I found a 261 in a trash bin , when I was out scrapping metal. Put it in the cab of my truck tinkered with it when I got home , ended up putting a new bar on it rebuilt the carb and cleaning it up, that was 5 years ago and it still cuts great
Hi Mike I’ve been watching for several years. I’m 68 years old And I have a lot of traits similar to yours. I really appreciate you and your family. I have never written or read comments before. I just wanted to let you know I really appreciate what you did for the neighbor lady giving her the fire wood. I’m from barboursville Wv.
Mike, I like the fact you are willing to use your equipment to show me what they can do, the price difference and let me decide. Thanks for being such a stand up guy do not let the poor mannered stop you from being a great community contributor. Keep on keeping on sir. Prayers and best wishes for Eva for a fast recovery from her surgery coming up.
I bought the 261 based on your previous recommendation. I cut 5 cord a year for personal use. I've been happy and it's done all I asked of it. Lighter than my previous saw. The lighter weight is becoming more and more appreciated.
If someone doesn't like what they are watching then stop watching. But when you have a comment section good and bad comments seem to flow non-stop. And watching your videos Mike all I can say is with you giving your opinion of things you use can be very helpful to others. I could care less if you get discounts or free things as long as you give an honest assessment of whatever you're talking about. Mike and family thanks for all the videos you have given us access to and wishing you and yours a super safe and happy holiday and looking forward to more of OWTMs in 2022
That was a good test, Mike. I asked my Sunday School Class and Monday night Bible Study to pray for Eva's surgery. God be with you and your family Tuesday(tomorrow)!
Enjoyed the video ,nice comparison with the cost,sizes and bar length. I've been using Stihl saws since the late 70s and they still work fine. A year ago I purchased a 261 and very happy with it, also bought a smaller Stihl saw , I have pole saw,hedge trimmers, weed wackers and blowers all Stihl, some battery powered,it's all I buy and very happy.
Great information and very helpful as I look for another saw. Love my Stihl chainsaw and Stihl leaf blower. Another Outdoor with the Morgans video that will help me spend more $$! You get what you pay for in quality tools. I appreciate your clear and upfront approach. The same guys that will complain that you didn't include another brand of chainsaw are the same ones that know all the specs and can argue for hours why their Ford is better than a Chevy or a Dodge. Tools and trucks of all brands are all generally good quality, it usually comes down to what you know or have a quality dealer to support your purchase.
Mike, I like the side-by-side reviews. To me, it's a great way for a novice to see what the difference is between the products. I wish I could have seen a side-by-side comparison of the Wolfe Ridge 28pro and the WR 28proC log splitters. I think I would have made a different buying decision. I recently bought my first "pro"grade power saw (husky) and wow, what a difference in speed. Thanks for all the information you bring to the community - cheers
I bought a Husqvarna myself. I set out to buy a Stihl and the saws are close, but the Husqvarna had a lot less plastic in it. I'm sure both saws will do the job.
Good morning everyone. 41º in Kansas City now. Waiting for the coffee to brew while I watch the Morgans. Stay safe, be humble & kind and have a day. I'm 66 and will be 67 in less than a month, my 044 has lots of power and is fast, however the weight is a factor for me. I can buck more rounds with my MS261C-M than I can with the 044 due to it's light weight.
Morning Phil and good people, 68ﾟ in the Florida Keys, just finish cleaning the swimming pool. The wife and I had a great time at our annual toys for tots motorcycle run yesterday, lots of toys were donated. Have A-day.
Good morning Phil! Looks like you’re about 4 months younger than I am (you young whippersnapper, you! 😉). About 35F/2C and windy here in NCNC this morning but really clear and pretty out. Last night’s sunset was spectacularly red.
Mike, you have the unique skill to identify the various species of trees on your property. As I guy who never learned how to tell one kind of tree from another, a video on how to identify maybe the top 5-6 types on trees in your yard would be most appreciated. Greetings from Arlington, Virginia.
Good video. Couple things that need to be addressed. While the 500i is twice the price, it’s also twice the weight. That becomes an important factor when running it all day. Put long bars on all them and that’s where the bigger saws really shine. If you’re only going to have one saw, the 60cc stihl 361/362 and 562xp555 husky are the best one saw arsenal. The 50/70cc two saw plan works really good on most wood. You’ll always run across something bigger you’re equipped for. When I sold 80-100 cord a year, I used 70cc saws with 18-20” bars. Specifically husky 372xps and stihl ms440’s. Time is money. Lastly, no saw in the world is going to cut with a dull chain. Most people don’t know how to sharpen a chain correctly to where it cuts faster than a new chain and therefore buy bigger saws to help them force their way through it.
I don't cut a lot of firewood these days, but my 1993 Stihl 028 Super has been a trooper ever since I bought it. It can sit in the garage for long periods of time, often over a year, and fire off on the third pull. I did have to replace the carburetor a couple of years ago, but this saw was definitely one of the best investments I ever made.
I love my Dolmar 510. The engine is the power, the blade is what does the actual work! 64 link 3/8" .050 chain on an 18 inch bar and 50cc making 3.3HP, no choke, no priming bulb. Even after sitting for months, no more than 2 pulls. And 4 years ago before Dolmar was sold to Mikita was only $400. Not bad for a German made machine. And fuel.... Only TruFuel of any brand. Oh and keep the snow in PA, I despise clearing a 300 foot asphalt driveway by hand.
