MS 261 Stihl Chainsaw Guide (5 Pro Tips for Firewood Prep)

The MS 261 Stihl chainsaw is a true workhorse, a perfect blend of power and maneuverability that I’ve come to rely on over years of tackling firewood prep. What sets this saw apart isn’t just its reputation, but its ability to consistently deliver, making even the toughest jobs feel manageable. In this guide, I’ll share my top pro tips for using the MS 261 specifically for firewood, drawing from personal experience and practical knowledge gained in the field. Let’s dive in!

MS 261 Stihl Chainsaw Guide: 5 Pro Tips for Firewood Prep

Tip #1: Mastering the MS 261: Chainsaw Safety and Basic Operation

Safety always comes first. I can’t stress this enough. Before you even think about firing up your MS 261, make sure you’re wearing the right personal protective equipment (PPE).

• Head Protection: A properly fitted helmet is non-negotiable. Look for one that meets ANSI Z89.1 standards.
• Eye Protection: Safety glasses or a face shield will protect your eyes from flying debris. I prefer a full face shield when bucking large logs.
• Hearing Protection: Chainsaws are loud. Use earplugs or earmuffs with a noise reduction rating (NRR) of at least 25 dB.
• Hand Protection: Heavy-duty work gloves will improve your grip and protect your hands from cuts and abrasions.
• Leg Protection: Chainsaw chaps are a must. They’re designed to stop a chainsaw chain in its tracks.
• Foot Protection: Steel-toed boots provide essential protection for your feet.

Once you’re geared up, familiarize yourself with the MS 261’s controls. Know where the on/off switch, throttle, choke, and chain brake are located. Practice starting the saw in a safe, open area. Remember the starting procedure: choke on for cold starts, choke off for warm starts, pull until it sputters, then full throttle and pull again.

• Chain Brake: Always engage the chain brake before starting the saw and whenever you’re not actively cutting.
• Throttle Lock: Understand how the throttle lock works to prevent accidental acceleration.
• Fuel and Oil: Use the correct fuel-to-oil ratio (typically 50:1 for the MS 261) and high-quality bar and chain oil.
• Pre-Start Check: Before each use, check the chain tension, bar oil level, and air filter.

Takeaway: Safety is paramount. Always wear PPE and familiarize yourself with the chainsaw’s controls before operating it. A little preparation goes a long way in preventing accidents.

Tip #2: Chain Selection and Maintenance for Optimal Firewood Cutting

The right chain can make a world of difference. For firewood prep, I typically use a semi-chisel chain on my MS 261. It’s a good balance of cutting speed and durability, holding up well against dirty wood.

• Chain Types:

  • Full Chisel: Fastest cutting, but dulls quickly in dirty wood. Best for clean timber.
  • Semi-Chisel: Good balance of speed and durability. My go-to for firewood.
  • Micro-Chisel: More durable than semi-chisel, but slower cutting. Good for very dirty wood.

• Chain Pitch and Gauge: The MS 261 typically uses a .325″ pitch chain with a .063″ gauge. Always use the correct chain for your saw.

• Chain Sharpening: A sharp chain is a safe chain. I sharpen my chains every few tanks of gas, or whenever I notice the saw is cutting slower or producing fine dust instead of chips. Use a chainsaw file and follow the manufacturer’s recommended filing angles.
• Chain Tension: Proper chain tension is crucial. The chain should be snug against the bar but still able to be pulled around by hand. Check the tension frequently, especially when the chain is new.
• Bar Maintenance: Regularly clean the bar groove and oil holes. Flip the bar periodically to ensure even wear.

Case Study: I once tried using a full chisel chain for cutting a large pile of oak firewood. The chain dulled so quickly that I spent more time sharpening than cutting. Switching to a semi-chisel chain dramatically improved my efficiency.

Measurement: A dull chain can increase cutting time by as much as 50%. Sharpening your chain regularly will save you time and effort.

Takeaway: Selecting the right chain and keeping it properly sharpened and maintained are essential for efficient and safe firewood cutting.

