John Casey the 0 Series Stihls Run way better than the new ones, I sold my old 029 & got a newer 290, I regret it, that old 029 would run circles around the 290
Just got the 311 to compliment my 271. It definitely makes short work of larger downed trees, which is why I purchased it, very pleased. I did fine tune carb setting after first use, she runs crisp and starts great now. I can run the 271 all day, the 311 your gonna feel after a few hrs but it goes thru the wood much faster.
I've had my 290 for over 15yrs. No problems ever. Am i professional and run it all day every day? No. Is the old 029 better? Most likely (I have a friend who has an old 046 and it's a monster and almost as old as I am). But when I need it, it's always been there for me.
One thing about the stihl chains. The bar guide teeth have small dimples in them . I think this is a stihl patient item. The small dimples , hold just a little bit of bar oil, help keep the bar and chain cool and lubed . Extends the life of both bar and chain. A little tip a stihl service guy taught me. Always under fill the fuel tank just a little less than the bar tank. So you run out of fuel before you run out of bar oil. Also when your bar oilier is adjusted correctly , you should run out of fuel and oil at the same volume rate per running hour. If you always have to way much bar oil left when refueling the fuel tank. Your saw bar is not getting enough oil , adjust it accordingly. Every now and then test that your chain after refueling to make sure your bar is getting oil. Point the tip toward a log round and make sure you are getting a slight sling of oil coming off the teeth . Easy for the oilier channel to get clogged by thick bark or dull chain teeth causing ( small chip dust) . Also the inner chain guard , held by the two bar nuts . This another great place for a spay coat or two of MODECK not stick spray . Yes same as the mower deck under body. Give it a try , see the difference :) hope these tips help. Safe cutting , going to be a rough winter I think ?
I think if you are running out of bar oil you are perhaps not using proper chain oil. The saws are designed for the bar oil to out last the gasoline. In 40 years of operating mostly stihl chain saws I have never had the bar run out of oil.
The 2 bar nuts that you said to only lightly tighten should actually be FIRMLY tightened, you will not hurt the bar by firmly tightening them. Loosley tightening them will only ensure that your chain tension will always need adjusting. ( refer to page 29 of your owners manual if you doubt what i say)
I bought the MS311 with the 20” bar. I was cutting some 24-30” logs so I also opted to get the 25” bar to go with it. Runs the 25” chain with no issues at all
Got my first Stihl saw at an auction for $60 dollars. It's a small one, but I stole that fricking thing. Great saw. My bigger saw is a Stihl 391. That monster EATS wood. My goodness they are great machines.
Stihl knows what there doing but with that said there's a lot of great saws out there. In my opinion the most important thing to me is it starts when I need it to and has a good chisel chain. Only time will tell if you got a great chainsaw. Thank you for posting
Hi guys, I'me an avid watcher of Stihl Reviews and Videos, I personally have 2, an MS461 & an MS880, with an eray of Bars, mainly a 25" for the 461 and from a 32 up to a 48 for the 880. Cutting some big Redum and various hardwoods, with both of these saws being in the "Magnum" range they are just outstanding. I give them every opportunity with freshly sharpened Stihl Full Chisel chains. It's just coming into summer here in Australia now and after seeing a nasty brown snake last week, I have packed up until next season. Keep up the good work everyone and stay safe.
Good point about having more than one saw. Everyone gets their saw pinched from time to time. It's funny how many people get hung up on certain brands of saws. It's more important to get the right saw for the job, and maintain it properly. I always recommend purchasing the professional grade saws. For that size Stihl, the 261 with a 20" bar would be a good choice.
I’m a STIHL guy been one for ever. I have 4 of em. From the MS250 to the 660 MAG. Which is my “go to saw.” May I suggest a Full chisel full skip chain. Cuts much faster and half as many teeth to sharpen. With my 660 my chain will pull a 2.5” chip. Awesome power and cut. Nice video
My husband has been a timber faller for about 45 years and he only uses stihl saws.he has worked in many states in his career almost 10 in alaska been in redwood country in California for the last 15 yrs.his are huge he spends more to have them hopped up and they cost about 1800 when its ready to be picked up
@@jgbelmont maybe for you but my husband has to pay several hundred dollars more to the saw shop to have them hop it up and it has to be safe.he can do some repairs but he cant do all of the mechanic work.
@@jgbelmont im not an expert on chain saws at all but my husband has been getting them with more power put on them since hes worked in the redwoods and when you dont work by the hour he needs to get alot of trees down in a short amount of time he needs power.this usually is done with seasoned fallers
@@jgbelmont no they arent in the shop more there are also alot of environmental laws he has to follow to be legal and needs to have it done right.in some areas its not even allowed to have saws hopped up.this practice is common in the area he is working in for the experienced guys , he is a well respected and requested faller of 45 years experience so he knows alot about stihls and wont use any other brand.he hasnt hopped them up all those 45 years its just been the last 15 or so.
Stihl saws (and string trimmers) keep better compression due to the fact that they have 2 piston rings. Most 2-cycles have a single piston ring and lose compression or have low compression. Larger Stihl saws have a compression release valve on the block because you can't pull the starter rope without releasing the pressure. That's why once it's started, don't choke it. You'll flood it. Used to service saws and string trimmers, once you see how they're made... you'll buy a Stihl.
