Stihl 250 Vs Stihl 271 Chainsaw – What’s the Better Option?
Choosing the right chainsaw isn’t all about power and engine size. You always have to look at the periphery features and specs.
And even if you’re an experienced arborist or harvester, such details can still be confusing. Plus, you never really know how a chainsaw will perform until you have it revving in your hands.
So today we will be taking a look at a couple of very popular models from Stihl. We closely reviewed both the Stihl 271 Farm Boss and the Stihl 250 to help you make the best choice for your cutting needs
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Overview of the Stihl 271 Vs the Stihl 250
The Stihl 271 and the Stihl 250 are comparable in terms of power and utility. You would basically use both for lighter, around the house cutting like firewood processing or light storm cleanup. You can also summarize the difference between these two saws by their sizes.
Stihl 271 Key Features
- Side-Mounted Chain Tensioner – A common feature among Stihl saws; but an essential one nonetheless. The side access chain tensioner allows you to quickly adjust the chain with a bar wrench.
- Advanced Air Filter – The air filter features a pre separation air injection system. Centrifugal force is used to eject larger debris from ever reaching the surface of the air filter.
- Anti-Vibration System – This feature reduces saw vibration to help reduce operator fatigue.
Stihl 271 Common Issues
Some users of the Stihl 271 Farm Boss have reported that the saw overheats easily and that it loses speed easily.
Stihl 271 Pros & Cons
Pros:
- More powerful than the Stihl 250
- Better for larger delimbing and clearing jobs
- Can be outfitted with a 20” bar
- Fewer air filter cleanings needed
Cons:
- Runs louder than the Stihl 250
- Not as effective for people with little chainsaw experience
Stihl 250 Key Features
- Master Control Lever – This feature allows the operator to control the starting throttle lock, choke and on/off switch.
- Carburetor Shutter – A simple cover for the carburetor that can be adjusted for hot or cold conditions helps to prevent overheating and icing.
- Rear Hand Guard – This design feature gives you more leverage when starting the saw and helps protect your hand when operating.
Stihl 250 Common Issues
Some of the common issues with the Stihl 250 have to do with starting. Many people have had trouble starting the Stihl 250. The common causes for difficult startup include a lack of compression in the chamber and clogged carburetors.
Stihl 250 Pros & Cons
Pros:
- The powerhead is only 10 pounds so it’s lightweight
- It’s easy on the body
- It runs quieter than the Stihl 271
- It’s cheaper than the Stihl 271
Cons:
- It’s only suitable for light cutting
- The max recommended bar length for it is 18 inches
Who Should Buy Each?
The Stihl 271 would be a better choice if you actually have clearing work to do. It has a larger, 50.2cc engine and can be outfitted with a larger bar. So it will be the saw to choose if you have to actually fell small diameter trees.
On the other hand, the Stihl 250 would be a good saw to use if you don’t have much experience with these tools.
The Stihl 250 is also a great little saw to have on hand if you process your own firewood or if you need to do some light storm cleanup.
Price Comparison
You can buy both of these saws directly from Stihl. The Stihl 271 Farm Boss will cost you $450 and Stihl sells the Stihl 250 for $400.
Weight & Handling Comparison
The powerhead of the Stihl 250 weighs 10.1 pounds while the powerhead of the Stihl 271 weighs 12.3 pounds. A lot of the weight will depend on the size of the bar you choose but with a 16 inch bar on both of these saws, the Stihl 250 is definitely lighter and easier to manage.
While kickback will have a lot to do with the type of chain you use, the Stihl 250 will pose less of a kickback threat as well. In the field, both of these chainsaws are easy to handle; but it should be noted that the Stihl 250 may be difficult for some people to start.
Blade & Chain Comparison
Both the Stihl 271 Farm Boss and the Stihl 250 come with an oilomatic .325” RM3 chain. The recommended max bar size for the Stihl 271 is 20 inches while the max recommended bar size for the Stihl 250 is 18 inches.
Power Comparison
The Stihl 271 Farm Boss comes with a 50.2cc engine and the Stihl 250 comes with a 45.4cc engine.
Efficiency Comparison
These are both gas-powered chainsaws. The Stihl 271 has a 16.9 ounce fuel capacity. The Stihl 250 has a 15.9 ounce fuel capacity.
Durability Comparison
Both saws have special features that protect the carburetor and they have similar composition as well. So they are both very durable overall.
Other Chainsaws to Consider
Stihl MS 170
The Stihl MS 170 has a 30.1cc engine and can be outfitted with a 16” bar. It’s good for light wood processing and delimbing.
Overall Score: 94/100
Check Out More Reviews Here:
Echo CS-310
This is another 16” chainsaw that comes with a momentary stop switch and a purgeable carburetor.
Overall Score: 94/100
Check Out More Reviews Here:
Husqvarna 120 Mark II
The Husqvaran 120 Mark II features a 38.2cc engine and an automatic oiler. It comes with a 16” bar and is a good choice for light cutting work.
Overall Score: 95/100
Check Out More Reviews Here:
Final Assessment
The Stihl 271 is the better chainsaw if you actually need to chop down small diameter trees.
The Stihl 250 is the chainsaw that you keep in your garage for firewood processing. Both are durable chainsaws; but the Stihl 250 can be difficult to start at times.
Besides, the Stihl 271 is only about $50 more so if you have the extra money, go for the Stihl 271 Farm Boss.
