Stihl MS290 Bar And Chain Guide (5 Pro Tips For Efficient Cutting)

Let’s talk about layering. Not the kind with sweaters and jackets for a chilly day, but the kind that impacts every aspect of wood processing, from choosing the right chainsaw bar and chain to understanding the true cost of a cord of firewood. What I mean by layering is that every decision you make – from the type of wood you select to the sharpness of your chain – influences the next, creating a cascade of cost implications. In this article, I’m going to dissect those layers, focusing specifically on optimizing your Stihl MS290 for efficient cutting and, ultimately, saving you money.

Stihl MS290 Bar and Chain Guide: 5 Pro Tips for Efficient Cutting (and Cost Savings)

The Stihl MS290 is a workhorse. I’ve personally used it for everything from felling small trees to bucking firewood, and it’s a reliable piece of equipment. But, like any tool, its efficiency – and therefore your cost-effectiveness – hinges on proper setup and maintenance. This guide focuses on maximizing the performance of your MS290, leading to faster cuts, less wear and tear, and significant savings in the long run.

Understanding the True Cost of Firewood: It’s More Than Just the Cord Price

Before diving into the specifics of bar and chain selection, let’s frame the bigger picture. The price you see advertised for a cord of firewood is just the tip of the iceberg. The true cost includes:

Wood Acquisition: Purchasing standing timber, buying logs, or even free wood permits all have associated expenses.
Felling and Bucking: This is where your Stihl MS290 comes in. The efficiency of this process directly impacts your labor hours and fuel consumption.
Splitting: Whether you’re using a manual maul or a hydraulic splitter, this step adds time and, potentially, fuel or electricity costs.
Stacking and Drying: The drying process itself is “free,” but the labor to stack the wood and the space it occupies have a cost.
Transportation: Getting the firewood from the woods to your woodpile, and then to its final destination, requires fuel and vehicle maintenance.
Equipment Maintenance: Chainsaw chains, bars, oil, gasoline, splitters, and other tools all require upkeep. This is frequently overlooked but is a major factor in the overall cost.

As you can see, optimizing your chainsaw’s performance, even by a small percentage, can have a ripple effect, reducing costs across the entire firewood preparation process.

Pro Tip 1: Selecting the Right Bar Length for Your Needs

The Stihl MS290 can accommodate various bar lengths, typically ranging from 16 to 20 inches. Choosing the right length is crucial for both safety and efficiency.

The Cost Factor: A longer bar allows you to fell larger trees without having to move around as much, potentially saving time and labor. However, a longer bar also requires more power. On the MS290, a longer bar can bog the saw down, especially in hardwoods, leading to slower cutting and increased fuel consumption. A shorter bar, while limiting the size of trees you can fell in a single pass, will allow the saw to maintain a higher chain speed, resulting in faster cuts on smaller wood and less stress on the engine.
My Experience: I once tried using a 20-inch bar on my MS290 to take down some oak trees. While I could technically fell them, the saw struggled, and I ended up burning through more fuel and wearing myself out faster. Switching to an 18-inch bar made a noticeable difference in cutting speed and overall efficiency.
Data Point: A study by Oregon State University Extension Service found that using an appropriately sized bar for the chainsaw’s engine power can improve cutting efficiency by up to 15%.
Recommendation: For most firewood cutting and general-purpose use with the MS290, an 18-inch bar is the sweet spot. It offers a good balance of cutting capacity and engine performance. If you primarily cut smaller diameter wood, a 16-inch bar might be even more efficient.

Pro Tip 2: Choosing the Right Chain Type for the Job

The chain is the heart of your chainsaw, and selecting the right type is critical for efficient cutting. There are three main types of chainsaw chains:

Full Chisel: These chains have square-cornered cutters that slice through wood quickly and efficiently. They are ideal for clean wood and experienced users. However, they are more prone to damage from dirt and debris.
Semi-Chisel: These chains have rounded cutters that are more forgiving and durable than full chisel chains. They are a good all-around choice for cutting a variety of wood types, including dirty or knotty wood.
Low-Profile (Micro-Chisel): These chains have small, rounded cutters that are designed for safety and ease of use. They are often found on smaller chainsaws and are a good choice for beginners.

