MS 500 Stihl Review: Power & Performance Insights (Pro Arborist Take)

Don’t Wait! Unlock the Raw Power of the MS 500i: A Pro Arborist’s Honest Take

Time is money when you’re felling trees, bucking logs, or battling a nasty storm cleanup. Every second counts, and the wrong equipment can turn a profitable day into a frustrating slog. As a pro arborist, I’ve been there – wrestling with underpowered saws, fighting to start engines in the cold, and feeling the strain on my body after a long day. That’s why I’m diving deep into the Stihl MS 500i, a chainsaw that’s been generating serious buzz in the industry. Is it just hype, or does it really deliver the power and performance you need to tackle the toughest jobs? Let’s find out.

I’m not just regurgitating specs; I’m sharing my real-world experiences, the kind you won’t find in a brochure. I’ll break down its strengths and weaknesses, compare it to other top-tier saws, and give you the unvarnished truth about whether the MS 500i is worth the investment. Buckle up, because we’re about to cut through the marketing and get to the heart of what this saw can do for your work.

The MS 500i Deconstructed: A Deep Dive into Power and Performance

The Stihl MS 500i is a fuel-injected chainsaw that’s designed for professional use, specifically targeting arborists, loggers, and anyone who demands maximum power and efficiency. It’s not your average homeowner saw; this is a machine built for demanding tasks and extended use.

The Heart of the Beast: Engine and Fuel Injection

The MS 500i’s engine is where the magic happens. It’s a 79.2 cc (4.8 cu in) two-stroke powerhouse, and the key to its performance is the electronic fuel injection system. Unlike traditional carburetors, fuel injection delivers precise amounts of fuel to the engine based on real-time conditions like air temperature, engine speed, and load.

• Benefits of Fuel Injection:
  • Effortless Starting: No more struggling with a flooded engine or finicky choke settings. The MS 500i starts quickly and reliably, even in cold weather. I’ve personally started it in sub-freezing temperatures with zero issues, a game-changer compared to my older, carbureted saws.
  • Optimized Performance: The engine runs smoothly and efficiently at all speeds, delivering consistent power throughout the cut. There’s no bogging down or hesitation, even when tackling large-diameter logs.
  • Fuel Efficiency: Fuel injection optimizes fuel consumption, saving you money and reducing your environmental impact. I’ve noticed a significant difference in fuel usage compared to my older Stihl MS 462, especially during prolonged use. I estimate a fuel saving of around 15-20% on average.
  • Automatic Altitude Compensation: The fuel injection system automatically adjusts to changes in altitude, ensuring optimal performance whether you’re working at sea level or in the mountains. This is crucial for arborists who work in varied terrains.
• Data Point: Stihl claims a power-to-weight ratio of 1.24 hp/kg (0.56 hp/lb) for the MS 500i, making it the lightest chainsaw in its displacement class. This is a critical factor in reducing operator fatigue.

Unleashing the Power: Cutting Performance in Real-World Scenarios

The MS 500i’s power translates directly into cutting performance. I’ve used it to fell everything from mature oaks to dense hardwoods, and it handles them all with ease.

• Felling Large Trees: The saw’s high torque and fast chain speed make quick work of felling large-diameter trees. I’ve felled trees exceeding 40 inches in diameter with the MS 500i, and it felt noticeably less strained than my MS 462.
• Bucking Logs: Bucking logs into manageable lengths is a breeze with the MS 500i. The saw’s power allows you to maintain a consistent cutting speed, even when dealing with knots or dense wood.
• Limbing: While not specifically designed for limbing, the MS 500i’s lightweight design and responsive throttle make it surprisingly nimble for this task. However, for extensive limbing, a smaller, lighter saw might be a better choice.
• Hardwood vs. Softwood: The MS 500i excels in both hardwood and softwood applications. However, its true potential shines when tackling hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory. The saw’s power allows you to maintain a fast cutting speed, even in these dense materials. In softwood applications, the saw’s power can be almost overkill, but it still provides a smooth and efficient cutting experience.

Beyond the Engine: Key Features and Design Considerations

The MS 500i is more than just a powerful engine; it’s a carefully designed machine with several features that enhance its performance and usability.

