Stihl 171 Chainsaw Review: Echo CS-352 Compare (Pro Logging Tips)

Stihl 171 vs. Echo CS-352: A Pro’s Perspective on Chainsaw Selection

The user intent behind searching for “Stihl 171 Chainsaw Review: Echo CS-352 Compare (Pro Logging Tips)” is clear: the user wants a detailed comparison of these two popular chainsaws, likely to make an informed purchase decision. They are also interested in professional logging tips, suggesting they may be involved in, or aspiring to be involved in, more serious woodcutting tasks than just occasional yard work.

As someone who has spent years in the woods, felling trees, processing timber, and prepping firewood, I’ve had my hands on countless chainsaws. I’ve learned what works, what doesn’t, and what to look for in a reliable machine. This article aims to provide that same level of insight, focusing on the Stihl 171 and Echo CS-352.

Understanding the Chainsaw Landscape

Before we jump into the specifics, let’s establish some fundamental concepts crucial for anyone involved in wood processing.

• Chainsaw Basics: A chainsaw is a portable, mechanical saw powered by a gasoline, electric, or battery motor. It uses a rotating chain with cutting teeth to saw through wood.
• Engine Displacement: Measured in cubic centimeters (cc) or cubic inches, engine displacement indicates the engine’s size and power. Higher displacement generally means more power, suitable for larger trees and denser wood.
• Bar Length: The length of the guide bar determines the maximum diameter of wood you can cut. Choosing the right bar length is essential for safety and efficiency.
• Weight: Chainsaw weight is a critical factor, especially for prolonged use. A lighter saw reduces fatigue, while a heavier saw may offer more stability.
• Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood: Green wood is freshly cut wood with high moisture content. Seasoned wood has been dried, reducing its moisture content, making it lighter and easier to burn.
• Logging: The process of harvesting timber, involving felling trees, limbing, bucking (cutting into logs), and transporting the logs.
• Firewood Preparation: The process of cutting, splitting, and drying wood for use as fuel.

The Stihl 171: A Detailed Review

The Stihl 171 is a popular choice for homeowners and light-duty users. It’s known for its reliability, ease of use, and reasonable price point.

Key Features and Specifications:

• Engine Displacement: 31.8 cc
• Power Output: 1.8 bhp (brake horsepower)
• Weight (without fuel and bar): Approximately 9.5 lbs
• Available Bar Lengths: 14″, 16″
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 12.5 oz
• Oil Tank Capacity: 6.8 oz
• Features:
  • Stihl Easy2Start™ system for effortless starting.
  • Stihl Quick Chain Adjuster (B model) for tool-free chain tensioning.
  • Anti-vibration system for reduced operator fatigue.
  • Ematic lubrication system for efficient chain lubrication.

My Experience with the Stihl 171:

I’ve used the Stihl 171 extensively for limbing felled trees and cutting smaller firewood. Its lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver, even for extended periods. The Easy2Start™ system is a lifesaver, especially in cold weather. I remember one particularly frosty morning when my older, more temperamental chainsaw refused to start. The Stihl 171 fired up on the second pull, saving me a lot of frustration and time.

Pros:

• Lightweight and Maneuverable: Excellent for smaller tasks and users with less experience.
• Easy Starting: The Easy2Start™ system is a real benefit.
• Reliable: Stihl is known for its quality and durability.
• Affordable: A good value for the performance it offers.
• Easy to Maintain: Simple design makes maintenance straightforward.

Cons:

• Limited Power: Not suitable for felling large trees or cutting dense hardwoods.
• Smaller Bar Length Options: Restricts the size of wood you can cut.
• Plastic Housing: While durable, it’s not as robust as metal housings found on professional-grade saws.

The Echo CS-352: A Closer Look

The Echo CS-352 is another popular choice in the homeowner/light-duty category. It’s known for its power, durability, and competitive price.

Key Features and Specifications:

• Engine Displacement: 34.0 cc
• Power Output: 1.9 bhp
• Weight (without fuel and bar): Approximately 9.3 lbs
• Available Bar Lengths: 14″, 16″
• Fuel Tank Capacity: 11.8 oz
• Oil Tank Capacity: 7.8 oz
• Features:
  • Effortless starting system.
  • Tool-less air filter cover for easy maintenance.
  • Vibration reduction system.
  • Automatic chain oiler.

