MS 201C Chainsaw Review (Expert Tips For Efficient Woodcutting)

Ever felt like wrestling a grizzly bear when all you wanted was a neat stack of firewood? You’re not alone. The world of woodcutting can seem daunting, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be a fulfilling and even therapeutic pursuit. Today, I’m diving deep into the Stihl MS 201C chainsaw, sharing my expert tips to help you achieve efficient woodcutting, whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out.

The Woodcutting Landscape: A Global Perspective

Before we get our hands dirty, let’s take a quick look at the broader picture. The global logging and firewood industry is a multi-billion dollar market, with demand fueled by construction, heating, and even artisanal crafts. According to recent reports, the global firewood market alone is projected to reach \$25.3 billion by 2027, highlighting its continued relevance, especially in developing regions. However, sustainable practices are becoming increasingly important. Consumers and regulators are pushing for responsible forestry, favoring sustainably harvested wood and efficient wood processing techniques. This means using tools like the MS 201C effectively not only saves time and effort but also contributes to a more eco-friendly approach.

Understanding Your Needs: Is the MS 201C Right for You?

Choosing the right chainsaw is like selecting the perfect dance partner – it needs to be a good fit. The Stihl MS 201C is often touted as a versatile, mid-range option. But is it truly the woodcutter’s Swiss Army knife, or is it better suited for specific tasks?

I’ve personally used the MS 201C for several years, and my experience has been a mixed bag – but mostly positive. It excels in certain areas, while other chainsaws might be better suited for heavier duties.

Who is it for? Homeowners needing to fell small trees, prune branches, or prepare firewood. Landscapers looking for a reliable and relatively lightweight saw.
Who is it not for? Professional loggers felling large trees. Those needing a saw for heavy-duty, all-day use.

Key Concepts: Laying the Groundwork

Before we jump into the review, let’s define some key terms that will be essential for understanding the rest of this guide:

Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood: Green wood is freshly cut wood with high moisture content. Seasoned wood has been dried, typically for 6-12 months, reducing its moisture content for better burning.
Bar Length: The length of the chainsaw bar, determining the maximum diameter of wood you can cut.
Chain Pitch: The distance between the rivets on the chain.
Gauge: The thickness of the drive links that fit into the guide bar groove.
Kickback: The sudden, uncontrolled upward or backward movement of the chainsaw bar, a significant safety hazard.
Bucking: Cutting a felled tree into shorter lengths.
Felling: The process of cutting down a tree.
Limbing: Removing branches from a felled tree.
Kerf: The width of the cut made by the chainsaw.
Two-Stroke Engine: The engine used in the MS 201C, requiring a mix of gasoline and oil.

The MS 201C Chainsaw: A Deep Dive

The Stihl MS 201C is a gasoline-powered chainsaw designed for a range of tasks, from felling small trees to preparing firewood. Here’s a detailed look at its features:

Engine: 35.2 cc two-stroke engine
Power Output: 2.4 HP (1.8 kW)
Weight: 9.7 lbs (4.4 kg) without fuel, bar, and chain. This is a key advantage.
Bar Length Options: Typically available with 14″ or 16″ bars.
Chain Oil Capacity: 7.8 oz (230 ml)
Fuel Capacity: 11.1 oz (330 ml)
Features: Easy2Start™ system, Quick Chain Tensioning (B), Ematic™ lubrication system.

My Personal Experience with the MS 201C

I remember the first time I fired up the MS 201C. I was tasked with clearing a thicket of overgrown alders from my property. The size of the job felt overwhelming. I had previously been using a heavier, older model chainsaw, and the difference was night and day. The MS 201C felt lighter, more nimble, and easier to maneuver. It zipped through the alder branches with surprising ease. However, I quickly learned that it had its limits when I tried to tackle a fallen oak log. It struggled to cut through the dense hardwood, and I realized that a larger, more powerful saw would have been a better choice for that particular task.

Detailed Steps for Efficient Woodcutting with the MS 201C

Okay, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty. Here’s a step-by-step guide to using the MS 201C effectively:

Step 1: Safety First

No matter how experienced you are, safety is paramount. This isn’t just a suggestion; it’s a necessity.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear a helmet, safety glasses or face shield, ear protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and sturdy boots.
Chainsaw Inspection: Before each use, inspect the chainsaw for any damage. Check the chain tension, bar lubrication, and fuel and oil levels.
Work Area: Clear the work area of any obstacles, including branches, rocks, and debris. Ensure you have a stable footing.
Bystanders: Keep bystanders at least twice the height of the tree you’re felling away from the work area.
Kickback Awareness: Be aware of the kickback zone at the upper quadrant of the bar tip. Avoid using this area for cutting.