Makita has owned Dolmar for quite a while. Not sure how long but its been more then 4 years. I love the couple Makita saws I have. The DCS6421 I have is probably the saw I use the most of all of my saws. I think its a $750 saw but I think that model is discontinued now sure there is a new 64-65cc saw that has replaced it but I paid $250 for mine. Home Depot rents them and after a while sells and replaces. I got mine as a rental that looked brand new other then the bar painted orange assuming because its a HD saw and they do that to mark them. Nice 64cc pro saw its a bit heavy though. Pretty sure the bottom end is exactly the same as the 77cc saw so if I ever had to rebuild it I would just buy the bigger top end. I have 18, 20, 24, and 28 inch bars but I pretty much always just leave one of the 20s on it.
After that Browns loss to the Ravens last night, I could gnaw through one of those logs 🪵. Very informative comparison, Mike. Started watching you to learn about sowing grass seed in an area mostly shaded. Now watching multiple firewood channels. Yours is Firewood Plus. 😉
Forever Browns Fan, you're funny - Even though I live in San Diego, I've become a Brown's fan and like you said, I could have chewed through that 🪵 too, during last night's game !!
I'm in love with my 7 Y.O. MS261 ( no C ) with 16" and 20" bars. At my 4 score term it's perfect and especially with Canola bar oil 😜. Harvesting the 6-8 cords/year for full heating here in Maine off the back 40 it never lets me down. Stable mates: MS170 (spare) and Husky 338XPT top handle for climbing and getting into the tangle of blowndown branches. P.S. the compression release for me works. You'll find out soon! Those high end pro saws are heavy, big $$$, and slick.Fine tutorial guys.
Hey Mike, thanks for all the great content. I really like your setup and would find it super helpful if you could do a comparison video similar to this one, but focused on your other equipment. I know talking prices is frowned upon by some, but getting to know the functions/capacities/prices of your other equipment would be a great help for someone wanting to get into the business. Thanks again.
Good evening Morgan's from East Tennessee! I love my ms 261, bought to replace my 034, mainly because of the weight difference, and to update to a newer saw. The 261 is an all around great saw, but don't guess I'll be using any for the next 3-4 months, just had my rotor cuff surgery this morning. Tell Eva we are praying for her surgery this week, and wishing her a speedy recovery. 🙏 👍
I've got an MS261 and an MS461. The lower weight of the 261 is nice when I'm cutting up trees... particularly while removing the brush and bucking the small branches. This as holding the significantly heavier 461 "in the air" gets to be tiring pretty quickly. On the other hand, for felling trees over about 14" and bucking logs the 461 comes into it's own. The additional weight isn't much of a factor then as the wood is holding the weight most of the time. Also, because the 461 cuts faster I spend less time holding the saw period than I would with the 261. Interestingly enough, for any given job the 461 doesn't seem to use as much bar oil or fuel as the 261 because it gets the job done faster. They both have their place and I wouldn't want to go back to having just one saw like when I started out with an MS271. The 271 was a fine saw for most cutting tasks but as I got involved with maintaining rail trails and performing timber stand improvement and wildlife habitat development the pro saws made a lot more sense.
Mike I like what you’re doing, the heck with what the non-sayers say. You’re very informative to a lot of people, that’s what counts. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Eva and her surgery this week, God speed Eva.
greetings mike (melissa); i appreciate the way yall do things and the "i do it this way" attitude. i am sorry to say that there are so many people that are filled with negativity to the extent that they cannot enjoy life. please do not let their comments deter yall from maintaining your way of life. may God richly bless your household, home and inhabitants.....................g
Good morning Mike. Really appreciate your comparison video for the three different sizes of saws. Gives a person an idea what he’s looking for. It’s up to the individuals to choose Ford/Chevy/Dodge . Thanks for sharing with us. You all stay safe and keep smiling for Eva . We are all with you folks and behind your family! Fred. 🙏🏻🙏🏻👍🏻👍🏻👏🏻👏🏻✋🏻✋🏻👊🏻👊🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Good morning Mike. Great video. I have an ms 180 that i use to cut firewood for my own use, not to sell. Its a great little saw. One thing you should have talked about is the importance of using the Stihl pre mixed fuel. Makes it run better and engine will last longer. Tell Eva she is in my prayers, please keep us informed.
I have an MS180 that I use for trim work around fences. It’s quite a bit lighter than Dad’s old Homelite XL12, as I re-learned when I caught some old rusty wire and boogered up my chain on the Stihl about an hour before I was done! The XL12 is about 50% more of everything - hp, bar, and weight. That last hour cutting limbs from ground level to eye level just about finished me off!
Mike and Melissa, as a retired ex She'll Oil Manager in what was called Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) I have gotta compliment you on the GREAT way you maintain ALL your equipment !! All are well maintained, serviced and cleaned regularly !! That's what will keep you running for many years. As I spend a lot of time on TH-cam I have seen how badly maintained other people's equipment is - so it's no surprise that some are struggling !! I cannot over emphasize the importance of REGULAR oil changes and lubrication !! Have a GREAT day, EVERYONE !!
Stihl mix oil tends to clog up the spark arrestors. It doesn't burn completely unless you run your machines wide open. It's especially bad in weed eaters and leaf blowers.
@@timkopp2204 Thanx for that info Tim, i always try to run saw wide open. Only use premix in saw, too expensive to run in every thing. Dont own a Stihl leaf blower.
I have a Stihl 032 that I purchased in around 1978, runs great, altho I don't use it that much anymore. Fired it up last week to cut up some limbs. I always liked full skip chain, less filling and I think it cuts faster. I liked the side by side comparison!
Hi Mike, I got the 661 about a year ago. I mainly use it for my portable saw mill. It's a beast but I would not like this to be my only saw. I run battery saws for the smaller stuff. No fumes, no start/stop and the torque is impressive. I guess every job has its best suitable saw. Greetings from Denmark.
Was gonna try gnawing through a 16" log with my teeth, and timing it, but figured that'd result in a more than $1600 dental bill, so opted for the MS 500i instead. Christmas present for the wife! :)
Made me laugh, split and stacked my share of firewood for my father, back in the day. Used to have a shed that covered and seasoned nearly twelve cord of wood. Enjoy watching Mike, love the woodbin.
