Hi Mike, FYI the decibel scale is logarithmic which means that a 3 dB difference is equal to twice the noise level so your perception was correct the 400 was much louder. By the way I really enjoy your videos and hope you continue for a long time to come. Thanks Dave D from McKean
New to your page... Im a 67 yr old woman landowner 21 acres heavy woods, for 25 yrs. ,Had to switch to battery everything because I can no longer snap the pull starts. Right now using a kobalt 80v brushless battery 18 inch bar, I have Kobalt pole saw 40 v with 2 batteries, I have 2 Black and decker alligator loppers battery and electric ( one of the best tools they make imho) I have 13 20 v batteries because I use black and decker weed eaters as well, Im having to get another 80 V battery for the kobalt but before I do I wanted to check out what stihl was doing in this arena and happened upon your page... thanks for doing this demo I subscribed to watch what else ya got! Im really liking what Im seeing in this stihl... but theres other things to consider like $$$$... Im happy with the kobalts for now but theres always room for improvement when it comes to tools, ya gotta have the right tool for the job.
I enjoyed your comparison test Mike. I'm 78 and don't cut my own firewood anymore. So I sold my 2 Stihls, and accessories, and bought an inexpensive electric chainsaw. So far, I am very happy with it for the few uses I have for it. Now, I don't have to worry about gas going bad from sitting around for a year, and on rainy days, I can use it inside my woodshed to cut up anything I have laying around without the gas exhaust problem. So yes, IMHO, they have their place and should improve over the years, like better batteries, etc.
My local small engine shop recommends using the premixed, ethanol free gas. They said they've been able to let some engines sit for years without gas going bad or ethanol eating the lines.
@@dougtravins9624 Maybe you right in a sense, the all problem with MSA300 is the AP500S battery isn't up to the saw. Battery technology still light years a way for continuous professional work, other than that I fell very confident I can challenge any 50cc gas power saw with my MSA300.
I've been using chainsaws about as long as you are old. The industry has come along ways. I remember the first time I put my hands on a electric chainsaw ( 110 voltage ) !?! The friend that bought it over asked me what my thoughts were. My reply was your going to need two things first a really long extension cord when go to the woods and second plan on spending a week or so in the woods 🪵🤔🙃 About a year ago a very good friend stopped by with his wife and her new toy. A SKIL battery operated chainsaw and told me that at eighty years of age I need to retire my 6o+cc saw and get a SKIL. Well he left the saw and I tried it. I was impressed and now I own one.
I agree. Battery power has it's place. I've used battery powered drills since the early days and now find I have many different tools that are battery powered. Before that when doing trim work, I drug around an extension cord all day to power a drill or saw, etc. Now I find myself going for the battery powered tools even in the shop where there is electric. The batteries have come a long way!
Also, Mike I understand your point on the lightning. As a former Tesla owner, I found that the car was great, and I’m sad I sold it, and just ordered a new one. I had a truck the entire time, as I drive up to the mountains regularly, and like a winch, 4x4, higher clearance, extra space, and the bed. However, I found the Tesla was adequate for almost everything and had pros. For driving to work in the city, it was nice using auto pilot on the freeway, and reading emails ( I know…), and always waking up with a full battery, 20.+ miles of range, and never once going to the gas station during the week. Additionally, in California EV get to use the carpool lane, and can park in special places. I also discovered on the 3hr road trip to Tahoe, which I took it on occasionally, when I knew I wouldn’t need my truck, I wasn’t mad. Auto pilot is safer for certain, and I could pass every car with style, not that my truck won’t. I would always have to charge on the way up, not the way home. But, even on the way home we would be stopped for 20 minutes getting food, and going to the bathroom. And to charge its like 30 minutes, so you just enjoy your meal. The superchargers are typically near desirable food too. I really liked the way the car drove, and it is way safer than any other vehicle, in a crash, and with auto pilot preventing a crash. I just wish it had CarPlay, like my f350. Now, I only use my truck when working on a project, moving sleds or bikes, towing, or during crazy wether when I want a saw or tools, which I have more of in the truck, or for driving down sketchy roads, where I want better 4x4 and a winch. Also…the Tesla was phenomenal on snow, low center of gravity, good weight, no digging out tailpipes. I think that once they have a truck that has acceptable range compared to a current truck, and it can tow my boat around, then many more people will buy it, and will not laugh at it. For now, I like my truck and Tesla (soon again) combo, and love both vehicles a lot.
I take the point about ultimate range, but also, here in the uk, how often do we do 650 miles in a day? Not that often. So in some ways the lightning is a good choice. Certainly here in the uk anyway
@@richardpage1162 i agree…I think the majority of people don’t regularly drive over 200 miles in a day, maybe 4 times a year. And that is why it makes a lot of sense.
I was looking for a battery saw and most of them you have to buy the saw, battery and charger separately. I went to my local Stihl to purchase one and he said they are reworking their saw and I would be better off with the Echo. The Echo came as a package that included Saw with 18" Bar, Battery & charger. I am happy with this saw.
Hello! 😊 Chainsaw cutting speed is dependent on primarily two things; saw power and speed, and the ability of the chain and bar to cut thru the wood. That being said, to compare the actual cutting speed of each saw, a new chain, and bar of equivalent size, on each saw should be a control factor.
I have a battery chainsaw and rarely ever use my gas one anymore. I don't cut firewood with it, but use it to clean up downed limbs and take down small trees that need to come down, and I love it. I also have a Farmboss and my guess would be that the one you tested has a dull chain. Mine seems to cut a lot faster than that
Thanks for the comparison. Great job and I was impressed with the MSA300. I agree that battery saw will not replace the gas units but they are great for the quick and dirty grab and go type job when you do not want to wrestle with fuel. plus great for when you are climbing and cutting or in a basket trimming branches
But.....how long do you have to wait for the battery to charge compared to a minute or two for refilling the gas saw. Time is more important than green energy in my opinion
@@bparsons72007 It really depends on your setting and need. My lawn isn’t that big, so I can do with one battery for the entirety of my lawn. Easy. If my lawn were considerably larger, I’d go with a petrol-powered tool. But if I can use an akku tool efficiently, why not choose a greener route? Let’s not be myopic. There are many ways to go, depending on your needs and requirements. Both combustion and electric motors have their place-for now at least.
One thing about those battery saws that I appreciate as the years go by. The first start of then season on a gas saw can wear your arm out but not so with battery saws. More noticeable between gas and battery weed trimmers because they don't make those carburetors to last anymore.
Before I retired I spent 43+ years working on trucks and buses. Up until about 15 years ago all our power tools were air or corded. Now everything I use is Milwaukee cordless. Total game changer. I have sold all my air tools but a couple. The only thing I would say is that the bigger 1/2 “ cordless impact is bigger and heavier than the air equivalents, but power wise the same.
Yep, we keep one in the truck here in West Virginia too. So much cleaner and easier than a gas saw, and free to run on solar power. We even have a battery lawnmower to take to camp.
Mike - the Decibel scale is not linear - so a 3dB change is larger than you think - also the exhaust on the petrol chain saw is the other side away from the meter, try it with the exhaust facing the meter. I've got some Stihl battery kit it's all pretty solid.
Nice to see Stihl caught up to Husqvarna. Husqvarna has had a battery power chainsaw that cuts this fast for 3 years or more now. I’m a Stihl guy through and through and still keep my gas powered Stihls for the big all day jobs or ones where I have to wade into a creek with waders because batteries and water don’t mix. However I LOVE my battery powered saw because it never bogs like a gas saw until it’s completely dead and I get the same torque from start to finish but my battery saw with the biggest battery weighs much less than both this Stihl batter saw and even some of my lightweight Stihls. Only my customized 20 to 30cc saws weight as light as my Husqvarna which is just a tick over 6Lbs. With the right batter is pulls as hard or harder than my Stihl MS261 which is a professional saw. The trick is the chain, it uses a .325” mini pitch chain which is perfect for firewood and limbing. Brown in a BLi300 or a pair of BLi200Xs in the vehicle and you’re good to go. I’ve used it on quick Storm cleanup jobs with no problem. My only gripe is there isn’t an all in one jig for sharpening this chain yet like I use for my Stihl saws so I have to carry extra chains and single file sharpen each tooth on a bench back at home afterwards. I LOVE the all in one jig because I can reshaped the same chain in minutes on the tailgate while I also cooldown and get hydrated.
That’s a great tool. I think it would be great for trucks/ vehicles and emergencies. For many homeowners, they maybe use a chainsaw once a year or every few years after a storm when then need to cleanup their yard or get through their driveway/street. Gas saws are a huge hassle, and electric saws require long cords or generators if the power is out. This saw would always work, and has the power to cut through plenty, and can be recharged in a car or by a generator. Additionally, it is highly portable and has good features.
