Stihl Chainsaw MS 310 Bar Length Limits (5 Expert Tips)

Stihl Chainsaw MS 310 Bar Length Limits: 5 Expert Tips for Optimal Performance and Cost Efficiency

The Stihl MS 310 chainsaw is a workhorse. It’s a tool I’ve come to rely on over the years for everything from felling smaller trees to bucking firewood rounds. Its versatility stems, in large part, from its ability to accommodate different bar lengths. But understanding the MS 310’s bar length limits is crucial for both performance and, surprisingly, cost. Choosing the wrong bar can lead to inefficiency, increased wear and tear, and even dangerous situations. Through years of experience, I’ve learned a few tricks to get the most out of this chainsaw.

In this article, I’ll share five expert tips to help you choose the right bar length for your Stihl MS 310, ensuring optimal performance and minimizing unnecessary expenses. We’ll dive into the factors that influence bar length selection, discuss the importance of proper chain maintenance, and explore how choosing the right bar can save you money in the long run.

1. Understanding the Stihl MS 310’s Recommended Bar Length Range

The first step in choosing the right bar length is understanding the manufacturer’s recommendations. Stihl specifies a bar length range for the MS 310, typically between 16 inches and 20 inches. This range isn’t arbitrary; it’s based on the chainsaw’s engine power, oiling system capacity, and overall design.

Why is this range important?

Engine Performance: A longer bar requires more power to pull the chain through the wood. Exceeding the recommended range can strain the engine, leading to reduced cutting speed, increased fuel consumption, and potential engine damage.
Oiling System: The chainsaw’s oiling system is designed to lubricate the chain adequately for the recommended bar lengths. A longer bar might not receive sufficient lubrication, leading to premature wear and tear on the bar and chain.
Safety: Using a bar that is too long can make the chainsaw unwieldy and difficult to control, increasing the risk of kickback and other accidents.

Data Point: According to Stihl’s official website and product manuals, the recommended bar length range for the MS 310 is 16-20 inches. Operating outside this range can void the warranty.

My Experience: I once tried using a 24-inch bar on my MS 310 to fell a larger tree. The chainsaw struggled, the chain kept binding, and I ended up wasting a lot of time and fuel. I quickly learned that sticking to the recommended range is crucial for efficient and safe operation.

2. Matching Bar Length to the Task at Hand

While the manufacturer’s recommendations provide a general guideline, the ideal bar length also depends on the specific task you’re performing. Consider the following factors:

Tree Diameter: For felling trees, the bar length should be at least slightly longer than the diameter of the tree you’re cutting. This allows you to make a clean, controlled cut through the trunk. As a general rule, you want at least 2-3 inches of bar length extending beyond the trunk’s diameter.
Firewood Processing: For bucking firewood, a shorter bar (e.g., 16 inches) is often more maneuverable and efficient. You can quickly cut through smaller logs without unnecessary weight or length.
Limbing: For limbing trees, a shorter bar is also preferable. It allows for greater precision and control, reducing the risk of damaging the tree or injuring yourself.

Data Point: A study by the US Forest Service found that using a chainsaw with a bar length appropriate for the tree diameter can increase cutting efficiency by up to 20%.

Cost Considerations:

Fuel Consumption: A longer bar requires more engine power, leading to increased fuel consumption. Using a shorter bar for smaller tasks can save you money on fuel in the long run. I noticed a significant difference in fuel consumption when switching from a 20-inch bar to a 16-inch bar for processing firewood.
Chain Wear: A longer bar puts more strain on the chain, leading to increased wear and tear. Using a shorter bar for smaller tasks can extend the life of your chain and reduce replacement costs.

My Experience: I have a 16-inch bar for general firewood processing and a 20-inch bar for felling larger trees. This allows me to optimize performance and minimize wear and tear on my chainsaw.