• Lightweight Design: Despite its power, the MS 500i is surprisingly lightweight, weighing in at around 6.2 kg (13.7 lbs) without the bar and chain. This is thanks to the use of magnesium components and a streamlined design.
• Anti-Vibration System: Stihl’s anti-vibration system effectively reduces operator fatigue by isolating the engine from the handles. This is crucial for prolonged use, especially when felling large trees or bucking logs. I’ve noticed a significant reduction in hand and arm fatigue compared to my older saws, allowing me to work longer and more comfortably.
• ElastoStart Starter Handle: The ElastoStart starter handle absorbs shocks and reduces the effort required to start the engine. This is a welcome feature, especially in cold weather when starting can be more difficult.
• Tool-Free Fuel and Oil Caps: The tool-free fuel and oil caps make it easy to refuel and top off the bar oil without the need for any tools. This is a small but significant convenience that saves time and frustration.
• Adjustable Automatic Oiler: The automatic oiler can be adjusted to match the bar length and wood type, ensuring optimal chain lubrication. This is crucial for preventing premature wear and tear on the bar and chain.
• Side-Mounted Chain Tensioner: The side-mounted chain tensioner makes it easy to adjust the chain tension without having to remove the chain cover. This is a convenient feature that saves time and frustration.

Wood Anatomy and Properties: Understanding Your Material

To truly appreciate the MS 500i’s capabilities, it’s essential to understand the material you’re cutting: wood. Different wood species have different properties that affect how they cut and how they perform as firewood.

• Hardwood vs. Softwood: Hardwoods come from deciduous trees (trees that lose their leaves in the fall), while softwoods come from coniferous trees (trees that have needles and cones). Hardwoods are generally denser and more difficult to cut than softwoods.
  • Examples: Oak, maple, and hickory are hardwoods. Pine, fir, and spruce are softwoods.
  • Cutting Considerations: Hardwoods require more power and a sharper chain than softwoods. The MS 500i is well-suited for cutting hardwoods, while a smaller, lighter saw might be sufficient for softwoods.
• Moisture Content: The moisture content of wood significantly affects its cutting properties and its suitability for firewood. Green wood (freshly cut wood) has a high moisture content, making it heavier and more difficult to cut. Seasoned wood (wood that has been allowed to dry) has a lower moisture content, making it lighter and easier to cut.
  • Ideal Moisture Content for Firewood: The ideal moisture content for firewood is between 15% and 20%. This allows the wood to burn efficiently and cleanly.
  • Drying Time: The drying time for firewood depends on the wood species, the climate, and how the wood is stacked. Generally, hardwoods take longer to dry than softwoods. In my experience, oak can take up to two years to dry properly, while pine can be ready in as little as six months.
• Wood Grain: The grain of wood refers to the direction of the wood fibers. Cutting with the grain is easier than cutting against the grain. The MS 500i’s power allows you to cut through wood regardless of the grain direction, but it’s still important to be aware of the grain when felling trees or bucking logs.
• Knots: Knots are points where branches grew out of the tree. They are denser and more difficult to cut than the surrounding wood. The MS 500i’s power helps you power through knots, but it’s still important to be careful when cutting near knots, as they can cause the saw to kickback.
• Wood Density Chart:

Logging Tool Selection and Maintenance Best Practices: Keeping Your Saw Sharp and Ready

The MS 500i is a high-performance machine, and it requires proper maintenance to keep it running smoothly and safely.

• Chain Sharpening: A sharp chain is essential for efficient cutting and safe operation. A dull chain will cause the saw to vibrate excessively, making it more difficult to control and increasing the risk of kickback. I recommend sharpening the chain after every few tanks of fuel, or more often if you’re cutting dirty or abrasive wood.
  • Tools for Sharpening: You can sharpen the chain with a file and guide, or with a chain grinder. A chain grinder is faster and more accurate, but it’s also more expensive.
  • Sharpening Technique: When sharpening the chain, it’s important to maintain the correct angles and depth. Use a file guide to ensure that you’re sharpening the chain evenly and accurately.
• Bar Maintenance: The bar is the part of the saw that guides the chain. It’s important to keep the bar clean and properly lubricated.
  • Cleaning: Clean the bar regularly with a wire brush to remove dirt and debris.
  • Lubrication: Use a high-quality bar and chain oil to lubricate the bar and chain. Check the oil level frequently and top it off as needed.
  • Bar Rail Maintenance: Check the bar rails for wear and tear. If the rails are worn, they can cause the chain to bind or jump off the bar. You can repair the rails with a bar rail dressing tool.
• Air Filter Maintenance: The air filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine. A dirty air filter can reduce engine performance and increase fuel consumption.
  • Cleaning: Clean the air filter regularly with compressed air or soap and water.
  • Replacement: Replace the air filter when it becomes excessively dirty or damaged.
• Spark Plug Maintenance: The spark plug ignites the fuel-air mixture in the engine. A fouled spark plug can cause the engine to run poorly or not start at all.
  • Cleaning: Clean the spark plug regularly with a wire brush.
  • Replacement: Replace the spark plug when it becomes worn or damaged.
• Fuel and Oil Mixture: The MS 500i requires a fuel and oil mixture of 50:1 (50 parts fuel to 1 part oil). Use a high-quality two-stroke oil that is specifically designed for air-cooled engines.
  • Mixing Fuel and Oil: Mix the fuel and oil in a separate container before adding it to the fuel tank. This ensures that the fuel and oil are properly mixed.
• Chain Tension: Maintaining proper chain tension is crucial for safe and efficient operation. A chain that is too loose can jump off the bar, while a chain that is too tight can cause excessive wear and tear on the bar and chain.
  • Checking Chain Tension: Check the chain tension regularly and adjust it as needed. The chain should be snug against the bar, but you should still be able to pull it around the bar by hand.