Mike I to said that battery saws weren't for me, but I bought one of Harbor Freights first saws 40 volt to use at my sawmill, it worked well so I got a pole saw figured it would run out of battery before me boy was I wrong it was still going strong, then Harbor freight came out with the Atlas 80 volt and 3 batteries and replaced the chain with Oregon chain, I could cut up a short bed pickup load of wood with 2 batteries and had third battery to cut up limbs with for cook stove. Now i'm looking at the Stihl also. They will never replace my gas saws but for quick or emergency use they are great just wish the price of the batteries were lower. This was a great comparison video. I am with you on the battery powered trucks, and that includes tractors recharge time and mileage makes them not worth it right now. Jla
I picked up a Ryobi 40V 14" saw primarily to take in the Jeep but find myself using it instead of my gas saw for convenience / no mixed fuel to deal with. The thing about your comparison that surprised me most was weight, I thought a gas saw would weigh much more than the battery saw.
Battery stuff has come a long way, I am in the Ryobi platform for power tools and for yard and garden into the 80v Greenworks and I even went as far as getting their electric 2 stage snow blower, and it works just as well as my Ariens did. The Greenworks chainsaw works pretty well too. What's nice is I have quite a few batteries now so when I'm out cutting I'll always have some on the charger and some ready to go.
I've got a MSA160 and MSA220. They have been fantastic saws for my purpose of clearing land for a future house build (and cutting logs to length for firewood as I go). I keep the batteries charged with 100% solar via on-site bluetti power pack and panel so the only consumables I have to worry about is bar oil and diesel for the tractor. I was hoping to purchase a MSA300 at the time, but they hadn't been made available in the U.S. yet so I went with the 220. That thing is a beast..I might have to pick one up "just because" LOL. Thanks for the video!
And how do you see MSA160 vs MSA220? Do you think you would buy both next time, is there need for both for you? Or one of them would do it, which one, please? :)
@@frantisek_heca I feel having both was a good decision. the 220 is more of a general purpose saw while the 160 is better for limbing and getting into tight places when clearing brush. If i could only buy one, i would go with the 160 for my purposes since it can do everything the 220 can (to the extent that bar length isn't a limiting factor) but just a bit more slowly since it has less power.
Lol im with you on the lightening. I also have 20v dewalt tools, but everything else is gas for me. I had an electric pole saw, but upgraded to the stihl combi system saw last summer, and I couldnt be happier with it. Great content. That 300 does the job if your into that sorta thing.
Mike, that's an ambrosia maple log. I know it's kinda small, but you might want to put any leftovers or others like that on the sawmill. The boards would be amazing. Angled cookies look great too.
wow, never would have thought the Battery saw would do that well, they have come a long way. You put it to the test, and I was impressed, thanks for showing us Mike... Going to have to look into to purchasing a MSA 300C battery operated Stihl.
Looking forward to getting by battery saw. Definitely worth it for the winter when I am having to keep a saw in the car /truck for storm damage. Not smelling the fuel all the time will be a plus. Used the Dewalt this last winter for that very reason. Worked great except for the bar length.
I definitely love the new stihl, I own3 battery saws and 3 petrol stihls, but only use the battery saws, especially better for those of us getting older.
For the typical home owner the electric saw is the best choice. It was hard for me to accept that reality but after owning both I rarely touch the gas saw. Battery technology has improved to the point to make gas saws irrelevant in otherwise commercial applications. Sometimes the power of a gas saw is just necessary.
We use a ms362 and jonsered 2265 for cutting boiler wood to heat with, but when we go to deer/grouse camp we only bring the 16" milwaukee saw with a 12ah battery, and it will cut two heaping ranger loads of fire wood on one battery. It's a great saw. They have their role, but not the answer to everything.
Hey Mike I agree; I don't see the electric replacing your gas saws but it is a good saw for it's niche. I thought you were going to compare the 2 batteries for cutting endurance. Great video. Thank you.
I would love to have the Stihl 300 but I went with EGO brand as I was already invest with their leaf blower and weedeater. Just hate having so many different brands of batteries to deal with. The EGO is ok for medium to light duty around the yard but usually I take my Stihl gas saw if I need to do very much cutting. Although, back about a month ago I used the EGO to cut up 2 cherry trees that blew down. One was 16” at the butt and the other about 14”. The EGO did fine. I always take it with me when I go to the farm just in cases there is something across the road....
That was the best video I have seen so far on the new 300c. Thanks for making it. However, as a small acreage owner I could not justify the cost (saw, battery, charger) of the Stihl 300c for my use when there are a couple other battery saws available that cut just as well and cost 1/3 the overall price.
Few years ago I hired a reciprocating-saw. You know, a blade that goes in and out. We took down ten trees using that thing (mains) with no problem. Hardly any saw-dust and really safe to use. The blade lasted forever. We were cutting trunks 10" and more (bit tricky but doable).
I have the first Stihl battery chainsaw that Stihl made. I have cut hundreds and hundreds of BIG trees down and up with it. It will last as long on one battery as a fuel tank of fuel on a normal saw. Nothing like it. Amazing torque. Agree. No stupid plug in vehicles will replace my diesels. But the battery Stihl has totally replaced all my gas saws. No earplugs, low noise (your sound test instrument is way too close for accuracy - everything is loud that close). But believe me, there’s no comparison. No stinking gas/oil mix, no gas, no mix oil, no exhaust in your face. Lightweight. Batteries are expensive but they last for years. Great video, great test, and great content!!!
@@cdalton3169 then why is their massive demand for electric trucks all over the place? farmers and ranchers don't like doing gas engine maintenance. the biggest demand for electric vehicles is coming from fleets, bus fleets, garbage truck fleets, maintenance fleets, and then private citizens that have a lot of work to do and don't want the inconvenience of gas. did i miss anything?? im a lifelong silverado owner and i use the crap out of my trucks. and i am first in line for an electric version. basically the only reason at this point to not go electric is if you tow heavy for long distances. and even that advantage is disappearing rapidly. within 10-20 years your statements will have aged poorly!
@@protovack There is no huge demand for trucks and tractors to do farm work. Your argument is a non-starter because you don’t understand Ohms Law. Farmers and ranchers don’t use gas engines. Many buses, cities, etc. are being forced to go this route because of regulation… not because they want a plug in vehicle. Sounds like you have talked yourself into a plug in truck. Best of luck with that. It will never pull what a diesel will (despite what you think), you will lose two hours on your trip because that’s how long it’ll take to acquire a moderate charge, and under heavy load that little fact of Ohms Law called current will eat your lunch. Let’s see how far you get by comparison to a diesel pulling a trailer of even moderate load. Wait until that battery needs replacing and the cost of the battery exceeds the value of the vehicle, which is already occurring. If you’re a closet, save the planet guy - that’s a non-starter too. You are pulling hundreds of amps off the grid to charge that vehicle. So, sorry - you’ll need the power lines and nuclear power to keep your plug-in running. And those batteries… nothing more nasty than lithium and cadmium. Most localities now are charging an added tax because you’re not burning road fuel so there’s no saving there either. Electric works for trains because weight is not a factor and they have massive diesel engines supplying variable AC to the drives. They get gallons per mile economy but they are moving 100 million pounds. You are not doing this with a battery vehicle. There is no efficiency. In fact, you’re hauling nothing and certainly not pulling anything beyond 200 or so miles and if you do very often those cells only have so many charge / discharge cycles before their capacity is reduced and will require replacement. You have bought into the false reality of pie in the sky electrics. You are being played. As far as the farmer, imagine that pansy electric tractor sitting out in the field with seven bottom plows in the ground and, darn Ohms Law, pulling so much current the batteries die. Can’t refuel the thing so you have to bring a generator out and burn diesel fuel to charge it for four hours to plow 20 more rows. Can’t drive back to the barn every time the batteries get low. What you can do is watch your neighbor with that big, efficient diesel plow his entire field while you sit there picking your nose trying to save enough gas for all the rest. It’s both comical and stupid at the same time. So your serve, battery man. Your mind is made up and so is mine. Best wishes to your battery powered future.
@@cdalton3169 i mean i already own an electric car that does 99% of my needs. battery power tools that do 100%. and i have a gas silverado that only does actual truck duty and has 30k miles in 10 years. my electric truck will do everything my current truck does. i don't tow heavy trailers thousands of miles, but its pretty obvious that someday there will be electric solutions. there are already electric excavators and front end loaders doing heavy work in europe and they are handling the load just fine. the only thing i will agree on is that there is no way electric can do long distance air travel, and it may never. But a heavy trailer? You can easily slap a battery and a motor underneath it and double your miles.
