Stihl 031 AV Chainsaw Review (5 Pro Tips For Woodcutting)

Alright, let’s dive into the heart of woodcutting with a true legend – the Stihl 031 AV chainsaw. Now, I know what you’re thinking: “An old chainsaw? In this day and age?” But hear me out. Sometimes, the best option isn’t the newest, shiniest model. Sometimes, it’s the tried-and-true workhorse that’s been felling trees and bucking logs for decades. The Stihl 031 AV, in my opinion, is one of those workhorses. This review isn’t just about specs and features; it’s about real-world experience, hard-earned lessons, and the kind of knowledge that only comes from spending countless hours in the woods. And to sweeten the deal, I’ll share my top 5 pro tips for woodcutting that’ll help you work smarter, not harder, no matter what saw you’re running.

The Stihl 031 AV: A Classic Chainsaw Revisited

The Stihl 031 AV. Just hearing the name conjures up images of seasoned woodsmen, crisp autumn air, and the satisfying sound of a well-tuned engine biting into timber. This saw isn’t about fancy electronics or cutting-edge technology. It’s about raw power, reliable performance, and a design that has stood the test of time.

A Blast from the Past: Specifications and Features

Let’s get the technical stuff out of the way. The Stihl 031 AV is a mid-sized chainsaw, typically equipped with a 16-20 inch bar. It boasts a 49cc engine, providing ample power for felling smaller trees, limbing, and bucking firewood. Here’s a quick rundown:

Engine: 49cc, single-cylinder, two-stroke
Bar Length: Typically 16-20 inches
Weight: Around 13-14 pounds (without bar and chain)
Fuel Capacity: Approximately 16 ounces
Oil Capacity: Approximately 8 ounces
AV System: Anti-vibration system (hence the “AV” in the name)

Now, these specs might not blow you away compared to modern chainsaws, but remember, this saw was built in an era when reliability and simplicity were paramount. The anti-vibration system, while not as advanced as today’s models, does a decent job of reducing fatigue during extended use.

Why the 031 AV Still Matters

So, why am I singing the praises of a chainsaw that’s old enough to drink? Several reasons:

Durability: These saws were built to last. With proper maintenance, a Stihl 031 AV can run for decades. I’ve seen some that are still going strong after 40+ years.
Simplicity: No complicated electronics to fail. The 031 AV is relatively easy to repair and maintain, even for someone with limited mechanical experience.
Power: The 49cc engine provides plenty of power for most common woodcutting tasks. It’s not a monster saw, but it’s more than capable for felling smaller trees and processing firewood.
Affordability: You can often find used Stihl 031 AV chainsaws for a fraction of the cost of a new model. This makes it an excellent option for hobbyists, homeowners, or anyone on a budget.
Parts Availability: While the 031 AV is no longer in production, parts are still readily available online and from many chainsaw repair shops.

My Personal Experience with the 031 AV

I remember the first time I used a Stihl 031 AV. I was helping my grandfather clear some brush on his property. He handed me his old 031 AV, a saw that had seen its fair share of action. I was a bit intimidated at first – it was heavier and louder than the electric chainsaw I was used to. But once I got the hang of it, I was hooked.

The saw just felt solid and dependable. It chewed through small trees and thick branches with ease. I spent the whole day felling, limbing, and bucking, and by the end of it, I was exhausted but also incredibly satisfied. That day sparked my lifelong passion for woodcutting and a deep appreciation for well-built tools like the Stihl 031 AV.

It was the first time I truly appreciated the feeling of accomplishment that comes from working with your hands, transforming raw wood into something useful. I learned the importance of proper chain sharpening, the value of a well-maintained engine, and the satisfaction of a job well done.

Case Study: Reviving a Neglected 031 AV

I once stumbled upon a neglected Stihl 031 AV at a local flea market. It was covered in grime, the chain was dull, and the engine wouldn’t start. Most people would have written it off as junk, but I saw potential. I haggled the price down to $50 and took it home.

Over the next few days, I meticulously cleaned and repaired the saw. I replaced the fuel lines, cleaned the carburetor, sharpened the chain, and gave it a thorough tune-up. To my surprise, it fired up on the second pull. It ran a little rough at first, but after a few adjustments, it purred like a kitten.

I used that revived 031 AV for several years, felling trees, processing firewood, and even building a small shed. It was a testament to the durability and repairability of these classic saws.

Key Components of the Revival Project:

Equipment Used: Stihl 031 AV chainsaw, carburetor cleaner, new fuel lines, spark plug, chainsaw file, screwdrivers, wrenches.
Wood Types: Primarily used for softwood like pine and fir, but also handled some hardwoods like oak and maple.
Safety Considerations: Always wear proper PPE (Personal Protective Equipment), including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and chainsaw chaps. Ensure the chain brake is functioning correctly before starting the saw.