Worst thing about a stihl is the pull start dog system. On saws without compression release valves I would always end up breaking the things but i had a ms290 and stihl discontinued that model for reasons I cant remember.
Have you ever seen echo SX series saws/brushcutters in your "repair shop"? I bet you havent, those things never fail to amaze me. I used to be a huge fan of stihl, I still am because they are easy and cheap to fix. But I am definitely certain about the echo being way better than stihl. Double piston rings is very common in pro saws. "Low compression" and bullshit like that gets me every time, theres absolutely no point of having more than 9 bars of compression unless you use high octane fuels 98 10% ethanol or higher. Wouldnt even think of plastic stihl, those are complete junk.
I love my 311. Great saw with a 24" (if you know how to cut wood, and keep a sharp chain). I use a cheapo Ryobi 16" 37cc for my limbing and small cuts (super lightweight, and a good inexpensive little saw for little projects). Of course, I upgraded that Ryobi to an Oregon bar and chain to make it work well. But I digress. I am not a brand specific kind of guy when it comes to saws. I have used Husqys, old Homelites, and a few others. A nearby neighbor of a property that my father and I share saved the day with his 36" bar Husqy that made short work of a diseased 100+ year old hardwood smack dab next to our cabin (much love to Oregon State Forest Service members). I choose this particular Stihl because I wanted to to go one model higher than my Father's 291 with a 24" bar. It is way too much fun to ask him if he needs a little more 'oomph' when he is sawing (while I am offering him to use my 311). Whatever saw you choose to take home, just remember the mantra of wise men everywhere. 'She is a fickle bitch. You have to learn just what she wants. Just what she needs, even if she will never articulate that fact to you. Use your Zen power, and figure out what she needs to be happy and grind hard. She will never tell you, so you had better figure that out for yourself. If you can unlock that mystery, she will stay by your side forever, and never let you down'.
Im a mechanic and i see on most of the contractors trucks that come in to the shop. Most have either Stihl or Husqvarna. They seem to be the popular brands. The builders buy stihl battery chainsaws. They last a long time before they need charging and are great for making wooden decks and framing and they run a narrow chain. they aren't toys. they are made to work. From memory they have a 14 or 16 inch bar.
I have a 026 runs and starts on the 2nd or 3rd pull, pushing 28 years old. Replaced carb at the start of ethanol in gas. Had Husky, Poulan, Echo, all have issues but with proper maintenance a Stihl keeps going.
hay josh , how are you doing hun ? you seem to be happier today , i was concerned for you , but good to see you smiling , Mrs Stoney Ridge fixed you im so glad xxx
Bought one recently when they have their yearly special. Got the free hat, extra chain and the case. Power, ease of use? Very impressed. Great video :)
My grandpa was a logger and I spent summers with him as a kid. Anyways, he would only run stihl chainsaws. As an adult I hadn't ran much chainsaws, but have ran lots of weedeaters. I'll only run a stihl
Been running Stihl saws for many years. Tried one Husqvarna; commercial saw; blew up and had it rebuilt; almost as much as the cost of a new saw. Blew up/locked up again. Bought another Stihl to replace it. Excellent saws.
I like your review..I just got this saw 3 days ago brand new. It has a 25 inch bar on it.I am amazed by the power it has.I have all husqvarna saws,this is my first stihl saw.I am very pleased so far. Thanks for the demo.
You are correct about not tight. My MS251 single bolt design stripped out right as the warrenty expired. If I ever get it back from the shop, I'll not tighten very much. It was a cutting beast while operational. I see your MS311 has two bolts for chain tightening. Looks like a real winner there on that one.
I ran a MS310 clearing old bunkers used to store M117 bombs and propellants, always a solid worker. I picked up a MS391 over the MS311 a few years ago, essentially the same size and weights but for $80 more I got a few extra cc's and a 25" bar vs a 20" bar MS311. I have a more than 20 year old Stihl 025 with a 16" bar for smaller jobs.
Two things I get from your videos: Very informative and fun. I think you'd be a great guy to have a few beers with. Hard worker and nice guy, and BIG !!! Thanks for a great review. I've been trying to decide which Stihl saw to buy and I think maybe the 311 is one to consider.
Yes, Stihl are definitely overall the best saws out there. I’d recommend the 362 more than the 311 for the sake of the price difference, the 362 is awesome and the first great saw since the 064
I prefer the MS311 rather than the MS362 due to weight. TIG welding corroded aluminium is more difficult than patching acrylic, when the chain comes off & chips the casing (going to happen some time during the 20yrs life cycle.)
Ive run Stihl,Husqvarna,Jonsered, and Dolmar through the years. They all make damn fine saws. They each have models that I like better than the competing model form another brand. Husqvarna has the best air filtration right now though hands down.
The real advantage that stihl has over other chainsaws can only be seen after a decade or two. When all your other chainsaws are long forgotten and laying under 3 inches of dust.
Living in Michigan and heat my home with firewood exclusively , so I do use my Stihl saw a lot. We burn between 15-40 face cords a season (depending on species and temps) . Love this saw.
I have the same overalls and its right about the perfect temp for them in NH. 30 degrees today! Almost time to bust em out when I am running my saws! Great Video!
On storm damage, if you cut the brush & branches first & the trunk/stump/logs later, then you can start/get stuck in without warming up the chainsaw. If you have to fell/fall the tree first, then warming up before revving up, is a good practice.