Great test, well done, surprising results in all factors of performance, never thought the Battery saw would be that loud, not surprised its that fast, its great looking, I'd buy one for sure. Like you say, a powerful saw inside the truck..... and no smell of gas. It'll never sound as good as a 2 stroke tho, and an empty battery weighs the same as a full one, I much rather walk the empty fuel can back to the truck at days end.
I have 2 of these in production for over a year now and we barely use our petrol based MS 271 anymore (only the 500i and 661 for the large work). It does pay off to have the newest AP500 batteries, the AP300 does not have the large peak currents
have to tell you. i have just began working up north at my new property (697 acres in Northern Minnesota) My plan is to make it a hunting and fishing dream come true for my friends and family to enjoy mostly. Anyway, I just put in my very first French drain, about 600 feet or so where I will be building 6 very simple cabins. YOU taught me how to make on your channel! Thank you so much for your videos! Though they have cost me an absolute fortune as I went out and bought most of the exact same equipment you use on your channel PLUS the 697 acres, That part isn't your fault though! Laughs!!!
I’m impressed with the run time on the 300, but by the time you buy the battery and saw you can getcha a 400 cheaper, but all in all very impressive how long the battery lasts! Great comparison Mike, thank you! ✌🏼❤️🙏🏼
Agreed; at first look, I was thinking I might have gone with the 300 had it been available when I bought my MS261 as they are similarly priced...until I saw the battery would be another $500 CAD! For that price, I would have gone with the 400 with a 24" or 28" bar. Happy with my MS261, but I can appreciate the benefits of the 300 as a firewooding saw if you can afford it. It looks like a great option for many.
@@jamesiversen Yes the main problem is the batteries cost, however I use the same battery in the Trimmer 135, on the MSA220C and sometimes even one the 161T, but yes buying the batteries feels like buying gold.
I think in this video you not got the really cutting time on the MSA300. I have one and 4 AP500S plus 4 AP300S batteries. The saw itself is great but is like a Mustang GT with gas tank in the reserve. Cutting oak with an 18" bar on my MSA300, on logs using about 80 or 90% of the bar 12 cuts and I am out of power on AP500S battery. Battery technology still kind light years away for this saw, this for professional use.
Very informative, thank you. I recently visited a local STIHL dealer and they kind of talked me out of buying a battery powered chainsaw (I already two of another brand, and yes, they are just enough for limbing and small trees), but after seeing your video, I am definitely going to reconsider. I am not a heavy duty user by any measure, so it looks like a very good middle ground for me.
I own multiple saws, and I can say that I find myself grabbing the battery-powered Stihl most times unless I need to fell a big tree. Never Knew I needed it until I had it.
Do these run a standard chain? Something like .325 x .050 that you might see on a gas saw that size? My 60 V DeWalt electric chainsaw is not terrible but I don’t like that it runs that dinky little chain that I can’t sharpen with my regular files
I have a Stihl MSA 200C battery saw. I keep it in my Gator all the time. Just so handy. I still have my MS 291. But I'm liking the 300C you have . I might have to upgrade my 200C. Thanks for sharing.
Interesting video Mike. That 300 is an impressive saw. I sure was surprised by how much faster it cut than the 271. But what surprised me most was how much it weighs, I did not think it would be that heavy. Heavy, but I would not mind having one. Iowa greetings.
Every 10 dB is a doubling in perceived loudness, so even a few dBs make a difference. I love my battery operated string trimmer (an Ego brand)...plenty of power and the 5 amp hour battery lasts as long as I care to use it... and starts every single time!
I have a corded Oregon 18" electric chainsaw, it was $100 on Amazon, I bought it to cut trees and limbs on my 1/2 acre around the house, it was really impressive what and how much it could cut and surprised the heck out of me, it cut limbs and things wider than the 18" bar was long. I had a huge silver maple over 4 feet across at the bottom, probably started growing around 1880 from my estimate, some limbs were 24" across and I wasnt going to pay $1200 to have the tree cut down and decided to use the Oregon. Last summer I cut thru a couple of 20" and 24" limbs and figured that was enough, but then this spring a large chunk way up fell in the dog's play area so I decided that the rest of the tree's limbs had to go, there were 2 more 20" and 24" limbs on it. The Oregon's motor burned up, yeah I was pushing it really hard and the chain a bit dull, so I bought another one and it cut those limbs down super fast, and then I used it to cut everything into smaller pieces for a co-worker to haul for firewood. He brought his gas chainsaw to help cut the largest pieces, it really reminded me why I hate gas saws- what an ear shattering racket!!! and then he ran out of gas, and then had to get more bar oil, and then the chain was dull, so he didnt get much cut and I wound up cutting all but the two biggest 24" pieces with the Oregon. If I regularly needed a chainsaw Id go with the battery MSA300 hands down!
Just bought a battery powered zero turn and weed eater. I have two lots for a total of 2 acres. No more fuel cans, no maintenance, no stink, and it's really quiet. If you would have asked me even 2 years ago I would have laughed at buying battery powered lawn equipment. I have looked at getting a Tesla but like you I still am not there yet on electric vehicles. Even for a third vehicle. Would love to be able to keep it full of "fuel" without having to go to a gas station but to use it for long trips would still be a PITA. Before anyone thinks it, I'm not trying to "save the planet", just save money and time skinning my knuckles fixing stuff.
Even a Tesla for long trips isn't that bad. The charging network is getting pretty solid. My buddy drives from Michigan to Florida 2 times a year with his Tesla Model S without issues. Charging added maybe 2 hours or something. The Tesla plans out your charging stops in its GPS for you.
Great review! I was wondering when you were going to test those electric saws out, it would be great to use if you’re cutting wood early in the morning or late evening and don’t want to disturb the neighbors.
I use my battery saw for covert little "logging trips" where I don't want to attract any attention (just collecting dead & fallen wood from areas of questionable ownership as I don't have my own property. Lol) . Gas saws can be heard from miles away on a quiet day......
I would most certainly go for a battery chainsaw if i was getting one, for 5 convenient reasons over gas and electric. 1) Reduced noise. 2) Elimination of fumes. 3) No engine maintenance. 4) No chord. 5) Easier and quicker setup.
Good comparison! Seems like the electric version would be better to store and travel in a trunk, especially in Texas where the temps get so high in the summer. I’ve had an electric lawn mower for years and have it in the garage, rather than a gas mower, even though the gas mower would be more powerful…
I've got a few 271 and they do great for general cutting. 20 inch bar and it does fine.. I use the flex volt dewalt battery saw because that's what tools i have... thoe I am Impressed sofar.
Thank you for doing the review on the 300 battery chainsaw. I was impressed with the amount of wood too. I am like you, not a battery fan but do have a battery drill/driver. Thanks for the review
That saw is legit. It was surprising to see it work. Mike, You look like you were getting ready for the Stihl Timbersport competition 😊😊. Truly a good video
Good morning Good people, from Ashburn Georgia, heading back from Talladega Alabama for the Nascar race. It's only 73° in the Florida Keys this morning.
I have the msa 220 and love it… but it does have its place.. small limbs and smaller wood it’s perfect.. like you said not replacing big saw.. but so nice to grab cut put down…
Boy I do like that log splitter. I’m like you on these batteries powered saw and the other. I have one weed eater battery powered an one leave blower. That’s it. Like you say they have their place.
Dear mike Thank you for your battery chain saw reviews... Very helpful but your thoughts please ref the stihl msa 300 i see most chaps protection is rated at 20..24 meters per second. Do you know of any chaps to provide protection up to the 300s 30 meters per second... Please help many many kind thanks..
Interesting comparisons. For some reason I thought you were going to compare the run time of the 2 different batteries to see how much additional usage the new battery would provide.
You need the larger AP 500 battery to get all 3 power levels, I found out only after I got home and tried it with the smaller AP 300 battery (only gives you ECO level). It doesn't mention it until page 43 of the saw manual, should be better explained, the dealer didn't know either as it just came out here. I traded in the AP 300 battery for the AP 500 (got 2) and away I went. Absolutely awesome saw!!!
