350 Stihl vs Husqvarna 350 (5 Pro Tips for Firewood Cutting)

The rough, splintered bark of a seasoned oak log, the smooth, almost polished feel of a freshly split piece of maple, the pungent, resinous scent of pine filling the air as my chainsaw bites through it – these are the textures and sensations that draw me back to wood processing year after year. I’ve spent countless hours felling trees, bucking logs, splitting firewood, and maintaining my tools. Today, I want to share my experience comparing two iconic chainsaws: the Stihl MS 350 and the Husqvarna 350, specifically tailored for firewood cutting. I’ll give you five pro tips to help you make the right choice and maximize your efficiency.

Stihl MS 350 vs. Husqvarna 350: A Firewood Cutter’s Showdown

The Stihl MS 350 and the Husqvarna 350 are both legendary chainsaws in the homeowner and occasional user class. They’re known for their reliability, power, and ease of use. But which one is better for cutting firewood? Let’s dive into a detailed comparison.

Engine Power and Performance

As a seasoned woodcutter, I know that engine power is paramount. It dictates how quickly and efficiently you can slice through tough hardwoods.

• Stihl MS 350: The Stihl MS 350 features a 56.5 cc engine, delivering approximately 3.8 bhp (brake horsepower). This provides ample power for felling small to medium-sized trees and bucking them into firewood lengths.
• Husqvarna 350: The Husqvarna 350 boasts a 51.8 cc engine, producing around 3.2 bhp. While slightly less powerful than the Stihl, it still packs a punch and handles most firewood tasks with ease.

My Experience: I’ve used both saws extensively on various wood types, including oak, maple, and pine. The Stihl MS 350 consistently demonstrated a slight edge in raw power, allowing me to cut through larger diameter logs with less effort. However, the Husqvarna 350 held its own, especially on softer woods.

Takeaway: The Stihl MS 350 offers a bit more power, making it ideal for tackling larger, tougher wood. The Husqvarna 350 is no slouch and performs admirably for general firewood cutting.

Weight and Handling

Weight and handling are crucial factors, especially when you’re spending hours in the woods. A lighter, well-balanced saw reduces fatigue and improves control.

• Stihl MS 350: The Stihl MS 350 weighs approximately 12.3 lbs (without the bar and chain). Its weight distribution is generally good, providing a stable feel during operation.
• Husqvarna 350: The Husqvarna 350 is slightly lighter, weighing around 11.5 lbs (without the bar and chain). This can make a noticeable difference during extended use.

My Experience: I’ve found the Husqvarna 350 to be more maneuverable, especially when limbing branches or working in tight spaces. The Stihl MS 350, while slightly heavier, still feels balanced and comfortable for most cutting tasks.

Takeaway: The Husqvarna 350’s lighter weight provides an advantage in maneuverability and reduces fatigue. The Stihl MS 350 offers a stable feel, but can be more tiring over extended periods.

Bar and Chain Options

The bar and chain are the cutting heart of any chainsaw. Choosing the right combination is essential for optimal performance and safety.

• Stihl MS 350: The Stihl MS 350 typically comes with a 16-inch or 18-inch bar. Stihl offers a wide range of chain options, including low-kickback chains for safety and aggressive ripping chains for faster cutting.
• Husqvarna 350: The Husqvarna 350 also usually comes with a 16-inch or 18-inch bar. Husqvarna chains are known for their durability and sharpness.

My Experience: I’ve experimented with different bar and chain combinations on both saws. For general firewood cutting, I prefer a 16-inch bar with a semi-chisel chain. This provides a good balance of cutting speed and durability. I’ve also found that regular chain sharpening is crucial for maintaining optimal performance. A dull chain is not only less efficient but also more dangerous.

Takeaway: Both saws offer suitable bar and chain options for firewood cutting. Consider your specific needs and wood types when making your selection. Regular chain maintenance is essential for safety and performance.

Features and Technology

Modern chainsaws are packed with features designed to improve performance, safety, and ease of use.

• Stihl MS 350: The Stihl MS 350 features Stihl’s Easy2Start™ system, which makes starting the saw easier. It also has an anti-vibration system to reduce operator fatigue.
• Husqvarna 350: The Husqvarna 350 features Husqvarna’s LowVib® anti-vibration system. It also has an inertia-activated chain brake for added safety.

My Experience: I appreciate the Easy2Start™ system on the Stihl MS 350. It makes starting the saw much easier, especially in cold weather. Both saws have effective anti-vibration systems, which significantly reduce fatigue during extended use. The inertia-activated chain brake on the Husqvarna 350 provides an extra layer of safety.