Stihl is the best in my opinion. I've had several last 20 years. The thing about the cheap saws (that you can see in Lowes made by people I've never heard of)......they have 3 problems: who will work on them when they break down? Where will you get parts for them? And you never see any that can run a 32" blade.
I had a Stihl 210(?) homeowner type saw. That was a great little saw! For bigger stuff I bought a 290 Farm Boss and thought it was a bit of a dog. Both were stolen and so I started the replacement process. I bought a Stihl 251as a replacement for the small saw. I hate that saw just for the starting issues it always seems to have since first month of ownership. For bigger stuff I got a Makita/Dolmar 6421. That one is a beast.
025 owner since 97. Only issue was a few yrs back when I had to replace a weathered fuel line. Bought an MS series 20" Farm Boss in 2020 (0 issues yet).
I just got an older 310 not real old but not new and I got it goin still waiting on the bar and chain sprocket cover and air filter cover I love it starts up so easy
Two saws - that’s the right way to go. I have the 311’s big brother - the ms 391. It is a hoss but nothing compared to my 660. Which is the best - the 311 by far and I have owned both. I do start all of my thumpers on the ground, but I only wear all those PPEs on rare occasions. Blue jeans, tee shirt and deck shoes are sufficient for me. My Marine Corps cover is on my head.
Hi Josh ! Internet showing 311 bar 16 inch.. You have 311 it’s 20inch. My store have 311- bar 24 inch =$$$ 630. It’s good or to long bar but just 4,2 hp thank for showing video! I like MS311 Stihl .
i picked up a stihl ms 290 at a yard sale last weekend for 30$ starter rope was broke & guy said it was given to him like that & had no idea if it would run or not ! took it home fixed rope no workie gailded piston & cylinder. ordered a cylinder kit for 32$ on amazon & it ran but stil had issued . had a broken adjustment screw in carb . ordered a new carb for 14.99 amazon & runs like a dream less than 90$ in it & this model sells used on ebay for 200 -450$ but ill be putting this on to work my self !
thank you for your review...I am actually saving for a chainsaw & didn't have a clue on what to get...this at least gives me some sort of idea now! CHEERS!
I speak highly of Stihl and Husqvarna chainsaw. I have a Stihl MS180 and a Husqvarna 460 Rancher. A mechanic friend of mine loves his Stihl but tells me the Husqvarna is easier to work on.
I just dropped a dozen trees on the property with a 25 ear old Stihl 025, fresh bar, fresh chain, fresh gas after sitting on the shelf 4-5 years, and I'm off and running :)
Looks like a great saw man! As a guy with less trees and property I opted for the MS250, and it's been a heck of a saw for me! The starting process is extremely simple, I have a hard time grasping why people have a rough time with it! Lol
Do yourself a favor, have your dealer check the rpms on your saw. Using a skip-tooth chain will speed up the rpms on your saw especially when dull. A lot of people won't stop cutting when they're getting sawdust instead of chips.
@@StoneyRidgeFarmer At the moment running MS230 2kW/2,7hp (when was new) it's from 2005. It's pretty worn out. We used it to fall trees bigger than 1m in diameter. It was very difficult task since the guide bar is just 40cm. And teeth are picco which means one of the smallest. It's pretty beaten up. I wanna surprise my dad. You can't even compare MS311 with MS230. We need it to fall trees and make ourselves some firewood... 60cc engine with 4,2hp and longer bar. Stock comes with 40cm I'll probably run 50cm or 55cm I won't go to extremes because it's easier to engine and I really don't need longer bar.
@@StoneyRidgeFarmer And besides all of that I NEVER use Stihl oil. Only mix I make is premium gaaoline with 2%of Castrol POWER1 RACING 2T!! Oil for racing engines. No smoke at all, ultimative protection and sparkplug is as clean as you run straight gasoline. It's grey.
I think we need to add Echo to that mix too. From experience, I had problems with the Husky I owned a few years back. But I've owned 2 Echo saws with few issues. But I do agree, I think Stihl is the best.
I have an Echo Strimmer and leaf blower. They start easily. My Stihl chainsaw on the other hand has been a pain to cold start since day 1. I wish I had bought an Echo ahead of time (they were out of stock when I actually needed a saw, so I was stuck with Stihl).
Hey Dave! I have a 345 Husky as well, and its still going strong after 12 or so years! Just got it out of the shop for a little bit of maintenance I wasn’t comfortable doing myself. She runs better than ever! Safe cutting and stay healthy! ✌
Nice saw Josh, has my 311 about 4 years now, love it. Only thing I could say is that they oil a little slow for hardwood cutting when using thickish bar oils (we are in Australia and cut mainly super hard woods). I use the Stihl genuine chain and bar oil which is a bit thinner, which has been excellent
Love my Stihl MS251c Starts on the 3rd pull when its cold in the morning and every other time its a one pull machine. Can't seem to get my Husquvarna 440e to even idle correctly, hot or cold.
About time you got a good saw. I have a 391 and it’s a dang good saw. This year I bought a smaller 14” limbing saw so you don’t have to lug the big boy around cutting on the tops.
