning allows the saw chain to be retensioned effortlessly, avoiding any contact with the sharp teeth. Both the fuel tank and the oil tank have large openings for easy filling with no spills. The patented STIHL special tank closures are easy to open and close without requiring tools. The STIHL Ematic chain lubricating system ensures that the optimum quantity of chain oil is always applied. That enables as much as 50 per cent chain oil to be saved, depending on the cutting attachment and type of wood.

Individuality as standard

The STIHL MS 261 is not only a worthy successor to the legendary MS 260, its roots in fact go even farther back, all the way to the STIHL 024, the original professional class chain saw designed for convenience – and that’s a lot to live up to. As well as the basic version, the STIHL MS 261 is therefore also available in three further versions to suit every individual preference and for even greater convenience: with chain quick tensioning for tightening up without tools and STIHL ErgoStart, which halves the starting force needed (version C‑BE), with the additional chain brake system STIHL QuickStop Super (C‑Q), and with an electric carburetor and handle heater (VW).

Specifications