I have a Stihl MSA120 Battery chainsaw here in the UK and it cost approx £350/$440 USD (with 2x 144Wh batteries and a charger. It's great for small logging (up to 12") and pruning jobs around the garden etc. but I find I'm reaching it's limits and battery life degradation is starting to affect work times. Just priced up the MSA300 here and it comes in at a hefty £1450 ($1816 USD) with an 18" bar and 2x batteries and a charger. Now however good it is, at that price I'm never buying one. A Battery alone is nearly £320 ($400 USD) that's just crazy money when you can get a petrol (gas) Stihl MS391 with 18" bar for £725 ($908 USD) and an MS251 for less than £600. Til the technology of the higher end units becomes more affordable, I'm afraid Hydrocarbons are still going to be burned in this household!
I had a Wen battery pole saw and I liked it because it was telescopic but it was made mostly out of fiberglass and in the sun I think was hard for it. While having it extended to the max i had a branch fall and catch it, then break off the head. Went to a Dewalt 20v but each time you have to take it apart and that is a pain. I do like it because of all the batteries I have. I would love to have the stihl gas powered pole saw but the price is ridiculous. My chainsaw i first bought was the stihl 170 and I cut a lot of trees and branches with it. So I started looking at battery powered chainsaw and there are a few of them on the market. I ended up buying a stihl 250, don't know much about Echo and husqvarna and frankly like to stay with one brand. I own a stihl 91 and 131 trimmers and they work for me.
Battery tools are great and have been for almost 25 years (late ‘90”s). I think it will take many years for cars and trucks to become as usable and convenient. The difference is the market was the driving force that made tools stay competitive and actually improve. Cars and trucks are being forced on us way too early and never will need to be very good.
Battery tech has come along way in and amongst all sorts of propaganda against it by the fossil boys. First of all, it doesn't have to be us or them as some propagandists want us to believe. There will be places where gas power works better and there will be places where battery tech works better. At 78 I'm loving my battery powered tools, lawn mower, hedge trimmer, string trimmer, chainsaw and blower so far mainly because you pick it up, pull the trigger and it just works, no pulling on a string time after time to finally get it to crank. No plugs to replace, no tune ups per se etc. I love them. I drive a prius hybrid which I just love. 500 miles in a 10 gallon tank. Tho it has an electric motor, it still uses gas to charge the battery or assist when needed. 10 years old and still runs like a top. Would not be for everyone, certainly not that fancy or powerful, but for us old folks it sure makes a difference at the pump lol! But hang on, there is more battery tech on the way, and you will then get your 1000 miles per charge that you want.
Batteries for electric tools have improved a great deal in recent years. As a home owner, I prefer electric tools for convenience, now that batteries will likely last through my jobs. Not planning on replacing my gas powered lawn tractor with a battery powered one though.
For my needs this would be absolutely perfect I don't cut wood or trees but that occasional blow down is certainly a need for one I'm currently in the market for a cordless weed eater
I have the Makita XCU04 36v chainsaw. I too was surprised how good it is. It is a good deal lighter than the Stihl and quieter too. From my use it seems to perform close to the Stihl 300 you tested. My Makita will do bore cuts & I have felled an 11" Maple with it. BTW, the decibel scale is logarithmic, so a 3db difference is actually 2x louder. Project Farm's test of elect chainsaws actually found the Echo and Dewalt Saws performed best. Makita was next. The Stihl MSA 220 C-B did not perform particularly well.
Hey Mike. lease keep in mind that decibel is on a logarithmic scale. Each 5 decibel more is equal to twice the volume. So the fuel powered one is much louder.
With an average sound range of 90-102 decibels, electric chainsaws can't exactly be called quiet. However, their sound range is 10-20 decibels lower than that of gas chainsaws. Because every 10 decibels represents a doubling of sound, this makes electric chainsaws two to three times quieter.
GOOOOOOOD MORNING EVERYONE OUT THERE IN OWTM VIDEO LAND!!!….Thanks Mike for taking the time & efforts to do the side by side review Bonus more split wood 🤑🤑🤑 Have a Day Hello Hunter 😊
I totally agree with the battery powered tools. IMO if all you’re doing is your own property maintenance up to maybe 3 acres then that saw with two batteries is plenty. You definitely need a gas powered saw if you plan on taking down a bunch of trees or if splitting firewood is part of your lifestyle.
Just got an electric chainsaw as well and I agree that they have their place. Still have a Stihl 291 farm boss as well and love it for larger jobs. I think that electric will eventually take over when it is proven and makes sense. I'm in line for a Tesla Cybertruck and it is the only vendor (at the point) that I would even consider an electric vehicle from. Not 100% sold on the Cybertruck, but I'm so far down on the list I'll have plenty of time to evaluate whether it is worth it. Supposed to have 500 miles range, which is significant. If it can't deliver that much range, it will just be an initial novelty. Keep in mind I don't 'depend' on my truck like you and you're very wise to wait.
The power laminate is probably just like dewalts new power stack batteries. Which rc vehicles have been using for years they’ve just found a way to make them more safe.
Well, that's impressive. Out in the woods w the 300 and two full batteries will get over a cord of firewood. Thinking of sound the saws produce, your F150 has a ginormous motor in it compared to a lawn mower. With today's technology, why can't they make lawnmowers quieter? You talked about how you weren't a battery guy. I used to boast loudly, that I would never need to carry a phone in my pocket! Dang! Great comparison there, Mike, that should help the guys fixing to buy a saw. Good to know. As always, great video, thanks.👍🚜🙏❤🇺🇲🇺🇲
There are already great battery lawnmowers out there. My next one will be battery powered. Its unbelievable how much gas these things consume in regard to how little work they do.
I just got a lawnboy durafore pro grade 2 stroke mower and love it. i dont like anything 4 turd stroke not even in cars/trucks. there is awesome 2 stroke DFI tech option for these. I dread buying another 4 turd stroke truck with no oil injection.
For someone like me who only uses a chainsaw occasionally that battery power unit would work for me 90% of the time. Saying that we have had two Hurricanes in the last three years that have had me using a chainsaw for a few full days in a row where a battery saw would have not done the job; so I have a gas saw . 41 degrees and cloudy here in Prince Edward Island Canada
Seeing the two conveyors in the same shot has me thinking how cool it would be to have a pile of rounds bucked up by the split force and the wolfe ridge. You and Mellissa running one and Levi and Christian running the other. 2 conveyors dumping in the same bunker.
Hi Mike, FYI the decibel scale is logarithmic which means that a 3 dB difference is equal to twice the noise level so your perception was correct the 400 was much louder. By the way I really enjoy your videos and hope you continue for a long time to come. Thanks
Dave D from McKean
Yes!
Thanks Dave never knew that about 3 dB being twice the noise, but it certainly makes sense.
You are correct. A 3 dB increase is twice as loud as the previous number.
Also between cuts you have no sound at all and that helps too.
Yes it's correct.
New to your page... Im a 67 yr old woman landowner 21 acres heavy woods, for 25 yrs. ,Had to switch to battery everything because I can no longer snap the pull starts. Right now using a kobalt 80v brushless battery 18 inch bar, I have Kobalt pole saw 40 v with 2 batteries, I have 2 Black and decker alligator loppers battery and electric ( one of the best tools they make imho) I have 13 20 v batteries because I use black and decker weed eaters as well, Im having to get another 80 V battery for the kobalt but before I do I wanted to check out what stihl was doing in this arena and happened upon your page... thanks for doing this demo I subscribed to watch what else ya got! Im really liking what Im seeing in this stihl... but theres other things to consider like $$$$... Im happy with the kobalts for now but theres always room for improvement when it comes to tools, ya gotta have the right tool for the job.
That is an $800 chain saw. Glad to see you are handling your own situation reasonably well.
Best wishes!
I enjoyed your comparison test Mike. I'm 78 and don't cut my own firewood anymore. So I sold my 2 Stihls, and accessories, and bought an inexpensive electric chainsaw. So far, I am very happy with it for the few uses I have for it. Now, I don't have to worry about gas going bad from sitting around for a year, and on rainy days, I can use it inside my woodshed to cut up anything I have laying around without the gas exhaust problem. So yes, IMHO, they have their place and should improve over the years, like better batteries, etc.
My local small engine shop recommends using the premixed, ethanol free gas. They said they've been able to let some engines sit for years without gas going bad or ethanol eating the lines.
@@robertm5969 That's cool, but I can use mt E-saw inside my shed in foul weather. No fumes. But, nothing beats a gas saw IMHO!
@@dougtravins9624 Maybe you right in a sense, the all problem with MSA300 is the AP500S battery isn't up to the saw. Battery technology still light years a way for continuous professional work, other than that I fell very confident I can challenge any 50cc gas power saw with my MSA300.
And you can install the blade upside down.
I've been using chainsaws about as long as you are old.