Stihl makes some good saws, the're engineered very well and have plenty of power and last if you use ethanol free gas and their 2 stroke oil from day 1. I own a MS311 and it kicks butt just like yours. Enjoy it and be safe working alone on your farm. Doug @ the "ranch"
Stihl power tools are the upmost best brand awround. We have a brush chain saw from when my great grand pa farmed. I love them so we also have a weed wacker and a leaf blower
I have a 311just over a year old been using it for fire wood (Australian dry hardwood) the clutch bearing completely collapsed the clutch hub took out the oilpump drive gear and the oil pump, no sign of any part of the bearing, c clip was gone, the washer the c clip fitted into was gone. This saw was the replacement for my primac 1010 which lasted 42 years with only servicing. What more can I say I have 2 090's for slabbing no issues and an ms880, the ms880 3 years old clutch bearing failed just the other day
Best shirt in your closet hands down!! Thanks brother, great video. Man you have your hands full from that hurricane...i love my stihl..
Lol ya know i love ya brotha! One good lookn shirt
@@StoneyRidgeFarmer heck yes....cant wait to come visit your farm
I have a STIHL MS 201t top handle chainsaw, keep up the good work man.
@@KeepingItDutch,STIHL makes wonderful chainsaws.
That is is nice shirt. I have a blue one. My daughter has a lite blue one.
I have had the "029" Stihl Chainsaw for 23 years here on the farm, and it still runs like new. Best tool ever.
John Casey the 0 Series Stihls Run way better than the new ones, I sold my old 029 & got a newer 290, I regret it, that old 029 would run circles around the 290
I hear you mate, I have an 032, 038 & 064 brilliant era for saws 70s - 90s before nanny state kicked in.....
Just got the 311 to compliment my 271. It definitely makes short work of larger downed trees, which is why I purchased it, very pleased. I did fine tune carb setting after first use, she runs crisp and starts great now. I can run the 271 all day, the 311 your gonna feel after a few hrs but it goes thru the wood much faster.
They do shake alot. Look after the fasteners they tend to come loooose
What kind of tuning did you do? Just adjusting the Carb? Or did you add some aftermarket parts like an exhaust etc?
Bought my MS290 in 2010. 11 years of pure torture I put on that thing, she still runs great. No problems whatsoever.
I've had my 290 for over 15yrs. No problems ever. Am i professional and run it all day every day? No. Is the old 029 better? Most likely (I have a friend who has an old 046 and it's a monster and almost as old as I am). But when I need it, it's always been there for me.
One thing about the stihl chains. The bar guide teeth have small dimples in them . I think this is a stihl patient item. The small dimples , hold just a little bit of bar oil, help keep the bar and chain cool and lubed . Extends the life of both bar and chain. A little tip a stihl service guy taught me. Always under fill the fuel tank just a little less than the bar tank. So you run out of fuel before you run out of bar oil. Also when your bar oilier is adjusted correctly , you should run out of fuel and oil at the same volume rate per running hour. If you always have to way much bar oil left when refueling the fuel tank. Your saw bar is not getting enough oil , adjust it accordingly. Every now and then test that your chain after refueling to make sure your bar is getting oil. Point the tip toward a log round and make sure you are getting a slight sling of oil coming off the teeth . Easy for the oilier channel to get clogged by thick bark or dull chain teeth causing ( small chip dust) . Also the inner chain guard , held by the two bar nuts . This another great place for a spay coat or two of MODECK not stick spray . Yes same as the mower deck under body. Give it a try , see the difference :) hope these tips help. Safe cutting , going to be a rough winter I think ?
These are great tips, William, very much appreciated, thank you!!
fyi - PATENT, not PATIENT, heh, heh!
I think if you are running out of bar oil you are perhaps not using proper chain oil. The saws are designed for the bar oil to out last the gasoline. In 40 years of operating mostly stihl chain saws I have never had the bar run out of oil.
Excellent comment William! Late response here, but just came across this video.
The 2 bar nuts that you said to only lightly tighten should actually be FIRMLY tightened, you will not hurt the bar by firmly tightening them. Loosley tightening them will only ensure that your chain tension will always need adjusting. ( refer to page 29 of your owners manual if you doubt what i say)
From what I understand, he, like me, is a big dude. To some folks “lightly tighten” can be gorilla tight to some folks.
Everyone has their own ways. Most people I know DONT lift up on the bar when they tighten, etc
I bought the MS311 with the 20” bar. I was cutting some 24-30” logs so I also opted to get the 25” bar to go with it. Runs the 25” chain with no issues at all
Never heard of a 25" bar or chain.. 24,28,32, Where I live.. 32 is pushing it...
@@Hollywoodhouse74 Stihl Rollomatic Super E 25” bar. 3/8” pitch .063 gauge
@@mbaker825 never heard of it... u must live in some backwoods
@@Hollywoodhouse74 😂 SW suburbs of Chicago
@@mbaker825 yep that explains everything... ur the type of guy that goes to an orgy and calls it a family reunion...
Yes stihl is the best. The question that’s hard to answer is “is stihl worth the money?”
The answer is (like most things) it depends.
Yes
try a hand saw, you will be glad you spent the 400$
Got my first Stihl saw at an auction for $60 dollars. It's a small one, but I stole that fricking thing. Great saw. My bigger saw is a Stihl 391. That monster EATS wood. My goodness they are great machines.