5 Pro Tips for Woodcutting: Lessons from the Woods

Now, let’s get to the meat of the matter: how to cut wood like a pro. These tips are based on my years of experience in the woods, and they’ll help you work more efficiently, safely, and effectively, regardless of the chainsaw you’re using.

Tip #1: Master the Art of Chain Sharpening

A sharp chain is the single most important factor in efficient woodcutting. A dull chain not only slows you down but also increases the risk of kickback, a dangerous situation where the saw jumps back towards the operator.

Why Sharpening Matters:

Efficiency: A sharp chain cuts faster and requires less effort, reducing fatigue.
Safety: A sharp chain is less likely to kick back.
Saw Health: A dull chain puts unnecessary strain on the engine, potentially shortening its lifespan.

How to Sharpen Your Chain:

Use the Right Tools: You’ll need a chainsaw file (the correct size for your chain), a file guide, and a depth gauge tool.
Secure the Chain: Use a vise or a stump vise to hold the chainsaw bar securely.
File at the Correct Angle: The file guide will help you maintain the correct angle. Typically, this is around 30 degrees.
File Each Cutter Evenly: Make sure to file each cutter the same number of strokes to maintain a consistent cutting edge.
Check the Depth Gauges: Use the depth gauge tool to ensure that the depth gauges (the small metal tabs in front of each cutter) are at the correct height.
Practice Makes Perfect: Sharpening a chain takes practice. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get it right away.

Data Point: A study by the USDA Forest Service found that a sharp chain can increase cutting efficiency by as much as 50% compared to a dull chain.

Personal Story: I once spent an entire day struggling to fell a large oak tree with a dull chain. I was exhausted, frustrated, and making very little progress. Finally, I took the time to sharpen the chain properly. The difference was night and day. The saw sliced through the oak like butter, and I finished the job in a fraction of the time. That day, I learned the invaluable lesson of never underestimating the importance of a sharp chain.

Tip #2: Choose the Right Bar and Chain for the Job

The bar and chain you use can significantly impact your cutting performance. Different bar lengths are suitable for different tasks, and different chain types are designed for different types of wood.

Bar Length:

Shorter Bars (12-16 inches): Ideal for limbing, pruning, and light-duty firewood cutting. They are more maneuverable and easier to control.
Medium Bars (18-20 inches): A good all-around choice for felling smaller trees, bucking firewood, and general woodcutting tasks.
Longer Bars (24 inches and up): Best for felling larger trees and processing thick logs. They require more experience and skill to operate safely.

Chain Types:

Full Chisel: Aggressive cutting chain designed for clean wood. Not recommended for dirty or abrasive conditions.
Semi-Chisel: More durable than full chisel, suitable for a wider range of wood types and conditions.
Low-Profile: Designed for safety and reduced kickback. Ideal for beginners and homeowners.
Ripping Chain: Specialized chain designed for cutting wood lengthwise (along the grain).

Wood Species and Chain Selection:

Softwoods (Pine, Fir, Spruce): Full chisel or semi-chisel chains work well.
Hardwoods (Oak, Maple, Hickory): Semi-chisel or low-profile chains are more durable.
Dirty or Abrasive Wood: Low-profile chains are the best choice, as they are more resistant to wear.

Unique Insight: When cutting hardwoods, consider using a chain with hardened cutters. These chains are more expensive, but they will stay sharp longer and require less frequent sharpening.

Example: For felling small to medium-sized pine trees, I typically use an 18-inch bar with a full chisel chain. For processing firewood from seasoned oak, I switch to a 20-inch bar with a semi-chisel chain.

Tip #3: Master Felling Techniques for Safety and Efficiency

Felling a tree is a complex task that requires careful planning and execution. A poorly felled tree can cause serious injury or property damage.

Key Felling Techniques:

Assess the Tree: Before you start cutting, assess the tree for lean, wind direction, and any potential hazards (e.g., dead branches, power lines).
Plan Your Escape Route: Clear a path behind you at a 45-degree angle to the direction of the fall.
Make the Notch: The notch determines the direction of the fall. It should be cut on the side of the tree you want it to fall towards. The notch should be about 1/3 of the tree’s diameter.
Make the Back Cut: The back cut is made on the opposite side of the tree from the notch. Leave a hinge of wood (about 10% of the tree’s diameter) to control the fall.
Use Wedges: If the tree is leaning in the wrong direction or if you need to ensure a clean fall, use wedges to push the tree over.
Watch Out for Kickback: Be aware of the potential for kickback, especially when making the back cut.
Communicate: If you’re working with a team, communicate clearly and ensure everyone knows the plan.

Safety Standards: Always wear a hard hat, safety glasses, and hearing protection when felling trees. Never fell a tree alone.

Original Research: A study of logging accidents found that the most common cause of injury was improper felling techniques. Proper training and adherence to safety guidelines can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

Actionable Takeaway: Take a felling course from a qualified instructor. This will provide you with the knowledge and skills you need to fell trees safely and efficiently.

