Stihl MS 251 vs 250 Differences (5 Expert Tips)

Ah, the smell of sawdust and the satisfying thunk of a well-split log! For generations, the warmth of a wood fire has been more than just heat; it’s been a hearth, a gathering place, a connection to our past. My own grandfather, a man who could coax a flame from the dampest kindling, instilled in me a deep respect for the art of wood processing. He taught me that choosing the right tools is half the battle, and that understanding the nuances of each piece of equipment is what separates a good woodsman from a great one.

Today, we’re diving deep into a topic that’s sparked many a debate around the woodpile: the Stihl MS 251 versus the MS 250. These two chainsaws are workhorses in the small to medium-duty category, beloved by homeowners, farmers, and even some seasoned pros for their reliability and ease of use. But which one comes out on top? I’ve spent countless hours with both models, felling trees, bucking logs, and even carving the occasional whimsical gnome. I’m here to share my experiences and expert tips to help you make the right choice.

The State of the Woods: A Look at Current Trends

Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let’s take a moment to appreciate the context. The global firewood market is a multi-billion dollar industry, driven by rising energy costs and a renewed interest in sustainable heating solutions. According to a recent report by Global Market Insights, the firewood market is projected to reach $7.5 billion by 2027. Alongside firewood, the demand for processed timber for construction and other applications remains strong. This means that efficient and reliable wood processing tools, like the Stihl MS 251 and MS 250, are more important than ever.

Independent loggers and small workshops face unique challenges. They often operate on tight budgets and need equipment that’s both affordable and durable. They also need to be mindful of environmental regulations and safety standards. That’s where chainsaws like the MS 251 and MS 250 shine – they offer a good balance of power, performance, and value.

Stihl MS 251 vs MS 250: 5 Expert Tips to Choose the Right Saw

Let’s cut to the chase. Here are five expert tips, backed by my personal experience and technical knowledge, to help you decide whether the Stihl MS 251 or MS 250 is the right chainsaw for you.

Tip #1: Power and Performance – Understanding the Engine

The heart of any chainsaw is its engine. Both the MS 251 and MS 250 are powered by 2-stroke engines, but there are subtle yet significant differences.

• Stihl MS 250: This model typically features a 45.4 cc engine. It’s known for its reliable performance and ability to handle a variety of tasks, from pruning branches to felling small trees. The MS 250 is a solid all-around performer that has proven itself over many years.

• Stihl MS 251: The MS 251 boasts a slightly larger 45.6 cc engine, optimized with Stihl’s 2-MIX technology. This technology is designed to reduce exhaust emissions and increase fuel efficiency without sacrificing power. I’ve noticed that the MS 251 tends to have a bit more torque, especially in tougher cutting conditions.

Data Point: Stihl’s 2-MIX engine technology can reduce fuel consumption by up to 20% and exhaust emissions by up to 50% compared to traditional 2-stroke engines.

My Experience: I once had to clear a fallen oak tree that was partially submerged in a creek. The MS 250 struggled a bit with the denser, waterlogged wood. Switching to the MS 251 made a noticeable difference – the slightly increased power and torque allowed me to power through the cuts with greater ease.

Actionable Tip: If you frequently work with hardwoods or larger diameter logs, the MS 251’s slightly more powerful engine might be the better choice. For lighter tasks and occasional use, the MS 250 will likely suffice.

Tip #2: Weight and Handling – Comfort is Key

Weight and handling are crucial factors, especially if you plan on using your chainsaw for extended periods. A heavier saw can lead to fatigue and increase the risk of accidents.

• Stihl MS 250: Typically weighs around 10.1 lbs (without the bar and chain). Its weight distribution is fairly balanced, making it comfortable to handle for most users.

• Stihl MS 251: Weighs slightly more, around 10.6 lbs (without the bar and chain). While the difference is only half a pound, it can be noticeable during prolonged use.

My Experience: I spent a whole afternoon bucking firewood with both saws. While the MS 250 felt a bit lighter initially, the ergonomic design of the MS 251 helped to distribute the weight more evenly, reducing strain on my arms and back.

Actionable Tip: If you’re concerned about weight, try handling both saws at your local dealer. Pay attention to how they feel in your hands and how easy they are to maneuver. Consider the type of work you’ll be doing – if it involves a lot of overhead cutting or limbing, a lighter saw like the MS 250 might be preferable.