Curt White I have another 391 for sale right now. Used once. On ebay
55ggee44
Curt White a 391 isn’t a monster my 661 is a monster lol
Stihl knows what there doing but with that said there's a lot of great saws out there. In my opinion the most important thing to me is it starts when I need it to and has a good chisel chain. Only time will tell if you got a great chainsaw. Thank you for posting
Hi guys, I'me an avid watcher of Stihl Reviews and Videos, I personally have 2, an MS461 & an MS880, with an eray of Bars, mainly a 25" for the 461 and from a 32 up to a 48 for the 880. Cutting some big Redum and various hardwoods, with both of these saws being in the "Magnum" range they are just outstanding. I give them every opportunity with freshly sharpened Stihl Full Chisel chains. It's just coming into summer here in Australia now and after seeing a nasty brown snake last week, I have packed up until next season. Keep up the good work everyone and stay safe.
Watch my husky v/s stihl...you might not like the results...i was surprised
Stihl and Seiko. This man knows quality 👍
Nothing like a new saw. I get one for Christmas almost every year. Better than socks. lol
Josh your like a kid in a candy shop with your new chain saw be safe with it and enjoy! thanks for sharing.
Great Saw!,! Been using STIHL for 35 years and my first still going strong. Bought my last one last year and no regrets. You’ll be happy. 👍
Good point about having more than one saw. Everyone gets their saw pinched from time to time.
It's funny how many people get hung up on certain brands of saws. It's more important to get the right saw for the job, and maintain it properly. I always recommend purchasing the professional grade saws. For that size Stihl, the 261 with a 20" bar would be a good choice.
The 261 has less hp.
Absolutely!! Pro grade is only way to go.
I’m a STIHL guy been one for ever. I have 4 of em. From the MS250 to the 660 MAG. Which is my “go to saw.” May I suggest a Full chisel full skip chain. Cuts much faster and half as many teeth to sharpen. With my 660 my chain will pull a 2.5” chip. Awesome power and cut. Nice video
I've heard about the Skip chain....nothing but good things
What this guy said
My husband has been a timber faller for about 45 years and he only uses stihl saws.he has worked in many states in his career almost 10 in alaska been in redwood country in California for the last 15 yrs.his are huge he spends more to have them hopped up and they cost about 1800 when its ready to be picked up
That's a man that knows his business!
It is really not difficult to hop up a saw.
@@jgbelmont maybe for you but my husband has to pay several hundred dollars more to the saw shop to have them hop it up and it has to be safe.he can do some repairs but he cant do all of the mechanic work.
@@jgbelmont im not an expert on chain saws at all but my husband has been getting them with more power put on them since hes worked in the redwoods and when you dont work by the hour he needs to get alot of trees down in a short amount of time he needs power.this usually is done with seasoned fallers
@@jgbelmont no they arent in the shop more there are also alot of environmental laws he has to follow to be legal and needs to have it done right.in some areas its not even allowed to have saws hopped up.this practice is common in the area he is working in for the experienced guys , he is a well respected and requested faller of 45 years experience so he knows alot about stihls and wont use any other brand.he hasnt hopped them up all those 45 years its just been the last 15 or so.
Stihl saws (and string trimmers) keep better compression due to the fact that they have 2 piston rings. Most 2-cycles have a single piston ring and lose compression or have low compression. Larger Stihl saws have a compression release valve on the block because you can't pull the starter rope without releasing the pressure. That's why once it's started, don't choke it. You'll flood it.
Used to service saws and string trimmers, once you see how they're made... you'll buy a Stihl.
Worst thing about a stihl is the pull start dog system. On saws without compression release valves I would always end up breaking the things but i had a ms290 and stihl discontinued that model for reasons I cant remember.
Kevin Riffey cuz they have to keep innovating and keeping up with epa just get the 291
bought a husky 465 rancher and never looked back
Have you ever seen echo SX series saws/brushcutters in your "repair shop"?
I bet you havent, those things never fail to amaze me. I used to be a huge fan of stihl, I still am because they are easy and cheap to fix. But I am definitely certain about the echo being way better than stihl.
Double piston rings is very common in pro saws.
"Low compression" and bullshit like that gets me every time, theres absolutely no point of having more than 9 bars of compression unless you use high octane fuels 98 10% ethanol or higher.
Wouldnt even think of plastic stihl, those are complete junk.
I run jonsered saws aka red max now I like seeing red to make shit dead
I love my 311. Great saw with a 24" (if you know how to cut wood, and keep a sharp chain). I use a cheapo Ryobi 16" 37cc for my limbing and small cuts (super lightweight, and a good inexpensive little saw for little projects). Of course, I upgraded that Ryobi to an Oregon bar and chain to make it work well. But I digress. I am not a brand specific kind of guy when it comes to saws. I have used Husqys, old Homelites, and a few others. A nearby neighbor of a property that my father and I share saved the day with his 36" bar Husqy that made short work of a diseased 100+ year old hardwood smack dab next to our cabin (much love to Oregon State Forest Service members).
I choose this particular Stihl because I wanted to to go one model higher than my Father's 291 with a 24" bar. It is way too much fun to ask him if he needs a little more 'oomph' when he is sawing (while I am offering him to use my 311).
Whatever saw you choose to take home, just remember the mantra of wise men everywhere.
'She is a fickle bitch. You have to learn just what she wants. Just what she needs, even if she will never articulate that fact to you. Use your Zen power, and figure out what she needs to be happy and grind hard. She will never tell you, so you had better figure that out for yourself. If you can unlock that mystery, she will stay by your side forever, and never let you down'.
great to see a rancher love his MS311 as much as I do mine!
great machine.
