Stihl 361 vs 362: Firewood Cutting Speed Compared (3 Key Tests)

Have you ever stood in front of a mountain of logs, chainsaw in hand, and wondered which saw would make the job not just easier, but faster? I have. Countless times.

I’ve spent years in the woods, felling trees, bucking logs, and splitting firewood. I’ve seen chainsaws come and go, each promising the moon but often falling short. The Stihl 361 and 362, however, have always been contenders. They’re workhorses, reliable and powerful. But which one is faster at turning those logs into burnable gold?

This isn’t just a theoretical debate for me. It’s about efficiency, minimizing fatigue, and getting the job done right, especially when winter is breathing down your neck. So, I decided to put these two legends head-to-head in a series of rigorous tests, focusing specifically on firewood cutting speed. Forget the marketing hype; let’s delve into the real-world performance.

Stihl 361 vs 362: Firewood Cutting Speed Compared (3 Key Tests)

Setting the Stage: Why This Matters

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s understand why this comparison is so important. For professional loggers, time is money. Every second shaved off a cut translates to more cords processed per day, boosting profitability. For the weekend warrior like myself, faster cutting means less time spent wrestling with logs and more time enjoying the warmth of a crackling fire.

Beyond speed, the right chainsaw can also improve safety. A saw that cuts cleanly and efficiently reduces the risk of kickback and other accidents. And let’s not forget about wear and tear. A saw that struggles through the wood is more likely to break down, leading to costly repairs and downtime.

So, choosing the right chainsaw for firewood cutting is a critical decision. The Stihl 361 and 362 are both excellent options, but understanding their nuances can make a significant difference in your productivity and overall experience.

The Contenders: A Brief Overview

Let’s take a closer look at our two competitors:

• Stihl MS 361: This saw is a legend in its own right. Known for its rugged durability and reliable performance, the MS 361 is a favorite among seasoned loggers. It boasts a powerful engine, a comfortable grip, and a reputation for handling tough jobs with ease. It’s got that “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” charm.

• Stihl MS 362: The successor to the MS 361, the MS 362 is designed to be more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly. It features a stratified scavenging engine, which reduces emissions and improves fuel economy. It also incorporates some design improvements aimed at enhancing user comfort and reducing vibration. It’s the modern update, aiming for efficiency and compliance.

Both saws are equipped with similar bar lengths (typically 18-20 inches for firewood cutting), and both are known for their solid construction and dependable performance. But beneath the surface, there are key differences that impact their cutting speed.

The Testing Methodology: Rigorous and Realistic

To get a fair and accurate comparison, I designed three specific tests that mimic real-world firewood cutting scenarios. These tests were conducted on a variety of wood types commonly used for firewood, ensuring that the results are relevant to a wide range of users.

1. Bucking Test: This test measures the time it takes to cut through logs of varying diameters. I used logs ranging from 8 inches to 16 inches in diameter, representing the typical size range for firewood.
2. Noodling Test: Noodling, or ripping, involves cutting parallel to the grain of the wood. This is a common technique for processing large rounds or splitting tough wood. This test evaluates the saw’s ability to handle this demanding task.
3. Mixed Wood Test: This test simulates a real-world firewood cutting scenario where you encounter a variety of wood types. I used a mix of hardwoods (oak, maple) and softwoods (pine, fir) to assess the saw’s overall performance.

Each test was repeated multiple times with both saws, and the results were averaged to minimize the impact of individual variations. I also took detailed notes on the saw’s handling, vibration, and overall feel during each test.

Test 1: Bucking Speed – Slicing Through the Rounds

The bucking test is the bread and butter of firewood cutting. It’s where you turn those long logs into manageable rounds. Here’s how the Stihl 361 and 362 stacked up:

Analysis:

The Stihl MS 362 consistently outperformed the MS 361 in the bucking test, albeit by a small margin. This advantage was more pronounced when cutting larger diameter logs, suggesting that the MS 362’s engine has a slight edge in power and torque.

I noticed the MS 362 seemed to maintain its cutting speed better under load. The MS 361, while still capable, felt like it had to work a little harder, especially in the larger hardwood rounds.

Key Takeaway: For bucking firewood, the MS 362 offers a slight speed advantage, particularly when dealing with larger diameter logs. This could translate to significant time savings over the course of a long day of cutting.

Test 2: Noodling Performance – Ripping Through the Grain

Noodling is a more demanding task than bucking, requiring the chainsaw to cut parallel to the grain of the wood. This is often used to quarter large rounds or to remove stubborn knots.

Analysis:

The MS 362 once again demonstrated a faster cutting speed in the noodling test. The difference was even more noticeable than in the bucking test, suggesting that the MS 362’s engine is better suited for this type of demanding cutting.

When noodling, the saw is constantly under load, and the MS 362’s engine seemed to handle this load more efficiently. It maintained its RPMs better and didn’t bog down as easily as the MS 361.

Key Takeaway: If you frequently noodle wood, the MS 362 is the clear winner. Its superior performance in this test can save you significant time and effort.

Test 3: Mixed Wood Challenge – The Real-World Scenario

The mixed wood test is designed to simulate a real-world firewood cutting scenario where you encounter a variety of wood types. This test assesses the saw’s overall performance and its ability to adapt to different cutting conditions.

For this test, I used a mix of oak, maple, pine, and fir logs, ranging in diameter from 8 inches to 16 inches. I timed how long it took to process a specific volume of wood with each saw.

Analysis:

The MS 362 completed the mixed wood test in less time than the MS 361. While the difference may seem small, it adds up over the course of a long day of cutting. Moreover, the MS 362 also consumed less fuel, which is a significant advantage for both your wallet and the environment.

