Stihl MS 162 Chainsaw vs MS 170 Specs (5 Pro Woodcutting Tips)

The costs can pile up faster than a stack of oak logs if you’re not careful. Today, I’m diving deep into a head-to-head comparison of two popular chainsaws – the Stihl MS 162 and the MS 170 – and, more importantly, how to wield them like a seasoned pro while keeping a tight grip on your budget. Plus, I’ll share five woodcutting tips that have saved me time, money, and a whole lot of frustration over the years. Buckle up; we’re about to get sawdust on our boots!

Stihl MS 162 vs. MS 170: A Spec Showdown and Cost Analysis

Before we even think about cutting wood, let’s break down the key differences between these two chainsaws and how those differences impact your wallet.

Engine Power and Performance

The Stihl MS 162 and MS 170 are both entry-level chainsaws, designed for homeowners and occasional users. However, there are subtle differences in their engines:

• Stihl MS 162: Typically features a slightly more fuel-efficient engine, prioritizing ease of use and lower emissions.
• Stihl MS 170: Known for its robust and reliable performance, often boasting a marginal edge in cutting power.

Data Point: The MS 170 typically has a slightly higher horsepower rating (around 1.7 hp) compared to the MS 162 (around 1.6 hp). This difference, while small, can be noticeable when cutting through denser wood.

Cost Implication: While the horsepower difference is minimal, it can impact the time it takes to complete a task. If you’re frequently cutting hardwoods, the MS 170 might be the slightly more efficient choice, potentially saving you time (and therefore, labor costs, if you’re paying someone).

Weight and Ergonomics

Weight matters, especially when you’re wielding a chainsaw for hours.

• Stihl MS 162: Generally lighter than the MS 170, making it easier to handle for extended periods.
• Stihl MS 170: While slightly heavier, it often feels more balanced in the hand, providing better control.

Data Point: The MS 162 usually weighs around 9.7 lbs (without the bar and chain), while the MS 170 is closer to 10.4 lbs. That extra pound might not sound like much, but it can make a difference after a few hours of cutting.

Cost Implication: A lighter chainsaw reduces fatigue, potentially increasing your efficiency and reducing the risk of injury. This translates to lower labor costs (if you’re paying someone) and fewer potential medical expenses.

Price and Availability

Price is always a crucial factor.

• Stihl MS 162: Often slightly more affordable than the MS 170, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers.
• Stihl MS 170: While typically more expensive, it’s a widely available and well-regarded model, known for its reliability and longevity.

Data Point: As of late 2024, the MS 162 typically retails for around $179 – $199, while the MS 170 ranges from $199 – $229. These prices can fluctuate based on location, retailer, and promotional offers.

Cost Implication: The initial purchase price is just one piece of the puzzle. Consider the long-term cost of ownership, including maintenance, repairs, and fuel consumption. A slightly more expensive chainsaw that lasts longer and requires fewer repairs can be a better investment in the long run.

Key Specs Comparison Table

To make it easier to visualize, here’s a table summarizing the key specs:

Understanding Firewood Preparation Costs: A Deep Dive

Now that we’ve dissected the chainsaw options, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of firewood preparation costs. I’ve spent years turning fallen trees into cozy warmth, and I’ve learned a thing or two about managing the budget.

The Variable Factors: Location, Wood Type, and Seasonality

Before we even start crunching numbers, let’s acknowledge the elephants in the woodlot:

• Location: Firewood prices and labor costs vary wildly depending on where you live. A cord of oak in New England will cost significantly more than a cord of pine in the Pacific Northwest.
• Wood Type: Hardwoods like oak, maple, and ash burn longer and hotter than softwoods like pine and fir. This affects the price per cord and the overall value you get from your firewood.
• Seasonality: Firewood prices typically peak in the late fall and winter, as demand increases. Buying wood in the spring or summer can save you a significant amount of money.

Personal Story: I once made the mistake of assuming firewood prices were consistent across state lines. I drove from Massachusetts to Vermont, expecting to find cheaper wood, only to discover that the prices were nearly identical! Lesson learned: always do your research.

Breaking Down the Cost Components

Let’s break down the various costs involved in firewood preparation:

1. Timber Purchase or Harvesting Costs:

   • Timber Purchase: If you’re buying logs from a timber company, the price will depend on the species, quality, and volume of wood. Timber prices are measured in board feet, which is a unit of volume equal to 144 cubic inches.
     • Data Point: According to the USDA Forest Service, the average stumpage price (the price paid to the landowner for standing timber) for sawtimber in the US ranges from $200 to $800 per thousand board feet (MBF), depending on the species and region.
   • Harvesting Costs: If you’re harvesting your own timber, you’ll need to factor in the cost of permits (if required), transportation, and labor.
     • Data Point: Logging costs can range from $50 to $150 per MBF, depending on the terrain, logging method, and labor rates.