Step 2: Starting the Chainsaw

The MS 201C features the Easy2Start™ system, which makes starting relatively easy. However, proper technique is still crucial.

Place the chainsaw on a stable surface. Ensure the chain is not touching anything.
Engage the chain brake. This prevents the chain from moving during startup.
Activate the choke. This enriches the fuel mixture for cold starts.
Pull the starter cord firmly and smoothly. Avoid jerking the cord.
Once the engine starts (or sputters), disengage the choke.
Pull the starter cord again to start the engine.
Let the engine warm up for a few minutes before use.

Step 3: Basic Cutting Techniques

Now comes the fun part – actually cutting wood. Here are some essential techniques:

Felling Small Trees:
1. Assess the tree: Check for lean, wind direction, and any obstacles in the tree’s path.
2. Plan your escape route: Ensure you have a clear path away from the falling tree.
3. Make a notch cut: This controls the direction of the fall. Cut a wedge-shaped notch on the side of the tree facing the direction you want it to fall. The notch should be about 1/3 of the tree’s diameter.
4. Make a back cut: Cut horizontally from the opposite side of the tree, slightly above the notch. Leave a hinge of uncut wood to control the fall.
5. Warn others: Shout “Timber!” before the tree falls.
6. Retreat along your escape route.
Limbing:
1. Work from the base of the tree towards the top.
2. Cut branches on the underside of the tree first, to prevent the tree from settling and pinching the saw.
3. Use a sweeping motion to cut branches.
4. Be aware of spring poles: These are bent branches under tension that can snap back when cut.
Bucking:
1. Support the log: Use logs or blocks to prevent the log from pinching the saw.
2. Determine the cutting method: For logs supported at both ends, cut halfway through from the top, then finish from the bottom. For logs supported at one end, cut halfway through from the bottom, then finish from the top.
3. Maintain a straight cut: Use a guide or your eye to ensure a straight cut.

Step 4: Maintaining Your MS 201C

Proper maintenance is crucial for extending the life of your chainsaw and ensuring optimal performance. Neglecting maintenance is like neglecting your health – it will eventually catch up to you.

Chain Sharpening: A sharp chain is essential for efficient cutting and safety. Sharpen the chain regularly using a chainsaw file or a chain grinder. I recommend sharpening after every few hours of use, or whenever the chain starts to cut slowly.
Bar Maintenance: Clean the bar groove regularly to remove sawdust and debris. Check the bar for wear and replace it when necessary.
Air Filter: Clean the air filter regularly to ensure proper airflow to the engine. A clogged air filter can reduce engine performance and increase fuel consumption.
Spark Plug: Check the spark plug regularly and replace it when necessary. A fouled spark plug can cause starting problems.
Fuel and Oil: Use the correct fuel and oil mixture for your chainsaw. Stihl recommends a 50:1 mixture of gasoline and two-stroke oil. Use high-quality chainsaw oil for bar and chain lubrication.
Storage: When storing your chainsaw for extended periods, drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stalls. This prevents fuel from gumming up the carburetor.

Data-Backed Insights: Chain Sharpening and Wood Species

Let’s delve into some data-backed insights that can significantly improve your woodcutting efficiency.

Chain Sharpening: Studies have shown that a properly sharpened chain can increase cutting speed by up to 30%. A dull chain not only slows down cutting but also increases the risk of kickback and puts more strain on the engine. I’ve personally experienced this. I once tried to cut through a pile of oak logs with a dull chain, and it took me nearly twice as long as it would have with a sharp chain. Plus, I was exhausted by the end of it.
Wood Species: Different wood species have different densities and hardness, which affect cutting speed and chain wear. For example, cutting hardwoods like oak and maple will dull the chain faster than cutting softwoods like pine and fir. Understanding the properties of different wood species can help you choose the right chain and cutting technique for the job. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Hardwoods (Oak, Maple, Hickory): Dense, strong, and durable. Require a sharp chain and a steady hand.
- Softwoods (Pine, Fir, Spruce): Less dense, easier to cut. Dull the chain less quickly.
- Green Wood: High moisture content, easier to cut but can clog the chain.
- Seasoned Wood: Lower moisture content, harder to cut but burns cleaner.

