Stihl MS 261 Chainsaw (5 Pro Tips For Ultimate Firewood Prep)

As someone who’s spent countless hours in the woods, I know the wear and tear that firewood preparation can inflict on both you and your equipment. That’s why I’m excited to share my insights on how to get the most out of your Stihl MS 261 chainsaw for ultimate firewood prep. This guide is designed to help you, whether you’re a seasoned logger or just starting to heat your home with wood. I’ll cover everything from choosing the right bar and chain to mastering efficient cutting techniques, all based on my years of experience.

Stihl MS 261 Chainsaw: 5 Pro Tips for Ultimate Firewood Prep

The Stihl MS 261 is a powerhouse – a mid-range professional chainsaw that strikes a perfect balance between power, weight, and durability. It’s a top choice for firewood preparation because it can handle a wide range of wood types and log sizes without wearing you out too quickly. But like any tool, it performs best when used correctly and maintained diligently.

1. Optimizing Your Bar and Chain for Firewood

Choosing the right bar and chain is crucial for maximizing the MS 261’s performance and extending its lifespan. I’ve learned this the hard way, experimenting with different combinations over the years.

Understanding Bar Length

The ideal bar length for firewood prep with the MS 261 typically ranges from 16 to 20 inches. A shorter bar (16-18 inches) offers better maneuverability and is perfect for smaller logs and limbing. A longer bar (20 inches) provides more reach for larger rounds but can be more tiring to handle. I personally prefer an 18-inch bar for most firewood tasks because it offers a good compromise.

Measurement: Measure the diameter of the logs you typically process. Choose a bar length that is at least two inches longer than the largest diameter you’ll be cutting.
Wood Type: For hardwoods like oak and maple, a slightly shorter bar can be more efficient due to the increased cutting resistance. For softwoods like pine and fir, a longer bar is often manageable.

Chain Selection: Full Chisel vs. Semi-Chisel

The type of chain you use significantly impacts cutting speed and sharpness. I’ve found that full chisel chains are faster and more efficient for clean wood, but they dull more quickly if they come into contact with dirt or debris. Semi-chisel chains are more durable and forgiving in dirty conditions, making them a better choice for ground-level work or processing wood that may contain embedded dirt or bark.

Full Chisel: Ideal for felling trees in clean environments and processing pre-cut logs on a raised platform.
Semi-Chisel: Better suited for bucking logs on the ground and processing wood that may have dirt or bark contamination.

Chain Pitch and Gauge

The MS 261 typically uses a .325″ pitch chain with a .063″ gauge. Ensure you use the correct pitch and gauge for your saw to avoid damage and ensure proper chain lubrication.

Pitch: The distance between three rivets divided by two.
Gauge: The thickness of the drive links that fit into the bar groove.

Actionable Metric: Track your chain sharpening frequency. If you’re sharpening your chain more than once per tank of gas, you may be using the wrong type of chain for the wood you’re cutting or your sharpening technique needs improvement.

Takeaway: Experiment with different bar and chain combinations to find what works best for your specific needs and wood types. Always prioritize safety by using the correct chain for the task and keeping it properly sharpened.

2. Mastering Efficient Cutting Techniques

Efficient cutting techniques not only save you time and energy but also reduce wear and tear on your chainsaw. I’ve seen so many people struggle with basic cuts, leading to pinched bars and wasted effort.

The Importance of Proper Stance and Grip

A stable stance and a firm grip are essential for safe and efficient cutting. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart, and keep your weight balanced. Grip the chainsaw firmly with both hands, wrapping your thumbs around the handles. This gives you maximum control and reduces the risk of kickback.

Stance: Avoid standing directly behind the saw. Position yourself slightly to the side to minimize the risk of injury if kickback occurs.
Grip: Maintain a firm grip, but avoid squeezing the handles too tightly, which can cause fatigue.

Bucking Techniques: The Open Face Cut

Bucking is the process of cutting a log into shorter lengths. I always start with the open face cut. This involves making a downward angled cut about one-third of the way through the log, followed by an upward angled cut that meets the first cut, creating a wedge-shaped notch. This prevents the log from pinching the bar as you complete the cut from the opposite side.

