MS251 Chainsaw Guide (5 Expert Tips For Lightweight Bars)

Flooring, like any great canvas, sets the stage for the entire room. But today, we’re not talking about hardwood floors. We’re diving headfirst into the world of chainsaws, specifically the Stihl MS 251, and how choosing the right lightweight bar can significantly impact its performance and your wallet. This isn’t just about cutting wood; it’s about optimizing your chainsaw for efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. I’ve spent years felling trees, bucking logs, and splitting firewood, and I’ve learned a thing or two about maximizing the performance of my equipment. Let’s get started!

MS 251 Chainsaw Guide: 5 Expert Tips for Lightweight Bars (and Budgeting)

The Stihl MS 251 is a workhorse of a chainsaw, popular among homeowners and professionals alike. It’s known for its reliability, power, and relatively lightweight design. But even a great chainsaw can benefit from the right accessories, and the bar is arguably the most critical. A lightweight bar can enhance the MS 251’s maneuverability, reduce fatigue, and even improve its cutting speed. But it’s not just about performance; the right bar can also save you money in the long run.

Why Lightweight Bars Matter: Performance and Cost Considerations

Before we dive into specific tips, let’s understand why lightweight bars are so important.

Reduced Weight, Increased Maneuverability: A lighter bar reduces the overall weight of the chainsaw, making it easier to handle, especially for extended periods. This is crucial for reducing fatigue and improving accuracy, which translates to less wasted wood and fewer mistakes.
Improved Cutting Speed: A lighter bar requires less power to move, allowing the chainsaw to maintain a higher chain speed. This results in faster and more efficient cutting, saving you time and fuel.
Reduced Wear and Tear: A lighter bar puts less stress on the chainsaw’s engine and components, potentially extending its lifespan and reducing the need for costly repairs.
Cost Savings: While a lightweight bar might have a slightly higher upfront cost, the long-term benefits – reduced fuel consumption, less wear and tear, and increased efficiency – can lead to significant cost savings.

However, it’s crucial to remember that not all lightweight bars are created equal. Choosing the wrong bar can negatively impact performance and even damage your chainsaw.

Tip 1: Understanding Lightweight Bar Construction and Materials

The “lightweight” aspect of these bars comes down to their construction. Many manufacturers use a laminated construction, where the bar is made up of multiple layers of steel welded together with sections hollowed out to reduce weight. The material used also matters. High-quality alloys offer durability and strength while keeping the weight down.

Laminated vs. Solid Bars: Laminated bars are generally lighter than solid bars. The hollowed-out sections significantly reduce weight without sacrificing too much strength. Solid bars are more durable but add considerable weight. For the MS 251, a laminated bar is often the best choice.
Steel Alloys: The type of steel used in the bar’s construction affects its strength, durability, and weight. Look for bars made from high-quality steel alloys that offer a good balance of these properties. Chrome-molybdenum steel is a popular choice.
Hardfacing: The bar’s rails, which guide the chain, should be hardfaced to resist wear and tear. This extends the life of the bar and ensures smooth chain movement.

Data Point: According to a study by Oregon Products, laminated bars can reduce the weight of a chainsaw by up to 20% compared to solid bars of the same length. This translates to a noticeable difference in handling and fatigue.

Cost Consideration: Lightweight bars typically range from $40 to $120, depending on the length, brand, and construction. While this is more expensive than a standard bar, the long-term benefits can outweigh the initial cost.

Tip 2: Choosing the Right Bar Length for Your Needs

The bar length is a crucial factor in determining the chainsaw’s cutting capacity and maneuverability. Choosing the wrong length can negatively impact performance and safety.

Matching Bar Length to Wood Diameter: As a general rule, the bar length should be slightly longer than the diameter of the wood you’ll be cutting. This allows you to make clean, efficient cuts without overexerting the chainsaw.
Considering Maneuverability: A shorter bar is easier to maneuver in tight spaces, making it ideal for limbing and pruning. A longer bar is better for felling large trees. The MS 251 is versatile enough to handle a range of bar lengths, but I’ve found a 16-inch bar to be a good all-around choice for most tasks.
Avoiding Overly Long Bars: While a longer bar might seem like a good idea, it can put excessive strain on the MS 251’s engine and reduce its cutting speed. It can also make the chainsaw more difficult to control, increasing the risk of accidents.