Here’s how chain choice impacts your bottom line:

The Cost Factor: Full chisel chains cut faster, which translates to less time spent cutting and less fuel consumed. However, they require more frequent sharpening and are more susceptible to damage, leading to higher replacement costs. Semi-chisel chains offer a good balance of cutting speed and durability, making them a cost-effective choice for most users. Low-profile chains are the least expensive to purchase but are also the slowest cutting, potentially increasing labor costs.
My Experience: I learned the hard way that using a full chisel chain on dirty wood is a recipe for disaster. After just a few cuts, the chain was dull and required sharpening. I switched to a semi-chisel chain and was able to cut through the same wood with much less frequent sharpening.
Data Point: According to a study by the U.S. Forest Service, using a dull chain can increase fuel consumption by up to 20% and decrease cutting speed by up to 50%.
Recommendation: For most firewood cutting with the MS290, a semi-chisel chain is the best choice. It offers a good balance of cutting speed, durability, and cost. If you are only cutting clean wood and are diligent about sharpening, a full chisel chain can be a viable option.

Pro Tip 3: Mastering Chain Sharpening: The Cornerstone of Efficiency

A sharp chain is essential for efficient cutting. A dull chain not only cuts slower but also puts more stress on the chainsaw’s engine and increases the risk of kickback.

The Cost Factor: A dull chain requires more force to cut, leading to increased fuel consumption and wear and tear on the chainsaw. It also increases the risk of accidents, which can result in costly medical bills or equipment damage. Sharpening your chain regularly is a relatively inexpensive way to maintain optimal cutting performance and reduce overall costs.
My Experience: I used to be lazy about sharpening my chain, thinking it was a time-consuming task. However, I quickly realized that the time I saved by not sharpening was more than offset by the increased time it took to cut with a dull chain. Now, I make it a habit to sharpen my chain after every tank of gas.
Data Point: A study by the Stihl company found that sharpening a chain can improve cutting speed by up to 300%.
Recommendation: Learn how to sharpen your chain properly. You can use a file and guide, or a chain grinder. There are many tutorials available online. The key is to maintain the correct angle and depth of the cutters. Also, consider the cost of sharpening supplies versus the cost of replacing chains more frequently.

Pro Tip 4: Optimizing Chain Tension and Lubrication

Proper chain tension and lubrication are crucial for both performance and longevity.

Chain Tension: A chain that is too loose can derail, while a chain that is too tight can cause excessive wear on the bar and chain. Adjust the chain tension so that it can be pulled slightly away from the bar, but not so much that it sags.
Chain Lubrication: The chain needs to be constantly lubricated to reduce friction and prevent overheating. Use a high-quality bar and chain oil and check the oil level frequently. Make sure the oiler is functioning properly.
The Cost Factor: Improper chain tension and lubrication can lead to premature wear and tear on the bar, chain, and sprocket, resulting in costly replacements. A seized chain can even damage the chainsaw’s engine. Maintaining proper chain tension and lubrication is a simple and inexpensive way to extend the life of your equipment and reduce overall costs.
My Experience: I once neglected to check the oil level in my chainsaw and ended up running it dry. The chain quickly overheated and seized, damaging the bar and chain. I had to replace both, which was a costly mistake.
Data Point: A study by the University of California Cooperative Extension found that proper chain lubrication can extend the life of a chainsaw bar by up to 50%.
Recommendation: Check the chain tension and oil level before each use. Adjust the chain tension as needed and refill the oil reservoir frequently. Use a high-quality bar and chain oil that is appropriate for the type of wood you are cutting.

Pro Tip 5: Mastering Cutting Techniques for Efficiency and Safety

Even with the perfect bar and chain setup, poor cutting techniques can significantly reduce your efficiency and increase your risk of injury.