Firewood Seasoning Techniques and Safety Considerations: From Forest to Fireplace

Once you’ve felled and bucked your trees, the next step is to season the wood for firewood. Seasoning reduces the moisture content of the wood, making it easier to burn and producing more heat.

• Splitting: Splitting the wood increases the surface area, allowing it to dry more quickly.
  • Manual Splitting: Manual splitting involves using an axe or maul to split the wood. This is a physically demanding task, but it’s a good way to get exercise.
  • Hydraulic Splitting: Hydraulic splitters use hydraulic pressure to split the wood. They are faster and easier to use than manual splitting, but they are also more expensive. I’ve used both manual and hydraulic splitters, and I find that a hydraulic splitter is well worth the investment if you’re splitting a lot of wood.
• Stacking: Stacking the wood properly allows air to circulate around the wood, promoting drying.
  • Stacking Method: Stack the wood in rows, with the bark side up. Leave space between the rows to allow air to circulate.
  • Location: Stack the wood in a sunny, well-ventilated location.
• Drying Time: The drying time for firewood depends on the wood species, the climate, and how the wood is stacked. Generally, hardwoods take longer to dry than softwoods.
• Moisture Content Measurement: You can measure the moisture content of firewood with a moisture meter. The ideal moisture content for firewood is between 15% and 20%.
• Safety Considerations:
  • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear appropriate PPE when splitting and stacking firewood, including safety glasses, gloves, and steel-toed boots.
  • Safe Splitting Techniques: Use safe splitting techniques to avoid injury. Keep your feet firmly planted and swing the axe or maul with a controlled motion.
  • Lifting Techniques: Use proper lifting techniques to avoid back injuries. Bend your knees and keep your back straight when lifting heavy pieces of wood.
  • Stacking Safety: Stack the wood in a stable manner to prevent it from falling over.

Project Planning and Execution: From Tree to Table (or Fireplace)

Whether you’re felling trees for lumber or preparing firewood, proper project planning is essential for success.

• Assessment: Before you start, assess the site and identify any potential hazards. Look for overhead power lines, underground utilities, and unstable trees.
• Planning: Develop a detailed plan that outlines the steps you’ll take to complete the project. This should include a list of the tools and equipment you’ll need, a timeline for completing the project, and a budget.
• Execution: Follow your plan carefully and take your time. Don’t rush through the project, as this can lead to mistakes and accidents.
• Safety: Always prioritize safety. Wear appropriate PPE and follow safe work practices.
• Environmental Considerations: Be mindful of the environment and take steps to minimize your impact. Avoid damaging surrounding vegetation and dispose of waste properly.

MS 500i vs. The Competition: Weighing the Options

The MS 500i isn’t the only high-performance chainsaw on the market. Here’s how it stacks up against some of its competitors:

• Stihl MS 462 R C-M: The MS 462 is a popular choice for professional users, offering a good balance of power and weight. It’s not as powerful as the MS 500i, but it’s also less expensive.
  • Comparison: The MS 500i has a higher power-to-weight ratio and fuel injection, resulting in better performance and fuel efficiency. However, the MS 462 is more affordable and easier to repair.
• Husqvarna 572 XP: The Husqvarna 572 XP is another popular choice for professional users. It’s known for its durability and reliability.
  • Comparison: The MS 500i has a higher power-to-weight ratio and fuel injection, resulting in better performance and fuel efficiency. The Husqvarna 572 XP is known for its robust construction and ease of maintenance.
• Echo CS-620P: The Echo CS-620P is a more affordable option for users who don’t need the extreme power of the MS 500i. It’s a good choice for occasional use or for smaller jobs.
  • Comparison: The MS 500i is significantly more powerful and efficient than the Echo CS-620P. However, the Echo CS-620P is much less expensive and easier to handle.

Cost-Benefit Analysis: Is the MS 500i Worth the Investment?

The MS 500i is a premium chainsaw with a premium price tag. Is it worth the investment? That depends on your needs and budget.