3. Understanding Bar and Chain Compatibility

It’s not enough to choose a bar within the recommended length range. You also need to ensure that the bar and chain are compatible with your Stihl MS 310. This involves considering the following factors:

Chain Pitch: The chain pitch is the distance between three consecutive rivets on the chain, divided by two. The MS 310 typically uses a chain with a .325-inch pitch.
Chain Gauge: The chain gauge is the thickness of the drive links that fit into the bar groove. The MS 310 typically uses a chain with a .063-inch gauge.
Drive Link Count: The number of drive links on the chain must match the bar length. A longer bar requires more drive links.

Data Point: Using an incompatible chain can damage the bar, chain, and even the chainsaw’s drive sprocket. Stihl recommends using only Stihl-branded chains and bars for optimal performance and safety.

Cost Considerations:

Premature Wear: Using an incompatible chain can cause premature wear and tear on the bar and chain, leading to increased replacement costs.
Damage to Chainsaw: In severe cases, using an incompatible chain can damage the chainsaw’s drive sprocket or even the engine, resulting in costly repairs.

My Experience: I once accidentally purchased a chain with the wrong gauge for my MS 310. The chain didn’t fit properly in the bar groove, and it quickly damaged the bar and chain. I learned the hard way that it’s crucial to double-check the chain specifications before making a purchase.

Practical Tip: Always refer to your Stihl MS 310 owner’s manual for the correct chain specifications. You can also consult with a qualified chainsaw technician to ensure you’re using the right chain for your bar.

4. Maintaining Your Bar and Chain for Optimal Performance

Even with the right bar length and chain compatibility, proper maintenance is essential for optimal performance and longevity. This includes the following:

Chain Sharpening: A sharp chain cuts faster, more efficiently, and with less effort. Regularly sharpen your chain using a file or a chain grinder.
Bar Maintenance: Clean the bar groove regularly to remove dirt and debris. Check the bar rails for wear and tear, and dress them with a file if necessary.
Chain Lubrication: Ensure that the chain is properly lubricated at all times. Check the oil level frequently and use a high-quality bar and chain oil. I prefer using a vegetable-based oil, as it is more environmentally friendly and performs well.
Chain Tension: Maintain proper chain tension to prevent the chain from derailing or binding.

Data Point: A study by Oregon Products found that regularly sharpening your chain can increase cutting efficiency by up to 30%.

Cost Considerations:

Reduced Fuel Consumption: A sharp chain requires less engine power, leading to reduced fuel consumption.
Extended Bar and Chain Life: Proper maintenance can extend the life of your bar and chain, reducing replacement costs.
Reduced Repair Costs: Maintaining your bar and chain can prevent premature wear and tear, reducing the risk of costly repairs to your chainsaw.

My Experience: I make it a habit to sharpen my chain after every few tanks of fuel. This keeps the chain cutting efficiently and prevents unnecessary wear and tear on the bar and chain. I also regularly clean the bar groove and check the bar rails for wear.

Practical Tip: Invest in a good quality chain sharpening kit and learn how to sharpen your chain properly. There are many online resources and tutorials available to help you get started.

5. Understanding the Impact of Wood Type on Bar Length Selection

The type of wood you’re cutting can also influence your choice of bar length. Hardwoods, such as oak and maple, require more power to cut than softwoods, such as pine and fir.

Hardwoods: When cutting hardwoods, a shorter bar (e.g., 16 inches) may be more efficient, as it requires less engine power. However, if you’re felling large hardwood trees, you may need a longer bar (e.g., 20 inches) to reach through the trunk.
Softwoods: When cutting softwoods, you can often use a longer bar without straining the engine. This can be particularly useful for felling large softwood trees.

Data Point: Hardwoods typically have a higher density than softwoods, requiring more force to cut. The density of wood is measured in pounds per cubic foot (lbs/ft³). Oak, for example, has a density of around 45 lbs/ft³, while pine has a density of around 30 lbs/ft³.