I found that the MS 362’s improved fuel efficiency was particularly noticeable when cutting hardwoods. The MS 361 seemed to burn through fuel more quickly when under heavy load.

Key Takeaway: In a real-world firewood cutting scenario, the MS 362 offers a combination of faster cutting speed and improved fuel efficiency, making it the more productive and cost-effective choice.

Beyond Speed: Other Important Factors

While cutting speed is a crucial factor, it’s not the only thing to consider when choosing a chainsaw. Here are some other important factors to keep in mind:

• Ergonomics: A comfortable saw can reduce fatigue and improve safety. Both the MS 361 and 362 have good ergonomics, but the MS 362 incorporates some design improvements that make it slightly more comfortable to use for extended periods. I personally found the vibration dampening on the 362 to be a noticeable improvement.

• Weight: A lighter saw is easier to maneuver and less tiring to use. The MS 362 is slightly lighter than the MS 361, which can make a difference over the course of a long day of cutting.

• Maintenance: A saw that is easy to maintain will save you time and money in the long run. Both the MS 361 and 362 are relatively easy to maintain, but the MS 362’s stratified scavenging engine may require slightly more specialized knowledge.

• Cost: The MS 362 is typically more expensive than the MS 361. Consider your budget and how much you’re willing to spend on a chainsaw. You have to weigh the cost benefits with the increased cutting speed and fuel efficiency.

• Availability: Depending on your location, finding a used or new MS 361 might be easier, especially since it’s an older model. The MS 362 is still readily available in most markets.

Real-World Case Study: My Firewood Cutting Project

To illustrate the impact of chainsaw choice on firewood cutting efficiency, let me share a personal experience. Last fall, I had a large firewood cutting project involving about 5 cords of mixed hardwood and softwood. I decided to use both the MS 361 and MS 362, switching between them every few hours to get a feel for their performance in real-world conditions.

Here’s what I observed:

• MS 361: The MS 361 was a reliable workhorse. It handled the bucking and noodling tasks with ease, but it required more effort, particularly when cutting larger diameter hardwoods. I noticed that I had to sharpen the chain more frequently, and I went through fuel at a faster rate.

• MS 362: The MS 362 felt more powerful and efficient. It cut through the wood more smoothly and maintained its speed better under load. I also appreciated the improved vibration dampening, which reduced fatigue. I used less fuel, and the chain stayed sharper for longer.

In the end, I was able to complete the project faster with the MS 362. While the difference wasn’t dramatic, it was noticeable. More importantly, I felt less fatigued at the end of the day.

Key Components of the Project:

• Equipment Used: Stihl MS 361, Stihl MS 362, 20-inch bar and chain, safety gear (helmet, chaps, gloves, eye protection).
• Wood Types: Oak, maple, pine, fir.
• Safety Considerations: Proper chainsaw handling techniques, awareness of surroundings, use of safety gear, regular chain sharpening.

Expert Insights: Perspectives from Professionals

To gain further insights, I spoke with several professional loggers and firewood producers about their experiences with the Stihl MS 361 and 362. Here’s what they had to say:

• “The MS 361 is a classic. It’s been around for a long time, and it’s proven its reliability. It’s a great saw for general firewood cutting.” – Experienced Logger

• “The MS 362 is a step up from the 361. It’s more powerful, more fuel-efficient, and more comfortable to use. It’s my go-to saw for heavy-duty firewood production.” – Firewood Producer

• “If you’re on a tight budget, the MS 361 is a good choice. But if you can afford it, the MS 362 is worth the investment. It will save you time and money in the long run.” – Arborist

These insights reinforce my own findings. The MS 362 is generally considered to be the superior saw, but the MS 361 remains a viable option for those on a budget or who don’t require the extra power and efficiency.

Actionable Takeaways: Choosing the Right Saw for You

So, which saw should you choose? Here are some actionable takeaways to help you make the right decision:

• If you primarily cut small diameter firewood and are on a tight budget, the Stihl MS 361 is a solid choice. It’s a reliable and durable saw that will get the job done.

• If you frequently cut larger diameter logs or noodle wood, the Stihl MS 362 is the better option. Its more powerful engine and improved fuel efficiency will save you time and effort.

• If you value comfort and reduced vibration, the Stihl MS 362 is the clear winner. Its ergonomic design and vibration dampening system will make your firewood cutting experience more enjoyable.

• Consider your long-term needs. If you plan to expand your firewood cutting operation in the future, the MS 362 is a worthwhile investment.

• Try both saws before you buy. If possible, test drive both the MS 361 and MS 362 to see which one feels best in your hands.

Safety First: A Reminder

No matter which chainsaw you choose, always prioritize safety. Wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, chaps, gloves, and eye protection. Follow proper chainsaw handling techniques and be aware of your surroundings. Regular chain sharpening is crucial for both safety and efficiency.

The Verdict: My Final Thoughts

After conducting these tests and reflecting on my own experiences, I can confidently say that the Stihl MS 362 is the faster and more efficient chainsaw for firewood cutting. Its superior power, fuel efficiency, and ergonomics make it the better choice for both professional loggers and weekend warriors.

However, the Stihl MS 361 remains a capable and reliable saw. If you’re on a budget or don’t require the extra performance of the MS 362, it’s still a great option.

Ultimately, the best chainsaw for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider your budget, the type of wood you typically cut, and your comfort level with each saw. And always remember to prioritize safety.

So, the next time you’re standing in front of a mountain of logs, chainsaw in hand, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to choose the right saw for the job. Happy cutting!

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