Stihl MS310 Bar Size: Optimize Cutting Power (5 Pro Tips)

It was a bitterly cold morning in the Oregon mountains, the kind where the air bites at your exposed skin and every breath steams. I was felling a particularly stubborn Douglas fir, a real monster of a tree, using my trusty Stihl MS310. I thought I was prepared, confident in my experience. Suddenly, the chain bound up deep in the cut, the saw bucked violently, and I found myself wrestling with a snarling, unresponsive machine. Turns out, I was using the wrong bar size for the job. That close call taught me a valuable lesson: understanding your chainsaw’s capabilities, especially bar size, is paramount to safety and efficiency. This guide dives deep into optimizing your Stihl MS310’s cutting power by selecting the right bar size. Let’s get started!

Understanding the Stihl MS310 and Its Capabilities

Before we delve into bar sizes, let’s briefly review the Stihl MS310 itself. It’s a mid-range chainsaw, typically equipped with a 16-inch or 18-inch bar from the factory. It’s powered by a 59cc engine, making it suitable for a variety of tasks, from felling smaller trees to bucking firewood.

• Engine Displacement: 59cc
• Power Output: Approximately 3.1 kW (4.2 bhp)
• Weight (without fuel and bar): Around 5.9 kg (13 lbs)
• Stock Bar Lengths: 16-inch (40 cm) or 18-inch (45 cm)

Knowing these specifications is essential because they dictate the saw’s ability to handle different bar lengths and wood densities. Pushing your saw beyond its limits can lead to decreased performance, increased wear, and potential damage.

Pro Tip 1: Choosing the Right Bar Length for the Job

The first, and arguably most important, step is selecting the appropriate bar length for the task at hand. This decision should be based primarily on the diameter of the wood you’ll be cutting.

• General Rule: The bar length should be at least two inches longer than the diameter of the wood you’re cutting. This allows you to cut through the wood in a single pass without burying the powerhead.

Let’s break this down with examples:

• Small Limbs (up to 6 inches): A 16-inch bar is usually sufficient.
• Medium-Sized Trees (6-12 inches): An 18-inch bar is a good choice.
• Larger Trees (12-18 inches): Consider a 20-inch bar, but be mindful of the saw’s power.
• Very Large Trees (over 18 inches): The MS310 might struggle. You might consider a more powerful saw or bucking from both sides.

My Experience: I once tried to fell a 24-inch oak with an 18-inch bar on my MS310. While I eventually managed it by notching and cutting from both sides, it was slow, inefficient, and put unnecessary strain on the saw. I learned my lesson – match the bar to the wood.

Takeaway: Don’t overestimate your saw’s capabilities. Choosing the right bar length will save you time, effort, and potential damage to your equipment.

Pro Tip 2: Understanding the Impact of Wood Type and Density

Not all wood is created equal. The density of the wood you’re cutting significantly affects the performance of your chainsaw. Softer woods like pine and poplar are easier to cut than hardwoods like oak, maple, and hickory.

• Softwoods: Generally require less power and can be cut with a longer bar.
• Hardwoods: Demand more power and may necessitate a shorter bar to maintain cutting speed and prevent bogging down.

Case Study: I conducted a small experiment comparing the cutting speed of my MS310 with an 18-inch bar on both pine and oak logs of similar diameter (10 inches). The results were clear:

• Pine: Cut time averaged 15 seconds.
• Oak: Cut time averaged 25 seconds.

This highlights the impact of wood density on cutting performance.

Actionable Advice: If you primarily cut hardwoods, consider using a shorter bar on your MS310 to compensate for the increased resistance. A 16-inch bar might be a better choice than an 18-inch bar in this scenario.

Takeaway: Consider wood type and density when selecting your bar size. Adjust accordingly to maintain optimal cutting performance.

Pro Tip 3: Chain Type and Maintenance for Optimal Performance

The type of chain you use is just as important as the bar size. A sharp, well-maintained chain will significantly improve cutting efficiency, regardless of the bar length.

• Chain Types: Different chain types are designed for different purposes. Common types include:

  • Full Chisel: Aggressive cutting, best for clean wood.
  • Semi-Chisel: More forgiving, better for dirty or frozen wood.
  • Low-Profile: Reduced kickback, ideal for beginners.

• Chain Maintenance: Regular sharpening is crucial. A dull chain will cause the saw to work harder, generate more heat, and produce sawdust instead of chips.

My Sharpening Routine: I sharpen my chains after every two tanks of fuel, or more frequently if I hit dirt or debris. I use a file guide to ensure consistent sharpening angles.

• Filing Angle: Typically 30 degrees for most chains.
• Depth Gauge Setting: Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Chain Tension: Proper chain tension is also essential. A loose chain can derail, while an overtight chain can overheat and wear prematurely.

• Correct Tension: The chain should be snug against the bar but still able to be pulled around by hand.

Takeaway: A sharp, properly tensioned chain is critical for maximizing cutting performance. Invest in sharpening tools and learn how to maintain your chain properly.

