310 Stihl Chainsaw: Best Firewood Cutter? (5 Pro Tips)

Let’s dive deep into the world of firewood, chainsaws, and the legendary Stihl MS 310.

The State of Firewood: A Global Perspective

Before we get down to brass tacks, let’s take a quick look at the current firewood landscape. Globally, the demand for firewood remains strong, driven by factors such as rising energy costs, a renewed interest in sustainable heating solutions, and the simple charm of a crackling fire. According to recent statistics, the global firewood market is projected to reach a staggering value in the coming years, with North America and Europe leading the charge in consumption.

This demand has led to an increase in both commercial firewood operations and individual homeowners taking on the task of sourcing and preparing their own firewood. Whether you’re a seasoned logger or a weekend warrior, understanding the best tools and techniques is crucial for efficient and safe firewood production.

Is the Stihl MS 310 Your Best Bet for Firewood?

The million-dollar question, right? The Stihl MS 310 is a mid-range chainsaw known for its balance of power and weight. It’s a popular choice among homeowners and professionals alike. But is it the best for you? Let’s break it down.

Stihl MS 310: Key Specifications

• Engine Displacement: Around 59 cc
• Power Output: Approximately 3.1 kW (4.2 bhp)
• Weight (without bar and chain): Roughly 5.9 kg (13 lbs)
• Guide Bar Length: Typically 16-20 inches
• Fuel Tank Capacity: Around 0.56 liters
• Oil Tank Capacity: About 0.33 liters

These specs place it squarely in the mid-range category, making it suitable for a variety of tasks, including felling small to medium-sized trees, limbing, and, of course, cutting firewood.

Pros and Cons for Firewood Cutting

Pros:

• Reliability: Stihl is renowned for its durable engines and robust construction. The MS 310 is no exception. I’ve seen these saws running strong after years of hard use, a testament to their build quality.
• Power: With its 59cc engine, the MS 310 packs enough punch to handle most firewood species without bogging down. I’ve tackled everything from softwoods like pine to hardwoods like oak and maple with relative ease.
• Weight: At around 13 pounds, it’s manageable for extended periods of use. This is crucial when you’re processing large quantities of firewood.
• Ease of Use: Stihl chainsaws are generally user-friendly, with intuitive controls and easy starting.
• Availability: Parts and service are readily available, which is a major plus when you need repairs or maintenance.

Cons:

• Not the Lightest: While manageable, it’s not the lightest saw on the market. If you’re looking for something ultra-lightweight for occasional use, you might consider a smaller model.
• Fuel Consumption: Mid-range saws can be a bit thirstier than smaller models, especially when working with hardwoods.
• Price: While not the most expensive saw, it’s not the cheapest either. You’re paying for the Stihl name and reputation.

Alternative Chainsaws to Consider

Before you commit to the MS 310, it’s worth considering a few alternatives, depending on your specific needs and budget:

• Stihl MS 271 Farm Boss: A popular choice for homeowners, offering a good balance of power and value.
• Husqvarna 455 Rancher: Another well-regarded mid-range saw with a strong reputation for reliability.
• Echo CS-590 Timber Wolf: A powerful saw that often comes in at a lower price point than the Stihl and Husqvarna models.

My Personal Experience: A Tale of Firewood and the MS 310

I remember one particularly harsh winter where my primary heat source was a wood-burning stove. I was relying heavily on my Stihl MS 310 to keep my family warm. One day, while cutting through a particularly stubborn oak log, the chain caught, and the saw kicked back violently. Thankfully, I was wearing proper safety gear, but it was a stark reminder of the power and potential dangers of a chainsaw.

That experience reinforced the importance of proper training, maintenance, and respect for the tool. The MS 310, like any chainsaw, is a powerful machine that demands attention and skill.

5 Pro Tips for Mastering Firewood Cutting with the Stihl MS 310

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into some actionable tips to help you get the most out of your Stihl MS 310 for firewood cutting.

Tip 1: Chain Selection and Maintenance: The Sharpest Tool in the Shed

A sharp chain is the single most important factor in efficient and safe firewood cutting. A dull chain not only slows you down but also increases the risk of kickback and puts unnecessary strain on the saw’s engine.

• Chain Type: For general firewood cutting, a standard semi-chisel chain is a good all-around choice. It offers a balance of cutting speed and durability. For harder woods, a full-chisel chain might be preferable, but it requires more frequent sharpening.
• Sharpening: Learn to sharpen your own chain! It’s a valuable skill that will save you time and money. Invest in a good quality chainsaw sharpening kit and practice regularly.
• Filing Angle: The correct filing angle is crucial for optimal cutting performance. Consult your chainsaw’s manual for the recommended angle.
• Depth Gauges: Don’t forget to check and adjust the depth gauges. These small protrusions in front of each cutting tooth control the amount of wood the tooth can bite into. If the depth gauges are too high, the chain will cut slowly. If they’re too low, the chain will grab and kick back.
• Chain Tension: Proper chain tension is essential for safe and efficient cutting. The chain should be snug but still able to be pulled around the bar by hand. Check the tension frequently, especially when the chain is new, as it will stretch during the initial break-in period.