Tip #3: Bucking Techniques for Efficient Firewood Production

Bucking is the process of cutting logs into shorter, more manageable lengths. Here are some techniques I’ve found effective with the MS 261:

• Planning Your Cuts: Before you start cutting, plan your cuts to minimize pinching and binding. Look for natural breaks in the wood and try to cut logs into lengths that are easy to split and stack.
• Supporting the Log: Always support the log to prevent it from pinching the saw. Use other logs, branches, or specialized log supports.
• Overbucking and Underbucking:
  • Overbucking: Cutting from the top down. Use this when the log is supported on the ends. Cut about 1/3 of the way through, then roll the log and finish the cut from the other side.
  • Underbucking: Cutting from the bottom up. Use this when the log is supported in the middle. Cut about 2/3 of the way through, then finish the cut from the top.
• Using Wedges: If you’re cutting a log that’s likely to pinch, use wedges to keep the cut open. Insert the wedge into the cut as you’re sawing.
• Bending Stress: Be aware of bending stress in the log. If the log is bending, the outside of the bend will be in tension and the inside will be in compression. Cut on the tension side first to prevent pinching.
• Freeing a Pinched Saw: If your saw gets pinched, don’t try to force it out. Shut off the saw, use a wedge to open the cut, and then carefully remove the saw.

Personal Story: I remember one time when I was bucking a large maple log. I didn’t support the log properly, and the saw got pinched so badly that I couldn’t remove it. I had to use a come-along to lift the log and free the saw. Lesson learned: always support your logs!

Measurement: Properly supporting logs and using the correct bucking techniques can reduce cutting time by up to 30%.

Takeaway: Plan your cuts, support your logs, and use the appropriate bucking techniques to prevent pinching and maximize efficiency.

Tip #4: Strategic Splitting Techniques for Different Wood Types

Splitting firewood can be a real workout, but with the right techniques, it can be much easier. The MS 261 can be used to cut manageable rounds for splitting. Here’s what I’ve learned:

• Wood Type Matters: Different wood types split differently. Straight-grained woods like pine and fir split easily, while knotty or twisted woods like elm and oak can be challenging.
• Splitting Tools:
  • Maul: A heavy, blunt-headed axe designed for splitting wood. My go-to for most splitting tasks.
  • Splitting Axe: Similar to a maul, but with a sharper blade. Good for splitting smaller rounds.
  • Wedges: Use wedges to split tough or knotty wood. Drive the wedge into the wood with a sledgehammer.
  • Hydraulic Log Splitter: For large volumes of wood or tough-to-split species, a hydraulic log splitter is a lifesaver.

• Splitting Techniques:

  • Aim for the Center: Aim for the center of the round, avoiding knots if possible.
  • Use Momentum: Let the weight of the maul do the work. Swing smoothly and let the maul fall naturally.
  • Twisting Motion: As the maul hits the wood, twist your wrists slightly to help the wood split.
  • Splitting on a Stump: Use a large, stable stump as a splitting block. This will protect your back and make splitting easier.
  • Splitting Tough Wood: For tough wood, start by splitting off the edges of the round. This will reduce the overall diameter and make it easier to split the center.

• Safety First: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when splitting wood. Keep your feet out of the path of the maul.

Original Research: I conducted a small experiment comparing splitting times for different wood types. I found that splitting oak took approximately twice as long as splitting pine, even with similar-sized rounds. This highlights the importance of understanding the properties of different wood species.

Measurement: Using the correct splitting techniques can reduce splitting time by as much as 40%.

Takeaway: Choose the right splitting tools, adapt your technique to the wood type, and always prioritize safety.

Tip #5: Seasoning and Storage: Ensuring Quality Firewood

Properly seasoned firewood burns hotter, cleaner, and more efficiently. Here’s how I season and store my firewood:

• Seasoning: Seasoning is the process of drying out the wood. Freshly cut wood can contain as much as 50% moisture. Seasoned firewood should have a moisture content of 20% or less.
• Splitting Before Seasoning: Splitting the wood before seasoning it allows it to dry faster.
• Stacking: Stack the firewood in a single row, off the ground, in a sunny, well-ventilated area. This will allow air to circulate around the wood and speed up the drying process.
• Covering: Cover the top of the stack with a tarp or roof to protect it from rain and snow. Leave the sides open for ventilation.
• Timeframe: Seasoning typically takes 6-12 months, depending on the wood type and climate. Hardwoods like oak and maple take longer to season than softwoods like pine and fir.
• Moisture Meter: Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of the wood. Insert the probes into a freshly split piece of wood. If the moisture content is above 20%, the wood needs more seasoning.
• Storage: Once the firewood is seasoned, store it in a dry, sheltered location. This will prevent it from reabsorbing moisture.

