Stihl Chainsaws Larger Than MS 390 (Top Picks)

If your MS 390 no longer has enough capacity for the work, the STIHL MS 400 C-M, MS 462 C-M, MS 500i, and MS 661 C-M are larger-displacement options. The MS 400 is the smallest step up; the MS 462 suits varied production work; the MS 500i and MS 661 target heavier cutting. Match the saw to timber, bar, and operator skill.

A bigger saw can make a demanding cut easier, yet it can also add weight and fatigue. That is the paradox behind upgrading: the most powerful model is not automatically the most productive one for your work. I would first identify what is limiting your MS 390, then compare displacement, power, intended use, approved bar fitment, and handling.

The MS 390 has 64.1 cc of displacement. Each pick below is larger, but the size of the step differs. Manufacturer specifications and manuals can vary by market and model version, so confirm current local availability and exact equipment before buying.

How to choose a larger STIHL saw

This comparison focuses on gas-powered STIHL models with more displacement than the MS 390. Displacement is the volume swept by the engine’s piston; it is one measure of size, not a guarantee of faster cutting. Power, bar setup, chain condition, wood, and operator control all affect the result.

These figures are useful for narrowing choices, not for predicting an exact cut time. The MS 400, for example, is only 2.7 cc above the MS 390. If you want a pronounced increase in displacement, compare the MS 462, MS 500i, and MS 661 as well.

Top picks: which model fits your work?

Each model below is larger in displacement than the MS 390, but they serve different jobs. Think about how often you cut, the diameter and type of wood, and how much saw you can control over a full work session. A local STIHL dealer can confirm the current regional specification and approved setup.

• MS 400 C-M: At 66.8 cc and 5.4 hp, this is the lightest step up by displacement in this group. Consider it for frequent bucking and medium-to-large timber when your work does not call for the biggest powerhead. Its small displacement increase over the MS 390 is worth weighing carefully against price and the rest of the specification.

• MS 462 C-M: At 72.2 cc and 6.0 hp, it offers a larger step in both listed figures than the MS 400. It is a versatile candidate for regular felling and bucking. For a buyer who wants one production saw for varied work, this is a sensible model to compare first.

• MS 500i: At 79.2 cc and 6.7 hp, the MS 500i is the fuel-injected option in this group. It is aimed at high-output production work. Choose it because its performance and setup fit the task, not simply because injection sounds more advanced; check the local manual and service support for the exact model.

• MS 661 C-M: At 91.1 cc and 7.2 hp, this is the heavy-duty choice here for large timber and longer-bar work. More capacity can help with demanding cuts, but the saw and bar also need to suit the operator. It is not the default choice for occasional smaller-diameter firewood.

Quick recommendation: Compare the MS 462 first for a broad mix of felling and bucking. Consider the MS 400 if you want a smaller step up; the MS 500i or MS 661 if sustained, heavy production is the real requirement.

Bar length and chain fit: do not buy by reach alone

A guide bar sets the maximum reach of the cutting setup, but a longer bar also adds load. STIHL approves specific bar and chain combinations for each saw. The ranges below are practical starting points, not universal limits; check the exact model’s manual or catalog before purchase.

*These are not a substitute for STIHL’s approved fitment list. Confirm available bar lengths, chain type, and drive-link count for the exact powerhead and market.

Wood species, diameter, and cutting conditions matter. Hardwood and large-diameter cuts can put more load on the engine; so can an unnecessarily long bar. Select a bar for the size of wood you cut, rather than buying extra reach you rarely need. A chain must match the bar and sprocket in pitch (the spacing between drive links), gauge (drive-link thickness), and drive-link count. Many full-size STIHL setups use 3/8-inch pitch, but gauge may be .050 or .063 inch. Verify all three for your exact setup.

Field-use scenarios: choosing without overbuying

These are decision examples, not claims of formal comparative field testing. They show how workload can point to a model. Before choosing, consider whether a dealer can confirm the approved bar setup and support the saw in your region.

• Regular firewood bucking with some larger logs: Start by comparing the MS 400 and MS 462. If the MS 390 mainly struggles on occasional large pieces, first check chain sharpness, bar fit, and cutting technique. If the work is frequent and sustained, the MS 462’s larger displacement may be the more suitable step.

• Routine felling and bucking across varied timber: The MS 462 is the balanced starting point in this group. The MS 500i may be worth comparing when production output is a central need and its setup suits the work. Neither model removes the need for training, a sound felling plan, or correctly matched equipment.

• Large timber and longer-bar work: Compare the MS 661 and MS 500i, then confirm approved bar fitment and operator capability. A longer bar is not a shortcut for poor access, unsafe positioning, or inadequate skill. For complex trees, seek qualified help rather than moving up in saw size.

A simple buying check helps keep the choice grounded: write down your common wood diameter, species, cut type, and current bar length. Then ask a STIHL dealer to verify the model’s approved bar and chain combinations against that workload.

