Stihl Specialty Tools Guide (5 Expert Tips For Woodworkers)

Did you know that improper chainsaw use accounts for over 36,000 injuries annually in the United States alone? This shocking statistic underscores the critical need for proper tools and techniques in woodworking and logging. As someone who has spent over 20 years felling trees, milling lumber, and preparing firewood, I’ve learned that the right tools, especially those from Stihl, combined with expert knowledge, can significantly improve efficiency, safety, and the quality of your work. This guide is designed to provide you with that expert knowledge, focusing on specialty tools and techniques that can elevate your woodworking and firewood preparation game.

Stihl Specialty Tools Guide: 5 Expert Tips for Woodworkers

This guide will delve into specific Stihl tools and techniques that I’ve found invaluable throughout my career. We’ll cover everything from specialized chainsaws for milling to innovative log-splitting solutions, all while emphasizing safety and efficiency.

1. Mastering the Art of Milling with Stihl Chainsaws

Milling lumber directly from logs allows you to create custom-sized boards, reduce waste, and save money compared to purchasing from a lumberyard. Stihl chainsaws, particularly those with larger displacement engines, are well-suited for this task. However, using a standard chainsaw for milling can be inefficient and hard on the equipment. That’s where Stihl’s specialized milling attachments and accessories come in.

Setting Up Your Stihl Chainsaw for Milling

Choosing the Right Chainsaw: For milling, I recommend chainsaws with an engine displacement of 70cc or higher. Models like the Stihl MS 462 R C-M or the MS 661 C-M are excellent choices. These saws offer the power and torque needed to cut through large logs efficiently. I personally use the MS 661 C-M for most of my milling projects.
Installing a Milling Attachment: A chainsaw mill attaches to the chainsaw bar and allows you to make controlled, uniform cuts. There are two main types:
- Alaskan Mill: This type clamps onto the bar and uses a guide rail to make the first cut. Subsequent cuts are made using the previously milled surface as a guide.
- Edging Mill: This type is smaller and designed for edging boards after the initial milling process.
Selecting the Right Chain: Standard chainsaws use a cross-cut chain designed for felling trees. For milling, you’ll need a ripping chain. Ripping chains have a different tooth geometry optimized for cutting along the grain of the wood. Stihl offers ripping chains specifically designed for their chainsaws. I typically use a 10-degree ripping chain for hardwood and a 5-degree chain for softwood.
Bar Length: The bar length should be slightly longer than the widest log you plan to mill. For example, a 36-inch bar can mill logs up to 30 inches in diameter.

Milling Techniques

Preparing the Log: Before you start milling, it’s crucial to prepare the log properly.
- Debarking: Remove the bark using a drawknife or a debarking spud. This prevents dulling the chain quickly and reduces the risk of contaminants in the lumber.
- Leveling: Ensure the log is level and stable. Use wedges or shims to prevent it from rolling during the milling process.
- Setting Up the Guide Rail: For the first cut with an Alaskan mill, you’ll need a straight guide rail. This can be a ladder, a piece of angle iron, or a specially designed milling rail. Secure the rail to the log with screws or clamps.
Making the First Cut: The first cut is the most critical as it establishes the reference surface for all subsequent cuts.
- Slow and Steady: Start the chainsaw and make a slow, steady cut along the guide rail. Avoid forcing the saw, and let the chain do the work.
- Maintaining a Consistent Speed: Try to maintain a consistent cutting speed to ensure a smooth, uniform surface.
- Monitoring Chain Lubrication: Ensure the chain is properly lubricated throughout the cut. Milling generates a lot of heat, and inadequate lubrication can damage the chain and the saw.
Subsequent Cuts: Once you have a flat reference surface, you can remove the guide rail and use the milled surface as a guide for subsequent cuts.
- Adjusting the Mill: Adjust the mill to the desired board thickness. Use a measuring tape or a set of calipers to ensure accuracy.
- Repeating the Process: Repeat the cutting process, making sure to maintain a consistent speed and monitoring chain lubrication.