Data Point: Studies have shown that a properly sharpened chain can increase cutting efficiency by as much as 30%.

Personal Anecdote: I once spent an entire day struggling to cut through a pile of oak logs with a dull chain. It was exhausting, frustrating, and potentially dangerous. After finally taking the time to sharpen the chain, the difference was night and day. The saw sliced through the wood effortlessly, and I was able to finish the job in a fraction of the time.

Tip 2: Felling Techniques: Safety First, Always

If you’re felling your own trees for firewood, safety should be your top priority. Felling a tree is a complex and potentially dangerous task that requires careful planning and execution.

• Assess the Tree: Before you even start your saw, take the time to assess the tree and its surroundings. Look for signs of weakness, such as dead limbs, cracks, or rot. Identify the lean of the tree and any obstacles that might affect its fall.
• Plan Your Escape Route: Always plan at least two escape routes at a 45-degree angle away from the direction of the fall. Clear the area of any debris that could trip you up.
• The Notch: The notch is a critical element of safe felling. It determines the direction of the fall. The notch should be cut at a 45-degree angle, with the bottom cut being slightly deeper than the top cut.
• The Hinge: The hinge is the strip of wood left uncut between the notch and the back cut. It controls the fall of the tree and prevents it from kicking back. The hinge should be about 10% of the tree’s diameter.
• The Back Cut: The back cut is made opposite the notch, slightly above the bottom cut of the notch. Leave the hinge intact until the tree starts to fall.
• Wedges: Use felling wedges to help direct the fall of the tree and prevent the saw from getting pinched.
• Communication: If you’re working with a partner, establish clear communication signals.

Data Point: According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), logging is one of the most dangerous occupations in the United States. Proper training and adherence to safety protocols are essential for preventing accidents.

Case Study: I once witnessed a near-miss when a logger failed to properly assess the lean of a tree. The tree fell in an unexpected direction, narrowly missing him. It was a sobering reminder of the importance of taking the time to do things right.

Tip 3: Limbing and Bucking: From Tree to Firewood

Once the tree is on the ground, it’s time to limb it (remove the branches) and buck it (cut it into manageable lengths).

• Limbing: Start by limbing the underside of the tree, working from the base towards the top. This will prevent the tree from rolling and potentially pinning you. Use caution when limbing branches under tension, as they can spring back unexpectedly.
• Bucking: Decide on the desired length of your firewood. A common length is 16 inches, but you may need to adjust it depending on the size of your wood stove or fireplace. Use a measuring stick or a pre-cut log as a guide.
• Cutting Techniques: When bucking logs, use proper cutting techniques to prevent the saw from getting pinched. If the log is supported at both ends, cut from the top down about one-third of the way through, then roll the log over and finish the cut from the bottom up. If the log is supported in the middle, cut from the bottom up about one-third of the way through, then finish the cut from the top down.
• Sawhorse: Invest in a good quality sawhorse to make bucking safer and easier.

Technical Requirement: When bucking firewood, aim for a consistent length to ensure even burning in your stove or fireplace.

Strategic Recommendation: Consider using a log splitter to reduce the amount of chainsaw work required.

Tip 4: Wood Species and Seasoning: The Secret to a Warm Fire

Not all firewood is created equal. The species of wood and its moisture content significantly impact its burning characteristics.

• Hardwoods vs. Softwoods: Hardwoods, such as oak, maple, and ash, are denser and burn longer than softwoods, such as pine, fir, and spruce. Hardwoods also produce more heat and less smoke.
• Seasoning: Green wood (freshly cut wood) contains a high percentage of moisture, which makes it difficult to burn and produces a lot of smoke and creosote. Seasoning is the process of drying wood to reduce its moisture content.
• Moisture Content Targets: Ideally, firewood should have a moisture content of 20% or less before burning. You can use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of your wood.
• Stacking: Stack your firewood in a single row, off the ground, and in a sunny, well-ventilated location. This will allow air to circulate and dry the wood more quickly.
• Timeframe: Seasoning typically takes 6-12 months, depending on the species of wood, the climate, and the stacking method.

Data Point: Seasoned firewood can produce up to 50% more heat than green firewood.

Original Research: I conducted a small-scale experiment comparing the burning characteristics of seasoned oak and green oak. The seasoned oak burned hotter, longer, and produced significantly less smoke.