Step 1: Make a downward angled cut about one-third of the way through the log.
Step 2: Make an upward angled cut that meets the first cut, creating a notch.
Step 3: Roll the log over and complete the cut from the opposite side, aligning with the notch.

Felling Techniques: The Hinge Method

Felling is the process of cutting down a standing tree. I always use the hinge method. This involves making a notch on the side of the tree in the direction you want it to fall, followed by a back cut that leaves a hinge of wood to control the fall. The hinge should be about 80% of the tree’s diameter.

Step 1: Make a notch on the side of the tree in the direction you want it to fall. The notch should be about one-fifth of the tree’s diameter.
Step 2: Make a back cut on the opposite side of the tree, leaving a hinge of wood to control the fall. The hinge should be about 80% of the tree’s diameter.
Step 3: Use wedges to encourage the tree to fall in the desired direction.

Avoiding Pinching and Kickback

Pinching occurs when the bar gets stuck in the wood, usually due to compression. Kickback is a sudden and dangerous reaction that can occur when the tip of the bar contacts a solid object. I avoid pinching by using proper bucking techniques and using wedges to keep the cut open. To avoid kickback, I always maintain a firm grip on the saw and avoid cutting with the tip of the bar.

Pinching: Use wedges to keep the cut open and prevent the log from closing on the bar.
Kickback: Be aware of the location of the bar tip and avoid contact with solid objects.

Actionable Metric: Time yourself bucking a log into firewood lengths. As you improve your technique, you should see a noticeable reduction in processing time.

Takeaway: Mastering efficient cutting techniques is essential for both safety and productivity. Practice these techniques regularly, and always be aware of your surroundings.

3. Maintaining Your MS 261 for Peak Performance

Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your MS 261 running smoothly and extending its lifespan. I’ve seen so many saws fail prematurely due to neglect. A little preventative maintenance goes a long way.

Chain Sharpening: The Key to Efficient Cutting

A sharp chain is essential for efficient cutting and reduces strain on the saw’s engine. I recommend sharpening your chain every time you refuel the saw. Use a file guide to maintain the correct angle and depth.

File Angle: Typically 30 degrees for most chains.
Depth Gauge: Check and adjust the depth gauge after every few sharpenings.

Air Filter Cleaning: Preventing Engine Damage

A clean air filter allows the engine to breathe properly and prevents dirt and debris from entering the combustion chamber. I clean the air filter after every day of use, or more frequently in dusty conditions.

Cleaning Method: Use compressed air or warm, soapy water to clean the air filter. Allow it to dry completely before reinstalling.

Spark Plug Maintenance: Ensuring Reliable Starts

A clean and properly gapped spark plug ensures reliable starts and optimal engine performance. I check the spark plug every month and replace it annually, or more frequently if needed.

Gap: Consult your owner’s manual for the correct spark plug gap.

Bar and Chain Lubrication: Reducing Friction and Wear

Proper bar and chain lubrication is essential for reducing friction and wear on the bar and chain. I use a high-quality bar and chain oil and check the oil level frequently.

Oil Type: Use a bar and chain oil specifically designed for chainsaws.
Oil Level: Check the oil level before each use and refill as needed.

Actionable Metric: Keep a maintenance log to track when you sharpen the chain, clean the air filter, check the spark plug, and perform other maintenance tasks.

Takeaway: Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your MS 261 running smoothly and extending its lifespan. Make it a habit to perform these tasks regularly.

4. Safety First: Essential Protective Gear and Practices

Safety should always be your top priority when operating a chainsaw. I’ve witnessed firsthand the devastating consequences of accidents, and I can’t stress enough the importance of wearing the right protective gear and following safe practices.

