Stihl 500i Review: Power & Precision In Wood Processing (7 Pro Tips)

The Paradox of Power: Taming Wood with the Stihl 500i

Isn’t it ironic? We seek raw power to conquer the wilderness, to bend nature to our will, yet the true master understands that precision, finesse, and control are the real keys to success. This paradox sits at the heart of wood processing, where brute force alone will leave you exhausted, frustrated, and with a pile of splintered waste. Today, I’m diving deep into a tool that promises to bridge that gap: the Stihl MS 500i chainsaw. This isn’t just a review; it’s a journey into the heart of what makes a chainsaw a truly exceptional partner in the woods. I’ll be sharing my experiences, insights, and practical tips to help you determine if the 500i is the right choice for your wood processing needs.

Stihl MS 500i Review: Power & Precision in Wood Processing (7 Pro Tips)

The Stihl MS 500i. The very name conjures images of effortless power and unmatched performance. And in many ways, it delivers. But before you rush out and drop a significant chunk of change on this professional-grade chainsaw, let’s peel back the hype and examine what makes this saw tick, where it excels, and where it might fall short. I’ve spent countless hours wielding chainsaws in various wood processing scenarios, from felling trees to bucking firewood, and I’m here to share my honest, no-nonsense assessment of the 500i.

Understanding the User Intent

Before we delve into the saw itself, let’s address the elephant in the woodlot: What are you, the reader, hoping to gain from this review? The user intent behind searching for a “Stihl 500i Review” likely falls into one or more of these categories:

Researching a potential purchase: You’re considering buying a 500i and want to know if it’s worth the investment.
Seeking performance insights: You want to understand how the 500i performs in real-world wood processing tasks.
Comparing with other models: You’re weighing the 500i against other chainsaws in its class.
Looking for expert opinions: You value the perspective of experienced users.
Troubleshooting or optimizing performance: You already own a 500i and want to maximize its capabilities.

The Stihl MS 500i: A Deep Dive

The Heart of the Beast: Engine and Technology

The Stihl MS 500i’s defining feature is its electronically controlled fuel injection system. This innovation sets it apart from traditional carbureted chainsaws and is responsible for its exceptional performance.

Fuel Injection Advantage: Unlike carbureted engines, which rely on vacuum to draw fuel into the combustion chamber, the 500i’s fuel injection system precisely meters the fuel based on engine load, speed, and temperature. This results in:
- Faster Acceleration: The saw leaps to full speed almost instantly, making it incredibly responsive.
- Optimized Fuel Efficiency: By delivering the precise amount of fuel needed, the 500i burns fuel more efficiently, reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
- Consistent Performance: The engine maintains optimal performance regardless of altitude or temperature, eliminating the need for manual adjustments.
Engine Specs:
- Displacement: 79.2 cc (4.83 cu in)
- Power Output: 5.0 kW (6.8 bhp)
- Weight (without bar and chain): 6.2 kg (13.7 lbs)
- Power-to-Weight Ratio: 1.24 kg/kW
Starting Made Easy: The electronic fuel injection eliminates the need for a choke, simplifying the starting process. A single pull is often all it takes to fire up the engine, even in cold weather.

Ergonomics and Handling

Power is nothing without control. The 500i’s ergonomics are designed to minimize fatigue and maximize maneuverability.

Lightweight Design: At just 13.7 pounds (without bar and chain), the 500i is surprisingly lightweight for its power. This reduces strain on your arms and back, allowing you to work longer and more efficiently.
Optimized Balance: The saw is well-balanced, making it easy to control and maneuver in various cutting positions.
Anti-Vibration System: Stihl’s anti-vibration system effectively isolates the engine from the handles, reducing vibration and minimizing fatigue.
Comfortable Grips: The handles are ergonomically designed and provide a comfortable, secure grip, even when wearing gloves.

Cutting Performance

This is where the 500i truly shines. The combination of its powerful engine and fuel injection system delivers exceptional cutting performance.

