Stihl MS 261 vs Stihl 500i

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Running two of my favorite, and the most popular, Stihl chainsaws against each other: the Stihl MS 261 and the Stihl 500i. Speed test + comparison. For more videos on these chainsaws, check links below.

Stihl's 261 and MS 500i might be in two different classes, but they are still two of their most popular chainsaws. So, if you're in the market for a new chainsaw, you might find yourself trying to choose between the two. This episode will help you determine which chainsaw might be best for you.

I have a ton of videos on both the MS261 and the MS 500i. Check them out at the links below.

EQUIPMENT USED IN THIS VIDEO:

My Favorite Firewood Tools

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[samkalma]

"Just get both" spoken like a true addict😂

[dougreid]

"Hi, my name is Doug and I'm a chainsaw addict."
"Hi, Doug"

[Brad]

Picked up the new 400 about 2 weeks ago. Its amazing needed something larger than the 261 and the 500 isn't available without waiting for months. The 400 was available in my area on extremely limited stock (1 local dealer had 2) the 261 seems easier to find. Glad I went with the 400 and in a year or so I'll grab that 261 because like you I seriously love running a saw. It's one tool that hasn't been safety regulated to the point of not being useful

[TheWoodsman]

I'm looking at the 500i and 881, but that'll be a tough buy. That's a lot of cash for 2 saws...

Edit: Of all the saws I have and have access to, my 661 is my favorite. I have a 25 and 36 inch bar for it, and it rips with the 25. Pulls the 36 no problem in 32 inch hackberry or oak too. My family thought I was crazy buying a 91cc saw, but now I'm the go-to person for tree jobs in the family!

[caporaso]

I’m holding out and getting a 462 when I’m ready. Would really like a 400c but it’s never in CT.

[stannelson]

Just move up from a 45 to a 60cc saw.
Upping the fun factor a bit. There is something to be said for using a tool to get a job done and using the right tool for the right job. Iv been using my ms 250 for 16 years doing 10 to 20 face cords and I love my lil engine that could saw lol. But this year I ended up with a bunch of red oak 16 to 22. So on sale I picked up a husky 460. That oak was so fun to cut. Lol. Have a great weekend you earned with a great video. Now go play with the kids lol.

[Apollo.]

An 80cc chainsaw like the 500i being able to pull a 32 inch bar is wonderful to have when you’re buckin down on the ground and don’t have to bend over so much. It is worth saving up for more power. But what will you do when you get your bar pinched while felling a 22” or bigger tree? Happened to me and I was glad I had my backup 261 to get it out.

[Living-The-Dream]

I actually teach for my MS 362 the most. I love my MS 260 and my MS 500i. I just find that most of the wood I cut size was is more in the MS 362 window. Wouldn’t let any of them go…..each has a purpose. Next purchase will be a MS 201……just to have a good top handle truck saw. One can never have enough saws 👍🪵👏

[brucearney]

Years and years I got by with the 61 husky with a 20 bar but now I have bigger and smaller saws . What can I say ? It's fun but a good 60 cc is just about perfect . Have a great day !

[Dibelchii]

I run a 361 and a 261 for firewood now, I love these two saws. Now I'm looking at the 400 for this season.

[PurpleCollarLife]

Thanks, Glen - I've wanted to see this exact comparison. My two saws have never let me down -but I've always kind of wanted the 261 just because it's a such a nice saw. Then I saw the 500i - I probably have zero need for a saw that size, but who DOESN'T want one?!! #purplecollarlife

[OGAOutdoors]

Fun video Glenn not really sure why I watched since all my saws are Echos or at least cousins. Take care, Ben.

[BigHomie]

I’m actually looking into between these two chainsaws good stuff. I think for what I’m doing and cost I’m leaning more towards the 261 but the 500 if I could I’d get both lol

[zillman-mcld]

Kinda tossed up between the 261 and the 400 for a start to a fire wood business. Wanting to work for my self because I have always loved running and working on chainsaws. Haha my girlfriend of 8 years thinks im weird because of my love of chainsaws but i always tell her it will make us money one of these days😂

[TZLVredmist]

I have a 261c. Going to purchase the 500i R. Need both, just to be sure.

[Bennybigballs]

Hah, I’ve got the 261 and was currently having this dilemma until I watched this vid. Off to the dealer tomorrow for the 500i! 😂
Cheers dude, new sub 👍🏻

[Hodderville]

Love your comment about how you have a problem. My wife and kids know I have a problem too. I’m seeking help too though, (help in the form of potentially buying a 500i. 😂)

[joshuawray]

forgot to mention the 261 is a professional firewood saw. its what its built for

[parkerk]

Is it true that any stihl ms261 with m tronics or any stihl chainsaws with m tronics for that matter will burn up (scored piston) and not work anymore if you cut with a dull chain? Apparently the m tronic system doesn’t like when you cut with a dull chain? Im just curious to hear your thoughts on this issue? Thanks

[braveheart]

Very good video! Thank you very much! My heart beats for chainsaws too!😊