Case Study: Milling Black Walnut with a Stihl MS 661 C-M

I recently milled a large black walnut log using my Stihl MS 661 C-M and an Alaskan mill. The log was approximately 36 inches in diameter and 12 feet long. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

Debarking: I spent about 3 hours debarking the log using a drawknife.
Leveling: I used wedges to level the log and ensure it was stable.
First Cut: The first cut took about 45 minutes, using a ladder as a guide rail.
Subsequent Cuts: I milled the log into 2-inch thick slabs, which took approximately 6 hours.
Results: I obtained approximately 200 board feet of high-quality black walnut lumber, which I used to build a custom dining table and several smaller projects.

Benefits of Milling with Stihl Chainsaws

Cost Savings: Milling your own lumber can save you a significant amount of money compared to purchasing from a lumberyard, especially for specialty woods.
Customization: You can mill lumber to the exact dimensions you need, reducing waste and allowing for greater design flexibility.
Control Over Quality: You have complete control over the quality of the lumber, from selecting the log to determining the sawing pattern.

2. Leveraging Stihl Axes for Efficient Felling and Splitting

While chainsaws are essential for felling and bucking trees, axes remain valuable tools for splitting firewood and performing other tasks. Stihl axes are known for their quality steel, balanced design, and ergonomic handles.

Choosing the Right Stihl Axe

Felling Axe: A felling axe is designed for cutting down trees. It has a long handle and a heavy head, providing the power needed to sever tree fibers.
Splitting Axe: A splitting axe is designed for splitting firewood. It has a shorter handle and a wedge-shaped head, which helps to separate the wood fibers.
Universal Axe: A universal axe is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of tasks, including felling small trees, limbing, and splitting firewood.

I personally own and regularly use all three types, adapting my choice based on the specific task at hand. For larger diameter trees, I reach for my felling axe, while smaller branches are easily handled with the universal axe. The splitting axe is my go-to for preparing firewood.

Felling Techniques with a Stihl Axe

Assessing the Tree: Before you start felling a tree, it’s crucial to assess the situation.
- Lean: Determine the natural lean of the tree. This will influence the direction of the fall.
- Obstacles: Identify any obstacles that could interfere with the fall, such as power lines, buildings, or other trees.
- Escape Route: Plan an escape route that is clear of obstacles and at a 45-degree angle to the direction of the fall.
Making the Notch: The notch is a V-shaped cut that guides the tree in the desired direction of fall.
- Depth: The notch should be approximately one-third of the tree’s diameter.
- Angle: The angle of the notch should be approximately 45 degrees.
- Placement: The notch should be placed on the side of the tree facing the desired direction of fall.
Making the Back Cut: The back cut is a horizontal cut that is made on the opposite side of the tree from the notch.
- Height: The back cut should be slightly higher than the bottom of the notch.
- Depth: The back cut should leave a hinge of wood that is approximately one-tenth of the tree’s diameter. This hinge helps to control the fall of the tree.
- Wedges: Insert wedges into the back cut to prevent the tree from pinching the saw or axe.
Felling the Tree: Once the back cut is complete, the tree will begin to fall.
- Warning: Shout a warning to alert anyone in the area.
- Escape: Move quickly along your planned escape route.

Splitting Techniques with a Stihl Axe

Choosing the Right Wood: Different types of wood split more easily than others.
- Easy to Split: Softwoods like pine and fir split relatively easily.
- Hard to Split: Hardwoods like oak and maple can be more difficult to split.
- Knots: Knots can make wood difficult to split.
Using a Splitting Block: A splitting block is a sturdy platform that provides a safe and stable surface for splitting firewood.
- Height: The splitting block should be at a comfortable height for you to swing the axe.
- Material: The splitting block should be made of a durable material, such as hardwood or concrete.
Splitting the Wood:
- Stance: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart and your knees slightly bent.
- Grip: Grip the axe handle firmly with both hands.
- Swing: Swing the axe in a smooth, controlled arc, aiming for the center of the wood.
- Follow Through: Follow through with your swing, allowing the axe to split the wood.

Case Study: Splitting Oak Firewood with a Stihl Splitting Axe

I recently split several cords of oak firewood using my Stihl splitting axe. Oak can be notoriously difficult to split, but the Stihl axe made the job much easier. Here’s what I did:

Preparation: I used a large, sturdy oak stump as a splitting block.
Technique: I focused on hitting the wood squarely in the center, using a powerful, controlled swing.
Results: I was able to split the oak firewood efficiently and safely, producing a consistent size for my wood stove.