Aggressive Cutting Speed: The 500i rips through wood with incredible speed and efficiency, making quick work of even the toughest hardwoods.
High Torque: The engine produces ample torque, allowing it to maintain cutting speed even under heavy loads.
Versatile Cutting: The 500i can handle a wide range of cutting tasks, from felling large trees to bucking firewood and limbing branches.
Bar Length Options: The 500i can accommodate bar lengths ranging from 20 to 36 inches, allowing you to choose the right bar for the job.

7 Pro Tips for Mastering the Stihl 500i

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into some pro tips for getting the most out of your Stihl MS 500i.

Tip 1: Master the Starting Procedure

While the 500i is known for its easy starting, there’s a specific procedure to follow for optimal results.

Cold Start:
1. Engage the chain brake.
2. Set the master control lever to the “Start” position.
3. Pull the starter rope firmly and steadily until the engine fires (you’ll hear a brief “cough”).
4. Move the master control lever to the “Run” position.
5. Pull the starter rope again to start the engine.
Warm Start:
1. Engage the chain brake.
2. Set the master control lever to the “Run” position.
3. Pull the starter rope until the engine starts.
Flooded Engine: If you flood the engine, remove the spark plug and pull the starter rope several times to clear the cylinder. Reinstall the spark plug and try starting again.

Tip 2: Optimize Chain Selection

The chain you choose can significantly impact the 500i’s performance.

Chain Types:
- Full Chisel: Offers the fastest cutting speed but requires more sharpening and is more prone to kickback.
- Semi-Chisel: A good compromise between cutting speed and durability.
- Low-Kickback: Designed for safety and ease of use, but sacrifices some cutting speed.
Chain Pitch and Gauge: Ensure that the chain pitch and gauge match the specifications of your bar and sprocket.
Sharpening: Keep your chain sharp for optimal performance and safety. Use a chain sharpening kit or take it to a professional.

Tip 3: Fine-Tune Your Cutting Technique

Proper cutting technique is essential for safety and efficiency.

Stance: Maintain a stable stance with your feet shoulder-width apart.
Grip: Grip the saw firmly with both hands, keeping your thumbs wrapped around the handles.
Cutting Pressure: Let the saw do the work. Avoid forcing it through the wood.
Kickback Awareness: Be aware of the potential for kickback and take precautions to avoid it.
Limbing: When limbing, work from the bottom up to avoid getting pinched by falling branches.

Tip 4: Maintain Proper Fuel and Oil

Using the correct fuel and oil is crucial for engine longevity.

Fuel: Use a high-quality gasoline with an octane rating of 89 or higher.
Oil: Use Stihl HP Ultra two-stroke oil or a comparable high-quality two-stroke oil.
Mixing Ratio: Mix the fuel and oil according to the manufacturer’s recommendations (typically 50:1).
Fresh Fuel: Use fresh fuel. Gasoline can degrade over time, especially when mixed with oil.

Tip 5: Master Bar and Chain Maintenance

Proper bar and chain maintenance is essential for optimal performance and safety.

Chain Sharpening: Sharpen your chain regularly to maintain its cutting efficiency. A dull chain not only cuts slower but also puts more strain on the engine and increases the risk of kickback.
Bar Cleaning: Clean the bar regularly to remove sawdust and debris. Use a bar groove cleaner to clear the bar groove.
Bar Oiling: Ensure that the bar oiler is functioning properly and that the bar is receiving adequate lubrication.
Bar Dressing: Dress the bar regularly to remove burrs and maintain its shape.
Chain Tension: Check the chain tension regularly and adjust as needed. A loose chain can derail and cause injury.

Tip 6: Embrace the Electronic Advantage

The 500i’s electronic fuel injection system offers several advantages, but it also requires a different approach to troubleshooting.

No Carburetor Adjustments: Unlike traditional chainsaws, the 500i doesn’t have a carburetor that needs to be adjusted. The electronic control unit (ECU) automatically optimizes the fuel mixture.
Diagnostic Capabilities: The ECU can store diagnostic information that can be accessed by a Stihl dealer. This can help diagnose and troubleshoot problems.
Software Updates: The ECU may require software updates to ensure optimal performance. Your Stihl dealer can perform these updates.