Good morning from 37 degree Spartanburg. Very cool video. 3 chainsaws running at one time, good coffee, quite time in the morning out here in the country. It couldn't be a better morning. Thanks Mike. Have a blessed day.
I’ve watched you guys almost since the beginning. I look forward to see you every day like you are my favorite episode on tv. Which I don’t watch tv bye the way. The way you compared these saws was awesome. You did good. My name is Milt Gerds from Port Huron Michigan. Keep up the good work. And like I said before, your living my dream life.
Now That is a good TH-cam video. It’s got straight forward chainsaw performance and pricing from an experienced wood cutter. Ok it’s not a controlled laboratory test, but that level of precision is really not needed for the average chain saw user. Solid information- nice video Mike. I’m getting the 261.
Mike, I really didn't know there was such a difference within the brand. This was an interesting test! Doing a ton of firewood, that would save you a significant amount of time.
Great comparison video of the different saws. But my favorite part - 'I don't care what you buy, or don't buy. I don't care if you gnaw through it with your teeth'. Some people have brand loyalty for different products, myself included - I like Honda lawnmowers and Kubota equipment. But you keep it real (like you do in all your videos). This is what we're doing - agree or disagree - doesn't matter to me Love that! 😀
I think the 261 looks really impressive. I've been happy with the 271 and the 290 that I have. But the 261 looks, like you say, FASTER! Thanks for the great video. - Chad
Mike, thanks for doing such a wonderful comparison on the saws. If I was currently debating over which one to buy, then I just got some good input from a trusted, knowledgeable friend, while eating my breakfast.
Just walked out of Stihl dealer. Got 2 saws for new property. Stihl MS261 and 400 in stock. He laughed at me when I asked about 500i. On back order and probably be Julyy 2022 at the earliest. Got one reserved when he gets one. I hope your snow melt doesn't turn to mud. Stay warm and safe, and see you on the next video. PS ; Wife and I put Eva on the Church Prayer List. Hope everything goes well with her surgery.
This was an excellent video Mike! The side-by-side review was extremely informative! Keep them coming! We love following your journey! We are praying today for the hands of Eva's surgery today and that she has an excellent outcome and speedy recovery!
Against all odds . Mike do what you do, the way you do it. Every time I’ve tried to do something like start my own business ( many times ) I’ve succumbed to the Negative Nellies that seem to sprout like trees. I appreciate what you are doing. Keep doing it your way. No shoulda coulda woulda. Prayers for Eva’s surgery
Finally, I've been waiting for this kind of chainsaw review. Mike you nailed this one. Same brand but different cc and cost. You couldn't have got it more right. Thank you and keep the video's coming
Mike, this was a great video. You can look at the saws in the store, read all the stats on each one but putting them to the wood is what counts. It all comes down to how much money you want to spend and how much work you want to get done. Thanks for taking the time to do the demo.
Love it!!! “I don’t care if you naw through the wood with your teeth…. You can take that information or leave it, I don’t care”. Sometimes there are people that will say something negative instead of keeping it to themselves. This might be Mike Morgan sending a message to those folks. You make amazing videos and I’ve watched you since almost the beginning. I feel poorly for those folks that have to be negative. Be positive and give The Morgan’s a high five🙌 for what they do - provide excellent content and put in a lot of hard work. Good for you Mike Morgan, good for you sir!
I finally got a Pro saw (MS241) after years of the MS290 Farm Boss, and some other models. I'm still breaking it in as we don't use much firewood in Florida...it's mainly a farm saw for fencen line cleanup. I like it because it's lightweight...it handles a 18" bar pretty good but 20" would be too much. That 500i is such a stud!
Great points. The flip side that you touched on is the saw weights which seem small until you are at the 6-8 hour mark of using them for the day. I fully agree it's great to have options to choose from for different applications. As far as the brand; go with the best ( insert your individual opinion here) you can afford & has a strong service and repair network in your area, they all break down.
Been awhile since I have cut any firewood! Back in the day ( 1969-1985 ) I cut a lot of firewood. I cut my Dad’s firewood and then when I moved out with my wife cut mine too! Had a couple different saws during those years including a McCulogh, Homelite, Husquvarna and Stihl. I am sure spelled wrong. Used a double sided axe too most of the time till I splurged and got myself a 16 lb. Wood splitter. That was around 6-10 cord of wood a year. We live in the south so was spared little there. All of this new machinery would have made it so much easier however that wasn’t even a thought back then. In my opinion the Husky was quicker but the Stihl was more dependable. Both were great saws tho.
I have the ms261 and 2 500i 20" on both i also have a 28" bar on one of the 500i that 20" light bar really rip's on the 500i ! i really appreciate your vids i watch them for all the info you give well done! i also have the same wolfridge splitter you have!
I find it easier carrying and working with the 261 for 8 hrs. or more a day. It is a fast cutting saw with even a 20 inch bar and not so tiring on an old logger.
No, it's not a Stihl commercial. But it is something that interests me. You have a wide variety of subjects for your videos and that's why I watch them! On top of that, you do an excellent job. I generally watch TH-cam when I come in for coffee in the morning. Your videos are the first ones I watch. Perfect length, perfect content, almost perfect personalities (didn't want your head to get too big). Just keep on doing what you're doing and I'll keep watching. I'm keeping Eva in my prayers. God bless her and your entire family.
Great real-world test. I think the 261 deserves a place in everyone's stable that cuts trees or firewood much. Light equals might and there aren't many (any?) stock options lighter with as much power. For the bigger saw in most people's two saw combo, have you thought about testing a 461 or 462? Probably not as fast as the 500, but likely very close in speed with a lower cost.