WOOOOOOOOOOO!
Same here. Dad had a 310 and ran it forever, so I got a 311 ten or so years ago. No issues yet, love it.
Im a mechanic and i see on most of the contractors trucks that come in to the shop. Most have either Stihl or Husqvarna. They seem to be the popular brands. The builders buy stihl battery chainsaws. They last a long time before they need charging and are great for making wooden decks and framing and they run a narrow chain. they aren't toys. they are made to work. From memory they have a 14 or 16 inch bar.
I have a 026 runs and starts on the 2nd or 3rd pull, pushing 28 years old. Replaced carb at the start of ethanol in gas. Had Husky, Poulan, Echo, all have issues but with proper maintenance a Stihl keeps going.
i have been using a 311 for 5 years 10 cord or more every year i love it !!! Kenai, Alaska
I have the 250 with a 24” bar and 7 tooth sprocket conversion. Best of both worlds, light saw cutting larger wood.
I will keep running Husqvarna saws they have served me well over the years.
We gonna do a comparison video soon!
husky makes a good saw no doubt. they are both great saws. that is why they are sold around the world.
run what you like better
It’s good to go with what you know
I only use Stihl. 261 and 661. Always start, run like no bodies bitness.
Thanks for the great video, Josh! You are honoring your friend by continuing his legacy and making it your own.
"A toolaphile" thank you for the snort laugh! We just upgraded to a new stihl backpack blower, love all our stihl machines!
hay josh , how are you doing hun ? you seem to be happier today , i was concerned for you , but good to see you smiling , Mrs Stoney Ridge fixed you im so glad xxx
Bought one recently when they have their yearly special. Got the free hat, extra chain and the case. Power, ease of use? Very impressed. Great video :)
My grandpa was a logger and I spent summers with him as a kid. Anyways, he would only run stihl chainsaws. As an adult I hadn't ran much chainsaws, but have ran lots of weedeaters. I'll only run a stihl
Been running Stihl saws for many years. Tried one Husqvarna; commercial saw; blew up and had it rebuilt; almost as much as the cost of a new saw. Blew up/locked up again. Bought another Stihl to replace it. Excellent saws.
I like your review..I just got this saw 3 days ago brand new. It has a 25 inch bar on it.I am amazed by the power it has.I have all husqvarna saws,this is my first stihl saw.I am very pleased so far. Thanks for the demo.
You are correct about not tight. My MS251 single bolt design stripped out right as the warrenty expired. If I ever get it back from the shop, I'll not tighten very much. It was a cutting beast while operational. I see your MS311 has two bolts for chain tightening. Looks like a real winner there on that one.
I ran a MS310 clearing old bunkers used to store M117 bombs and propellants, always a solid worker. I picked up a MS391 over the MS311 a few years ago, essentially the same size and weights but for $80 more I got a few extra cc's and a 25" bar vs a 20" bar MS311. I have a more than 20 year old Stihl 025 with a 16" bar for smaller jobs.
Two things I get from your videos: Very informative and fun. I think you'd be a great guy to have a few beers with. Hard worker and nice guy, and BIG !!! Thanks for a great review. I've been trying to decide which Stihl saw to buy and I think maybe the 311 is one to consider.
Yes, Stihl are definitely overall the best saws out there. I’d recommend the 362 more than the 311 for the sake of the price difference, the 362 is awesome and the first great saw since the 064
I prefer the MS311 rather than the MS362 due to weight.
TIG welding corroded aluminium is more difficult than patching acrylic, when the chain comes off & chips the casing (going to happen some time during the 20yrs life cycle.)
@@orangeshaw2370 once you switch from the home owner saw to a pro saw though…. You will never go back.
I Like mine. I have limited experience with other brands, but Stihl is the best I’ve used.
it's nice to see you feeling better Mr. Stoney Ridge You guys are wonderful people !!
Thanks so much...yea...things are getting better...Pal Bearer tomorrow
I had a 40 inch white oak that blew down in a wind storm. My Stihl MS 390 did a fantastic job cutting that up.
Happy 😊 josh is back ! Wooooo. Why wouldn't you own 2 chain saws. Every man has 2 of every toy !
I have a stihl 021
General repair
Hi I just bought a MS 291 Stihl chainsaw I love it works great
Ive run Stihl,Husqvarna,Jonsered, and Dolmar through the years. They all make damn fine saws. They each have models that I like better than the competing model form another brand. Husqvarna has the best air filtration right now though hands down.
If you had to choose between husky and stihl , which one would you choose?
The real advantage that stihl has over other chainsaws can only be seen after a decade or two. When all your other chainsaws are long forgotten and laying under 3 inches of dust.
Living in Michigan and heat my home with firewood exclusively , so I do use my Stihl saw a lot. We burn between 15-40 face cords a season (depending on species and temps) . Love this saw.
I have the same overalls and its right about the perfect temp for them in NH. 30 degrees today! Almost time to bust em out when I am running my saws! Great Video!
S T I H L yep!
Might be too heavy for Stacy 😉
I always let my saw warm up BEFORE I start cutting !