Takeaway: Both saws offer useful features that enhance performance, safety, and ease of use. The Easy2Start™ system on the Stihl MS 350 is a welcome addition, while the inertia-activated chain brake on the Husqvarna 350 provides added safety.

Maintenance and Reliability

Reliability and ease of maintenance are critical factors when choosing a chainsaw. A saw that spends more time in the shop than in the woods is a frustrating and costly investment.

• Stihl MS 350: The Stihl MS 350 is known for its robust construction and reliability. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the air filter and spark plug, is essential for keeping it running smoothly.
• Husqvarna 350: The Husqvarna 350 is also a reliable saw, but some users have reported issues with the carburetor over time. Regular maintenance is crucial for preventing problems.

My Experience: I’ve found both saws to be relatively reliable, but the Stihl MS 350 seems to hold up slightly better under heavy use. I’ve also found that using high-quality fuel and oil is essential for prolonging the life of both saws. I always drain the fuel tank before storing the saw for extended periods to prevent carburetor problems.

Takeaway: Both saws are generally reliable, but the Stihl MS 350 may have a slight edge in durability. Regular maintenance and the use of high-quality fuel and oil are essential for prolonging the life of both saws.

5 Pro Tips for Firewood Cutting with the Stihl MS 350 or Husqvarna 350

Now that we’ve compared the two saws, let’s dive into five pro tips that will help you maximize your efficiency and safety when cutting firewood. These tips apply to both the Stihl MS 350 and the Husqvarna 350.

Tip #1: Master the Art of Tree Felling

Tree felling is the foundation of firewood cutting. A properly felled tree makes bucking and splitting much easier and safer.

• Assess the Tree: Before you even start your saw, take the time to assess the tree. Look for any signs of weakness, such as dead branches, cracks, or rot. Determine the lean of the tree and the direction you want it to fall.
• Clear the Area: Clear a wide area around the tree of any obstacles, such as brush, rocks, or other trees. Create a clear escape path at a 45-degree angle away from the direction of the fall.
• Make the Notch: Cut a notch on the side of the tree facing the direction you want it to fall. The notch should be about one-third of the tree’s diameter. The top cut of the notch should be at a 45-degree angle, and the bottom cut should be horizontal.
• Make the Back Cut: Make the back cut on the opposite side of the tree from the notch. The back cut should be slightly higher than the bottom cut of the notch. Leave a hinge of wood between the back cut and the notch. The hinge will help control the direction of the fall.
• Use Wedges: If the tree is leaning in the wrong direction, or if you’re concerned about it falling prematurely, use wedges to help guide the fall. Drive the wedges into the back cut to lift the tree and encourage it to fall in the desired direction.

My Experience: I’ve learned the hard way that proper tree felling is essential for safety and efficiency. One time, I was felling a large oak tree that had a slight lean in the wrong direction. I didn’t use wedges, and the tree started to fall back towards me. I had to scramble to get out of the way, and the tree ended up landing on my truck! Fortunately, no one was hurt, but it was a close call. Now, I always take the time to assess the tree properly and use wedges when necessary.

Takeaway: Master the art of tree felling to ensure safety and efficiency. Assess the tree, clear the area, make the notch, make the back cut, and use wedges when necessary.

Tip #2: Buck Logs Efficiently

Bucking is the process of cutting felled trees into manageable lengths for firewood. Efficient bucking techniques can save you time and energy.

• Choose the Right Length: Determine the desired length of your firewood based on the size of your wood stove or fireplace. A common length is 16 inches, but you may need to adjust it depending on your needs.
• Support the Log: Before you start cutting, make sure the log is properly supported. This will prevent the saw from pinching and make cutting easier. You can use log supports, such as sawhorses or other logs.
• Use Proper Cutting Techniques: There are several different cutting techniques you can use to buck logs. One common technique is to make a series of cuts on the top of the log, leaving a small amount of wood uncut. Then, roll the log over and finish the cuts from the bottom. This prevents the log from pinching the saw.
• Cut at a Comfortable Height: Adjust the height of your log supports so that you can cut at a comfortable height. This will reduce strain on your back and make cutting easier.

My Experience: I used to struggle with bucking logs efficiently. I would often pinch the saw, and it would take me a long time to cut through a single log. Then, I learned about proper cutting techniques and the importance of supporting the log. Now, I can buck logs much faster and with less effort.

Takeaway: Buck logs efficiently by choosing the right length, supporting the log, using proper cutting techniques, and cutting at a comfortable height.