Mike I see your at the point you speak your mind, good for you . We have a lot of negative people out there, that don’t have nothing better to do but make bad comments.prayers for Eva
👍🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🗽🙏🏻 Enjoyed! Snow's beautiful! Mike playing salesman today, my Husqvarna 440 with 18" bar under $300 bucks cuts trees up to 30"+! Stihl is a good saw, Husky's are good saws in fact I've got an old Poulan 16" that cuts great....the key is the chainsaw must be sharp and well maintained and it will get the job done regardless of brand name. You gotta clean the oil pump, take the needle bearing off and grease it, clean the bar, clean the air filter, muffler decarboned, etc., etc. Mike your saws must get new bars often....they always look brand new and the lettering is always right side up. (Some won't understand that). Beautiful sun shiny day in East TX, mid seventies. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 for Eva👍
Mike, great video. If my 034 ever dies I'll be getting a 261 because weight is important to me and I only cut 5 or so cords a year. Also, I just installed Simplisafe and used your link. Easy setup but 6-8 week backorder on the outdoor cameras. Don't focus on the haters.
Good afternoon everyone !! I have a few cheap Poulan saw that i use for my firewood . They cut ok but at age 79 , I can't justify buying a new expensive saw since I was diagnosed with spinal stenosis and a pinched sciatic nerve . I don't know how much longer i will be cutting firewood . Keeping Eva and Hunter in my prayers and the rest of the Morgan clan as well. Have a day !! Ps Really enjoy your informative videos , Thanks !!
Hello Mike&Melissa! Yrs ago everybody had 041 Stihls my Dad ran them for yrs! Then i had had one good chainsaw tough Reliable heavy by today saws! Thx for showing ur 3 saws! 👍🇺🇸🦌
Dang, snow already huh? Lucky you! Still nothing yet here in Springfield, Missouri. Really mild and warm days so far. Rocking the Stihl MS261 here. 20" bar. Haven't needed anything more.
Hey Mike. Thanks for the comparison. I thought the 500i would be fastest, but I didn't realize it would be by that much. You run that all day and it would be a huge amount of extra cuts. Thanks again.
I like that you pointed out the application of the saw sizefor your needs . I’m running a couple of 40 year old Sthils, 024 and a 030 and for my needs they are plenty powerful. The 024 is my every day saw, nice and light, 030 is for the bigger trees. Have a day!
I own all 3 of these saws and love each of them. They have their own purpose for which they were designed, and they far exceed any saw that I’ve had in the past. Great content 👍🏻
Hope everything comes out well with your daughter Eva. Hope she recovers well and quickly after surgery. Also love your videos and look forward for more in the future.
Mike, I like these side-by-side comparisons you do. And I totally agree on price vs. performance. I have an MS 261 & a Farm Boss, plus an old Homelite. For me, a guy who cuts up 3-4 cords of wood per year (mostly Western Red Cedar, Doug Fir, Alder & Madrone) plus dropping a few trees per year, that is plenty of saw power. It might take me a bit longer, but I'm not in a race!
@@hburns16 Im thinking either selling the 271 and getting 261 cm, as I have high end .325 bars and chains or straight up buy a 500i and just keep the 271, have 2 saws. Money is not an issue but I feel like if I get the 500i, the 271 will be just left unused.
I found a 261 in a trash bin , when I was out scrapping metal. Put it in the cab of my truck tinkered with it when I got home , ended up putting a new bar on it rebuilt the carb and cleaning it up, that was 5 years ago and it still cuts great
That's my dream!
That’s a great score!
Mike & Melissa, we’re all praying for a positive outcome for your beautiful daughter Eva! 🙏👍👏
Hi Mike
I’ve been watching for several years. I’m 68 years old And I have a lot of traits similar to yours. I really appreciate you and your family. I have never written or read comments before. I just wanted to let you know I really appreciate what you did for the neighbor lady giving her the fire wood. I’m from barboursville Wv.
Mike, I like the fact you are willing to use your equipment to show me what they can do, the price difference and let me decide. Thanks for being such a stand up guy do not let the poor mannered stop you from being a great community contributor. Keep on keeping on sir. Prayers and best wishes for Eva for a fast recovery from her surgery coming up.
I bought the 261 based on your previous recommendation. I cut 5 cord a year for personal use.
I've been happy and it's done all I asked of it. Lighter than my previous saw.
The lighter weight is becoming more and more appreciated.
Good morning Morgans! Keeping our thoughts and prayers in support of daughter Eva this week. She’s such a bright light.
If someone doesn't like what they are watching then stop watching. But when you have a comment section good and bad comments seem to flow non-stop. And watching your videos Mike all I can say is with you giving your opinion of things you use can be very helpful to others. I could care less if you get discounts or free things as long as you give an honest assessment of whatever you're talking about. Mike and family thanks for all the videos you have given us access to and wishing you and yours a super safe and happy holiday and looking forward to more of OWTMs in 2022
That was a good test, Mike. I asked my Sunday School Class and Monday night Bible Study to pray for Eva's surgery. God be with you and your family Tuesday(tomorrow)!
Enjoyed the video ,nice comparison with the cost,sizes and bar length. I've been using Stihl saws since the late 70s and they still work fine. A year ago I purchased a 261 and very happy with it, also bought a smaller Stihl saw , I have pole saw,hedge trimmers, weed wackers and blowers all Stihl, some battery powered,it's all I buy and very happy.
Great information and very helpful as I look for another saw. Love my Stihl chainsaw and Stihl leaf blower. Another Outdoor with the Morgans video that will help me spend more $$! You get what you pay for in quality tools. I appreciate your clear and upfront approach. The same guys that will complain that you didn't include another brand of chainsaw are the same ones that know all the specs and can argue for hours why their Ford is better than a Chevy or a Dodge. Tools and trucks of all brands are all generally good quality, it usually comes down to what you know or have a quality dealer to support your purchase.