Tip 7: Safety First, Always

Chainsaw operation is inherently dangerous. Always prioritize safety.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear appropriate PPE, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots.
Read the Manual: Read and understand the owner’s manual before operating the chainsaw.
Clear the Work Area: Clear the work area of obstacles and hazards.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Be aware of your surroundings and potential hazards, such as falling trees and branches.
Don’t Work Alone: Work with a partner whenever possible.
Take Breaks: Take frequent breaks to avoid fatigue.
Never Operate Under the Influence: Never operate a chainsaw under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Wood Anatomy and Properties: Understanding Your Medium

To truly master wood processing, you need to understand the material you’re working with. Wood isn’t just a uniform substance; it’s a complex biological structure with varying properties that affect its cutting characteristics, drying behavior, and suitability for different applications.

Hardwood vs. Softwood: A Fundamental Distinction

The terms “hardwood” and “softwood” are botanical classifications, not necessarily indicators of actual wood hardness. Hardwoods are typically deciduous trees (trees that lose their leaves annually), while softwoods are usually coniferous trees (trees with needles that remain green year-round).

Hardwoods: Generally denser and more complex in structure than softwoods. They tend to be slower-growing and are prized for their strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal. Examples include oak, maple, cherry, and walnut.
Softwoods: Typically less dense and easier to work with than hardwoods. They are often used for construction, paper production, and other applications where strength and durability are not as critical. Examples include pine, fir, spruce, and cedar.

Wood Grain: The Key to Cutting and Splitting

The grain of wood refers to the arrangement of wood fibers. Understanding grain is crucial for efficient cutting and splitting.

Straight Grain: Fibers run parallel to the length of the wood. This is the easiest grain to cut and split.
Spiral Grain: Fibers spiral around the trunk of the tree. This can make cutting and splitting more difficult.
Interlocked Grain: Fibers alternate their direction of spiral. This is the most difficult grain to cut and split.
Knots: Knots are points where branches grew out of the trunk. They disrupt the grain and can make cutting and splitting more challenging.

Moisture Content: A Critical Factor

The moisture content of wood significantly affects its weight, strength, and drying behavior.

Green Wood: Wood that has been freshly cut and has a high moisture content (often above 30%). Green wood is heavier and more difficult to cut than seasoned wood.
Seasoned Wood: Wood that has been allowed to dry to a lower moisture content (typically 12-18%). Seasoned wood is lighter, stronger, and easier to work with.
Kiln-Dried Wood: Wood that has been dried in a kiln to a specific moisture content (often 6-8%). Kiln-dried wood is dimensionally stable and less prone to warping or cracking.

Wood Density and Hardness

Wood density and hardness are important factors to consider when selecting wood for specific applications.

Density: The mass of wood per unit volume. Denser woods are generally stronger and more durable.
Hardness: The resistance of wood to indentation. Harder woods are more resistant to wear and tear.

Practical Implications for Chainsaw Use

Understanding wood anatomy and properties can help you choose the right chainsaw, chain, and cutting technique for the job.

Hardwoods: Require a more powerful chainsaw and a sharper chain.
Softwoods: Can be cut with a less powerful chainsaw and a less aggressive chain.
Green Wood: Requires more power and a sharper chain than seasoned wood.
Knotty Wood: Requires careful attention to avoid kickback.

Logging Tool Selection and Maintenance Best Practices

The chainsaw is just one tool in the wood processor’s arsenal. A variety of other tools are essential for safe and efficient logging and firewood preparation.

Felling Axes and Wedges: Taking Down the Giants

Felling Axe: Used to fell trees by creating a notch (undercut) and a back cut. Choose an axe with a head weight appropriate for the size of the trees you’re felling.
Splitting Axe: Designed for splitting firewood. Choose an axe with a longer handle for more leverage.
Wedges: Used to prevent the tree from pinching the saw during felling and to help direct the fall. Steel or plastic wedges are available.
Sledgehammer: Used to drive wedges.

Skidding Tools: Moving the Logs

Skidding Tongs: Used to grip and drag logs.
Skidding Chains: Used to secure logs for dragging.
Cant Hook: Used to roll logs.
Log Arch: A wheeled device that lifts one end of the log off the ground, making it easier to drag.