The industry has come along ways. I remember the first time I put my hands on a electric chainsaw ( 110 voltage ) !?! The friend that bought it over asked me what my thoughts were. My reply was your going to need two things first a really long extension cord when go to the woods and second plan on spending a week or so in the woods 🪵🤔🙃
About a year ago a very good friend stopped by with his wife and her new toy. A SKIL battery operated chainsaw and told me that at eighty years of age I need to retire my 6o+cc saw and get a SKIL. Well he left the saw and I tried it. I was impressed and now I own one.
Very impressed with that saw, no dirty carbs, messing about with fuel.
Good trial!
I agree. Battery power has it's place. I've used battery powered drills since the early days and now find I have many different tools that are battery powered. Before that when doing trim work, I drug around an extension cord all day to power a drill or saw, etc. Now I find myself going for the battery powered tools even in the shop where there is electric. The batteries have come a long way!
Also, Mike I understand your point on the lightning. As a former Tesla owner, I found that the car was great, and I’m sad I sold it, and just ordered a new one. I had a truck the entire time, as I drive up to the mountains regularly, and like a winch, 4x4, higher clearance, extra space, and the bed. However, I found the Tesla was adequate for almost everything and had pros. For driving to work in the city, it was nice using auto pilot on the freeway, and reading emails ( I know…), and always waking up with a full battery, 20.+ miles of range, and never once going to the gas station during the week. Additionally, in California EV get to use the carpool lane, and can park in special places. I also discovered on the 3hr road trip to Tahoe, which I took it on occasionally, when I knew I wouldn’t need my truck, I wasn’t mad. Auto pilot is safer for certain, and I could pass every car with style, not that my truck won’t. I would always have to charge on the way up, not the way home. But, even on the way home we would be stopped for 20 minutes getting food, and going to the bathroom. And to charge its like 30 minutes, so you just enjoy your meal. The superchargers are typically near desirable food too. I really liked the way the car drove, and it is way safer than any other vehicle, in a crash, and with auto pilot preventing a crash. I just wish it had CarPlay, like my f350. Now, I only use my truck when working on a project, moving sleds or bikes, towing, or during crazy wether when I want a saw or tools, which I have more of in the truck, or for driving down sketchy roads, where I want better 4x4 and a winch. Also…the Tesla was phenomenal on snow, low center of gravity, good weight, no digging out tailpipes. I think that once they have a truck that has acceptable range compared to a current truck, and it can tow my boat around, then many more people will buy it, and will not laugh at it. For now, I like my truck and Tesla (soon again) combo, and love both vehicles a lot.
I take the point about ultimate range, but also, here in the uk, how often do we do 650 miles in a day? Not that often. So in some ways the lightning is a good choice. Certainly here in the uk anyway
@@richardpage1162 i agree…I think the majority of people don’t regularly drive over 200 miles in a day, maybe 4 times a year. And that is why it makes a lot of sense.
Why do Tesla owners feel compelled to tell us about their cars no matter what the actual subject of the discussion is?
@@TroySavary because teslas are the best electric vehicles on the market, and Mike was discussing the ford lighting
I was looking for a battery saw and most of them you have to buy the saw, battery and charger separately. I went to my local Stihl to purchase one and he said they are reworking their saw and I would be better off with the Echo. The Echo came as a package that included Saw with 18" Bar, Battery & charger. I am happy with this saw.
Hello! 😊
Chainsaw cutting speed is dependent on primarily two things; saw power and speed, and the ability of the chain and bar to cut thru the wood. That being said, to compare the actual cutting speed of each saw, a new chain, and bar of equivalent size, on each saw should be a control factor.
I have a battery chainsaw and rarely ever use my gas one anymore. I don't cut firewood with it, but use it to clean up downed limbs and take down small trees that need to come down, and I love it. I also have a Farmboss and my guess would be that the one you tested has a dull chain. Mine seems to cut a lot faster than that
You did a nice job comparing the chain saws. It gives your viewers the pros and cons about each one. Stay safe.
10 minute commercial
@@hankkalb9267 who would you rather see.
A salesman or Mike.😂😂😂
Mike is more honest.
@@hankkalb9267 personal endorsement for the brand but these are his opinions and observations. He isn't trying to sell you on this.
The pros and cons with a 271 homeowner saw tuned SUPER RICH on top of it to underpower it? Lol, stop.
@@njkay0033 If you're this gullible you'll be cursing yourself on the deathbed.
Thanks for the comparison. Great job and I was impressed with the MSA300. I agree that battery saw will not replace the gas units but they are great for the quick and dirty grab and go type job when you do not want to wrestle with fuel. plus great for when you are climbing and cutting or in a basket trimming branches
Wow that's a sharp looking saw! I'll admit I've been blown away by the power of their battery tools.
Most definitely. I’m using their lawnmower and string mower and am impressed by the battery life!
But.....how long do you have to wait for the battery to charge compared to a minute or two for refilling the gas saw. Time is more important than green energy in my opinion
Also Stihl batteries and charger are quite expensive.
@@bparsons72007 It really depends on your setting and need. My lawn isn’t that big, so I can do with one battery for the entirety of my lawn. Easy. If my lawn were considerably larger, I’d go with a petrol-powered tool. But if I can use an akku tool efficiently, why not choose a greener route? Let’s not be myopic. There are many ways to go, depending on your needs and requirements. Both combustion and electric motors have their place-for now at least.
@@jefftaussig7373 that’s true.
I cant remember the last time i ran my gas stihl saws. I've only used my two Dewalt (20v/60v) saws for all of my wood cutting on the farm.
One thing about those battery saws that I appreciate as the years go by. The first start of then season on a gas saw can wear your arm out but not so with battery saws. More noticeable between gas and battery weed trimmers because they don't make those carburetors to last anymore.
Before I retired I spent 43+ years working on trucks and buses. Up until about 15 years ago all our power tools were air or corded. Now everything I use is Milwaukee cordless. Total game changer. I have sold all my air tools but a couple. The only thing I would say is that the bigger 1/2 “ cordless impact is bigger and heavier than the air equivalents, but power wise the same.
Yep, we keep one in the truck here in West Virginia too. So much cleaner and easier than a gas saw, and free to run on solar power. We even have a battery lawnmower to take to camp.
Mike - the Decibel scale is not linear - so a 3dB change is larger than you think - also the exhaust on the petrol chain saw is the other side away from the meter, try it with the exhaust facing the meter.
I've got some Stihl battery kit it's all pretty solid.
Nice to see Stihl caught up to Husqvarna. Husqvarna has had a battery power chainsaw that cuts this fast for 3 years or more now. I’m a Stihl guy through and through and still keep my gas powered Stihls for the big all day jobs or ones where I have to wade into a creek with waders because batteries and water don’t mix. However I LOVE my battery powered saw because it never bogs like a gas saw until it’s completely dead and I get the same torque from start to finish but my battery saw with the biggest battery weighs much less than both this Stihl batter saw and even some of my lightweight Stihls. Only my customized 20 to 30cc saws weight as light as my Husqvarna which is just a tick over 6Lbs. With the right batter is pulls as hard or harder than my Stihl MS261 which is a professional saw. The trick is the chain, it uses a .325” mini pitch chain which is perfect for firewood and limbing. Brown in a BLi300 or a pair of BLi200Xs in the vehicle and you’re good to go. I’ve used it on quick Storm cleanup jobs with no problem. My only gripe is there isn’t an all in one jig for sharpening this chain yet like I use for my Stihl saws so I have to carry extra chains and single file sharpen each tooth on a bench back at home afterwards. I LOVE the all in one jig because I can reshaped the same chain in minutes on the tailgate while I also cooldown and get hydrated.
That’s a great tool. I think it would be great for trucks/ vehicles and emergencies. For many homeowners, they maybe use a chainsaw once a year or every few years after a storm when then need to cleanup their yard or get through their driveway/street. Gas saws are a huge hassle, and electric saws require long cords or generators if the power is out. This saw would always work, and has the power to cut through plenty, and can be recharged in a car or by a generator. Additionally, it is highly portable and has good features.
Mike I to said that battery saws weren't for me, but I bought one of Harbor Freights first saws 40 volt to use at my sawmill, it worked well so I got a pole saw figured it would run out of battery before me boy was I wrong it was still going strong, then Harbor freight came out with the Atlas 80 volt and 3 batteries and replaced the chain with Oregon chain, I could cut up a short bed pickup load of wood with 2 batteries and had third battery to cut up limbs with for cook stove. Now i'm looking at the Stihl also. They will never replace my gas saws but for quick or emergency use they are great just wish the price of the batteries were lower. This was a great comparison video. I am with you on the battery powered trucks, and that includes tractors recharge time and mileage makes them not worth it right now. Jla
I picked up a Ryobi 40V 14" saw primarily to take in the Jeep but find myself using it instead of my gas saw for convenience / no mixed fuel to deal with. The thing about your comparison that surprised me most was weight, I thought a gas saw would weigh much more than the battery saw.