Mike, I like the side-by-side reviews. To me, it's a great way for a novice to see what the difference is between the products. I wish I could have seen a side-by-side comparison of the Wolfe Ridge 28pro and the WR 28proC log splitters. I think I would have made a different buying decision. I recently bought my first "pro"grade power saw (husky) and wow, what a difference in speed. Thanks for all the information you bring to the community - cheers
Thanks Both Bob, have a great day
I bought a Husqvarna myself. I set out to buy a Stihl and the saws are close, but the Husqvarna had a lot less plastic in it. I'm sure both saws will do the job.
Good morning everyone. 41º in Kansas City now. Waiting for the coffee to brew while I watch the Morgans. Stay safe, be humble & kind and have a day. I'm 66 and will be 67 in less than a month, my 044 has lots of power and is fast, however the weight is a factor for me. I can buck more rounds with my MS261C-M than I can with the 044 due to it's light weight.
Morning Phil and good people, 68ﾟ in the Florida Keys, just finish cleaning the swimming pool. The wife and I had a great time at our annual toys for tots motorcycle run yesterday, lots of toys were donated. Have A-day.
Morning Phil
Good morning Phil! Hope you had a great weekend!
Good morning Phil! Looks like you’re about 4 months younger than I am (you young whippersnapper, you! 😉). About 35F/2C and windy here in NCNC this morning but really clear and pretty out. Last night’s sunset was spectacularly red.
Brothers 😊👍
Mike, you have the unique skill to identify the various species of trees on your property. As I guy who never learned how to tell one kind of tree from another, a video on how to identify maybe the top 5-6 types on trees in your yard would be most appreciated. Greetings from Arlington, Virginia.
Good video. Couple things that need to be addressed. While the 500i is twice the price, it’s also twice the weight. That becomes an important factor when running it all day.
Put long bars on all them and that’s where the bigger saws really shine.
If you’re only going to have one saw, the 60cc stihl 361/362 and 562xp555 husky are the best one saw arsenal. The 50/70cc two saw plan works really good on most wood. You’ll always run across something bigger you’re equipped for.
When I sold 80-100 cord a year, I used 70cc saws with 18-20” bars. Specifically husky 372xps and stihl ms440’s. Time is money.
Lastly, no saw in the world is going to cut with a dull chain. Most people don’t know how to sharpen a chain correctly to where it cuts faster than a new chain and therefore buy bigger saws to help them force their way through it.
I don't cut a lot of firewood these days, but my 1993 Stihl 028 Super has been a trooper ever since I bought it. It can sit in the garage for long periods of time, often over a year, and fire off on the third pull. I did have to replace the carburetor a couple of years ago, but this saw was definitely one of the best investments I ever made.
I have wood boss 028 from 1985. Runs good. But the new 361 is faster.
This saw comparison is exactly what I have been looking for! Thanks Mike - really appreciate it
I love my Dolmar 510. The engine is the power, the blade is what does the actual work! 64 link 3/8" .050 chain on an 18 inch bar and 50cc making 3.3HP, no choke, no priming bulb. Even after sitting for months, no more than 2 pulls. And 4 years ago before Dolmar was sold to Mikita was only $400. Not bad for a German made machine. And fuel.... Only TruFuel of any brand. Oh and keep the snow in PA, I despise clearing a 300 foot asphalt driveway by hand.
Can we interest you in a snow plow?
@@andhisband funny
Makita acquired Dolmar in 1991.
Thank you for informing me. I still love my Dolmar!
Makita has owned Dolmar for quite a while. Not sure how long but its been more then 4 years. I love the couple Makita saws I have. The DCS6421 I have is probably the saw I use the most of all of my saws. I think its a $750 saw but I think that model is discontinued now sure there is a new 64-65cc saw that has replaced it but I paid $250 for mine. Home Depot rents them and after a while sells and replaces. I got mine as a rental that looked brand new other then the bar painted orange assuming because its a HD saw and they do that to mark them. Nice 64cc pro saw its a bit heavy though. Pretty sure the bottom end is exactly the same as the 77cc saw so if I ever had to rebuild it I would just buy the bigger top end. I have 18, 20, 24, and 28 inch bars but I pretty much always just leave one of the 20s on it.
After that Browns loss to the Ravens last night, I could gnaw through one of those logs 🪵. Very informative comparison, Mike. Started watching you to learn about sowing grass seed in an area mostly shaded. Now watching multiple firewood channels. Yours is Firewood Plus. 😉
Forever Browns Fan, you're funny - Even though I live in San Diego, I've become a Brown's fan and like you said, I could have chewed through that 🪵 too, during last night's game !!
Good morning from Upstate South Carolina. Brandon looks cold with the snow on his head. Have a productive day.
I'm in love with my 7 Y.O. MS261 ( no C ) with 16" and 20" bars. At my 4 score term it's perfect and especially with Canola bar oil 😜. Harvesting the 6-8 cords/year for full heating here in Maine off the back 40 it never lets me down. Stable mates: MS170 (spare) and Husky 338XPT top handle for climbing and getting into the tangle of blowndown branches. P.S. the compression release for me works. You'll find out soon! Those high end pro saws are heavy, big $$$, and slick.Fine tutorial guys.
Hey Mike, thanks for all the great content. I really like your setup and would find it super helpful if you could do a comparison video similar to this one, but focused on your other equipment. I know talking prices is frowned upon by some, but getting to know the functions/capacities/prices of your other equipment would be a great help for someone wanting to get into the business. Thanks again.
Good Video Mike !! I like the way you dealt with all the critics in advanced !!!