Cost Considerations:

Fuel Consumption: Cutting hardwoods requires more engine power, leading to increased fuel consumption. Using a shorter bar can help reduce fuel consumption when cutting hardwoods.
Chain Wear: Cutting hardwoods can also cause more wear and tear on the chain. Regularly sharpen your chain and use a high-quality chain oil to minimize wear.

My Experience: I’ve noticed that my MS 310 struggles more when cutting oak compared to pine. I typically use a shorter bar when cutting oak to reduce the strain on the engine. I also make sure to sharpen my chain more frequently when cutting hardwoods.

Practical Tip: Consider the type of wood you’ll be cutting most often when choosing your bar length. If you primarily cut hardwoods, a shorter bar may be more efficient. If you primarily cut softwoods, a longer bar may be suitable.

Budgeting for Wood Processing and Firewood Preparation:

Now, let’s talk about the cost implications in more detail. I’ve found that proper planning and budgeting can save you a significant amount of money in wood processing and firewood preparation.

1. Timber Purchase or Harvesting Costs:

Timber Prices: Timber prices vary widely depending on the species, quality, and location. According to the USDA Forest Service, the average stumpage price (the price paid for standing timber) for sawtimber in the United States in 2022 was around $350 per thousand board feet (MBF). However, prices can range from less than $100 per MBF for low-quality timber to over $1000 per MBF for high-quality hardwoods.
Harvesting Costs: If you’re harvesting your own timber, you’ll need to factor in the cost of felling, skidding, and loading the logs. These costs can vary depending on the size and accessibility of the timber. I typically budget around $50 to $100 per MBF for harvesting costs.
Permits and Regulations: In some areas, you may need to obtain permits before harvesting timber. These permits can cost anywhere from a few dollars to several hundred dollars, depending on the location and the size of the harvest.

2. Tool Costs:

Chainsaw: As we’ve discussed, the Stihl MS 310 is a reliable and versatile chainsaw. A new MS 310 typically costs around $600 to $700.
Bar and Chain: A new bar and chain for the MS 310 typically costs around $50 to $100.
Chain Sharpener: A good quality chain sharpener can cost anywhere from $50 to $200.
Splitting Maul or Log Splitter: If you’re processing firewood, you’ll need a splitting maul or a log splitter. A good quality splitting maul costs around $50 to $100, while a log splitter can cost anywhere from $500 to $3000, depending on the size and power. I use a hydraulic log splitter, which cost me around $1500, but it saves me a lot of time and effort.
Safety Gear: Don’t forget to budget for safety gear, including a helmet, ear protection, eye protection, and chainsaw chaps. This gear typically costs around $100 to $200.

3. Labor Costs:

Logging Crew: If you’re hiring a logging crew to harvest timber, you’ll need to pay them an hourly or per-MBF rate. Logging crew rates vary depending on the location and the size of the crew. I typically budget around $50 to $100 per hour for a logging crew.
Firewood Handlers: If you’re hiring someone to help you process firewood, you’ll need to pay them an hourly rate. Firewood handler rates typically range from $15 to $25 per hour.

4. Fuel and Maintenance Costs:

Fuel: Chainsaws require a mixture of gasoline and oil. The cost of fuel can vary depending on the price of gasoline. I typically budget around $10 to $20 per day for fuel.
Bar and Chain Oil: Chainsaws also require bar and chain oil. The cost of bar and chain oil can vary depending on the quality of the oil. I typically budget around $5 to $10 per day for bar and chain oil.
Maintenance: Chainsaws require regular maintenance, including cleaning, sharpening, and replacing worn parts. I typically budget around $50 to $100 per year for chainsaw maintenance.

5. Transportation Costs:

Truck and Trailer: If you’re transporting timber or firewood, you’ll need a truck and trailer. The cost of renting or owning a truck and trailer can vary depending on the size and type of vehicle. I own a pickup truck and a small trailer, which I use to transport firewood.
Fuel: You’ll also need to factor in the cost of fuel for transporting timber or firewood.