Tip #3: Features and Technology – What’s New?

While both saws share many similarities, the MS 251 incorporates some newer technology that’s worth considering.

• Stihl MS 250: A reliable, no-frills chainsaw. It features a standard carburetor and a manual chain tensioning system.

• Stihl MS 251: Includes features like Stihl’s Easy2Start™ system, which makes starting the saw much easier, and a tool-less chain tensioning system for quick and convenient adjustments. Some models also feature a Quick Chain Adjuster (B) for even easier tensioning.

Data Point: The Easy2Start™ system reduces the pulling force required to start the saw by up to 40%.

My Experience: I have to admit, the Easy2Start™ system on the MS 251 is a game-changer. Especially on cold mornings, it makes starting the saw a breeze. The tool-less chain tensioning is also a huge time-saver, allowing me to quickly adjust the chain without having to fumble with wrenches.

Actionable Tip: If you value convenience and ease of use, the MS 251’s features are definitely worth the extra investment. The Easy2Start™ system is particularly beneficial for those with limited strength or who struggle to start traditional chainsaws.

Tip #4: Bar Length and Chain Type – Matching the Saw to the Task

The bar length and chain type you choose will significantly impact the performance of your chainsaw. Both the MS 250 and MS 251 can accommodate a variety of bar lengths, typically ranging from 16 to 18 inches.

• Bar Length: A shorter bar (16 inches) is ideal for limbing and cutting smaller diameter logs. A longer bar (18 inches) provides more reach and allows you to fell larger trees.

• Chain Type: Different chain types are designed for different purposes. Low-kickback chains are safer for beginners, while full-chisel chains offer faster cutting speeds for experienced users.

Data Point: According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, chainsaw injuries result in over 30,000 emergency room visits each year. Choosing the right chain type and using proper safety precautions can significantly reduce the risk of injury.

My Experience: I prefer using a 16-inch bar with a low-kickback chain for most of my firewood cutting. It provides a good balance of maneuverability and cutting power. When felling larger trees, I switch to an 18-inch bar with a full-chisel chain for faster cutting speeds.

Actionable Tip: Consider the size of the trees and logs you’ll be working with when choosing a bar length. If you’re a beginner, start with a low-kickback chain and gradually progress to a more aggressive chain as your skills improve. Always wear proper safety gear, including eye protection, hearing protection, and chainsaw chaps.

Tip #5: Maintenance and Repair – Keeping Your Saw Running Smoothly

Proper maintenance is essential for extending the life of your chainsaw and ensuring its optimal performance. Both the MS 250 and MS 251 are relatively easy to maintain, but there are a few key differences.

• Stihl MS 250: Requires regular carburetor adjustments to compensate for changes in altitude and temperature. The air filter is easily accessible for cleaning and replacement.

• Stihl MS 251: Features a pre-separation air filtration system that helps to extend the life of the air filter. This means less frequent cleaning and maintenance.

My Experience: I’ve found that the MS 251’s pre-separation air filtration system makes a noticeable difference in the amount of time I spend cleaning the air filter. This is especially beneficial when working in dusty or dirty environments.

Actionable Tip: Regularly clean the air filter, sharpen the chain, and check the spark plug on both models. Use high-quality 2-stroke oil and fuel stabilizer to prevent engine problems. If you’re not comfortable performing maintenance yourself, take your chainsaw to a qualified service technician.

Case Study: Firewood Preparation for a Community Center

I recently volunteered to help a local community center prepare firewood for the winter. They had a large pile of unseasoned oak logs that needed to be bucked, split, and stacked. We used both the MS 250 and MS 251 for this project.

• Initial Assessment: The oak logs were about 12-16 inches in diameter and had a moisture content of around 40%.

• Equipment Used: Stihl MS 250 and MS 251 chainsaws with 16-inch bars and low-kickback chains, a log splitter, and various hand tools.

• Process:

  1. Bucking: We used the chainsaws to buck the logs into 16-inch lengths. The MS 251 performed slightly better on the denser oak logs.
  2. Splitting: We used a log splitter to split the rounds into manageable pieces.
  3. Stacking: We stacked the split wood in a well-ventilated area to allow it to season properly.

• Results: We were able to process the entire pile of logs in two days. The community center now has a sufficient supply of firewood to heat their building throughout the winter.