Good evening Morgan's from East Tennessee! I love my ms 261, bought to replace my 034, mainly because of the weight difference, and to update to a newer saw. The 261 is an all around great saw, but don't guess I'll be using any for the next 3-4 months, just had my rotor cuff surgery this morning. Tell Eva we are praying for her surgery this week, and wishing her a speedy recovery. 🙏 👍
034s never die. :)
I've got an MS261 and an MS461. The lower weight of the 261 is nice when I'm cutting up trees... particularly while removing the brush and bucking the small branches. This as holding the significantly heavier 461 "in the air" gets to be tiring pretty quickly. On the other hand, for felling trees over about 14" and bucking logs the 461 comes into it's own. The additional weight isn't much of a factor then as the wood is holding the weight most of the time. Also, because the 461 cuts faster I spend less time holding the saw period than I would with the 261. Interestingly enough, for any given job the 461 doesn't seem to use as much bar oil or fuel as the 261 because it gets the job done faster. They both have their place and I wouldn't want to go back to having just one saw like when I started out with an MS271. The 271 was a fine saw for most cutting tasks but as I got involved with maintaining rail trails and performing timber stand improvement and wildlife habitat development the pro saws made a lot more sense.
That seems like the ideal setup
Mike I like what you’re doing, the heck with what the non-sayers say. You’re very informative to a lot of people, that’s what counts. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Eva and her surgery this week, God speed Eva.
greetings mike (melissa); i appreciate the way yall do things and the "i do it this way" attitude. i am sorry to say that there are so many people that are filled with negativity to the extent that they cannot enjoy life. please do not let their comments deter yall from maintaining your way of life. may God richly bless your household, home and inhabitants.....................g
Interesting test Mike, I have a 261, a brilliant all round saw, decent power, not too heavy and great value for its quality and performance.
Good morning Mike. Really appreciate your comparison video for the three different sizes of saws. Gives a person an idea what he’s looking for. It’s up to the individuals to choose Ford/Chevy/Dodge . Thanks for sharing with us. You all stay safe and keep smiling for Eva . We are all with you folks and behind your family! Fred. 🙏🏻🙏🏻👍🏻👍🏻👏🏻👏🏻✋🏻✋🏻👊🏻👊🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻
Good morning Mike. Great video. I have an ms 180 that i use to cut firewood for my own use, not to sell. Its a great little saw. One thing you should have talked about is the importance of using the Stihl pre mixed fuel. Makes it run better and engine will last longer. Tell Eva she is in my prayers, please keep us informed.
I have an MS180 that I use for trim work around fences. It’s quite a bit lighter than Dad’s old Homelite XL12, as I re-learned when I caught some old rusty wire and boogered up my chain on the Stihl about an hour before I was done! The XL12 is about 50% more of everything - hp, bar, and weight. That last hour cutting limbs from ground level to eye level just about finished me off!
That 180 is a great saw, that is my go to saw
Mike and Melissa, as a retired ex She'll Oil Manager in what was called Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) I have gotta compliment you on the GREAT way you maintain ALL your equipment !! All are well maintained, serviced and cleaned regularly !! That's what will keep you running for many years. As I spend a lot of time on TH-cam I have seen how badly maintained other people's equipment is - so it's no surprise that some are struggling !! I cannot over emphasize the importance of REGULAR oil changes and lubrication !! Have a GREAT day, EVERYONE !!
Stihl mix oil tends to clog up the spark arrestors. It doesn't burn completely unless you run your machines wide open. It's especially bad in weed eaters and leaf blowers.
@@timkopp2204 Thanx for that info Tim, i always try to run saw wide open. Only use premix in saw, too expensive to run in every thing. Dont own a Stihl leaf blower.
Neat show of saws. Praying for Hunter and Eva and the family, have a day
I have a Stihl 032 that I purchased in around 1978, runs great, altho I don't use it that much anymore. Fired it up last week to cut up some limbs. I always liked full skip chain, less filling and I think it cuts faster. I liked the side by side comparison!
Hi Mike, I got the 661 about a year ago. I mainly use it for my portable saw mill. It's a beast but I would not like this to be my only saw. I run battery saws for the smaller stuff. No fumes, no start/stop and the torque is impressive. I guess every job has its best suitable saw. Greetings from Denmark.
Was gonna try gnawing through a 16" log with my teeth, and timing it, but figured that'd result in a more than $1600 dental bill, so opted for the MS 500i instead. Christmas present for the wife! :)
Ladd,
Ohhhh, she is going to be sooo happy🤗.
Ladd Gardner - You're funny !! Love yours and Mike's sense of humor !! Makes for a "smiley" day !! Have a day, guys AND gals !!
lol
@@johnking8679,
You made me smile!
Made me laugh, split and stacked my share of firewood for my father, back in the day. Used to have a shed that covered and seasoned nearly twelve cord of wood. Enjoy watching Mike, love the woodbin.
I have 2 MS 170s I like them for cutting wood on my acreage most of it is small stuff but great sawa
Good morning from 37 degree Spartanburg. Very cool video. 3 chainsaws running at one time, good coffee, quite time in the morning out here in the country. It couldn't be a better morning. Thanks Mike. Have a blessed day.
The MS261 has been my go to firewood saw for years. Plenty of power and the weight savings let's me run it all day. Love that saw
I’ve watched you guys almost since the beginning. I look forward to see you every day like you are my favorite episode on tv. Which I don’t watch tv bye the way. The way you compared these saws was awesome. You did good. My name is Milt Gerds from Port Huron Michigan. Keep up the good work. And like I said before, your living my dream life.
Multiple thumbs up!
No music, just equipment and wood.