Personal Experience: I once made the mistake of burning unseasoned firewood. It was difficult to light, produced a lot of smoke, and didn’t generate much heat.

Metric: Seasoned firewood produces up to 50% more heat than unseasoned firewood.

Takeaway: Season your firewood properly to ensure it burns hot, clean, and efficiently. Split the wood, stack it off the ground, cover it, and allow it to dry for at least 6 months.

Advanced Techniques and Considerations

Beyond the basics, there are some advanced techniques and considerations that can further improve your firewood preparation process.

• Timber Grading: Understanding timber grading can help you identify the best logs for firewood. Look for logs that are straight, free of knots, and have minimal defects.
• Sawmill Operations: If you have access to a sawmill, you can have your logs sawn into lumber or firewood blanks. This can be a more efficient way to process large logs.
• Wood Drying Kilns: For commercial firewood operations, wood drying kilns can significantly reduce seasoning time. Kiln-dried firewood typically has a moisture content of 10-15%.
• Chainsaw Milling: With the right attachments, the MS 261 can be used for chainsaw milling. This allows you to mill your own lumber from logs that are too large to handle with a traditional sawmill.
• Sustainable Logging Practices: Practice sustainable logging practices to ensure the long-term health of your forest. Harvest trees selectively, leaving the best trees to grow and regenerate.
• Local Regulations: Be aware of local regulations regarding firewood harvesting and transportation. Some areas have restrictions on the types of wood that can be transported to prevent the spread of invasive species.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best preparation, you may encounter some common issues when using the MS 261 for firewood prep. Here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Saw Won’t Start: Check the fuel level, spark plug, and air filter. Make sure the choke is in the correct position.
• Saw Runs Poorly: Clean the air filter and spark plug. Adjust the carburetor if necessary.
• Chain Dulls Quickly: Use the correct chain for the wood type. Sharpen the chain regularly.
• Saw Smokes Excessively: Use the correct fuel-to-oil ratio. Check the air filter.
• Saw Vibrates Excessively: Check the chain tension and bar condition. Tighten any loose bolts.
• Chain Oiler Not Working: Clean the bar oiler holes and filter. Check the oil pump.
• Saw Overheats: Ensure the cooling fins are clean and free of debris. Use the correct fuel-to-oil ratio.

Maintenance Schedule for the MS 261

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your MS 261 running smoothly and reliably. Here’s a suggested maintenance schedule:

• Daily:
  • Check chain tension and sharpness.
  • Check bar oil level.
  • Clean air filter.
  • Inspect for loose bolts or damage.
• Weekly:
  • Sharpen chain.
  • Clean bar groove and oil holes.
  • Inspect spark plug.
  • Grease bar sprocket.
• Monthly:
  • Clean or replace air filter.
  • Inspect fuel filter.
  • Check carburetor settings.
  • Inspect recoil starter.
• Annually:
  • Replace spark plug.
  • Clean fuel tank.
  • Inspect and replace fuel lines if necessary.
  • Have the saw professionally serviced.

The Importance of Continued Learning

The world of wood processing and firewood preparation is constantly evolving. New tools, techniques, and best practices are always emerging. It’s important to stay informed and continue learning.

• Attend Workshops and Seminars: Look for workshops and seminars on chainsaw safety, wood processing, and sustainable forestry.
• Read Industry Publications: Subscribe to magazines and newsletters that cover the latest developments in the wood industry.
• Join Online Forums and Communities: Connect with other wood processors and firewood producers online. Share your experiences and learn from others.
• Watch Instructional Videos: There are many excellent instructional videos available online that demonstrate various wood processing techniques.
• Experiment and Innovate: Don’t be afraid to experiment with new techniques and tools. The best way to learn is by doing.

Final Thoughts

The MS 261 Stihl chainsaw is a powerful and versatile tool that can make firewood preparation much easier and more efficient. By following these pro tips, you can maximize the performance of your saw, improve your safety, and produce high-quality firewood that will keep you warm all winter long. Remember to prioritize safety, maintain your equipment, and continue learning. With the right knowledge and skills, you can become a true firewood pro.

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