Felling Techniques: Learn how to properly fell a tree, including making the appropriate notches and back cuts. This will help you control the direction of the fall and avoid damaging the tree or surrounding property.
Bucking Techniques: Learn how to properly buck a log into smaller pieces. This includes using appropriate supports to prevent the log from pinching the chain and avoiding cutting in areas where the log is under tension.
Body Positioning: Always maintain a stable stance and keep your body out of the line of the chain. Use your legs to lift and move logs, rather than your back.
The Cost Factor: Poor cutting techniques can lead to wasted wood, damaged equipment, and serious injuries. Learning and practicing proper cutting techniques is a valuable investment that can save you time, money, and pain.
My Experience: I once tried to fell a tree without properly notching it. The tree fell in the wrong direction and damaged my fence. I had to spend several hours repairing the fence, which was a costly and time-consuming mistake.
Data Point: According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), chainsaw accidents are a leading cause of injury in the logging industry.
Recommendation: Take a chainsaw safety course. There are many reputable organizations that offer these courses. Practice proper cutting techniques in a safe and controlled environment. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including a helmet, eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chainsaw chaps.

Beyond the Bar and Chain: The Holistic Cost of Wood Processing

While optimizing your Stihl MS290’s bar and chain is crucial, it’s only one piece of the puzzle. To truly manage your wood processing costs, you need to consider the entire process, from wood acquisition to final use. Here’s a deeper dive into some key cost factors:

1. Wood Acquisition Costs: Finding the Best Deals

The cost of wood can vary significantly depending on the source, species, and quality. Here’s a breakdown of common acquisition methods:

Purchasing Standing Timber: This involves buying the rights to cut trees on private land. Prices vary depending on the species, size, and volume of timber, as well as the location and accessibility of the land. You’ll need to negotiate a price with the landowner and obtain any necessary permits.
- Cost Factors: Timber prices are influenced by market demand, species availability, and logging regulations. For example, oak and maple typically command higher prices than pine or poplar.
- Data Point: According to the U.S. Forest Service, the average stumpage price (the price paid to the landowner for standing timber) for hardwood sawtimber in the eastern United States ranged from \$200 to \$500 per thousand board feet in 2023.
- My Experience: I once negotiated a deal to purchase standing timber on a property that was being cleared for development. I was able to get a good price because the landowner was eager to get rid of the trees. However, I had to factor in the cost of hiring a logging crew to fell and remove the timber.
Buying Logs: This involves purchasing logs from a logging company or sawmill. Prices vary depending on the species, size, and grade of the logs. You’ll need to arrange for transportation of the logs to your property.
- Cost Factors: Log prices are influenced by market demand, species availability, and log quality. Sawlogs (logs suitable for sawing into lumber) typically command higher prices than pulpwood (logs used for making paper).
- Data Point: According to a report by the Timber Mart-South, the average price for hardwood sawlogs in the southern United States ranged from \$400 to \$800 per thousand board feet in 2023.
- My Experience: I once purchased a load of oak logs from a local sawmill. I was able to get a good price because the logs were slightly smaller than what the sawmill typically processed. However, I had to spend extra time bucking the logs into smaller pieces.
Free Wood Permits: Some public lands offer free wood permits that allow you to cut a limited amount of firewood for personal use. This can be a great way to save money on wood acquisition, but you’ll need to follow strict regulations and obtain the necessary permits.
- Cost Factors: The cost of a free wood permit is typically minimal, but you’ll need to factor in the cost of transportation, fuel, and labor. You may also need to purchase a chainsaw permit or attend a chainsaw safety course.
- Data Point: The U.S. Forest Service offers free wood permits on many national forests. The amount of firewood you can collect and the regulations you must follow vary depending on the forest.
- My Experience: I have obtained free wood permits from the U.S. Forest Service on several occasions. It’s a great way to get free firewood, but it requires a significant investment of time and effort. You’ll need to drive to the forest, find a suitable area to cut, and then haul the firewood back to your property.
Salvaging Wood: Fallen trees, branches, and construction scraps can be a source of free or low-cost wood. However, be sure to obtain permission before removing wood from private property.
- Cost Factors: Salvaging wood can be a great way to save money, but it can also be labor-intensive. You’ll need to factor in the cost of transportation, fuel, and labor, as well as the time it takes to process the wood.
- My Experience: I have salvaged wood from several construction sites. I was able to get a lot of free lumber, but it required a significant amount of time and effort to remove the nails and screws and prepare the wood for use.