Battery stuff has come a long way, I am in the Ryobi platform for power tools and for yard and garden into the 80v Greenworks and I even went as far as getting their electric 2 stage snow blower, and it works just as well as my Ariens did. The Greenworks chainsaw works pretty well too. What's nice is I have quite a few batteries now so when I'm out cutting I'll always have some on the charger and some ready to go.
I have a 80V Kobalt saw. Love it for all the more I use it. No more keeping 2 cycle gas around and mixing.
I have a Stihl appetite on a Ryobi budget ! I really don't like the battery thing for cars but it definitely has its place in power tools.
Battery saw would be good for light trimming but gas is still the way to go for those long frigid days in the woods
I've got a MSA160 and MSA220. They have been fantastic saws for my purpose of clearing land for a future house build (and cutting logs to length for firewood as I go). I keep the batteries charged with 100% solar via on-site bluetti power pack and panel so the only consumables I have to worry about is bar oil and diesel for the tractor. I was hoping to purchase a MSA300 at the time, but they hadn't been made available in the U.S. yet so I went with the 220. That thing is a beast..I might have to pick one up "just because" LOL. Thanks for the video!
And how do you see MSA160 vs MSA220? Do you think you would buy both next time, is there need for both for you? Or one of them would do it, which one, please? :)
@@frantisek_heca I feel having both was a good decision. the 220 is more of a general purpose saw while the 160 is better for limbing and getting into tight places when clearing brush. If i could only buy one, i would go with the 160 for my purposes since it can do everything the 220 can (to the extent that bar length isn't a limiting factor) but just a bit more slowly since it has less power.
Lol im with you on the lightening. I also have 20v dewalt tools, but everything else is gas for me. I had an electric pole saw, but upgraded to the stihl combi system saw last summer, and I couldnt be happier with it. Great content. That 300 does the job if your into that sorta thing.
Mike, that's an ambrosia maple log. I know it's kinda small, but you might want to put any leftovers or others like that on the sawmill. The boards would be amazing. Angled cookies look great too.
There is a bunch of Maples in my far forty with that defect, I don’t have a sawmill so they end up firewood!
@@oldmanfred8676 that's too bad. They can have stunning figure and make great cutting and charcuterie boards. Have a great day.
@@tommyordoyne7461,
I’ve seen some cute things made of it. Turned bowls would be great.
wow, never would have thought the Battery saw would do that well, they have come a long way. You put it to the test, and I was impressed, thanks for showing us Mike... Going to have to look into to purchasing a MSA 300C battery operated Stihl.
Looking forward to getting by battery saw. Definitely worth it for the winter when I am having to keep a saw in the car /truck for storm damage. Not smelling the fuel all the time will be a plus. Used the Dewalt this last winter for that very reason. Worked great except for the bar length.
I definitely love the new stihl, I own3 battery saws and 3 petrol stihls, but only use the battery saws, especially better for those of us getting older.
Good for when you are up in the air and don't want to loose your balance while pulling a starter cord.
For the typical home owner the electric saw is the best choice. It was hard for me to accept that reality but after owning both I rarely touch the gas saw. Battery technology has improved to the point to make gas saws irrelevant in otherwise commercial applications. Sometimes the power of a gas saw is just necessary.
We use a ms362 and jonsered 2265 for cutting boiler wood to heat with, but when we go to deer/grouse camp we only bring the 16" milwaukee saw with a 12ah battery, and it will cut two heaping ranger loads of fire wood on one battery. It's a great saw. They have their role, but not the answer to everything.
Hey Mike I agree; I don't see the electric replacing your gas saws but it is a good saw for it's niche. I thought you were going to compare the 2 batteries for cutting endurance. Great video. Thank you.
I would love to have the Stihl 300 but I went with EGO brand as I was already invest with their leaf blower and weedeater. Just hate having so many different brands of batteries to deal with. The EGO is ok for medium to light duty around the yard but usually I take my Stihl gas saw if I need to do very much cutting. Although, back about a month ago I used the EGO to cut up 2 cherry trees that blew down. One was 16” at the butt and the other about 14”. The EGO did fine. I always take it with me when I go to the farm just in cases there is something across the road....
That was the best video I have seen so far on the new 300c. Thanks for making it. However, as a small acreage owner I could not justify the cost (saw, battery, charger) of the Stihl 300c for my use when there are a couple other battery saws available that cut just as well and cost 1/3 the overall price.
Few years ago I hired a reciprocating-saw. You know, a blade that goes in and out. We took down ten trees using that thing (mains) with no problem. Hardly any saw-dust and really safe to use. The blade lasted forever. We were cutting trunks 10" and more (bit tricky but doable).
Recip saws are brill often over looked, We bought down 5 30 Leyland with one cheaper than paying some professional? Team. 🇬🇧
I have the first Stihl battery chainsaw that Stihl made. I have cut hundreds and hundreds of BIG trees down and up with it. It will last as long on one battery as a fuel tank of fuel on a normal saw. Nothing like it. Amazing torque. Agree. No stupid plug in vehicles will replace my diesels. But the battery Stihl has totally replaced all my gas saws. No earplugs, low noise (your sound test instrument is way too close for accuracy - everything is loud that close). But believe me, there’s no comparison. No stinking gas/oil mix, no gas, no mix oil, no exhaust in your face. Lightweight. Batteries are expensive but they last for years. Great video, great test, and great content!!!
you know that an electric vehicle would have the same advantages
@@protovack No. An electric vehicle does not have the same advantages. Electrics work for some things and not for others.
@@cdalton3169 then why is their massive demand for electric trucks all over the place? farmers and ranchers don't like doing gas engine maintenance. the biggest demand for electric vehicles is coming from fleets, bus fleets, garbage truck fleets, maintenance fleets, and then private citizens that have a lot of work to do and don't want the inconvenience of gas. did i miss anything?? im a lifelong silverado owner and i use the crap out of my trucks. and i am first in line for an electric version. basically the only reason at this point to not go electric is if you tow heavy for long distances. and even that advantage is disappearing rapidly. within 10-20 years your statements will have aged poorly!
@@protovack There is no huge demand for trucks and tractors to do farm work. Your argument is a non-starter because you don’t understand Ohms Law. Farmers and ranchers don’t use gas engines. Many buses, cities, etc. are being forced to go this route because of regulation… not because they want a plug in vehicle. Sounds like you have talked yourself into a plug in truck. Best of luck with that. It will never pull what a diesel will (despite what you think), you will lose two hours on your trip because that’s how long it’ll take to acquire a moderate charge, and under heavy load that little fact of Ohms Law called current will eat your lunch. Let’s see how far you get by comparison to a diesel pulling a trailer of even moderate load. Wait until that battery needs replacing and the cost of the battery exceeds the value of the vehicle, which is already occurring. If you’re a closet, save the planet guy - that’s a non-starter too. You are pulling hundreds of amps off the grid to charge that vehicle. So, sorry - you’ll need the power lines and nuclear power to keep your plug-in running. And those batteries… nothing more nasty than lithium and cadmium. Most localities now are charging an added tax because you’re not burning road fuel so there’s no saving there either.
Electric works for trains because weight is not a factor and they have massive diesel engines supplying variable AC to the drives. They get gallons per mile economy but they are moving 100 million pounds. You are not doing this with a battery vehicle. There is no efficiency. In fact, you’re hauling nothing and certainly not pulling anything beyond 200 or so miles and if you do very often those cells only have so many charge / discharge cycles before their capacity is reduced and will require replacement. You have bought into the false reality of pie in the sky electrics. You are being played.
As far as the farmer, imagine that pansy electric tractor sitting out in the field with seven bottom plows in the ground and, darn Ohms Law, pulling so much current the batteries die. Can’t refuel the thing so you have to bring a generator out and burn diesel fuel to charge it for four hours to plow 20 more rows. Can’t drive back to the barn every time the batteries get low. What you can do is watch your neighbor with that big, efficient diesel plow his entire field while you sit there picking your nose trying to save enough gas for all the rest. It’s both comical and stupid at the same time.
So your serve, battery man. Your mind is made up and so is mine. Best wishes to your battery powered future.