   • Tool Costs (Chainsaws, Splitters, etc.):

   • Chainsaw Purchase: As we discussed earlier, the initial cost of a chainsaw like the Stihl MS 162 or MS 170 is just the beginning.

   • Chainsaw Maintenance: Regular maintenance is crucial for extending the life of your chainsaw and ensuring safe operation. This includes:
     • Chain sharpening: $10-$20 per sharpening (or invest in your own sharpener for around $50-$100)
     • Bar and chain replacement: $30-$50 per set
     • Air filter replacement: $5-$10
     • Spark plug replacement: $3-$5
     • Fuel and oil: $5-$10 per gallon
   • Log Splitter Purchase or Rental: A log splitter can significantly reduce the amount of time and effort required to split firewood.
     • Purchase: Gas-powered log splitters range from $1,000 to $3,000, while electric models are typically less expensive.
     • Rental: Renting a log splitter can cost $50-$100 per day.

   • Labor Wages:

   • Your Own Labor: Don’t underestimate the value of your own time. Even if you’re not paying yourself an hourly wage, consider the opportunity cost of spending your time preparing firewood instead of doing something else.

   • Hiring Labor: If you’re hiring someone to help you, labor costs can range from $15 to $30 per hour, depending on their experience and skill level.

   • Transportation Costs:

   • Fuel: Hauling logs and firewood requires fuel. Calculate the cost of fuel based on the distance you’re traveling and the fuel efficiency of your vehicle.

   • Vehicle Maintenance: Towing heavy loads can put extra strain on your vehicle, leading to increased maintenance costs.

   • Drying and Storage Costs:

   • Storage Space: You’ll need a dry, well-ventilated place to store your firewood. This could be a shed, a woodshed, or simply a covered area in your yard.

   • Drying Time: Firewood needs to dry for at least six months, and preferably a year, before it’s ready to burn. This means you’ll need to plan ahead and store your wood well in advance.

Industry Benchmarks and Statistical Data

To give you a better sense of the market, here are some industry benchmarks and statistical data points:

• Average Price per Cord of Firewood: According to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA), the average price per cord of firewood in the US ranges from $200 to $400, depending on the species, location, and season.
• Fuelwood Market Rates: The fuelwood market is highly localized, so it’s important to research prices in your area. Check with local firewood suppliers, lumber yards, and online marketplaces to get an idea of the going rates.
• Equipment Rental Fees: Tool rental companies like Home Depot and United Rentals offer a variety of equipment for firewood preparation, including log splitters, chainsaws, and wood chippers. Rental fees vary depending on the equipment and the rental period.

Case Study: Budgeting for a Cord of Oak Firewood

Let’s walk through a hypothetical case study to illustrate how to budget for a cord of oak firewood:

Scenario: You want to prepare one cord of oak firewood for your home. You plan to harvest the timber yourself from a nearby forest, using your Stihl MS 170 chainsaw.

Cost Breakdown:

1. Timber Harvesting Permit: $50 (one-time fee)
2. Fuel for Chainsaw: $20 (assuming 2 gallons of fuel at $10/gallon)
3. Chainsaw Maintenance: $10 (chain sharpening)
4. Log Splitter Rental: $75 (one-day rental)
5. Transportation (Fuel): $30 (hauling logs and firewood)
6. Your Labor (10 hours at $20/hour): $200 (opportunity cost)

Total Cost: $385

Analysis: In this scenario, the cost of preparing one cord of oak firewood is $385. This is within the average range for firewood prices in many parts of the US, but it’s important to note that this is just an estimate. Your actual costs may vary depending on the factors we discussed earlier.

5 Pro Woodcutting Tips to Save You Time and Money

Now, let’s get to the good stuff: five woodcutting tips that have saved me countless hours and dollars over the years.