Pro Tip 4: The Importance of Proper Technique

Even with the right bar size and a sharp chain, poor technique can hinder your cutting performance and increase the risk of injury. Here are some key techniques to master:

• Stance: Maintain a stable, balanced stance with your feet shoulder-width apart.
• Grip: Grip the saw firmly with both hands, keeping your thumbs wrapped around the handles.
• Cutting Pressure: Let the saw do the work. Avoid forcing it through the wood.
• Body Positioning: Position yourself to avoid being in the path of the falling tree or flying debris.

Felling Techniques: When felling trees, use proper notching and back-cutting techniques to control the direction of the fall.

• Notch: Cut a notch on the side of the tree facing the desired direction of fall. The notch should be about one-third of the tree’s diameter.
• Back Cut: Make a back cut on the opposite side of the tree, slightly above the bottom of the notch. Leave a hinge of wood to control the fall.

Bucking Techniques: When bucking logs into firewood, use a sawbuck or other support to prevent the log from pinching the bar.

Real-World Example: I once witnessed a novice logger attempting to fell a tree without a proper notch. The tree fell in an unexpected direction, narrowly missing him and causing significant damage to nearby equipment. Proper technique is not just about efficiency; it’s about safety.

Takeaway: Invest time in learning and practicing proper cutting techniques. This will improve your efficiency, reduce your risk of injury, and extend the life of your saw.

Pro Tip 5: Considering Bar and Chain Oiler Performance

The oiler system on your Stihl MS310 is crucial for keeping the bar and chain lubricated, reducing friction and wear. A malfunctioning oiler can lead to overheating, chain damage, and even bar failure.

• Oiler Adjustment: Most Stihl chainsaws have an adjustable oiler. Ensure it’s set to deliver sufficient oil for the bar length and wood type you’re cutting.

  • Too Little Oil: Can cause overheating and premature wear.
  • Too Much Oil: Wastes oil and can create a mess.

• Oiler Maintenance: Regularly check the oil level and clean the oiler port to prevent clogs.

Diagnostic Test: To check the oiler performance, hold the saw over a piece of cardboard and rev the engine. You should see a fine mist of oil being ejected from the chain.

My Experience: I once neglected to check the oil level on my MS310 and ended up running the saw dry. The bar overheated, and the chain stretched significantly. I had to replace both, a costly mistake that could have been avoided with a simple check.

Takeaway: Monitor your oiler performance and maintain it regularly. Proper lubrication is essential for extending the life of your bar and chain.

Additional Considerations for Optimizing Cutting Power

Beyond the five pro tips above, here are some additional factors to consider:

• Altitude: At higher altitudes, the air is thinner, which can reduce engine power. You may need to adjust the carburetor to compensate.
• Temperature: Extreme temperatures can also affect engine performance. Cold weather can make the engine harder to start, while hot weather can cause overheating.
• Fuel Quality: Use high-quality fuel and oil mix, as recommended by Stihl. Old or contaminated fuel can cause engine problems.
• Air Filter: A clean air filter is essential for proper engine performance. Clean or replace the air filter regularly.

Choosing the Right Bar Length: A Summary Table

To simplify the bar selection process, here’s a summary table:

Safety First: Protecting Yourself and Others

No discussion about chainsaw use is complete without emphasizing safety. Chainsaws are powerful tools that can cause serious injury if not used properly.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Always wear appropriate PPE, including:

  • Safety Glasses or Face Shield: To protect your eyes from flying debris.
  • Hearing Protection: To prevent hearing damage from the loud engine noise.
  • Gloves: To improve grip and protect your hands.
  • Chaps: To protect your legs from chainsaw cuts.
  • Steel-Toed Boots: To protect your feet from falling logs and chainsaw accidents.
  • Helmet: To protect your head from falling branches.

• Safe Work Practices:

  • Clear the Work Area: Remove any obstacles or tripping hazards.
  • Plan Your Escape Route: Identify a safe path to retreat if the tree falls unexpectedly.
  • Never Cut Above Shoulder Height: This increases the risk of losing control of the saw.
  • Be Aware of Kickback: Kickback occurs when the tip of the bar contacts an object, causing the saw to jump back towards the operator. Avoid using the tip of the bar and maintain a firm grip on the saw.
  • Never Work Alone: Always have someone nearby in case of an accident.

Real-World Scenario: A friend of mine, a seasoned logger, suffered a severe leg injury when he neglected to wear chaps while felling a tree. He slipped, and the chainsaw came into contact with his leg. He was fortunate that he had someone nearby to provide first aid and call for help. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of always wearing PPE.

Takeaway: Safety should always be your top priority. Wear appropriate PPE, follow safe work practices, and never take shortcuts.

Conclusion: Optimizing Your Stihl MS310 for Peak Performance

By understanding the capabilities of your Stihl MS310, choosing the right bar size, maintaining your chain, practicing proper technique, and prioritizing safety, you can optimize its cutting power and ensure years of reliable service. Remember that the MS310 is a versatile saw, but it has its limitations. Don’t push it beyond its limits, and always prioritize safety.

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