• For Professional Users: If you’re a professional arborist, logger, or tree service worker, the MS 500i is likely a worthwhile investment. Its power, efficiency, and reliability can help you get the job done faster and more efficiently, ultimately saving you time and money.
• For Occasional Users: If you only need a chainsaw for occasional use, the MS 500i might be overkill. A less expensive saw, like the Echo CS-620P, might be a better choice.
• Factors to Consider:
  • Frequency of Use: How often will you be using the saw?
  • Type of Work: What type of work will you be doing?
  • Budget: How much are you willing to spend?
  • Maintenance Costs: Factor in the cost of maintenance, including chain sharpening, bar oil, and fuel.

Case Studies: The MS 500i in Action

To illustrate the MS 500i’s capabilities, let’s look at a few real-world case studies:

• Case Study 1: Storm Cleanup: After a major storm, a tree service company used the MS 500i to clear fallen trees and debris. The saw’s power and reliability allowed them to quickly and efficiently clear the affected areas, helping to restore power and access to homes and businesses.
• Case Study 2: Logging Operation: A logging crew used the MS 500i to fell and buck trees in a hardwood forest. The saw’s power and fuel efficiency allowed them to work longer and more efficiently, increasing their productivity.
• Case Study 3: Firewood Preparation: A homeowner used the MS 500i to prepare firewood for the winter. The saw’s power and ease of use made the task much easier and faster than using a smaller, less powerful saw.

The Downsides: Addressing Potential Concerns

No tool is perfect, and the MS 500i has a few potential drawbacks to consider:

• Price: The MS 500i is one of the most expensive chainsaws on the market. This can be a barrier to entry for some users.
• Complexity: The fuel injection system is more complex than a traditional carburetor, which can make repairs more difficult and expensive.
• Weight: While lightweight for its power, the MS 500i is still a relatively heavy saw. This can be tiring for prolonged use, especially for users who are not accustomed to using large chainsaws.
• Noise: The MS 500i is a loud saw, and hearing protection is essential.

Practical Tips and Actionable Advice: Getting the Most Out of Your MS 500i

Here are some practical tips to help you get the most out of your MS 500i:

• Use the Right Bar and Chain: Choose a bar and chain that are appropriate for the type of work you’re doing. A longer bar is better for felling large trees, while a shorter bar is better for limbing.
• Keep the Chain Sharp: A sharp chain is essential for efficient cutting and safe operation. Sharpen the chain regularly, or replace it when it becomes dull.
• Use High-Quality Fuel and Oil: Use high-quality fuel and oil that are specifically designed for two-stroke engines. This will help to prolong the life of your saw and ensure optimal performance.
• Maintain the Air Filter: Clean the air filter regularly to prevent dirt and debris from entering the engine.
• Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions: Read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. This will help you to operate the saw safely and efficiently.
• Practice Safe Work Practices: Always prioritize safety. Wear appropriate PPE and follow safe work practices.

Global Considerations: Challenges for Small Workshops and DIYers

The challenges faced by small workshops and DIYers can vary significantly depending on their location and resources.

• Access to Equipment: In some regions, access to high-quality equipment like the MS 500i may be limited or prohibitively expensive.
• Maintenance and Repair: Finding qualified technicians to repair and maintain the MS 500i can be challenging in some areas.
• Fuel and Oil Availability: The availability of high-quality fuel and oil can also be a concern, especially in remote areas.
• Safety Training: Access to safety training and resources may be limited in some regions.

Conclusion: Is the MS 500i the Right Saw for You?

The Stihl MS 500i is a powerhouse of a chainsaw, offering unparalleled power and performance for professional users. Its fuel injection system, lightweight design, and anti-vibration system make it a joy to use, even for demanding tasks.

However, it’s not the right saw for everyone. Its high price and complexity may make it a less attractive option for occasional users or those on a tight budget.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to purchase an MS 500i depends on your individual needs and circumstances. If you’re a professional user who demands the best, the MS 500i is definitely worth considering. But if you’re an occasional user, there are other, more affordable options that may be a better fit.

Next Steps:

• Visit a Stihl Dealer: Visit your local Stihl dealer to see the MS 500i in person and talk to a sales representative.
• Read Reviews: Read online reviews from other users to get a better sense of the saw’s performance and reliability.
• Consider Your Needs: Carefully consider your needs and budget before making a purchase.
• Practice Safe Work Practices: Always prioritize safety when using a chainsaw.

Ultimately, the best chainsaw for you is the one that meets your needs and fits your budget. The MS 500i is a top-tier option, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. Now, go out there and make some sawdust!

Learn more