Real Example: I once tried to burn a load of green pine in my wood stove. It was a disaster. The wood smoldered, produced copious amounts of smoke, and barely generated any heat. I learned my lesson the hard way: seasoning is essential.

Tip 5: Chainsaw Maintenance: Keeping Your Stihl MS 310 Running Strong

Proper maintenance is crucial for extending the life of your Stihl MS 310 and ensuring its reliable performance.

• Air Filter: Clean or replace the air filter regularly. A dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause the engine to overheat.
• Spark Plug: Check and replace the spark plug annually. A fouled spark plug can cause starting problems and poor performance.
• Fuel Filter: Replace the fuel filter annually. A clogged fuel filter can starve the engine of fuel.
• Bar and Chain Oil: Use a high-quality bar and chain oil to lubricate the chain and bar. Check the oil level frequently and refill as needed.
• Sharpening: As mentioned earlier, keep your chain sharp.
• Storage: When storing your chainsaw for an extended period, drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stalls. This will prevent the fuel from gumming up the carburetor.
• Professional Service: Take your chainsaw to a qualified service technician for regular maintenance and repairs.

Cost Considerations: Regular maintenance can seem like an added expense, but it’s a worthwhile investment. A well-maintained chainsaw will last longer, perform better, and be less likely to break down when you need it most.

Troubleshooting Guidance: If your chainsaw is hard to start, stalls frequently, or lacks power, consult your owner’s manual or take it to a qualified service technician.

Firewood Prep Project: From Forest to Fireplace

Let’s put all of these tips into action with a hypothetical firewood preparation project.

Project Goal: To prepare enough seasoned firewood to heat a home for the winter.

Step 1: Resource Assessment

• Determine your firewood needs: Estimate how much firewood you’ll need based on the size of your home, the efficiency of your wood stove or fireplace, and the severity of the winter. A general rule of thumb is that a cord of wood will heat an average-sized home for about 1-2 months.
• Identify a source of firewood: This could be your own property, a local tree service, or a commercial firewood supplier.
• Select the right tools: Ensure you have a reliable chainsaw (like the Stihl MS 310!), appropriate safety gear, a sawhorse, a log splitter (optional), and a moisture meter.

Step 2: Felling and Processing

• Fell trees safely: Follow the felling techniques outlined earlier.
• Limb and buck the trees: Cut the logs into manageable lengths (e.g., 16 inches).
• Split the logs: Use a log splitter or a splitting maul to split the logs into smaller pieces.

Step 3: Seasoning

• Stack the firewood: Stack the firewood in a single row, off the ground, and in a sunny, well-ventilated location.
• Monitor the moisture content: Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of the wood regularly.
• Allow sufficient time for seasoning: Aim for a moisture content of 20% or less before burning.

Step 4: Storage and Burning

• Store the seasoned firewood: Store the seasoned firewood in a dry, sheltered location.
• Burn the firewood efficiently: Load your wood stove or fireplace properly and ensure adequate airflow.

Project Success Rates: With proper planning and execution, this project has a high chance of success. However, factors such as weather conditions, wood species, and seasoning time can affect the outcome.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Neglecting safety: Always wear proper safety gear and follow safe operating procedures.
• Using a dull chain: A dull chain is inefficient and dangerous.
• Burning green wood: Green wood produces less heat and more smoke.
• Improper stacking: Stacking firewood improperly can slow down the seasoning process.
• Ignoring maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial for extending the life of your chainsaw.

Next Steps and Additional Resources

• Take a chainsaw safety course: This is a valuable investment that will teach you safe operating procedures and maintenance techniques.
• Consult your owner’s manual: Your owner’s manual contains valuable information about your chainsaw’s operation and maintenance.
• Visit a local chainsaw dealer: A local dealer can provide expert advice and service.
• Online resources: There are many online resources available, including forums, videos, and articles.

Suppliers of Logging Tools:

• Baileys: Specializes in logging, arborist, and chainsaw equipment.
• Northern Tool + Equipment: Offers a wide range of tools and equipment for various applications, including logging and firewood preparation.
• Forestry Suppliers, Inc.: Provides equipment and supplies for forestry, surveying, and environmental science.

Drying Equipment Rental Services:

While not typically rented, consider purchasing a firewood kiln if you’re a commercial operation. These drastically reduce drying times.

Final Thoughts: Embrace the Warmth, Respect the Tool

Preparing firewood is a rewarding but demanding task. The Stihl MS 310, with its reliability and power, can be a valuable ally in this endeavor. By following these tips and practicing safe operating procedures, you can harness the power of this legendary chainsaw to keep your home warm and cozy all winter long. Remember to respect the tool, prioritize safety, and enjoy the satisfaction of providing for yourself and your loved ones.

Learn more