2. Labor Costs: DIY vs. Hiring Help

The cost of labor is a significant factor in wood processing. You can save money by doing the work yourself, but you’ll need to factor in the value of your time. If you hire help, you’ll need to pay wages and potentially benefits.

DIY Labor: If you do the work yourself, you’ll save money on wages, but you’ll need to factor in the value of your time. Consider how much you could earn doing other tasks during the time you spend processing wood.
- Cost Factors: The cost of DIY labor is your opportunity cost – the value of the next best alternative use of your time. If you could earn \$20 per hour doing other tasks, then each hour you spend processing wood costs you \$20.
- My Experience: I enjoy processing wood myself, but I also recognize that my time is valuable. I try to balance the cost savings of DIY labor with the value of my time. I often hire help for tasks that are particularly labor-intensive or time-consuming.
Hiring a Logging Crew: If you need to fell and remove a large volume of timber, you may want to hire a logging crew. Logging crews typically charge by the hour or by the thousand board feet.
- Cost Factors: Logging crew rates vary depending on the location, the size and experience of the crew, and the type of equipment they use.
- Data Point: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for logging workers in the United States was \$20.76 in May 2023.
- My Experience: I once hired a logging crew to fell and remove timber from a property that was being cleared for development. The crew was efficient and professional, but the cost was significant. I had to carefully weigh the cost of hiring the crew against the value of the timber.
Hiring Firewood Handlers: If you need help splitting, stacking, and moving firewood, you can hire firewood handlers. Firewood handlers typically charge by the hour or by the cord.
- Cost Factors: Firewood handler rates vary depending on the location, the experience of the handlers, and the type of equipment they use.
- My Experience: I have hired firewood handlers on several occasions to help me split and stack firewood. It’s a great way to save time and effort, but it can be expensive. I try to hire handlers who are experienced and efficient.

3. Tool Costs: Chainsaws, Splitters, and More

The cost of tools is a significant factor in wood processing. You’ll need to factor in the cost of purchasing, maintaining, and repairing your tools.

Chainsaw Costs: The cost of a chainsaw varies depending on the size, power, and features of the saw. You’ll also need to factor in the cost of replacement chains, bars, and other parts.
- Cost Factors: Chainsaw prices range from a few hundred dollars for a small electric saw to several thousand dollars for a professional-grade gas-powered saw. The Stihl MS290 typically costs between \$400 and \$600.
- My Experience: I have owned several chainsaws over the years. I have found that it’s worth investing in a high-quality saw that is durable and reliable. I also make sure to properly maintain my saws to extend their lifespan.
Splitter Costs: The cost of a wood splitter varies depending on the type of splitter (manual, hydraulic, or electric) and the splitting force. You’ll also need to factor in the cost of fuel or electricity.
- Cost Factors: Manual wood splitters are the least expensive, typically costing between \$100 and \$300. Hydraulic splitters are more expensive, typically costing between \$1,000 and \$3,000. Electric splitters are a good option for small-scale firewood preparation, typically costing between \$500 and \$1,500.
- My Experience: I have used both manual and hydraulic wood splitters. I find that a hydraulic splitter is much more efficient for splitting large volumes of wood, but a manual splitter is a good option for smaller jobs.
Other Tool Costs: In addition to chainsaws and splitters, you’ll need to factor in the cost of other tools, such as axes, wedges, mauls, and measuring tapes.
- Cost Factors: The cost of these tools can range from a few dollars for a basic axe to several hundred dollars for a high-quality maul.
- My Experience: I have found that it’s worth investing in high-quality tools that are durable and reliable. These tools will last longer and perform better than cheaper tools.

4. Maintenance and Repair Costs: Keeping Your Tools Running Smoothly

Proper maintenance and repair are essential for extending the life of your tools and preventing costly breakdowns.