My Experience with the Echo CS-352:

I’ve used the Echo CS-352 for similar tasks as the Stihl 171. I found it to be slightly more powerful, making it a better choice for slightly larger diameter wood. I particularly appreciate the tool-less air filter cover, which makes cleaning the air filter a breeze. This is important because a clean air filter is essential for optimal engine performance and longevity. I once neglected cleaning the air filter on another chainsaw, and it resulted in significantly reduced power and eventually required a costly repair.

Pros:

• Slightly More Powerful: Offers a bit more cutting power than the Stihl 171.
• Lightweight: Similar weight to the Stihl 171, making it easy to handle.
• Easy to Maintain: Tool-less air filter cover is a great feature.
• Durable: Echo is known for building reliable machines.
• Competitive Price: Offers good value for the performance.

Cons:

• Starting Can Be Fickle: Some users report occasional difficulty starting.
• Plastic Housing: Similar to the Stihl 171, the plastic housing may not be as durable as metal.
• Vibration: Some users find the vibration levels to be slightly higher than the Stihl 171.

Stihl 171 vs. Echo CS-352: A Detailed Comparison

Now, let’s compare these two chainsaws head-to-head, considering various factors important for wood processing and firewood preparation.

Power and Performance

• Engine Displacement: Echo CS-352 (34.0 cc) > Stihl 171 (31.8 cc)
• Power Output: Echo CS-352 (1.9 bhp) > Stihl 171 (1.8 bhp)

Analysis: The Echo CS-352 has a slightly larger engine and higher power output, giving it a slight edge in cutting performance, especially when dealing with denser wood or larger diameter limbs. However, the difference is not significant, and both saws are well-suited for light-duty tasks.

Weight and Maneuverability

• Weight (without fuel and bar): Echo CS-352 (9.3 lbs) < Stihl 171 (9.5 lbs)

Analysis: The Echo CS-352 is slightly lighter than the Stihl 171, but the difference is negligible. Both saws are lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them suitable for extended use.

Starting and Ease of Use

• Stihl 171: Easy2Start™ system for effortless starting.
• Echo CS-352: Effortless starting system, but some users report occasional difficulty.

Analysis: The Stihl 171’s Easy2Start™ system is a clear advantage in terms of ease of starting. While the Echo CS-352 also boasts an effortless starting system, some users have reported inconsistent starting performance.

Maintenance

• Stihl 171: Requires tools for air filter maintenance.
• Echo CS-352: Tool-less air filter cover for easy maintenance.

Analysis: The Echo CS-352’s tool-less air filter cover is a significant advantage in terms of maintenance. Cleaning the air filter is quick and easy, promoting optimal engine performance and longevity.

Vibration and Comfort

• Stihl 171: Anti-vibration system for reduced operator fatigue.
• Echo CS-352: Vibration reduction system, but some users find vibration levels slightly higher.

Analysis: The Stihl 171’s anti-vibration system is generally considered to be more effective than the Echo CS-352’s vibration reduction system. This can translate to less fatigue during prolonged use.

Price and Value

Both the Stihl 171 and Echo CS-352 are competitively priced and offer good value for the performance they provide. Prices can vary depending on the retailer and any ongoing promotions.

My Recommendation:

Based on my experience, if ease of starting and reduced vibration are your top priorities, the Stihl 171 is an excellent choice. If you want a slightly more powerful saw and value easy maintenance, the Echo CS-352 is a strong contender. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences.

Pro Logging Tips for Chainsaw Users

Regardless of which chainsaw you choose, mastering basic logging techniques and safety practices is crucial for anyone involved in wood processing. Here are some essential tips:

Safety First: The Golden Rule of Logging

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including:

  • Chainsaw Chaps: Protect your legs from accidental cuts.
  • Steel-Toed Boots: Provide foot protection.
  • Eye Protection: Safety glasses or a face shield to protect your eyes from flying debris.
  • Hearing Protection: Earplugs or earmuffs to protect your hearing from the loud noise of the chainsaw.
  • Gloves: Provide a better grip and protect your hands.
  • Hard Hat: Essential for protecting your head from falling branches or trees.

  I can’t stress enough the importance of wearing PPE. I’ve seen too many accidents that could have been prevented with proper safety gear. One time, a small branch fell and struck a colleague on the head. Thankfully, he was wearing a hard hat, which absorbed the impact and prevented a serious injury.

• Chainsaw Safety Features: Understand and use the safety features on your chainsaw, including:

  • Chain Brake: Immediately stops the chain in case of kickback.
  • Throttle Lockout: Prevents accidental throttle activation.
  • Chain Catcher: Catches the chain if it breaks or derails.