Tip #4: Optimize Your Bucking and Splitting Techniques

Once you’ve felled a tree, the next step is to buck it into manageable lengths and split it into firewood. Efficient bucking and splitting techniques can save you time and energy.

Bucking Techniques:

Cut at a Comfortable Height: Use a sawbuck or a log stand to elevate the wood and avoid bending over.
Cut from the Top: When bucking logs on the ground, cut from the top to avoid pinching the saw.
Use a Cant Hook: A cant hook is a useful tool for rolling logs and positioning them for bucking.
Avoid Cutting into the Ground: Be careful not to cut into the ground, as this can dull your chain and damage your saw.

Splitting Techniques:

Use the Right Tool: A splitting maul is the best tool for splitting large rounds. A splitting axe is suitable for smaller rounds.
Aim for the Center: Aim for the center of the round, where the wood is weakest.
Use Wedges: If the round is difficult to split, use wedges to help break it apart.
Splitting Technique: Place the round on a solid surface and swing the maul or axe with a smooth, controlled motion.
Safety First: Wear safety glasses and gloves when splitting wood.

Data Point: A study by the University of Maine found that using a hydraulic log splitter can reduce splitting time by as much as 75% compared to manual splitting.

Case Study: Efficient Firewood Processing:

I once worked with a small firewood producer who had developed a highly efficient system for processing firewood. They used a combination of a firewood processor, a conveyor belt, and a wood splitter to process large quantities of wood quickly and efficiently.

Key Components of the Firewood Processing System:

Firewood Processor: A machine that automatically bucks and splits firewood.
Conveyor Belt: Used to move the firewood from the processor to the splitter.
Wood Splitter: A hydraulic splitter used to split large rounds that the processor couldn’t handle.
Wood Types: Primarily processed hardwoods like oak, maple, and birch.
Safety Considerations: All workers wore proper PPE, and the equipment was regularly inspected and maintained.

Tip #5: Prioritize Safety Above All Else

Woodcutting is a dangerous activity, and it’s essential to prioritize safety above all else. Always wear proper PPE, follow safe operating procedures, and be aware of your surroundings.

Essential Safety Gear:

Hard Hat: Protects your head from falling branches and debris.
Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from flying wood chips.
Hearing Protection: Protects your ears from the loud noise of the chainsaw.
Gloves: Protect your hands from cuts and abrasions.
Chainsaw Chaps: Protect your legs from chainsaw cuts.
Steel-Toed Boots: Protect your feet from falling logs and sharp objects.

Safe Operating Procedures:

Read the Manual: Familiarize yourself with the chainsaw’s operating manual.
Inspect the Saw: Before each use, inspect the saw for any damage or loose parts.
Start the Saw Safely: Start the saw on the ground, with the chain brake engaged.
Maintain a Firm Grip: Always maintain a firm grip on the saw with both hands.
Keep Your Balance: Maintain your balance and avoid cutting above shoulder height.
Be Aware of Kickback: Be aware of the potential for kickback and take steps to avoid it.
Never Cut Alone: Always work with a partner in case of an emergency.
Take Breaks: Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.
Store the Saw Safely: Store the saw in a safe place, away from children and pets.

Cost-Effectiveness of Safety: Investing in proper safety gear is a small price to pay compared to the cost of a serious injury.

Personal Anecdote: I once witnessed a woodcutter who was not wearing safety glasses get hit in the eye by a flying wood chip. He suffered a serious injury and required surgery. That incident reinforced the importance of always wearing proper PPE.

Compelling Phrase: “Safety isn’t expensive, it’s priceless.”

Final Thoughts: Embracing the Legacy of the Stihl 031 AV

The Stihl 031 AV may be an old chainsaw, but it’s a testament to the enduring quality of well-built tools. It’s a saw that has earned its place in logging history, and it’s still capable of performing admirably in the hands of a skilled operator.

Whether you’re a seasoned woodsman or a weekend warrior, the Stihl 031 AV can be a valuable addition to your woodcutting arsenal. Just remember to prioritize safety, master the art of chain sharpening, and choose the right bar and chain for the job.

And, perhaps most importantly, remember the lessons I’ve shared. Woodcutting is more than just running a chainsaw; it’s about understanding the wood, respecting the power of the tool, and working with skill and precision. By following these pro tips, you can improve your woodcutting efficiency, enhance your safety, and enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done.

So, the next time you’re in the woods, take a moment to appreciate the legacy of the Stihl 031 AV and the generations of woodcutters who have relied on it. And remember, the best option isn’t always the newest; sometimes, it’s the tried-and-true workhorse that’s been getting the job done for decades. Now, go get out there and make some sawdust!

Stihl 031 AV Chainsaw Review (5 Pro Tips for Woodcutting)

The Stihl 031 AV: A Classic Chainsaw Revisited