Chainsaw Maintenance: Chainsaw maintenance includes sharpening the chain, cleaning the air filter, replacing the spark plug, and lubricating the bar and chain.
- Cost Factors: The cost of chainsaw maintenance supplies is relatively low, but the cost of labor can be significant if you hire someone to do the work.
- My Experience: I make it a habit to perform regular maintenance on my chainsaws to keep them running smoothly. I have found that this helps to prevent costly breakdowns.
Splitter Maintenance: Splitter maintenance includes changing the hydraulic fluid, lubricating the moving parts, and inspecting the hoses and fittings.
- Cost Factors: The cost of splitter maintenance supplies is relatively low, but the cost of labor can be significant if you hire someone to do the work.
- My Experience: I make it a habit to perform regular maintenance on my wood splitter to keep it running smoothly. I have found that this helps to prevent costly breakdowns.
Repair Costs: Even with proper maintenance, tools will eventually need to be repaired. The cost of repairs can vary depending on the type of tool and the extent of the damage.
- Cost Factors: Repair costs can range from a few dollars for a minor repair to several hundred dollars for a major overhaul.
- My Experience: I have had to repair my chainsaws and wood splitters on several occasions. I have found that it’s often more cost-effective to repair a tool than to replace it.

5. Transportation Costs: Getting the Wood Where It Needs to Go

The cost of transporting wood can be significant, especially if you are hauling it long distances.

Fuel Costs: Fuel costs are a major factor in transportation costs. The cost of fuel varies depending on the price of gasoline or diesel and the fuel efficiency of your vehicle.
- Cost Factors: Fuel costs are influenced by global oil prices and local taxes.
- My Experience: I have found that it’s important to plan my transportation routes carefully to minimize fuel consumption. I also make sure to keep my vehicle properly maintained to improve fuel efficiency.
Vehicle Maintenance Costs: Vehicle maintenance costs include oil changes, tire rotations, and other routine maintenance.
- Cost Factors: Vehicle maintenance costs vary depending on the type of vehicle and the mileage it is driven.
- My Experience: I make it a habit to perform regular maintenance on my vehicle to keep it running smoothly. I have found that this helps to prevent costly breakdowns.
Trailer Costs: If you are hauling wood with a trailer, you’ll need to factor in the cost of purchasing, maintaining, and insuring the trailer.
- Cost Factors: Trailer prices range from a few hundred dollars for a small utility trailer to several thousand dollars for a large equipment trailer.
- My Experience: I have owned several trailers over the years. I have found that it’s worth investing in a high-quality trailer that is durable and reliable. I also make sure to properly maintain my trailers to extend their lifespan.

6. Drying Costs: Time vs. Investment

Drying firewood is essential for efficient burning and reducing creosote buildup in your chimney. The drying process itself is “free,” but the time it takes and the space it occupies have a cost.

Air Drying: Air drying is the most common method of drying firewood. It involves stacking the wood in a well-ventilated area and allowing it to dry naturally over a period of several months.
- Cost Factors: The cost of air drying is primarily the opportunity cost of the space occupied by the wood. If you could use that space for other purposes, then the air drying process is costing you money. Also, the time it takes to dry the wood is a factor. If you need the wood sooner, you may need to consider alternative drying methods.
- My Experience: I have always air dried my firewood. I have found that it’s the most cost-effective method, but it requires planning ahead. I typically start drying my firewood in the spring so that it will be ready to burn in the winter.
Kiln Drying: Kiln drying is a faster method of drying firewood. It involves placing the wood in a kiln and using heat to accelerate the drying process.
- Cost Factors: Kiln drying is more expensive than air drying, but it can reduce the drying time from several months to a few days. The cost of kiln drying includes the cost of the kiln, the cost of fuel or electricity to heat the kiln, and the cost of labor to operate the kiln.
- My Experience: I have never kiln dried my firewood, but I know that it is a popular option for commercial firewood suppliers.
Seasoning Time and Moisture Content: The amount of time it takes to dry firewood depends on the species of wood, the size of the pieces, and the climate. The goal is to reduce the moisture content of the wood to below 20%.
- Cost Factors: The longer it takes to dry the wood, the more space it will occupy and the longer your investment will be tied up.
- Formula: Estimating Drying Time: A general rule of thumb is that hardwoods take 6-12 months to dry, while softwoods take 3-6 months. However, this can vary depending on the factors mentioned above. A moisture meter can be used to accurately measure the moisture content of the wood.

7. Permits and Regulations: Staying Compliant

Depending on your location and the scale of your wood processing operation, you may need to obtain permits and comply with regulations.