Safety and operating setup

A larger saw calls for deliberate preparation, not a more casual approach. Use the model’s manual for starting, controls, fuel, chain adjustment, and service limits. Wear a helmet with eye and face protection, hearing protection, chainsaw chaps, gloves, and protective boots. Inspect the chain brake, throttle lockout, chain catcher, handles, bar, and chain before work.

For occupational tree felling, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.266 requires workers to remain at least two tree lengths from the tree being felled, subject to the standard’s exceptions and procedures. Follow applicable ANSI Z133 guidance and site rules. Do not fell trees without suitable training and a hazard assessment; leave leaning, damaged, or complex trees to qualified personnel.

Before starting and cutting

Use fresh fuel mixed at 50:1 with the two-stroke oil specified in the model manual, and use the gasoline grade the manual calls for. Never use straight gasoline in a two-stroke saw. Fill the bar-oil tank with purpose-made bar-and-chain lubricant; never operate with an empty oil tank.

• Check fuel, bar oil, chain sharpness and tension, controls, PPE, bystanders, and escape paths.
• Start on stable ground using the model’s procedure. Engage the chain brake for starting and follow the correct cold- or warm-start steps.
• Confirm the saw idles steadily and the chain stays still. If it creeps at idle, stop and correct the problem before cutting.
• Use a two-handed grip, stable footing, and a plan for wood tension, compression, and pinch points. For felling, use a correctly oriented notch and sound hinge wood.

Oil flow depends on the model and adjuster. To check delivery, briefly run the saw over a light surface and look for an oil trace. Idle and maximum RPM are model-specific; use the manual and a tachometer for service limits. Do not tune by ear or override electronic or compensating controls.

Maintenance, sharpening, and storage

A sharp, correctly matched chain is part of the saw’s working setup. Forcing a dull or mismatched chain through wood increases risk and does not solve an underpowered setup. Stop, check the fit and condition, then sharpen or replace the chain as needed.

The upper quadrant of the guide-bar nose is the kickback zone: contact there can drive the bar rapidly back toward the operator. Keep the nose clear, avoid tip cuts, maintain a sharp and correctly tensioned chain, and never cut above shoulder height. A functioning chain brake is essential, but it does not make unsafe technique safe.

Sharpen cutters evenly to the chain maker’s filing angles and depth-gauge setting. A depth gauge, also called a raker, controls how much wood each cutter takes. About 0.65 mm (0.025 in.) is common for some full-size chains, but it is not a universal setting; confirm the chain specification. Check chain tension with the saw cool and follow the manual.

At the stated service intervals, clean the air filter, cooling fins, sprocket area, bar groove, and oil hole. Inspect bar rails for wear and burrs, and flip the bar when specified. Have carburetor or electronic-control service done to STIHL specifications; do not change mixture settings to compensate for poor cutting.

For extended storage, follow the model manual’s fuel-system directions. Clean the saw, protect the bar and chain, adjust tension as directed, and store it dry, secure, away from ignition sources and out of children’s reach. Keep fuel in an approved container.

Frequently asked questions

Which STIHL saw is the closest step up from the MS 390?
The MS 400 C-M is closest by displacement: 66.8 cc versus 64.1 cc. It is a modest increase, so compare its full specifications and intended use before upgrading.

Which is the best all-around larger saw?
The MS 462 C-M is a strong starting point for mixed felling and bucking. The best choice still depends on timber size, workload, bar setup, and operator skill.

Is the MS 500i larger than the MS 390?
Yes. It has 79.2 cc of displacement, compared with 64.1 cc for the MS 390, and is the fuel-injected option in this group.

Is the MS 661 too large for firewood?
Not automatically, but its 91.1 cc displacement is aimed at heavy-duty work. For mostly small or occasional firewood cuts, a smaller model may be easier to handle.

Can I put a longer bar on any of these models?
No. Use only bar lengths STIHL approves for the exact model. Confirm chain pitch, gauge, and drive-link count as well.

Does a bigger engine always cut faster?
No. Power matters, but a dull chain, wrong bar setup, poor technique, or demanding wood can slow cutting. Keep the chain sharp and match the setup to the work.

What fuel mix should I use?
The specified mix is 50:1 using STIHL two-stroke oil and the fuel grade listed in the exact model manual. Never run straight gasoline in a two-stroke saw.

How should I choose between the MS 462 and MS 500i?
Compare the MS 462 for varied felling and bucking, and the MS 500i for high-output production work. Check regional specifications, approved bars, and service support before deciding.

When should I stop and sharpen the chain?
Stop when the chain is dull or damaged, or the setup is incorrect. Do not force it through wood; verify fit, sharpen or replace it, and resume only when safe.

What is the safest upgrade if I have little felling experience?
A larger saw is not a substitute for training. Get hands-on instruction, assess the site and tree hazards, and leave complex felling to qualified personnel.

(This article was written by one of our staff writers, Marcus Thorne. Visit our Meet the Team page.)