1. Sharpen Your Chain Regularly: A dull chain is not only inefficient but also dangerous. It requires more effort to cut through wood, increasing the risk of kickback and fatigue. Invest in a good chain sharpener or take your chain to a professional for sharpening. I personally like to sharpen my chain after every tank of gas.
   • Cost Savings: A sharp chain cuts faster and more efficiently, reducing fuel consumption and wear and tear on your chainsaw.
2. Use the Right Bar Length: Using a bar that’s too long for your chainsaw can put unnecessary strain on the engine and make it harder to control. Choose a bar length that’s appropriate for the size of the wood you’re cutting. As a general rule, the bar length should be slightly longer than the diameter of the largest logs you plan to cut.
   • Cost Savings: Using the right bar length prevents damage to your chainsaw and improves cutting efficiency.
3. Practice Proper Cutting Techniques: Learning proper cutting techniques can significantly reduce the risk of injury and improve your efficiency. This includes:
   • Using the right stance and grip
   • Avoiding kickback
   • Cutting with the grain
   • Using wedges to prevent the bar from pinching
   • Cost Savings: Proper cutting techniques reduce the risk of injury, prevent damage to your chainsaw, and improve cutting efficiency.
4. Dry Your Firewood Properly: Burning wet firewood is inefficient and can damage your stove or fireplace. Make sure your firewood is properly dried before burning it. This means stacking it in a well-ventilated area for at least six months, and preferably a year.
   • Cost Savings: Dry firewood burns hotter and cleaner, reducing fuel consumption and preventing damage to your heating appliance.
5. Consider Buying in Bulk: If you have the space to store it, buying firewood in bulk can save you money in the long run. Many firewood suppliers offer discounts for bulk purchases.
   • Cost Savings: Buying in bulk reduces the price per cord of firewood, saving you money over the long term.

Cost Optimization and Budget Management: Practical Tips

Here are some practical tips for optimizing your costs and managing your budget:

• Shop Around: Don’t settle for the first price you find. Shop around and compare prices from different firewood suppliers, lumber yards, and tool rental companies.
• Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate prices, especially when buying in bulk.
• DIY When Possible: If you’re comfortable doing so, consider doing some of the work yourself, such as harvesting timber, splitting logs, and stacking firewood.
• Maintain Your Equipment: Regular maintenance can extend the life of your equipment and prevent costly repairs.
• Plan Ahead: Plan your firewood preparation well in advance to avoid last-minute price spikes.

Relevant Calculations and Formulas

Here are some relevant calculations and formulas that can help you estimate your costs:

• Estimating Volume of Logs in Board Feet:

  • Doyle Log Rule: (Small End Diameter in Inches – 4)^2 * Length in Feet / 16
    • This is a common rule used in the US to estimate the board foot volume of logs.

  • Estimating Drying Time Based on Moisture Content:

  • The drying time for firewood depends on several factors, including the species of wood, the size of the pieces, and the climate. As a general rule, firewood needs to dry for at least six months, and preferably a year, to reach a moisture content of 20% or less.

Challenges Faced by Small-Scale Loggers and Firewood Suppliers

I understand that small-scale loggers and firewood suppliers face unique challenges in today’s market. These include:

• Rising Fuel Costs: Fuel costs are a major expense for loggers and firewood suppliers. Fluctuations in fuel prices can significantly impact their profitability.
• Competition from Large Corporations: Large corporations with economies of scale can often undercut the prices of small-scale loggers and firewood suppliers.
• Environmental Regulations: Environmental regulations can add to the cost of logging and firewood preparation.
• Labor Shortages: Finding and retaining skilled labor can be a challenge for small-scale loggers and firewood suppliers.

Actionable Takeaways and Next Steps

So, what are the key takeaways from this deep dive?

• Choose the Right Chainsaw: Consider your needs and budget when choosing between the Stihl MS 162 and MS 170.
• Understand Your Costs: Break down the costs of firewood preparation and identify areas where you can save money.
• Practice Safe and Efficient Woodcutting Techniques: Learn proper cutting techniques and maintain your equipment to reduce the risk of injury and improve efficiency.
• Plan Ahead and Shop Around: Plan your firewood preparation well in advance and shop around to find the best prices.

Next Steps:

1. Assess Your Needs: Determine how much firewood you need and what type of wood you prefer.
2. Research Local Prices: Research firewood prices and equipment rental fees in your area.
3. Create a Budget: Create a detailed budget for your firewood preparation project.
4. Gather Your Equipment: Gather the necessary equipment, including a chainsaw, log splitter, and safety gear.
5. Get to Work: Start preparing your firewood, following the tips and techniques we discussed in this article.

In Conclusion: From Tree to Hearth, a Cost-Conscious Journey

Preparing firewood can be a rewarding but challenging endeavor. By understanding the costs involved, practicing safe and efficient woodcutting techniques, and planning ahead, you can enjoy the warmth and comfort of a wood-burning fire without breaking the bank. Remember, it’s not just about the destination (a cozy fire), but the journey – a journey of skill, resourcefulness, and a healthy respect for the power of the forest. Now, go forth and conquer those logs!

Learn more