Stihl 251 Vs Stihl 261 Chainsaw – What’s the Better Option?
Stihl is known for making reliable, long-lasting chainsaws. These design aspects are especially evident in their mid-size line of saws which includes the Stihl 251 and Stihl 261 models.
The problem isn’t choosing a brand. Stihl is a win-win if you’re looking for a chainsaw that will last a long time. The problem is choosing between models. Stihl produces a wide array of mid-size chainsaws so it can be hard to choose one.
And making the right choice really matters. You don’t want to be caught in the dead of winter with a chainsaw that can’t cut through hardwoods or one that is too big and beefy to operate safely. So to help you make the right choice, we have composed the following comparison review of the Stihl 251 Wood Boss and the Stihl 261.
Overview of the Stihl 251 Vs the Stihl 261
While both of these chainsaws occupy the same weight class, there is actually a noticeable difference in power when operating them. The Stihl 261 has a more powerful 50.2cc engine compared to the 45.6cc engine of the Stihl 251. If you slap a full chisel chain on the Stihl 261, it will cut through hardwoods like butter.
You don’t get the same high RPMs with the Stihl 251 unfortunately. While it handles any kind of softwood with ease and is good for around the house cutting, it lacks the brute power of the Stihl 261.
Stihl 251 Key Features
- Master Control Lever – With one simple lever you can control the starting throttle, on/off switch and the choke.
- Ergonomic Front Handle – The leading handle of the Stihl 251 Wood Boss is slightly angled to help the operator maintain leverage and control when cutting.
- 6cc Engine – The 45.6cc engine generates 3.0 HP and is suitable for light delimbing, pruning and firewood processing.
Stihl 251 Common Issues
No chainsaw is perfect and the Stihl 251 Wood Boss is not without its flaws. For instance, some customers have reported that the Stihl 251 loses power after a few uses which may indicate a spark plug issue.
Stihl 251 Pros & Cons
Pros:
- It’s great for cutting softwoods
- It’s handy for trimming trees
- Runs relatively quietly
- Very durable
Cons:
- Not as powerful as the Stihl 261
- Struggles with hardwoods
Stihl 261 Key Features
- Elastostart – The Elastostart design includes a shock absorber to reduce fatigue when starting the chainsaw.
- Decompression Valve – This is another feature that makes this saw easier to start by instantly releasing pressure in the cylinder.
- Adjustable Automatic Oiler – The oiler can be manually adjusted depending on the cutting conditions and bar length.
Stihl 261 Common Issues
The chain that the Stihl 261 comes with may be too dull to cut certain woods which can result in a smoky odor.
Stihl 261 Pros & Cons
Pros:
- It’s very powerful
- It’s lightweight
- Doesn’t vibrate too much
- Good for felling small-diameter trees
Cons:
- It has ome improper idling issues
- It’s more expensive than the Stihl 251
Who Should Buy Each?
It’s clear that if you need to buck trees or cut through dense hardwoods like oak and cherry, the Stihl 261 will be more useful. It is built for tougher cutting jobs and doesn;t struggle with hardwoods like the Stihl 251 does.
However, if you just need to cut some firewood around the house, the Stihl 251 is cheaper and better suited for this kind of light work.
Price Comparison
You can buy the Stihl 251 straight from the manufacturer for $380. The Stihl 261 retail price varies between around $600 and $700.
Weight & Handling Comparison
Believe or not, the Stihl 261 actually weighs slightly less than the Stihl 251. Of course, we are only comparing the base weight of the powerheads. The Stihl 251 weighs 11 pounds while the Stihl 261 weighs 10 pounds.
Chain & Blade Comparison
The max recommended bar size for the Stihl 251 is 18 inches whereas the max recommended bar size for the Stihl 261 is 20 inches. However, both chainsaws come with a .325” RM3 chain.
Power Comparison
The Stihl 261 has a bigger 50.2cc engine so it is more powerful overall. It can also take a longer bar which makes it more useful for cutting larger diameter trees. The Stihl 251 has a smaller 45.6cc engine and produces 3 HP (compared to the 4 HP of the Stihl 261).
Efficiency Comparison
Both of these saws cut efficiently but if you are dealing with hardwood, the Stihl 261 offers more efficient cutting.
Durability Comparison
The “Iintellicarb” technology built into the Stihl 261 which pulls air from the clean side of the filter when it senses a clog may ultimately make it more durable. However, both saws are built very well and feel very sturdy in the hands.
Other Chainsaws to Consider
Stihl MS 180
For even lighter cutting needs, the Stihl MS 180 offers 2.0 HP and a compact design. It weighs just a hair over 9 pounds and is great for delimbing small trees, pruning and cutting firewood.
Overall Score: 94/100
Check Out More Reviews Here:
Husqvarna 445
The Husqvarna is built very well. It should last for a very long time as long as you maintain it properly. It comes with an 18” bar and has an automatic oiler.
Overall Score: 95/100
Check Out More Reviews Here:
Stihl 271
The Stihl 271 Farm Boss delivers 3.4 HP and can take a 20” bar. It has the same low-emissions and anti-vibration technologies as the Stihl 251 and 261.
Check Out More Reviews Here:
Final Assessment
The way we see it, the only advantage that the Stihl 251 has over the 261 is price.
But don’t be confused: the Stihl 251 is still an excellent chainsaw that is sure to last a long time so long as you use it mostly for cutting softwoods and other light work.
But if you need the extra power and have the money to spend, we would recommend picking up the Stihl 251.