Now That is a good TH-cam video. It’s got straight forward chainsaw performance and pricing from an experienced wood cutter. Ok it’s not a controlled laboratory test, but that level of precision is really not needed for the average chain saw user. Solid information- nice video Mike. I’m getting the 261.
Mike, I really didn't know there was such a difference within the brand. This was an interesting test! Doing a ton of firewood, that would save you a significant amount of time.
Great comparison video of the different saws. But my favorite part - 'I don't care what you buy, or don't buy. I don't care if you gnaw through it with your teeth'. Some people have brand loyalty for different products, myself included - I like Honda lawnmowers and Kubota equipment. But you keep it real (like you do in all your videos). This is what we're doing - agree or disagree - doesn't matter to me Love that! 😀
Great video I have a 400 buying the 500 soon as the weather breaks this spring and I can’t wait to get my hands on one!!
I think the 261 looks really impressive. I've been happy with the 271 and the 290 that I have. But the 261 looks, like you say, FASTER! Thanks for the great video. - Chad
Mike, thanks for doing such a wonderful comparison on the saws. If I was currently debating over which one to buy, then I just got some good input from a trusted, knowledgeable friend, while eating my breakfast.
Just walked out of Stihl dealer. Got 2 saws for new property. Stihl MS261 and 400 in stock. He laughed at me when I asked about 500i. On back order and probably be Julyy 2022 at the earliest. Got one reserved when he gets one. I hope your snow melt doesn't turn to mud. Stay warm and safe, and see you on the next video.
PS ; Wife and I put Eva on the Church Prayer List. Hope everything goes well with her surgery.
This was an excellent video Mike! The side-by-side review was extremely informative! Keep them coming! We love following your journey! We are praying today for the hands of Eva's surgery today and that she has an excellent outcome and speedy recovery!
5:06 am Good Morning From Salem Oregon, 52 degrees F this morning.
Against all odds . Mike do what you do, the way you do it. Every time I’ve tried to do something like start my own business ( many times ) I’ve succumbed to the Negative Nellies that seem to sprout like trees. I appreciate what you are doing. Keep doing it your way. No shoulda coulda woulda. Prayers for Eva’s surgery
Finally, I've been waiting for this kind of chainsaw review. Mike you nailed this one. Same brand but different cc and cost. You couldn't have got it more right. Thank you and keep the video's coming
I have a firewood business and i rotate saws out every 4 years .just ordered a new 500 and 400.Time is money .thanx for the review
Mike, this was a great video. You can look at the saws in the store, read all the stats on each one but putting them to the wood is what counts. It all comes down to how much money you want to spend and how much work you want to get done. Thanks for taking the time to do the demo.
Thanks Phil
Mike, for the quality you get the Stihl saws are a steal.
Great job Mike, I learned a few things. It's a shame you have to battle the haters
I have the 261c and I love it! I also have a 251c that is ok. I only cut soft wood so they work good for me.
Thanks for the comparison Mike, I have been debating on a new saw!
Prayers for Eva and you all !
That's good to know. Thank you, sir. (Prayers for Daughter Eva this week.)
Love it!!! “I don’t care if you naw through the wood with your teeth…. You can take that information or leave it, I don’t care”. Sometimes there are people that will say something negative instead of keeping it to themselves. This might be Mike Morgan sending a message to those folks. You make amazing videos and I’ve watched you since almost the beginning. I feel poorly for those folks that have to be negative. Be positive and give The Morgan’s a high five🙌 for what they do - provide excellent content and put in a lot of hard work. Good for you Mike Morgan, good for you sir!
I have a Stihl MS 462 I put a light bar on it and it makes a difference. It is very well balance.
I finally got a Pro saw (MS241) after years of the MS290 Farm Boss, and some other models. I'm still breaking it in as we don't use much firewood in Florida...it's mainly a farm saw for fencen line cleanup. I like it because it's lightweight...it handles a 18" bar pretty good but 20" would be too much. That 500i is such a stud!
Great points. The flip side that you touched on is the saw weights which seem small until you are at the 6-8 hour mark of using them for the day. I fully agree it's great to have options to choose from for different applications. As far as the brand; go with the best ( insert your individual opinion here) you can afford & has a strong service and repair network in your area, they all break down.
I absolutely LOVE my 261
Been awhile since I have cut any firewood! Back in the day ( 1969-1985 ) I cut a lot of firewood. I cut my Dad’s firewood and then when I moved out with my wife cut mine too! Had a couple different saws during those years including a McCulogh, Homelite, Husquvarna and Stihl. I am sure spelled wrong. Used a double sided axe too most of the time till I splurged and got myself a 16 lb. Wood splitter. That was around 6-10 cord of wood a year. We live in the south so was spared little there. All of this new machinery would have made it so much easier however that wasn’t even a thought back then. In my opinion the Husky was quicker but the Stihl was more dependable. Both were great saws tho.
Prayers for Eva and your family. Pray the surgery is successful.
I see deer tracks!...drone time!...we are flooding out this way in B.C.! MORE EVACUATIONS IN HOPE BC!...NICE SAWS!!!....thanks 4 video. be kind.
I have the ms261 and 2 500i 20" on both i also have a 28" bar on one of the 500i that 20" light bar really rip's on the 500i ! i really appreciate your vids i watch them for all the info you give well done! i also have the same wolfridge splitter you have!
I find it easier carrying and working with the 261 for 8 hrs. or more a day. It is a fast cutting saw with even
a 20 inch bar and not so tiring on an old logger.
Great analysis of the three Stihl!
No, it's not a Stihl commercial. But it is something that interests me. You have a wide variety of subjects for your videos and that's why I watch them! On top of that, you do an excellent job. I generally watch TH-cam when I come in for coffee in the morning. Your videos are the first ones I watch. Perfect length, perfect content, almost perfect personalities (didn't want your head to get too big). Just keep on doing what you're doing and I'll keep watching. I'm keeping Eva in my prayers. God bless her and your entire family.
