Stihl MS 311 vs Husqvarna 460 – What’s The Better Chainsaw?

If you are comparing the Stihl MS 311 and the Husqvarna 460 (like we have) chainsaws, then what you are really comparing (like we found out) is different levels of cutting needs.

When it comes to practical use, there is a world of difference between the Stihl MS 311 and the Husqvarna 460 chainsaws – even though the engine size is pretty much the same between these two machines.

Not everyone cuts down 20 truckloads of wood every year though so how much power do you really need? Which chainsaw will be better for your needs between these two? Let’s find out.

Stihl MS 311 Vs Husqvarna 460 Overview

The Stihl MS 311 and the Husqvarna 460 chainsaws actually have some of the same key features like side-mounted chain tensioner.

However, the biggest difference is actually visible – the bar of the Stihl MS 311 is shorter than the Husqvarna 460.

However, the engine output of the Stihl MS 311 is actually a bit higher than the Husqvarna 460.

Quick Facts

 

Stihl MS 311

Husqvarna 460

Engine Output

4.2 HP

3.6 HP

Weight

13lbs

13.2lbs

Bar Length

16”

24”

Max RPMs

NA

7000

 

Key Differences Between the Stihl MS 311 and the Husqvarna 460

The main difference is in the length of the bar.

If you deal with logs that are of a greater diameter, you’re going to want to go with the 24” bar of the Husqvarna 460 as the difference in engine output is negligible.

It should be noted though that the Stihl MS 311 can be outfitted with a 20” bar.

Stihl MS 311 Key Features

  • Side Chain Tensioner – The tension of the chain can be adjusted with a bar wrench from the side of the machine.
  • Air Filtration – The filter actually ejects heavier debris from reaching the finer filter which extends the life of the filter and the engine.
  • Anti-Vibration System – The Stihl MS 311 features the company’s anti-vibration system that they use on a lot of their outdoor equipment.
  • Decompression Valve – The decompression valve makes it easier to start up the chainsaw.

Stihl MS 311 Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Great for cutting up small cords
  • Easy to start up
  • Larger bar options
  • Easy to handle
  • Doesn’t kick back very much

Cons:

  • The bar is small compared to the 460
  • Not great for large diameter logs

Husqvarna 460 Key Features

  • Adjustable Oil Pump – You can increase or reduce the oil flow depending on the kind of cutting you’re doing.
  • Air Injection – Much like the filtration system of the Stihl MS 311, the Husqvarna 460 uses centrifugal force to prevent large debris from reaching the air filter.
  • Air Purge – The air purge feature removes air from the fuel line to make it easier to start up.
  • Offset Handle – The front handle is offset at 7 degrees to make it easier to operate.

Husqvarna 460 Pros & Cons

Pros:

  • Lightweight design
  • Versatil usage
  • Can be used for large logs
  • Easy to start up
  • Efficient with oil

Cons:

  • A bit loud
  • Chain drive links get damaged easily

Price Comparison

This is where a lot of people get confused about application. The Stihl MS 311 and the Husqvarna 460 are sold for exactly the same price by their respective manufacturers – $600.

Weight and Handling Comparison

These two chainsaws weigh almost exactly the same. We liked that the Husqvarna 460 had a slightly angled front handle. This actually made it easier to operate after about 20 minutes of use.

Power Comparison

Surprisingly, the Stihl MS 311 actually has the higher engine output at 4.2 horsepower. The Husqvarna 460 tops out at 3.6 HP.

Power Source

Both the Stihl MS 311 and the Husqvarna 460 chainsaws are gas-powered. The Stihl MS 311 has a fuel tank capacity of 20.3 ounces.

What Attachments Are Available for Them?

While there are a number of accessories like lubricants and lifting hooks available for both of these chainsaws, there are no attachments available that we are aware of.

Efficiency Comparison

The Husqvarna 460 consumes about 2.5lbs of fuel per hour of operation. It is the more fuel and oil efficient option between the two.

How Big A Bar Can you Put on the Stihl MS 311?

The Stihl MS 311 can be outfitted with a bar up to 20 inches in length.

How Big A Bar Can You Put on the Husqvarna 460?

A 24 inch bar is the largest bar that is recommended to be put on the Husqvarna 460.

Stihl MS 311 Common Problems

A problem that users have run into is low compression of 60 psi or lower. The culprit in some cases was a blown crankcase.

Stihl MS 311 Common Problems

The chain drive links of the Husqvarna 460 have been known to become damaged easily. So much so that they won’t fit back on the bar. Of course, this usually means that the chain will pop off the bar.

Who Should Buy Each One?

The Stihl MS 311 would be a good choice if you only need to cut a couple of cords of already somewhat processed logs – or if you need to chew through some small tree limbs. The Husqvarna should be considered for anyone who needs a longer bar.

What Are They Best At?

The Husqvarna 460 can be used to actually fell trees and process them. The Stihl MS 311 is better suited to smaller-caliber jobs like lopping off limbs and cutting up firewood.

Other Chainsaws to Consider

Husqvarna 120 Mark II

The Husqvarna 120 Mark II is a 2-cycle 23cc engine chainsaw that comes with a 16” bar. It is a low-emission chainsaw and it is very easy to handle – a good choice for small cutting jobs.

Pros:

  • Easy to handle
  • Quiet

Cons:

  • Oddly-shaped trigger

Overall Score: 94/100

Check Out More Reviews Here:

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Makita XCU04PT

If you’re looking to go green, the Makita XCU04PT would be a good choice. This is a battery-operated, brushless motor chainsaw with a 16” bar.

Pros:

  • Easy to adjust the chain
  • Can be used with Makita batteries

Cons:

  • Low runtime

Overall Score: 93/100

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DEWALT 20V MAX

This is another battery-powered chainsaw that weighs 9 pounds and can complete about 90 cuts per full battery charge. It comes with a 12” bar.

Pros:

  • Lightweight
  • Good for firewood

Cons:

  • Batteries take a long time to charge

Overall Score: 93/100

Check Out More Reviews Here:

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Final Assessment

Since both the Stihl MS 311 and the Husqvarna 460 chainsaws are exactly the same price, we would recommend going for the Husqvarna. It can be put to more applications like felling actual trees and cutting multiple cords of wood.

The Stihl MS 311 would be a good choice if your needs aren’t as serious though so don’t write it off completely. We simply like the ability to do more with the Husqvarna 460 – even if we don’t need to.