Essential Protective Gear

Helmet: Protects your head from falling branches and debris.
Eye Protection: Safety glasses or a face shield protect your eyes from flying wood chips.
Hearing Protection: Earplugs or earmuffs protect your hearing from the loud noise of the chainsaw.
Gloves: Provide a secure grip and protect your hands from cuts and abrasions.
Chainsaw Chaps: Protect your legs from accidental contact with the chain.
Steel-Toed Boots: Protect your feet from falling logs and debris.

Safe Operating Practices

Read the Manual: Familiarize yourself with the chainsaw’s operating instructions and safety precautions.
Inspect the Saw: Check the saw for any damage or loose parts before each use.
Clear the Work Area: Remove any obstacles from the work area and ensure you have a clear escape route.
Start the Saw Safely: Start the saw on the ground, away from your body, and with the chain brake engaged.
Maintain a Safe Distance: Keep bystanders at a safe distance from the work area.
Avoid Cutting Overhead: Avoid cutting branches or limbs that are above your head.
Take Breaks: Avoid fatigue by taking frequent breaks.
Never Use a Chainsaw Under the Influence: Never operate a chainsaw if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Understanding Kickback

Kickback is one of the most common causes of chainsaw injuries. Be aware of the location of the bar tip and avoid contact with solid objects. Always maintain a firm grip on the saw and use the chain brake when necessary.

Prevention: Use a reduced-kickback chain and bar, and always be aware of the location of the bar tip.

Actionable Metric: Before each use, perform a safety checklist to ensure you have all the necessary protective gear and that the saw is in good working condition.

Takeaway: Safety should always be your top priority when operating a chainsaw. Wear the right protective gear, follow safe operating practices, and be aware of the risks.

5. Seasoning and Storing Firewood for Optimal Burning

Properly seasoned and stored firewood burns more efficiently and produces less smoke and creosote. I’ve seen the difference firsthand between burning green wood and well-seasoned wood – it’s night and day.

The Importance of Seasoning

Seasoning is the process of drying firewood to reduce its moisture content. Green wood can have a moisture content of 50% or higher, while seasoned wood should have a moisture content of 20% or less. Burning green wood produces less heat, more smoke, and more creosote, which can lead to chimney fires.

Moisture Content Target: 20% or less.

Seasoning Time

The amount of time it takes to season firewood depends on the type of wood, the climate, and the storage conditions. Hardwoods like oak and maple typically take 6-12 months to season, while softwoods like pine and fir can season in as little as 3-6 months.

Hardwoods: 6-12 months
Softwoods: 3-6 months

Splitting Firewood

Splitting firewood increases its surface area and allows it to dry more quickly. I split firewood as soon as possible after cutting it.

Splitting Method: Use a maul, splitting axe, or log splitter to split the wood into manageable sizes.

Stacking and Storing Firewood

Stack firewood in a single row, off the ground, and in a sunny, well-ventilated location. Cover the top of the stack to protect it from rain and snow, but leave the sides open to allow for air circulation.

Stacking Method: Stack the wood in a single row, off the ground, and in a sunny, well-ventilated location.
Storage Location: Choose a location that is easily accessible and protected from the elements.

Measuring Moisture Content

Use a moisture meter to measure the moisture content of your firewood. Insert the probes of the meter into a freshly split piece of wood. The meter will display the moisture content as a percentage.

Moisture Meter: Use a reliable moisture meter to accurately measure the moisture content of your firewood.

Actionable Metric: Track the seasoning time for different types of wood in your area. Use a moisture meter to verify that the wood is properly seasoned before burning it.

Takeaway: Properly seasoned and stored firewood burns more efficiently, produces less smoke and creosote, and is safer to use. Take the time to season your firewood properly, and you’ll be rewarded with a warmer, cleaner, and safer fire.

By following these five pro tips, you can maximize the performance of your Stihl MS 261 chainsaw and prepare firewood efficiently and safely. Remember to always prioritize safety, maintain your equipment, and season your firewood properly. With a little practice and attention to detail, you’ll be able to enjoy the warmth and comfort of a wood-burning fire all winter long.

Stihl MS 261 Chainsaw (5 Pro Tips for Ultimate Firewood Prep)