Thanks --- although I am not in the market for a electric saw ... but this is good to know ....
Great real-world test. I think the 261 deserves a place in everyone's stable that cuts trees or firewood much. Light equals might and there aren't many (any?) stock options lighter with as much power. For the bigger saw in most people's two saw combo, have you thought about testing a 461 or 462? Probably not as fast as the 500, but likely very close in speed with a lower cost.
Mike I see your at the point you speak your mind, good for you . We have a lot of negative people out there, that don’t have nothing better to do but make bad comments.prayers for Eva
Great test! I like how you show us these comparisons. Also, I like how you SPLIT time between firewood and dirt/gravel pushing. Fun vid.
Got a 261 it’s a great little saw. It’s nice on my back, lighter then the big ones. It’s slower but a few seconds later isn’t a big deal.
Totally agree with your perspective about other people’s opinion, likes and dislikes.
Very nice video bud I have a little 170 brand new a ms 290 and a 400 love them all
Excellent video. Thanks from Canada
👍🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🗽🙏🏻 Enjoyed! Snow's beautiful! Mike playing salesman today, my Husqvarna 440 with 18" bar under $300 bucks cuts trees up to 30"+! Stihl is a good saw, Husky's are good saws in fact I've got an old Poulan 16" that cuts great....the key is the chainsaw must be sharp and well maintained and it will get the job done regardless of brand name. You gotta clean the oil pump, take the needle bearing off and grease it, clean the bar, clean the air filter, muffler decarboned, etc., etc. Mike your saws must get new bars often....they always look brand new and the lettering is always right side up. (Some won't understand that). Beautiful sun shiny day in East TX, mid seventies. 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 for Eva👍
I enjoyed the saw comparisons.
Very good to know. Thanks..!
Thanks Mike I'm looking into a new saw and the side by side comparison really helped.
Good morning Morgan’s!! Beautiful footage of the snow! Have a day!
Mike, great video. If my 034 ever dies I'll be getting a 261 because weight is important to me and I only cut 5 or so cords a year. Also, I just installed Simplisafe and used your link. Easy setup but 6-8 week backorder on the outdoor cameras. Don't focus on the haters.
034s never die. :)
Youre talking about owning just 1 chainsaw? That's crazy talk! =]
Thanks for the videos and the time you put into them!
Good afternoon everyone !! I have a few cheap Poulan saw that i use for my firewood . They cut ok but at age 79 , I can't justify buying a new expensive saw since I was diagnosed with spinal stenosis and a pinched sciatic nerve . I don't know how much longer i will be cutting firewood . Keeping Eva and Hunter in my prayers and the rest of the Morgan clan as well. Have a day !! Ps Really enjoy your informative videos , Thanks !!
Hello Mike&Melissa! Yrs ago everybody had 041 Stihls my Dad ran them for yrs! Then i had had one good chainsaw tough Reliable heavy by today saws! Thx for showing ur 3 saws! 👍🇺🇸🦌
Prayers for Eva tomorrow 🙏🙏
May God bless the hands of all involved with her care tomorrow 🙏🙏
Hi Melissa and Mike, Dennis here to watch another update on out doors with the morgans. I am praying for eva. That her surgery goes well. Thank you
Dang, snow already huh? Lucky you! Still nothing yet here in Springfield, Missouri. Really mild and warm days so far.
Rocking the Stihl MS261 here. 20" bar.
Haven't needed anything more.
Great idea for a video, loved the opening, cheers,
Hey Mike. Thanks for the comparison. I thought the 500i would be fastest, but I didn't realize it would be by that much. You run that all day and it would be a huge amount of extra cuts. Thanks again.
Great comparison on the popular professional series saws!
I like that you pointed out the application of the saw sizefor your needs . I’m running a couple of 40 year old Sthils, 024 and a 030 and for my needs they are plenty powerful. The 024 is my every day saw, nice and light, 030 is for the bigger trees. Have a day!
Nothing like them good saws from years back. We have a couple of 80s Husqvarna 55s that just keep on ticking. We cut 10 cords of firewood every year.
I own all 3 of these saws and love each of them. They have their own purpose for which they were designed, and they far exceed any saw that I’ve had in the past. Great content 👍🏻
Good down the earth comparison. Thanks for taking the time. Enjoyed it.
Work starts in 10 minutes but I can't resist 👍👍👍 5:5 yrs for my retirement 👍
Hope everything comes out well with your daughter Eva. Hope she recovers well and quickly after surgery. Also love your videos and look forward for more in the future.
Good Morning Mike. Like the chainsaw comparison! Offering our prayers for Eva’s surgery and a complete recovery!
I use 028 wood boss from 1985 and a MS 361 VW for cutting firewood in Germany. Booth nice saws.
Mike, I like these side-by-side comparisons you do. And I totally agree on price vs. performance. I have an MS 261 & a Farm Boss, plus an old Homelite. For me, a guy who cuts up 3-4 cords of wood per year (mostly Western Red Cedar, Doug Fir, Alder & Madrone) plus dropping a few trees per year, that is plenty of saw power. It might take me a bit longer, but I'm not in a race!
Can you tell much of a difference between the farm boss and 261? Coz Im using 271 kinda professionally for firewood business, is it worth the upgrade?
@@wolfythesunbro the 261 is definitely the more capable saw. That said, the Farm Boss did the trick for me for many years.
@@hburns16 Im thinking either selling the 271 and getting 261 cm, as I have high end .325 bars and chains or straight up buy a 500i and just keep the 271, have 2 saws. Money is not an issue but I feel like if I get the 500i, the 271 will be just left unused.
Awesome video mike! Love these types of videos! Get information to those who are wondering what to buy…