@@cdalton3169 i mean i already own an electric car that does 99% of my needs. battery power tools that do 100%. and i have a gas silverado that only does actual truck duty and has 30k miles in 10 years. my electric truck will do everything my current truck does. i don't tow heavy trailers thousands of miles, but its pretty obvious that someday there will be electric solutions. there are already electric excavators and front end loaders doing heavy work in europe and they are handling the load just fine. the only thing i will agree on is that there is no way electric can do long distance air travel, and it may never. But a heavy trailer? You can easily slap a battery and a motor underneath it and double your miles.
Great test, well done, surprising results in all factors of performance, never thought the Battery saw would be that loud, not surprised its that fast, its great looking, I'd buy one for sure.
Like you say, a powerful saw inside the truck..... and no smell of gas.
It'll never sound as good as a 2 stroke tho, and an empty battery weighs the same as a full one, I much rather walk the empty fuel can back to the truck at days end.
I have 2 of these in production for over a year now and we barely use our petrol based MS 271 anymore (only the 500i and 661 for the large work). It does pay off to have the newest AP500 batteries, the AP300 does not have the large peak currents
have to tell you. i have just began working up north at my new property (697 acres in Northern Minnesota) My plan is to make it a hunting and fishing dream come true for my friends and family to enjoy mostly. Anyway, I just put in my very first French drain, about 600 feet or so where I will be building 6 very simple cabins. YOU taught me how to make on your channel! Thank you so much for your videos! Though they have cost me an absolute fortune as I went out and bought most of the exact same equipment you use on your channel PLUS the 697 acres, That part isn't your fault though! Laughs!!!
I’m impressed with the run time on the 300, but by the time you buy the battery and saw you can getcha a 400 cheaper, but all in all very impressive how long the battery lasts! Great comparison Mike, thank you! ✌🏼❤️🙏🏼
Agreed; at first look, I was thinking I might have gone with the 300 had it been available when I bought my MS261 as they are similarly priced...until I saw the battery would be another $500 CAD! For that price, I would have gone with the 400 with a 24" or 28" bar.
Happy with my MS261, but I can appreciate the benefits of the 300 as a firewooding saw if you can afford it. It looks like a great option for many.
@@jamesiversen Yes the main problem is the batteries cost, however I use the same battery in the Trimmer 135, on the MSA220C and sometimes even one the 161T, but yes buying the batteries feels like buying gold.
I think in this video you not got the really cutting time on the MSA300.
I have one and 4 AP500S plus 4 AP300S batteries. The saw itself is great but is like a Mustang GT with gas tank in the reserve. Cutting oak with an 18" bar on my MSA300, on logs using about 80 or 90% of the bar 12 cuts and I am out of power on AP500S battery.
Battery technology still kind light years away for this saw, this for professional use.
Very informative, thank you. I recently visited a local STIHL dealer and they kind of talked me out of buying a battery powered chainsaw (I already two of another brand, and yes, they are just enough for limbing and small trees), but after seeing your video, I am definitely going to reconsider. I am not a heavy duty user by any measure, so it looks like a very good middle ground for me.
I own multiple saws, and I can say that I find myself grabbing the battery-powered Stihl most times unless I need to fell a big tree. Never Knew I needed it until I had it.
@@TroIIingThemSoftly instant torque is nice
I have a Milwaukee 18v battery saw. I was impressed with how well it cuts, right from the start.
I have an Stihl msa 220 and your right about forgetting to check chain oil. That low level indicator will be great
The 300 did very well for a battery operated saw!! But it did surprise me !!
Keep Smiling On!!
😀👍👊❤
Do these run a standard chain? Something like .325 x .050 that you might see on a gas saw that size?
My 60 V DeWalt electric chainsaw is not terrible but I don’t like that it runs that dinky little chain that I can’t sharpen with my regular files
As the owner of a battery-powered Stihl (among others), I can say with confidence that they're faking impressive.
I have a Stihl MSA 200C battery saw. I keep it in my Gator all the time. Just so handy. I still have my MS 291. But I'm liking the 300C you have . I might have to upgrade my 200C. Thanks for sharing.
Interesting video Mike. That 300 is an impressive saw. I sure was surprised by how much faster it cut than the 271. But what surprised me most was how much it weighs, I did not think it would be that heavy. Heavy, but I would not mind having one. Iowa greetings.
Every 10 dB is a doubling in perceived loudness, so even a few dBs make a difference. I love my battery operated string trimmer (an Ego brand)...plenty of power and the 5 amp hour battery lasts as long as I care to use it... and starts every single time!
I have a corded Oregon 18" electric chainsaw, it was $100 on Amazon, I bought it to cut trees and limbs on my 1/2 acre around the house, it was really impressive what and how much it could cut and surprised the heck out of me, it cut limbs and things wider than the 18" bar was long.
I had a huge silver maple over 4 feet across at the bottom, probably started growing around 1880 from my estimate, some limbs were 24" across and I wasnt going to pay $1200 to have the tree cut down and decided to use the Oregon. Last summer I cut thru a couple of 20" and 24" limbs and figured that was enough, but then this spring a large chunk way up fell in the dog's play area so I decided that the rest of the tree's limbs had to go, there were 2 more 20" and 24" limbs on it.
The Oregon's motor burned up, yeah I was pushing it really hard and the chain a bit dull, so I bought another one and it cut those limbs down super fast, and then I used it to cut everything into smaller pieces for a co-worker to haul for firewood.
He brought his gas chainsaw to help cut the largest pieces, it really reminded me why I hate gas saws- what an ear shattering racket!!! and then he ran out of gas, and then had to get more bar oil, and then the chain was dull, so he didnt get much cut and I wound up cutting all but the two biggest 24" pieces with the Oregon.
If I regularly needed a chainsaw Id go with the battery MSA300 hands down!
One thing most convenient in a battery powered saw is the convenience of just pressing the button versus the pull start and then press of a gas saw.
Just bought a battery powered zero turn and weed eater. I have two lots for a total of 2 acres. No more fuel cans, no maintenance, no stink, and it's really quiet. If you would have asked me even 2 years ago I would have laughed at buying battery powered lawn equipment. I have looked at getting a Tesla but like you I still am not there yet on electric vehicles. Even for a third vehicle. Would love to be able to keep it full of "fuel" without having to go to a gas station but to use it for long trips would still be a PITA. Before anyone thinks it, I'm not trying to "save the planet", just save money and time skinning my knuckles fixing stuff.
If your electric stuff breaks down you won't skin your knuckles because you won't be able to fix it..
Even a Tesla for long trips isn't that bad. The charging network is getting pretty solid. My buddy drives from Michigan to Florida 2 times a year with his Tesla Model S without issues. Charging added maybe 2 hours or something.
The Tesla plans out your charging stops in its GPS for you.
Hello Mike , as life goes, most times I like your videos other times not so much . But 1 thing a viewer can always count on is your objectivity !
Great review! I was wondering when you were going to test those electric saws out, it would be great to use if you’re cutting wood early in the morning or late evening and don’t want to disturb the neighbors.
I use my battery saw for covert little "logging trips" where I don't want to attract any attention (just collecting dead & fallen wood from areas of questionable ownership as I don't have my own property. Lol) . Gas saws can be heard from miles away on a quiet day......
I would most certainly go for a battery chainsaw if i was getting one, for 5 convenient reasons over gas and
electric. 1) Reduced noise. 2) Elimination of fumes. 3) No engine maintenance. 4) No chord. 5) Easier and quicker setup.
Good comparison! Seems like the electric version would be better to store and travel in a trunk, especially in Texas where the temps get so high in the summer. I’ve had an electric lawn mower for years and have it in the garage, rather than a gas mower, even though the gas mower would be more powerful…
I've got a few 271 and they do great for general cutting. 20 inch bar and it does fine.. I use the flex volt dewalt battery saw because that's what tools i have... thoe I am Impressed sofar.
Thank you for doing the review on the 300 battery chainsaw. I was impressed with the amount of wood too. I am like you, not a battery fan but do have a battery drill/driver. Thanks for the review
I use one of these Stihl battery saws with the 300, it’s awesome!
Great comparison!, I could see a lot of home owners owning the cordless saw!. Morgans good day!.
That saw is legit. It was surprising to see it work. Mike, You look like you were getting ready for the Stihl Timbersport competition 😊😊. Truly a good video
Good morning Good people, from Ashburn Georgia, heading back from Talladega Alabama for the Nascar race. It's only 73° in the Florida Keys this morning.
The cross sections of maple core is really cool looking. Great video Mike.
I have the msa 220 and love it… but it does have its place.. small limbs and smaller wood it’s perfect.. like you said not replacing big saw.. but so nice to grab cut put down…
I like your idea of taking the battery saw to WV with you. What will be nice is it is all dry... won't have to transport gas.