Barry Estell i do the same mate and also let it idle for a few minutes before I turn him off 👍
@@Bluewater6060 u guys are so sweet
On storm damage, if you cut the brush & branches first & the trunk/stump/logs later, then you can start/get stuck in without warming up the chainsaw.
If you have to fell/fall the tree first, then warming up before revving up, is a good practice.
Just got my MS 311, and I can't wait to go play with it. Another to my collection with the 455 rancher and MS 310.
I run a MS311 and MS170 combo and both are great saws for the money
Stihl is the best in my opinion. I've had several last 20 years. The thing about the cheap saws (that you can see in Lowes made by people I've never heard of)......they have 3 problems: who will work on them when they break down? Where will you get parts for them? And you never see any that can run a 32" blade.
I logged for 15 year's and Stihl is not my favorite but they are okay!
@Michael Myers dicks
What is your favorite?
I had a Stihl 210(?) homeowner type saw. That was a great little saw! For bigger stuff I bought a 290 Farm Boss and thought it was a bit of a dog. Both were stolen and so I started the replacement process. I bought a Stihl 251as a replacement for the small saw. I hate that saw just for the starting issues it always seems to have since first month of ownership. For bigger stuff I got a Makita/Dolmar 6421. That one is a beast.
I have an MS310. Bought it used a few years ago. Still going strong.
I own your 311’s big brother, the 391, and I love it. The 391 is a little heavy but it will fly through big wood.
Yep the 391 is a great saw....the 311 is its value priced little brother...that needs to hit the gym!
Yeah I've got one too but it's a bitch to start going to start using high octane gas hopefully that'll make the starting problem go away
I have the bigger brother to both the 391 and 311 I run a 362 C-M that saw with a 25" bar is super quick and really nice to use
025 owner since 97. Only issue was a few yrs back when I had to replace a weathered fuel line. Bought an MS series 20" Farm Boss in 2020 (0 issues yet).
I have a Stihl 026 with a 25 inch bar it's awesome and I love it ! But my old McCullough ain't no joke either !
the thing I like about stihl and husky is you pull them out of the box oil and gas break in and they just run better with time.
Yep...I agree
I grew up in Idaho Falls, ID. It's just fun to hear about my home town from you! Love your vlog, keep up the good work
I just got an older 310 not real old but not new and I got it goin still waiting on the bar and chain sprocket cover and air filter cover I love it starts up so easy
Dude, just got me a 311 as well. I'm in florida panhandle and ol hurricane michael dropped 80% of the trees in my town. It's a beast of a saw.
Two saws - that’s the right way to go. I have the 311’s big brother - the ms 391. It is a hoss but nothing compared to my 660. Which is the best - the 311 by far and I have owned both. I do start all of my thumpers on the ground, but I only wear all those PPEs on rare occasions. Blue jeans, tee shirt and deck shoes are sufficient for me. My Marine Corps cover is on my head.
We bought a Stihl MS 311 today. Thanks for posting this. I hope ours is a reliable and useful machine. It sure is noisy though.
Hi Josh ! Internet showing 311 bar 16 inch.. You have 311 it’s 20inch. My store have 311- bar 24 inch =$$$ 630. It’s good or to long bar but just 4,2 hp thank for showing video! I like MS311 Stihl .
i picked up a stihl ms 290 at a yard sale last weekend for 30$ starter rope was broke & guy said it was given to him like that & had no idea if it would run or not ! took it home fixed rope no workie gailded piston & cylinder. ordered a cylinder kit for 32$ on amazon & it ran but stil had issued . had a broken adjustment screw in carb . ordered a new carb for 14.99 amazon & runs like a dream less than 90$ in it & this model sells used on ebay for 200 -450$ but ill be putting this on to work my self !
Nice!
thank you for your review...I am actually saving for a chainsaw & didn't have a clue on what to get...this at least gives me some sort of idea now! CHEERS!
I speak highly of Stihl and Husqvarna chainsaw. I have a Stihl MS180 and a Husqvarna 460 Rancher. A mechanic friend of mine loves his Stihl but tells me the Husqvarna is easier to work on.
Huskie is definitely easier to work on if you're a tear it all apart and overhaul it kind of guy.
I just dropped a dozen trees on the property with a 25 ear old Stihl 025, fresh bar, fresh chain, fresh gas after sitting on the shelf 4-5 years, and I'm off and running :)
Nice!!
Just bought this saw, this is exactly what I was looking for. Absolutely fantastic review.
I bought this saw about 18 months ago. I had massive fir trees to cut up. I use only pre-mixed ethanol free 94 octane fuel in my 2-cycle equipment.
Baa!aaaaaa!!!!!
Looks like a great saw man! As a guy with less trees and property I opted for the MS250, and it's been a heck of a saw for me! The starting process is extremely simple, I have a hard time grasping why people have a rough time with it! Lol
i bought one of those 2 yrs ago..great saw...i also use a skip chain ...cut about 4-5 cords a yr... iam 73 easy to use.not heavy..
Do yourself a favor, have your dealer check the rpms on your saw. Using a skip-tooth chain will speed up the rpms on your saw especially when dull. A lot of people won't stop cutting when they're getting sawdust instead of chips.