• Lessons Learned:

  • The MS 251’s slightly more powerful engine was beneficial for cutting the denser oak logs.
  • Proper stacking is crucial for ensuring that the firewood seasons properly.
  • Working as a team made the task much easier and more efficient.

Key Concepts: Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood

It’s crucial to understand the difference between green wood and seasoned wood when preparing firewood.

• Green Wood: Freshly cut wood that has a high moisture content (typically above 30%). It’s difficult to burn, produces a lot of smoke, and releases less heat.

• Seasoned Wood: Wood that has been dried for a period of time (typically 6-12 months) to reduce its moisture content to below 20%. It burns more easily, produces less smoke, and releases more heat.

Data Point: Burning seasoned wood can increase heating efficiency by up to 50% compared to burning green wood.

Actionable Tip: Always allow your firewood to season properly before burning it. Stack the wood in a well-ventilated area and cover it loosely to protect it from rain and snow. Use a moisture meter to check the moisture content of the wood before burning it.

Wood Species Properties Relevant to Firewood Quality

Different wood species have different properties that affect their heating value, burning characteristics, and seasoning time.

• Hardwoods: Generally denser and have a higher heating value than softwoods. Examples include oak, maple, ash, and birch.

• Softwoods: Burn more quickly and produce more smoke than hardwoods. Examples include pine, fir, and spruce.

Data Point: Oak has a heating value of approximately 28 million BTU per cord, while pine has a heating value of approximately 20 million BTU per cord.

Actionable Tip: Choose hardwoods over softwoods for firewood whenever possible. If you must use softwoods, allow them to season for a longer period of time.

Troubleshooting Common Chainsaw Problems

Even with proper maintenance, chainsaws can sometimes experience problems. Here are some common issues and how to troubleshoot them.

• Chainsaw won’t start: Check the fuel level, spark plug, and air filter. Make sure the choke is in the correct position.
• Chainsaw starts but stalls: Adjust the carburetor settings. Clean the air filter. Check the fuel line for leaks.
• Chainsaw chain is dull: Sharpen the chain with a file or a chain grinder.
• Chainsaw chain is loose: Tighten the chain tensioning screw.
• Chainsaw is smoking excessively: Use high-quality 2-stroke oil. Check the oil-to-fuel ratio.

Cost Considerations and Budgeting Tips

The cost of a chainsaw can vary depending on the model, features, and dealer. Here are some things to consider when budgeting for a chainsaw purchase.

• Initial Cost: The MS 251 typically costs slightly more than the MS 250.
• Maintenance Costs: Factor in the cost of fuel, oil, chain sharpening, and other maintenance supplies.
• Repair Costs: Consider the potential cost of repairs. Choose a chainsaw from a reputable brand with a good warranty.

Actionable Tip: Shop around and compare prices from different dealers. Look for sales and discounts. Consider buying a used chainsaw in good condition.

Next Steps and Additional Resources

So, which saw should you choose? Ultimately, the decision depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value convenience and ease of use, the Stihl MS 251 is the better choice. If you’re on a tight budget and don’t mind sacrificing some features, the MS 250 is a solid option.

Here are some additional resources to help you make your decision:

• Stihl Website: Visit the Stihl website for detailed specifications and product information.
• Local Stihl Dealer: Talk to a local Stihl dealer for expert advice and to try out the saws in person.
• Online Forums and Reviews: Read online reviews and forums to get feedback from other chainsaw users.

Suppliers of Logging Tools and Drying Equipment Rental Services

• Baileys: A leading supplier of logging tools and equipment.
• Northern Tool + Equipment: Offers a wide variety of tools and equipment for wood processing.
• Sunbelt Rentals: Provides rental services for drying equipment and other construction equipment.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Saw for the Job

Choosing the right chainsaw is a critical decision that can impact your efficiency, safety, and overall satisfaction. By carefully considering your needs, budget, and the features of each model, you can make an informed decision and choose the chainsaw that’s right for you.

Remember, the most important thing is to use your chainsaw safely and responsibly. Always wear proper safety gear, follow the manufacturer’s instructions, and take the time to learn proper cutting techniques. With the right tools and knowledge, you can enjoy the satisfaction of processing wood and creating a warm, inviting fire for years to come.

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