Case Study: Firewood Preparation for Optimal Drying

I once helped a friend prepare firewood for the winter. He had a large pile of freshly cut oak logs and wanted to season them properly for optimal burning. Here’s what we did:

Bucked the logs into 16-inch lengths. This is a standard firewood length that fits most wood stoves.
Split the logs into smaller pieces. This increases the surface area for drying.
Stacked the firewood in a single row, with gaps between the pieces for air circulation.
Oriented the stack to maximize sun exposure and wind flow.
Covered the top of the stack with a tarp to protect it from rain and snow.

After six months of drying, the firewood had a moisture content of around 20%, which is ideal for burning. My friend was amazed at how much better the seasoned firewood burned compared to the green wood he had used in the past.

Costs, Budgeting, and Resource Management

Woodcutting can be an expensive hobby or profession. Here are some cost considerations and budgeting tips:

Chainsaw Purchase: The MS 201C typically costs between \$400 and \$500.
Safety Gear: Budget around \$200-\$300 for essential safety gear.
Maintenance Costs: Factor in the cost of chain sharpening, bar lubrication, air filter replacement, and spark plug replacement.
Fuel and Oil: These are ongoing expenses that can add up quickly.
Replacement Parts: Chainsaws are machines, and machines break down. Be prepared to replace worn or damaged parts.
Resource Management:
- Source wood responsibly: Obtain wood from sustainable sources or salvage fallen trees.
- Use firewood efficiently: Burn firewood in a high-efficiency wood stove or fireplace.
- Minimize waste: Use wood scraps for kindling or other projects.

Troubleshooting and Common Pitfalls

Even with the best equipment and techniques, you may encounter problems. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them:

Chainsaw Won’t Start:
- Check the fuel level.
- Check the spark plug.
- Clean the air filter.
- Ensure the choke is properly engaged.
- Check the fuel lines for clogs or leaks.
Chainsaw Cuts Slowly:
- Sharpen the chain.
- Check the bar lubrication.
- Ensure the chain tension is correct.
- Check the air filter.
Chainsaw Kicks Back:
- Use proper cutting techniques.
- Avoid using the upper quadrant of the bar tip.
- Ensure the chain is sharp.
- Maintain a firm grip on the chainsaw.
Chain Keeps Coming Off:
- Check the chain tension.
- Check the bar for wear.
- Ensure the chain is the correct size for the bar.
Engine Overheats:
- Clean the cooling fins on the engine.
- Check the air filter.
- Use the correct fuel and oil mixture.

Strategic Recommendations for Success

Here are some strategic recommendations to help you succeed in your woodcutting endeavors:

Invest in Quality Equipment: Don’t skimp on safety gear or chainsaw maintenance.
Learn Proper Techniques: Take a chainsaw safety course or watch instructional videos.
Practice Regularly: The more you practice, the better you’ll become.
Maintain Your Equipment: Regular maintenance will extend the life of your chainsaw and ensure optimal performance.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Always be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards.
Know Your Limits: Don’t attempt tasks that are beyond your skill level or physical capabilities.
Get Help When Needed: Don’t be afraid to ask for help from experienced woodcutters.

Next Steps and Additional Resources

So, you’ve absorbed all this knowledge. What’s next?

Find a Local Chainsaw Dealer: A reputable dealer can provide advice, service, and replacement parts.
Take a Chainsaw Safety Course: This is an invaluable investment in your safety and skills.
Join a Woodcutting Community: Connect with other woodcutters to share tips and experiences.
Explore Online Resources: There are many websites and forums dedicated to woodcutting and chainsaw maintenance.
Consider Renting Equipment: If you only need a chainsaw for occasional use, renting may be a more cost-effective option.
Research Sustainable Wood Sourcing: Learn about responsible forestry practices and support sustainable wood suppliers.

The Bottom Line: Is the MS 201C Worth It?

After years of using the MS 201C, I can confidently say that it’s a solid choice for homeowners and landscapers who need a reliable and relatively lightweight chainsaw for light to medium-duty tasks. It’s not the most powerful chainsaw on the market, but it’s easy to start, easy to handle, and relatively fuel-efficient. However, if you plan on felling large trees or cutting dense hardwoods regularly, you may want to consider a larger, more powerful chainsaw. Ultimately, the best chainsaw for you depends on your specific needs and budget. But for many, the MS 201C hits the sweet spot between power, portability, and price.

Now, go forth and conquer those wood piles! Just remember to stay safe, stay sharp, and always respect the power of the chainsaw.