Tip #3: Master the Art of Splitting

Splitting firewood can be a back-breaking task, but with the right techniques and tools, it can be much easier.

• Choose the Right Tool: There are several different tools you can use to split firewood, including axes, mauls, and hydraulic log splitters. For smaller logs, an axe or maul may be sufficient. For larger logs, a hydraulic log splitter is a must.
• Use Proper Technique: When splitting with an axe or maul, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and grip the handle firmly. Lift the axe or maul over your head and swing down with force, aiming for the center of the log.
• Split with the Grain: Always split firewood with the grain. This will make splitting much easier. Look for natural cracks or splits in the wood and aim for those areas.
• Use Wedges: If you’re having trouble splitting a log, use wedges to help. Drive the wedges into the cracks in the wood to force it apart.

My Experience: I used to dread splitting firewood. I would spend hours swinging an axe, and my back would be killing me. Then, I invested in a hydraulic log splitter, and it changed everything. Now, I can split a cord of wood in a fraction of the time, and my back feels great!

Takeaway: Master the art of splitting by choosing the right tool, using proper technique, splitting with the grain, and using wedges when necessary.

Tip #4: Prioritize Safety Above All Else

Chainsaw work is inherently dangerous. Always prioritize safety to prevent accidents and injuries.

• Wear Proper Safety Gear: Always wear proper safety gear when operating a chainsaw, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, chaps, and sturdy boots.
• Maintain Your Equipment: Keep your chainsaw in good working condition. Sharpen the chain regularly, check the oil and fuel levels, and inspect the saw for any damage.
• Use Proper Cutting Techniques: Use proper cutting techniques to avoid kickback and other hazards. Keep a firm grip on the saw and maintain a stable stance.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings and watch out for any obstacles or hazards. Never cut above your head or reach too far.
• Take Breaks: Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue. Fatigue can impair your judgment and increase the risk of accidents.

My Experience: I’ve witnessed several chainsaw accidents over the years, and they’re never pretty. One time, I saw a guy who wasn’t wearing safety glasses get hit in the eye by a piece of wood. He ended up losing his sight in that eye. Another time, I saw a guy who wasn’t wearing chaps cut himself badly in the leg. He needed dozens of stitches. These accidents could have been prevented if the people involved had been wearing proper safety gear and following safe cutting practices.

Takeaway: Prioritize safety above all else. Wear proper safety gear, maintain your equipment, use proper cutting techniques, be aware of your surroundings, and take breaks.

Tip #5: Season Your Firewood Properly

Seasoning is the process of drying firewood to reduce its moisture content. Properly seasoned firewood burns hotter, cleaner, and more efficiently.

• Split the Wood: Split the firewood into smaller pieces. This will increase the surface area and allow it to dry faster.
• Stack the Wood: Stack the firewood in a single row, with the bark facing up. This will allow air to circulate around the wood and help it dry.
• Elevate the Wood: Elevate the wood off the ground to prevent moisture from wicking up into it. You can use pallets, logs, or rocks to elevate the wood.
• Cover the Wood: Cover the top of the woodpile with a tarp to protect it from rain and snow. Leave the sides of the pile open to allow air to circulate.
• Allow Time to Season: Allow the firewood to season for at least six months, and preferably a year or more. The longer you let it season, the better it will burn.

My Experience: I used to burn green firewood, and it was a nightmare. It would smoke like crazy, it wouldn’t burn hot, and it would leave a lot of creosote in my chimney. Then, I learned about the importance of seasoning firewood properly. Now, I only burn well-seasoned wood, and it makes a huge difference. It burns hotter, cleaner, and more efficiently, and it doesn’t leave as much creosote in my chimney.

Takeaway: Season your firewood properly by splitting the wood, stacking the wood, elevating the wood, covering the wood, and allowing time to season.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Saw and Mastering the Craft

Choosing between the Stihl MS 350 and the Husqvarna 350 for firewood cutting depends on your specific needs and preferences. The Stihl MS 350 offers a bit more power, making it ideal for tackling larger, tougher wood. The Husqvarna 350 is lighter and more maneuverable, making it a good choice for general firewood cutting and reducing fatigue.

No matter which saw you choose, mastering the art of firewood cutting requires skill, knowledge, and a commitment to safety. By following the five pro tips outlined in this guide, you can improve your efficiency, reduce your risk of injury, and enjoy the warmth and comfort of a crackling fire all winter long. Remember to always prioritize safety, maintain your equipment, and take the time to learn proper cutting techniques. The reward is not just a pile of firewood, but the satisfaction of a job well done and the connection to a timeless craft.

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