Example Budget for Firewood Preparation (10 Cords):

Let’s say I’m planning to prepare 10 cords of firewood from standing dead trees on my property. Here’s a sample budget:

Timber Purchase: $0 (using standing dead trees)
Chainsaw: $0 (already own a Stihl MS 310)
Bar and Chain: $75 (replacement bar and chain)
Chain Sharpener: $0 (already own a chain sharpener)
Log Splitter: $0 (already own a log splitter)
Safety Gear: $0 (already own safety gear)
Labor: $500 (10 days of labor at $50/day)
Fuel: $100 (10 days of fuel at $10/day)
Bar and Chain Oil: $50 (10 days of oil at $5/day)
Truck and Trailer: $0 (already own a truck and trailer)
Transportation Fuel: $50

Total Estimated Cost: $825

Cost per Cord: $82.50

Industry Benchmarks:

According to various sources, the average price per cord of firewood in the United States ranges from $150 to $400, depending on the location, wood species, and delivery options. Based on my estimated cost of $82.50 per cord, I’m saving a significant amount of money by preparing my own firewood.

Cost Optimization Tips:

Harvest Your Own Timber: If you have access to standing timber, harvesting your own timber can save you a significant amount of money.
Buy Timber in Bulk: If you need to purchase timber, buying it in bulk can often result in a lower price per board foot.
Maintain Your Equipment: Regularly maintaining your equipment can extend its life and reduce repair costs.
Sharpen Your Chain Regularly: A sharp chain cuts faster and more efficiently, saving you time and fuel.
Shop Around for Supplies: Compare prices from different suppliers to find the best deals on fuel, oil, and other supplies.
Consider Using a Manual Log Splitter: If you’re on a tight budget, a manual log splitter can be a cost-effective alternative to a hydraulic log splitter.
Season Your Firewood Properly: Properly seasoned firewood burns more efficiently and produces more heat. This can save you money on heating costs.

Calculating Log Volume:

Board Feet: Board feet are a common unit of measurement for timber. One board foot is equal to a piece of wood that is 1 inch thick, 12 inches wide, and 12 inches long. The formula for calculating the board feet in a log is:

(Diameter in inches)² x Length in feet / 16 * Cords: A cord is a unit of measurement for firewood. A cord is a stack of wood that is 4 feet high, 4 feet wide, and 8 feet long. The volume of a cord is 128 cubic feet.

Estimating Drying Time:

The drying time for firewood depends on several factors, including the wood species, the moisture content, and the weather conditions. As a general rule, firewood should be seasoned for at least six months before burning.

Formula for Estimating Drying Time:

Drying Time (months) = (Initial Moisture Content – Target Moisture Content) / Drying Rate

Initial Moisture Content: The moisture content of freshly cut wood can range from 30% to 60%, depending on the species.
Target Moisture Content: The target moisture content for firewood is around 20%.
Drying Rate: The drying rate depends on the weather conditions. In warm, sunny weather, the drying rate can be as high as 5% per month. In cool, cloudy weather, the drying rate may be as low as 1% per month.

Actionable Takeaways and Next Steps:

Determine Your Needs: Before choosing a bar length for your Stihl MS 310, consider the types of tasks you’ll be performing most often.
Stick to the Recommended Range: Always use a bar length within the manufacturer’s recommended range.
Ensure Compatibility: Make sure that the bar and chain are compatible with your chainsaw.
Maintain Your Equipment: Regularly maintain your bar and chain for optimal performance and longevity.
Budget Wisely: Plan and budget carefully for wood processing and firewood preparation to minimize costs.

Choosing the right bar length for your Stihl MS 310 is crucial for optimal performance, safety, and cost efficiency. By following these five expert tips, you can get the most out of your chainsaw and save money in the long run. Remember, a well-maintained chainsaw is a valuable tool that can provide years of reliable service. Now, go forth and conquer those wood processing projects!

Stihl Chainsaw MS 310 Bar Length Limits (5 Expert Tips)