• Safe Starting Procedures: Always start the chainsaw on the ground, with the chain brake engaged. Never drop start a chainsaw!

• Kickback Awareness: Kickback is a sudden, forceful upward or backward movement of the chainsaw bar that can cause serious injury. Be aware of the kickback zone (the upper quadrant of the bar tip) and avoid using it.

• Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep a safe distance from other workers and bystanders.

• First Aid Kit: Always have a well-stocked first aid kit on hand.

Felling Techniques: Precision and Control

Felling a tree involves carefully cutting it down in a controlled manner. Here’s a simplified overview of the process:

1. Assess the Tree and Surroundings:

   • Lean: Determine the tree’s natural lean.
   • Obstacles: Identify any obstacles, such as power lines, buildings, or other trees.
   • Escape Route: Plan a clear escape route at a 45-degree angle away from the direction of the fall.

2. Notch Cut:

   • The notch cut determines the direction of the fall.
   • Cut a notch on the side of the tree facing the desired direction of fall.
   • The notch should be about 1/3 of the tree’s diameter.
   • The top cut of the notch should be at a 45-degree angle, and the bottom cut should be horizontal.

3. Back Cut:

   • The back cut is made on the opposite side of the tree from the notch cut.
   • The back cut should be slightly higher than the bottom of the notch cut.
   • Leave a hinge of uncut wood (the “hinge wood”) between the back cut and the notch cut. The hinge wood controls the direction of the fall.
   • Important: Never cut completely through the tree!

4. Felling Wedge (Optional):

   • If the tree doesn’t start to fall on its own, use a felling wedge to help push it over.
   • Insert the wedge into the back cut and drive it in with a hammer or axe.

5. Retreat:

   • As the tree starts to fall, retreat quickly along your planned escape route.
   • Watch the tree carefully as it falls to avoid being struck by falling branches.

Case Study: Felling a Leaning Tree

I once had to fell a large oak tree that was leaning heavily towards a nearby house. The situation required careful planning and execution.

• Challenge: The tree’s lean made it likely to fall directly towards the house, posing a significant risk.
• Solution:
  • I used a combination of precise notch cutting and strategic placement of felling wedges to counteract the lean.
  • I also used a rope attached to the upper part of the tree to gently pull it in the opposite direction of the house as it fell.
  • By carefully controlling the direction of the fall, I was able to safely fell the tree without damaging the house.

Limbing and Bucking: Processing the Fallen Tree

Once the tree is on the ground, the next step is to limb it (remove the branches) and buck it (cut it into logs).

• Limbing:

  • Start at the base of the tree and work your way up.
  • Use the chainsaw to cut the branches close to the trunk.
  • Be careful of spring poles (branches under tension that can snap back when cut).
  • Maintain a firm stance and avoid cutting above shoulder height.

• Bucking:

  • Cut the trunk into logs of desired length.
  • Use a measuring tape or stick to ensure consistent log lengths.
  • Support the log to prevent it from pinching the chainsaw bar.
  • Use wedges to keep the cut open and prevent binding.

Firewood Preparation: From Log to Fuel

If your goal is to prepare firewood, the next steps involve splitting and drying the wood.

• Splitting:

  • Splitting wood makes it easier to dry and burn.
  • Manual Splitting: Use a splitting axe or maul to split the wood by hand.
  • Hydraulic Splitter: A hydraulic splitter is a faster and more efficient option, especially for large quantities of wood or dense hardwoods.
  • Safety: Always wear safety glasses and gloves when splitting wood.

  I’ve used both manual and hydraulic splitters. While manual splitting is a good workout, a hydraulic splitter significantly increases efficiency, especially when dealing with tough wood like oak or maple. I once split 10 cords of wood by hand in a single season. It was exhausting! Since then, I’ve invested in a hydraulic splitter, and it has saved me countless hours and a lot of back pain.

• Drying (Seasoning):

  • Drying wood reduces its moisture content, making it easier to burn and producing more heat.
  • Stacking: Stack the wood in a single row, off the ground, and in a sunny, windy location.
  • Air Circulation: Ensure good air circulation around the woodpile to promote drying.
  • Moisture Content: Aim for a moisture content of 20% or less for optimal burning. Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content.
  • Drying Time: Drying time varies depending on the type of wood, climate, and stacking method. Generally, it takes 6-12 months for wood to dry properly.