Personal Experience: I once tried using an 18-inch bar on my MS 251 to fell a particularly large oak tree. While the chainsaw could technically handle the bar, it struggled to maintain a consistent cutting speed, and the extra weight made it difficult to control. I ended up switching to a larger chainsaw for that task.

Data Point: Stihl recommends bar lengths ranging from 16 to 20 inches for the MS 251. However, for optimal performance and maneuverability, a 16-inch or 18-inch bar is generally preferred.

Cost Consideration: Bar length affects the price. A longer bar means more material and a potentially higher price.

Tip 3: Selecting the Correct Chain Pitch and Gauge

The chain pitch and gauge must match the bar’s specifications. Using the wrong chain can damage the bar, the chainsaw, and even cause serious injury.

Understanding Pitch and Gauge: The pitch is the distance between three consecutive rivets on the chain, divided by two. The gauge is the thickness of the drive links that fit into the bar’s groove.
Matching Chain to Bar: The bar will have a stamp indicating the correct chain pitch and gauge. Using a chain that doesn’t match these specifications is dangerous and can damage the equipment.
Choosing the Right Chain Type: Different chain types are designed for different cutting tasks. Some chains are better for softwood, while others are better for hardwood. Some chains are designed for faster cutting, while others are designed for smoother cuts.

Technical Explanation: A mismatch in pitch or gauge can cause the chain to bind in the bar’s groove, leading to overheating, increased wear and tear, and potential chain breakage.

Data Point: The Stihl MS 251 typically uses a chain with a 0.325-inch pitch and a 0.063-inch gauge. Always double-check the bar’s specifications before purchasing a new chain.

Cost Consideration: Chains vary in price depending on the type, length, and brand. High-quality chains can cost anywhere from $20 to $50.

Tip 4: Proper Bar and Chain Maintenance for Longevity

Even the best lightweight bar will eventually wear out if not properly maintained. Regular maintenance is essential for extending the life of the bar and chain, ensuring optimal performance, and preventing accidents.

Regular Cleaning: After each use, clean the bar and chain with a brush and solvent to remove sawdust, sap, and other debris. This helps prevent corrosion and ensures smooth chain movement.
Bar Oil: Use a high-quality bar and chain oil to lubricate the bar and chain. This reduces friction, prevents overheating, and extends the life of the bar and chain.
Chain Sharpening: Keep the chain sharp by regularly filing the cutters. A dull chain requires more force to cut, which puts extra strain on the chainsaw and can lead to kickback.
Bar Dressing: Use a bar dresser to remove burrs and smooth the bar’s rails. This ensures smooth chain movement and prevents premature wear.
Checking Bar Groove: Regularly inspect the bar’s groove for wear and tear. If the groove is too wide or damaged, the chain may not fit properly, which can lead to accidents.

Personal Experience: I once neglected to clean my chainsaw bar after cutting a large pile of firewood. The sap hardened on the bar, causing the chain to bind and overheat. I had to spend hours cleaning the bar and chain, and I ended up having to replace the chain sooner than expected.

Cost Saving Tip: By properly maintaining your bar and chain, you can significantly extend their lifespan, saving you money on replacements.

Cost Consideration: Bar and chain oil typically costs around $10 to $20 per gallon. Chain sharpening tools can range from $20 to $100, depending on the type and quality.

Tip 5: Budgeting for Chainsaw Maintenance and Repairs

Chainsaw maintenance and repairs are an inevitable part of owning a chainsaw. Budgeting for these expenses can help you avoid unexpected financial burdens and keep your chainsaw running smoothly.

Creating a Maintenance Schedule: Develop a regular maintenance schedule for your chainsaw. This should include tasks such as cleaning, lubricating, sharpening, and inspecting the bar and chain.
Estimating Repair Costs: Research the average cost of common chainsaw repairs, such as replacing the bar, chain, spark plug, or air filter. This will give you a better idea of how much to budget for repairs.
Setting Aside Funds: Set aside a specific amount of money each month or year to cover chainsaw maintenance and repairs. This will ensure that you have the funds available when needed.
Considering Preventative Maintenance: Investing in preventative maintenance can help you avoid costly repairs down the road. This includes tasks such as replacing worn parts before they fail and using high-quality fuel and oil.
DIY vs. Professional Repairs: Decide whether you’re comfortable performing some chainsaw repairs yourself or if you prefer to take your chainsaw to a professional. DIY repairs can save you money, but they also require time, skill, and the right tools.