Splitting Tools: From Log to Firewood

Manual Splitting Maul: A heavy, wedge-shaped tool used to split firewood.
Hydraulic Log Splitter: A machine that uses hydraulic power to split firewood. Available in various sizes and configurations.
Wedges: Used to split difficult logs.
Sledgehammer: Used to drive wedges.

Measuring and Marking Tools: Precision is Key

Measuring Tape: Used to measure log lengths.
Chalk Line: Used to mark straight lines for cutting.
Log Scale: Used to estimate the volume of logs.

Safety Gear: Protecting Yourself

Helmet: Protects your head from falling objects.
Eye Protection: Protects your eyes from flying debris.
Hearing Protection: Protects your ears from the noise of chainsaws and other equipment.
Gloves: Protect your hands from cuts and abrasions.
Chainsaw Chaps: Protect your legs from chainsaw cuts.
Steel-Toed Boots: Protect your feet from injury.

Maintenance Best Practices: Keeping Your Tools Sharp

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your logging tools in good working order and ensuring your safety.

Sharpening: Keep your axes and mauls sharp. Use a file or sharpening stone to maintain the cutting edge.
Cleaning: Clean your tools after each use to remove dirt and debris.
Lubrication: Lubricate moving parts to prevent rust and corrosion.
Inspection: Inspect your tools regularly for damage or wear. Replace damaged or worn parts immediately.
Storage: Store your tools in a dry place to prevent rust and corrosion.

Firewood Seasoning Techniques and Safety Considerations

Seasoning firewood is the process of drying it to reduce its moisture content. Properly seasoned firewood burns hotter, cleaner, and more efficiently.

Why Season Firewood?

Increased Heat Output: Dry firewood burns hotter than green firewood.
Reduced Smoke: Dry firewood produces less smoke than green firewood.
Improved Efficiency: Dry firewood burns more efficiently, meaning you’ll use less wood to produce the same amount of heat.
Reduced Creosote Buildup: Dry firewood reduces creosote buildup in your chimney, which can reduce the risk of chimney fires.

Seasoning Methods

Air Drying: The most common method of seasoning firewood. It involves stacking the wood in a well-ventilated area and allowing it to dry naturally.
Kiln Drying: A faster method of seasoning firewood that involves drying the wood in a kiln. Kiln-dried firewood is typically more expensive than air-dried firewood.

Air Drying Best Practices

Split the Wood: Splitting the wood increases the surface area exposed to air, speeding up the drying process.
Stack the Wood: Stack the wood in a single row, allowing air to circulate freely around each piece.
Elevate the Wood: Elevate the wood off the ground to prevent moisture from wicking up from the ground.
Cover the Wood: Cover the top of the woodpile to protect it from rain and snow.
Choose a Sunny and Windy Location: Choose a location that receives plenty of sunlight and wind.
Allow Adequate Time: Allow the wood to season for at least six months, and preferably longer.

Measuring Moisture Content

A moisture meter can be used to measure the moisture content of firewood. The ideal moisture content for firewood is between 15% and 20%.

Safety Considerations

Stacking Safety: Stack firewood carefully to prevent it from collapsing.
Insect Infestation: Be aware of the potential for insect infestation in firewood.
Spontaneous Combustion: Under certain conditions, firewood can spontaneously combust. To prevent this, avoid stacking green firewood in enclosed spaces.
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Never burn firewood in an unventilated space. Carbon monoxide is a deadly gas that can be produced by burning firewood.

Project Planning and Execution: From Forest to Fireplace

Effective wood processing requires careful planning and execution. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.

Step 1: Assess Your Needs

How much firewood do you need? Estimate your firewood needs based on the size of your home, the efficiency of your stove, and the severity of your winters.
What types of wood are available? Identify the types of wood available in your area and their suitability for firewood.
What tools and equipment do you have? Assess your existing tools and equipment and determine what additional tools you need.

Step 2: Obtain Permits and Permissions

Check local regulations: Check with your local authorities to determine if you need any permits or permissions to cut firewood.
Obtain landowner permission: If you’re cutting firewood on private land, obtain permission from the landowner.