  Wood Type and Drying Times:

  Wood Type	Drying Time (Months)	BTU/Cord (Approx.)	Notes
  Oak	12-24	24-29 million	Dense hardwood, burns long and hot, but takes longer to dry.
  Maple	9-12	20-24 million	Hardwood, good heat output, relatively easy to split.
  Birch	6-9	20 million	Medium hardwood, burns quickly, good for starting fires.
  Ash	6-9	20-24 million	Hardwood, splits easily, burns well even when slightly green.
  Pine	3-6	15-20 million	Softwood, burns quickly, produces creosote, not ideal for primary heating.

Chainsaw Maintenance: Keeping Your Saw Running Smoothly

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your chainsaw running smoothly and prolonging its lifespan.

• Chain Sharpening:

  • A sharp chain is crucial for efficient cutting and safety.
  • Use a chainsaw file and guide to sharpen the chain regularly.
  • Consider using a chainsaw sharpener for faster and more consistent sharpening.

• Air Filter Cleaning:

  • Clean the air filter regularly to ensure proper engine performance.
  • Use compressed air or a brush to remove dirt and debris.

• Spark Plug Inspection:

  • Inspect the spark plug regularly and replace it if necessary.

• Fuel and Oil:

  • Use the correct fuel mixture (usually a 50:1 ratio of gasoline to 2-cycle oil).
  • Use high-quality bar and chain oil to lubricate the chain.

• Chain Tension:

  • Check the chain tension regularly and adjust it as needed.
  • A properly tensioned chain should be snug but still able to be pulled around the bar by hand.

• Bar Maintenance:

  • Clean the bar groove regularly to remove dirt and debris.
  • File the bar rails to remove any burrs or damage.

• Storage:

  • When storing the chainsaw for an extended period, drain the fuel tank and run the engine until it stalls to prevent fuel from gumming up the carburetor.
  • Store the chainsaw in a dry, safe place.

Case Study: Reviving an Old Chainsaw

I once inherited an old chainsaw that had been sitting in a shed for years. It was in rough shape, but I decided to try to revive it.

• Challenge: The chainsaw wouldn’t start, and the engine was running very rough.
• Solution:
  • I thoroughly cleaned the chainsaw, including the air filter, spark plug, and carburetor.
  • I replaced the fuel lines, which had become brittle and cracked.
  • I sharpened the chain and cleaned the bar.
  • After a few adjustments, the chainsaw started up and ran like new.
  • This experience taught me the importance of regular maintenance and the potential for reviving even neglected chainsaws.

Strategic Insights for Wood Processing

Beyond the tactical steps, strategic thinking can significantly improve your wood processing efficiency and profitability.

• Wood Selection: Choose the right type of wood for your intended use. Hardwoods like oak and maple are ideal for firewood due to their high heat output and long burning time. Softwoods like pine are better suited for construction or other applications.

• Efficient Stacking: Proper stacking not only promotes drying but also saves space and makes handling easier. Consider using different stacking methods depending on the space available and the quantity of wood.

• Tool Investment: Investing in quality tools and equipment can significantly increase efficiency and reduce labor. A hydraulic splitter, for example, can save you countless hours compared to manual splitting.

• Safety Training: Proper safety training is essential for preventing accidents and injuries. Consider taking a chainsaw safety course or attending a logging workshop.

• Market Analysis: If you plan to sell firewood, conduct a market analysis to determine the demand and pricing in your area.

  1. Choose a Chainsaw: Based on your needs and preferences, select either the Stihl 171 or Echo CS-352 (or another suitable chainsaw).
  2. Gather Your PPE: Invest in essential personal protective equipment, including chainsaw chaps, steel-toed boots, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and a hard hat.
  3. Practice Safe Chainsaw Operation: Familiarize yourself with the chainsaw’s safety features and practice safe starting and cutting techniques.
  4. Find a Source of Wood: Identify a source of wood, such as fallen trees on your property or a local logging operation.
  5. Start Small: Begin with smaller tasks, such as limbing and bucking fallen trees.
  6. Prepare Firewood: Split and stack the wood for drying.
  7. Maintain Your Chainsaw: Regularly sharpen the chain, clean the air filter, and perform other maintenance tasks.
  8. Continuously Learn: Stay updated on the latest logging techniques and safety practices.

  By following these steps, you can safely and efficiently process wood for firewood or other uses. Remember to prioritize safety and continuously improve your skills and knowledge.

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