I plan to buy myself. I can't stop watching videos how easily does it cut doesn't matter what size logs are..
buy the 391 you'll be happier
@@StoneyRidgeFarmer At the moment running MS230 2kW/2,7hp (when was new) it's from 2005. It's pretty worn out. We used it to fall trees bigger than 1m in diameter. It was very difficult task since the guide bar is just 40cm. And teeth are picco which means one of the smallest. It's pretty beaten up. I wanna surprise my dad. You can't even compare MS311 with MS230. We need it to fall trees and make ourselves some firewood...
60cc engine with 4,2hp and longer bar. Stock comes with 40cm I'll probably run 50cm or 55cm I won't go to extremes because it's easier to engine and I really don't need longer bar.
@@StoneyRidgeFarmer And besides all of that I NEVER use Stihl oil. Only mix I make is premium gaaoline with 2%of Castrol POWER1 RACING 2T!!
Oil for racing engines. No smoke at all, ultimative protection and sparkplug is as clean as you run straight gasoline. It's grey.
Love all my Stihl equipment. My little MS250 does a hell of a job.
I love mine too....
Love mine too. Have had it for 10yrs and I’ve put it though hell.
I've had only 2 chainsaws in last 20 years, Ms250 and 251.
Great saws and very reliable.
I think we need to add Echo to that mix too. From experience, I had problems with the Husky I owned a few years back. But I've owned 2 Echo saws with few issues. But I do agree, I think Stihl is the best.
I have an Echo Strimmer and leaf blower. They start easily. My Stihl chainsaw on the other hand has been a pain to cold start since day 1. I wish I had bought an Echo ahead of time (they were out of stock when I actually needed a saw, so I was stuck with Stihl).
I bought a 311 because of this video 👍
Good to see you back at it. Thanks Josh. Looking forward to the husqvarna comparison-I own a husqvarna 345, been a good saw.
Hey Dave! I have a 345 Husky as well, and its still going strong after 12 or so years! Just got it out of the shop for a little bit of maintenance I wasn’t comfortable doing myself. She runs better than ever! Safe cutting and stay healthy! ✌
I don't know if it has a small engine and is made by Shindawa I would even sight unseen put it in the running for the best.
Nice saw Josh, has my 311 about 4 years now, love it. Only thing I could say is that they oil a little slow for hardwood cutting when using thickish bar oils (we are in Australia and cut mainly super hard woods). I use the Stihl genuine chain and bar oil which is a bit thinner, which has been excellent
Did yours not come with an adjustable oiler screw on the bottom I maybe wrong but I thought they all came with them on the ms311 model
Stoney Ridge Farmer living it up with the Stihl . WOOOOO!!!!!
It’s crazy watching this today, I just priced one in 2024 and they’re 678 dollars AFTER taxes. Wild how inflation has hit. 499 back then smh
I just bought one last Friday (after hurricane Halene
Why 2 people already disliked this video, this is a great guy doing wonderful videos, people these days
LOL...I call those my "thumbs down bandits"
They give a thumbs down because they still can't figure out how to use a chain saw. Haha!
TROLLS!
@@StoneyRidgeFarmer husqvarna fans
There will always be haters and bitter trolls, just ignore them and keep on keeping on.
Love my Stihl MS251c Starts on the 3rd pull when its cold in the morning and every other time its a one pull machine. Can't seem to get my Husquvarna 440e to even idle correctly, hot or cold.
I think they are the best no doubt
About time you got a good saw. I have a 391 and it’s a dang good saw. This year I bought a smaller 14” limbing saw so you don’t have to lug the big boy around cutting on the tops.
I used to love the Pioneer P52. Total torque monster.
It is always better to let a new saw warm up before using. I always crank a new saw up and let it sit and idle for about five minutes before I use it.
Yikes saws aren't supposed to sit at an idle for that long a minute tops to warm it up
That's what echo recommends, Small Engine Salon has a video about how not warming an engine up can lead to them seizing up.
Stihl makes some good saws, the're engineered very well and have plenty of power and last if you use ethanol free gas and their 2 stroke oil from day 1.
I own a MS311 and it kicks butt just like yours. Enjoy it and be safe working alone on your farm.
Doug @ the "ranch"
Stihl power tools are the upmost best brand awround. We have a brush chain saw from when my great grand pa farmed. I love them so we also have a weed wacker and a leaf blower
I bought mine today ms311 wow it is great thank for video
Glad ya like the saw!
Looks very easy to use. Thanks for this kind of productive video
Stihl chainsaw is the best one
I have a 311just over a year old been using it for fire wood (Australian dry hardwood) the clutch bearing completely collapsed the clutch hub took out the oilpump drive gear and the oil pump, no sign of any part of the bearing, c clip was gone, the washer the c clip fitted into was gone. This saw was the replacement for my primac 1010 which lasted 42 years with only servicing. What more can I say I have 2 090's for slabbing no issues and an ms880, the ms880 3 years old clutch bearing failed just the other day
311 isn't a good saw after owning it for a little bit...gotta step up to the 391 for sure
Stoney Ridge Farmer is da Man!!!
lol
Just got the MS271 FarmBoss with 20 inch bar yesterday. Can't wait to try it
I just got the Pro grade MS 661 with a 36 inch bar and I absolutely love it. Wish I had gotten this a longtime ago.
Hard to beat stihl, I have a 040 pro. I like it, cold start is mission impossible. I'll try the proper way you did it.
Pre emissions husky 362xp the best. Also watch the vid where they dump saw dust on a Stihl and husky
I smell some great fire wood and craft ideas.. awesome..😀