Data Point: According to a survey of chainsaw owners, the average annual cost of chainsaw maintenance and repairs is between $50 and $150.

Cost Optimization Tip: By performing some chainsaw maintenance tasks yourself, you can save money on labor costs. However, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the correct tools and parts.

Cost Calculation Example:

Let’s say you use your chainsaw for 50 hours per year. Here’s a breakdown of potential annual costs:

Bar and chain oil: $20
Chain sharpening: $30 (if done professionally) or $10 (if done yourself)
Spark plug replacement: $5
Air filter replacement: $10
Potential repairs: $50 (averaged over several years)

Total annual cost: $115 (with professional chain sharpening) or $95 (with DIY chain sharpening)

This is just an estimate, and your actual costs may vary depending on your usage, maintenance practices, and the type of wood you’re cutting.

Data-Driven Insights: Timber Prices, Equipment Rental Fees, and Fuelwood Market Rates

Understanding the broader economic context of wood processing can help you make more informed decisions about your chainsaw use and budgeting.

Case Study: Budgeting for a Firewood Project

Let’s say you want to prepare 5 cords of firewood for the winter. Here’s a potential budget:

Timber Purchase: Assuming you purchase standing timber at $50 per cord, the cost would be $250.
Chainsaw Fuel and Oil: Assuming you use 2 gallons of fuel and 1 gallon of oil per cord, the cost would be $60 (fuel) + $15 (oil) = $75.
Chainsaw Maintenance: Assuming you spend $20 on maintenance per cord, the cost would be $100.
Labor (if applicable): If you hire someone to help you, the cost could range from $50 to $100 per cord, depending on the labor rate. Let’s assume $75 per cord, for a total of $375.
Equipment Rental (if applicable): If you rent a log splitter for 2 days at $75 per day, the cost would be $150.

Total cost: $250 + $75 + $100 + $375 + $150 = $950

This translates to a cost of $190 per cord. If you sell the firewood at $300 per cord, you would make a profit of $110 per cord, or $550 in total.

Variable Factors: This budget is just an example, and your actual costs may vary depending on the factors mentioned earlier.

Cost Optimization Tips for Wood Processing and Firewood Preparation

Buy Timber in Bulk: Purchasing timber in bulk can often save you money.
Season Firewood Properly: Properly seasoned firewood burns more efficiently and produces more heat, reducing the amount of wood you need to burn.
Maintain Your Equipment: Regularly maintaining your chainsaw and other wood processing equipment will extend their lifespan and reduce the need for costly repairs.
Shop Around for Supplies: Compare prices from different suppliers to find the best deals on fuel, oil, chains, and other supplies.
Consider DIY Options: Performing some wood processing tasks yourself can save you money on labor costs.
Take Advantage of Tax Deductions: In some cases, you may be able to deduct the cost of wood processing equipment and supplies from your taxes. Consult with a tax professional for more information.

Actionable Takeaways and Next Steps

Choosing the right lightweight bar for your Stihl MS 251 is a crucial step in optimizing its performance and saving money in the long run. By understanding the different types of bars, selecting the correct chain, and properly maintaining your equipment, you can ensure that your chainsaw runs smoothly and efficiently for years to come.

Here are some actionable takeaways:

Research Lightweight Bars: Before purchasing a lightweight bar, research different brands and models to find one that is compatible with your Stihl MS 251 and meets your specific needs.
Check Bar Specifications: Always double-check the bar’s specifications, including the pitch, gauge, and length, before purchasing a new chain.
Create a Maintenance Schedule: Develop a regular maintenance schedule for your chainsaw to ensure that it runs smoothly and efficiently.
Budget for Maintenance and Repairs: Set aside a specific amount of money each month or year to cover chainsaw maintenance and repairs.
Consider the Broader Economic Context: Understand the timber prices, equipment rental fees, and fuelwood market rates in your area to make more informed decisions about your wood processing projects.

Conclusion: Sharpening Your Skills and Your Budget

Ultimately, successful wood processing and firewood preparation require a combination of technical knowledge, practical skills, and sound financial management. By following these tips and insights, you can sharpen your skills, optimize your budget, and enjoy the satisfaction of working with wood. Remember, a well-maintained chainsaw with the right lightweight bar is not just a tool; it’s an investment in your efficiency, safety, and financial well-being. Now, get out there and make some sawdust!

MS251 Chainsaw Guide (5 Expert Tips for Lightweight Bars)