Boy I do like that log splitter. I’m like you on these batteries powered saw and the other. I have one weed eater battery powered an one leave blower. That’s it. Like you say they have their place.
Dear mike
Thank you for your battery chain saw reviews... Very helpful but your thoughts please ref the stihl msa 300 i see most chaps protection is rated at 20..24 meters per second.
Do you know of any chaps to provide protection up to the 300s 30 meters per second... Please help many many kind thanks..
Interesting comparisons. For some reason I thought you were going to compare the run time of the 2 different batteries to see how much additional usage the new battery would provide.
You need the larger AP 500 battery to get all 3 power levels, I found out only after I got home and tried it with the smaller AP 300 battery (only gives you ECO level). It doesn't mention it until page 43 of the saw manual, should be better explained, the dealer didn't know either as it just came out here. I traded in the AP 300 battery for the AP 500 (got 2) and away I went. Absolutely awesome saw!!!
Same
@@scottpalsson8634You have ap300 or ap300s? It's a little more powerful than ap300 ( So it didn't do even mid level then?)
I have a Stihl MSA120 Battery chainsaw here in the UK and it cost approx £350/$440 USD (with 2x 144Wh batteries and a charger.
It's great for small logging (up to 12") and pruning jobs around the garden etc. but I find I'm reaching it's limits and battery life degradation is starting to affect work times.
Just priced up the MSA300 here and it comes in at a hefty £1450 ($1816 USD) with an 18" bar and 2x batteries and a charger. Now however good it is, at that price I'm never buying one. A Battery alone is nearly £320 ($400 USD) that's just crazy money when you can get a petrol (gas) Stihl MS391 with 18" bar for £725 ($908 USD) and an MS251 for less than £600.
Til the technology of the higher end units becomes more affordable, I'm afraid Hydrocarbons are still going to be burned in this household!
I had a Wen battery pole saw and I liked it because it was telescopic but it was made mostly out of fiberglass and in the sun I think was hard for it. While having it extended to the max i had a branch fall and catch it, then break off the head. Went to a Dewalt 20v but each time you have to take it apart and that is a pain. I do like it because of all the batteries I have. I would love to have the stihl gas powered pole saw but the price is ridiculous. My chainsaw i first bought was the stihl 170 and I cut a lot of trees and branches with it. So I started looking at battery powered chainsaw and there are a few of them on the market. I ended up buying a stihl 250, don't know much about Echo and husqvarna and frankly like to stay with one brand. I own a stihl 91 and 131 trimmers and they work for me.
Battery tools are great and have been for almost 25 years (late ‘90”s). I think it will take many years for cars and trucks to become as usable and convenient. The difference is the market was the driving force that made tools stay competitive and actually improve. Cars and trucks are being forced on us way too early and never will need to be very good.
Battery tech has come along way in and amongst all sorts of propaganda against it by the fossil boys. First of all, it doesn't have to be us or them as some propagandists want us to believe. There will be places where gas power works better and there will be places where battery tech works better. At 78 I'm loving my battery powered tools, lawn mower, hedge trimmer, string trimmer, chainsaw and blower so far mainly because you pick it up, pull the trigger and it just works, no pulling on a string time after time to finally get it to crank. No plugs to replace, no tune ups per se etc. I love them. I drive a prius hybrid which I just love. 500 miles in a 10 gallon tank. Tho it has an electric motor, it still uses gas to charge the battery or assist when needed. 10 years old and still runs like a top. Would not be for everyone, certainly not that fancy or powerful, but for us old folks it sure makes a difference at the pump lol! But hang on, there is more battery tech on the way, and you will then get your 1000 miles per charge that you want.
I got a good chuckle out of "you can cut a pretty good jag of wood with one" love the Pittsburgh accent keep up the great work morgans!
Batteries for electric tools have improved a great deal in recent years. As a home owner, I prefer electric tools for convenience, now that batteries will likely last through my jobs.
Not planning on replacing my gas powered lawn tractor with a battery powered one though.
Nice thing about battery saws is for people who are just doing occasional cuts, you just pick it up and cut. No cord pulling.
For my needs this would be absolutely perfect
I don't cut wood or trees but that occasional blow down is certainly a need for one
I'm currently in the market for a cordless weed eater
I have the Makita XCU04 36v chainsaw. I too was surprised how good it is. It is a good deal lighter than the Stihl and quieter too. From my use it seems to perform close to the Stihl 300 you tested. My Makita will do bore cuts & I have felled an 11" Maple with it.
BTW, the decibel scale is logarithmic, so a 3db difference is actually 2x louder.
Project Farm's test of elect chainsaws actually found the Echo and Dewalt Saws performed best. Makita was next. The Stihl MSA 220 C-B did not perform particularly well.
Good video Mike, could use one of those in the truck or four wheeler/side by side for sure. Stay safe around there and keep up the good videos. Fred.
Hey Mike. lease keep in mind that decibel is on a logarithmic scale. Each 5 decibel more is equal to twice the volume. So the fuel powered one is much louder.
With an average sound range of 90-102 decibels, electric chainsaws can't exactly be called quiet. However, their sound range is 10-20 decibels lower than that of gas chainsaws. Because every 10 decibels represents a doubling of sound, this makes electric chainsaws two to three times quieter.
That was an honest appraisal of STIHL gas versus battery an I found it to be very interesting Mike
Hope everyone has a great day 😊😊
😎👍
GOOOOOOOD MORNING EVERYONE OUT THERE IN OWTM VIDEO LAND!!!….Thanks Mike for taking the time & efforts to do the side by side review
Bonus more split wood 🤑🤑🤑
Have a Day
Hello Hunter 😊
Hi Jack
A battery saw is a nice addition to your arsenal.
Somebody set one of these bad boys out in the alley for trash pickup and it had a full charge. My lucky day
Good Morning Morgan Family 🤠
I totally agree with the battery powered tools. IMO if all you’re doing is your own property maintenance up to maybe 3 acres then that saw with two batteries is plenty. You definitely need a gas powered saw if you plan on taking down a bunch of trees or if splitting firewood is part of your lifestyle.
Just got an electric chainsaw as well and I agree that they have their place. Still have a Stihl 291 farm boss as well and love it for larger jobs. I think that electric will eventually take over when it is proven and makes sense. I'm in line for a Tesla Cybertruck and it is the only vendor (at the point) that I would even consider an electric vehicle from. Not 100% sold on the Cybertruck, but I'm so far down on the list I'll have plenty of time to evaluate whether it is worth it. Supposed to have 500 miles range, which is significant. If it can't deliver that much range, it will just be an initial novelty. Keep in mind I don't 'depend' on my truck like you and you're very wise to wait.
The power laminate is probably just like dewalts new power stack batteries. Which rc vehicles have been using for years they’ve just found a way to make them more safe.
Well, that's impressive. Out in the woods w the 300 and two full batteries will get over a cord of firewood. Thinking of sound the saws produce, your F150 has a ginormous motor in it compared to a lawn mower. With today's technology, why can't they make lawnmowers quieter? You talked about how you weren't a battery guy. I used to boast loudly, that I would never need to carry a phone in my pocket! Dang! Great comparison there, Mike, that should help the guys fixing to buy a saw. Good to know. As always, great video, thanks.👍🚜🙏❤🇺🇲🇺🇲
There are already great battery lawnmowers out there.
My next one will be battery powered.
Its unbelievable how much gas these things consume in regard to how little work they do.
I just got a lawnboy durafore pro grade 2 stroke mower and love it. i dont like anything 4 turd stroke not even in cars/trucks. there is awesome 2 stroke DFI tech option for these. I dread buying another 4 turd stroke truck with no oil injection.
Has the best of everything, that makes life easy.
Mike both saws would have to have the exact kind of new chains on them to make the best comparison.
For someone like me who only uses a chainsaw occasionally that battery power unit would work for me 90% of the time. Saying that we have had two Hurricanes in the last three years that have had me using a chainsaw for a few full days in a row where a battery saw would have not done the job; so I have a gas saw . 41 degrees and cloudy here in Prince Edward Island Canada
Seeing the two conveyors in the same shot has me thinking how cool it would be to have a pile of rounds bucked up by the split force and the wolfe ridge. You and Mellissa running one and Levi and Christian running the other. 2 conveyors dumping in the same bunker.
I like this side by side comparison, Mike. Thanks for sharing Buddy. Greeting from the Old Jarhead in WNC
Mike you did very good and thorough tests on those saws. I must say. I do love those Stihl chainsaws. Cool video. 👍❤️
The decibel scale isn't linear. Ex. Each time a sound is ten Decibels louder it equates to being 10x as loud