Logging Permits: If you are felling trees on public or private land, you may need to obtain a logging permit.
- Cost Factors: The cost of a logging permit varies depending on the location and the type of permit.
- My Experience: I have obtained logging permits from the U.S. Forest Service on several occasions. The process can be time-consuming, but it’s important to comply with the regulations.
Firewood Permits: If you are selling firewood, you may need to obtain a firewood permit.
- Cost Factors: The cost of a firewood permit varies depending on the location and the type of permit.
- My Experience: I have never sold firewood commercially, but I know that it’s important to comply with the regulations.
Environmental Regulations: Wood processing operations may be subject to environmental regulations, such as those related to air quality, water quality, and noise pollution.
- Cost Factors: The cost of complying with environmental regulations can be significant, especially for large-scale operations.
- My Experience: I am aware of the environmental regulations that apply to wood processing operations in my area. I make sure to comply with these regulations to protect the environment.

Cost Optimization Strategies: Saving Money Without Sacrificing Quality

Now that we’ve explored the various cost factors involved in wood processing, let’s discuss some strategies for optimizing your costs without sacrificing quality.

Buy in Bulk: Buying wood in bulk can often save you money. Negotiate prices with suppliers for larger quantities.
Season Wood in Advance: Plan ahead and season your firewood well in advance of the burning season. This will allow you to avoid the cost of kiln-dried wood.
Maintain Your Equipment: Proper maintenance will extend the life of your equipment and prevent costly breakdowns.
Sharpen Your Chains: A sharp chain will cut more efficiently, saving you time and fuel.
Use the Right Tools for the Job: Using the right tools for the job will improve your efficiency and reduce the risk of injury.
Shop Around for Supplies: Compare prices from different suppliers to find the best deals on supplies.
Salvage Wood When Possible: Salvaging wood can be a great way to save money on wood acquisition.
Take Advantage of Free Resources: There are many free resources available online and at your local library that can help you learn about wood processing.
Consider Sharing Equipment: If you only use certain equipment occasionally, consider sharing it with neighbors or friends.
Track Your Expenses: Keep track of your expenses to identify areas where you can save money.

Case Study: Budgeting for a Cord of Firewood

Let’s walk through a hypothetical case study to illustrate how to budget for a cord of firewood. Assume you are acquiring wood from standing timber with a Stihl MS290 and splitting with a manual splitter.

Assumptions:

Wood Acquisition: Free wood permit (minimal cost)
Felling and Bucking: 4 hours of labor
Splitting: 4 hours of labor
Stacking: 2 hours of labor
Transportation: 1 hour of labor
Fuel Costs: \$20 (chainsaw and vehicle)
Chainsaw Maintenance: \$10 (chain sharpening, oil)
Labor Rate: \$15 per hour (opportunity cost)

Cost Breakdown:

Wood Acquisition: \$0
Felling and Bucking Labor: 4 hours x \$15/hour = \$60
Splitting Labor: 4 hours x \$15/hour = \$60
Stacking Labor: 2 hours x \$15/hour = \$30
Transportation Labor: 1 hour x \$15/hour = \$15
Fuel Costs: \$20
Chainsaw Maintenance: \$10

Total Cost: \$0 + \$60 + \$60 + \$30 + \$15 + \$20 + \$10 = \$195 per cord

This is a simplified example, but it illustrates the importance of considering all the costs involved in wood processing. By tracking your expenses and identifying areas where you can save money, you can reduce the overall cost of your firewood.

Final Thoughts: The Art and Science of Wood Processing

Wood processing is both an art and a science. It requires skill, knowledge, and a healthy dose of common sense. By understanding the various cost factors involved and implementing cost optimization strategies, you can save money without sacrificing quality. Remember, the Stihl MS290 is a valuable tool, but it’s only as good as the person using it. By mastering the techniques outlined in this guide, you can maximize the efficiency of your saw and reduce your overall costs. So, get out there, sharpen your chain, and start cutting! Just remember to be safe, be smart, and be mindful of the costs. Happy wood processing!

Stihl MS290 Bar and Chain Guide (5 Pro Tips for Efficient Cutting)