Step 3: Plan Your Cutting Strategy

Identify trees to cut: Select trees that are dead, diseased, or damaged.
Plan your felling strategy: Plan how you will fell the trees safely and efficiently.
Plan your bucking strategy: Plan how you will buck the trees into firewood lengths.

Step 4: Gather Your Tools and Equipment

Chainsaw: Choose a chainsaw that is appropriate for the size of the trees you’re cutting.
Felling Axe: Use a felling axe to create a notch and back cut.
Wedges: Use wedges to prevent the tree from pinching the saw and to help direct the fall.
Safety Gear: Wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, chainsaw chaps, and steel-toed boots.

Step 5: Fell the Trees

Create a Notch: Cut a notch in the tree on the side you want it to fall. The notch should be about one-third of the tree’s diameter.
Make a Back Cut: Make a back cut on the opposite side of the tree, slightly above the notch. Leave a hinge of uncut wood to help control the fall of the tree.
Insert Wedges: Insert wedges into the back cut to prevent the tree from pinching the saw and to help direct the fall.
Fell the Tree: Continue cutting the back cut until the tree falls.

Step 6: Buck the Trees

Measure and Mark: Measure and mark the logs into firewood lengths (typically 16-24 inches).
Cut the Logs: Cut the logs into firewood lengths using a chainsaw.

Step 7: Split the Firewood

Split the Logs: Split the logs into smaller pieces using a splitting maul or hydraulic log splitter.

Step 8: Stack the Firewood

Stack the Wood: Stack the firewood in a well-ventilated area to allow it to season.

Step 9: Season the Firewood

Allow Adequate Time: Allow the firewood to season for at least six months, and preferably longer.

Step 10: Enjoy Your Firewood

Burn the Wood: Burn the seasoned firewood in your fireplace or wood stove.

Stihl MS 500i: Is It Worth the Investment?

After all this, the big question remains: Is the Stihl MS 500i worth the investment? The answer, as always, depends on your specific needs and circumstances.

Pros:

Unmatched Power and Performance: The 500i delivers exceptional cutting speed and torque.
Fuel Efficiency: The electronic fuel injection system optimizes fuel consumption.
Easy Starting: The electronic fuel injection eliminates the need for a choke.
Lightweight Design: The 500i is surprisingly lightweight for its power.
Ergonomic Design: The saw is well-balanced and comfortable to use.

Cons:

High Price: The 500i is one of the most expensive chainsaws on the market.
Complexity: The electronic fuel injection system adds complexity to the saw.
Potential Maintenance Costs: Repairs to the electronic fuel injection system can be expensive.

Who is the Stihl MS 500i For?

Professional Loggers: The 500i is an excellent choice for professional loggers who need a powerful and reliable chainsaw.
Serious Firewood Processors: If you process a large amount of firewood each year, the 500i can save you time and effort.
Those Who Demand the Best: If you’re looking for the best chainsaw on the market, the 500i is a top contender.

Who Might Want to Consider Other Options?

Occasional Users: If you only use a chainsaw occasionally, the 500i may be overkill.
Budget-Conscious Buyers: There are many excellent chainsaws available at a lower price point.
Those Who Prefer Simplicity: If you prefer a simpler, more traditional chainsaw, the 500i’s electronic fuel injection system may not be for you.

The Future of Chainsaws

The Stihl MS 500i represents a significant step forward in chainsaw technology. Its electronic fuel injection system offers numerous advantages over traditional carbureted engines. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative chainsaws in the future. Battery powered chainsaws are getting stronger and lasting longer.

Final Thoughts

The Stihl MS 500i is a remarkable chainsaw that delivers exceptional power, performance, and efficiency. While it’s not for everyone, it’s an excellent choice for professional loggers, serious firewood processors, and those who demand the best. By understanding its strengths, weaknesses, and maintenance requirements, you can make an informed decision about whether the 500i is the right chainsaw for you.

Next Steps

If you’re considering purchasing a Stihl MS 500i, I recommend visiting your local Stihl dealer to try it out for yourself. Talk to the dealer about your specific needs and ask for their recommendations. And remember, always prioritize safety when operating a chainsaw. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment and follow all safety guidelines. Happy cutting!