Benefits of Using Stihl Axes

Efficiency: Stihl axes are designed for efficient felling and splitting, reducing the amount of time and effort required.
Safety: Stihl axes are designed with safety in mind, featuring ergonomic handles and durable materials.
Durability: Stihl axes are built to last, providing years of reliable service.

3. Optimizing Log Splitting with Stihl Log Splitters

For large volumes of firewood, a log splitter is an invaluable tool. Stihl offers a range of log splitters, from manual to hydraulic, to suit different needs and budgets.

Choosing the Right Stihl Log Splitter

Manual Log Splitter: A manual log splitter uses a lever and a wedge to split firewood. It’s a good option for small volumes of firewood and for those who want a more physical workout.
Hydraulic Log Splitter: A hydraulic log splitter uses a hydraulic pump to power a ram that splits the firewood. It’s a more efficient option for larger volumes of firewood and for those who want to reduce physical strain.
Tonnage: Log splitters are rated by tonnage, which is the amount of force they can exert. Choose a log splitter with sufficient tonnage for the type of wood you plan to split. For example, a 20-ton log splitter is suitable for most hardwoods.
Cycle Time: Cycle time refers to the time it takes for the ram to extend and retract. A shorter cycle time means you can split more firewood in a given amount of time.

I have both a manual and a hydraulic log splitter. The manual splitter is great for small jobs or when I need a bit of exercise, but for processing large quantities of wood, the hydraulic splitter is a lifesaver. I use a 27-ton model, which handles even the toughest oak and maple with ease.

Operating a Stihl Log Splitter

Safety First: Before operating a log splitter, it’s crucial to understand the safety precautions.
- Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
- Gloves: Wear gloves to protect your hands.
- Foot Protection: Wear steel-toed boots to protect your feet.
- Clearance: Ensure there is adequate clearance around the log splitter.
Preparing the Wood:
- Length: Cut the wood to the appropriate length for the log splitter.
- Knots: Avoid splitting wood with large knots, as this can damage the log splitter.
Splitting the Wood:
- Placement: Place the wood on the log splitter bed, ensuring it is centered under the wedge.
- Operation: Engage the log splitter, allowing the ram to split the wood.
- Removal: Remove the split wood from the log splitter.

Case Study: Processing Firewood with a Stihl Hydraulic Log Splitter

I recently processed 10 cords of mixed hardwood firewood using my Stihl hydraulic log splitter. Here’s how I did it:

Preparation: I cut the logs to 16-inch lengths using my Stihl chainsaw.
Splitting: I used the log splitter to split the wood into manageable sizes.
Stacking: I stacked the split firewood in a well-ventilated area to allow it to dry.
Results: I was able to process the 10 cords of firewood in approximately 20 hours, which would have taken significantly longer using a manual splitter.

Benefits of Using Stihl Log Splitters

Efficiency: Log splitters significantly increase the efficiency of firewood processing.
Reduced Physical Strain: Log splitters reduce the physical strain associated with splitting firewood.
Safety: Log splitters are designed with safety in mind, reducing the risk of injury.

4. Understanding and Utilizing Stihl’s Filing Tools for Optimal Chain Performance

A sharp chainsaw chain is crucial for efficient and safe cutting. Stihl offers a range of filing tools to help you maintain your chain’s sharpness.

Types of Stihl Filing Tools

Round Files: Round files are used to sharpen the cutting teeth of the chain.
Flat Files: Flat files are used to adjust the depth gauges of the chain.
Filing Guides: Filing guides help you maintain the correct filing angle and depth.
Chain Sharpeners: Chain sharpeners are power tools that automate the chain sharpening process.

I personally prefer using a combination of round files and a filing guide for most of my sharpening. For heavily damaged chains, I might use a chain sharpener to restore the original profile before fine-tuning with hand files.

Sharpening Your Chainsaw Chain

Securing the Chainsaw: Secure the chainsaw in a vise or on a stable surface.
Filing the Cutting Teeth:
- Angle: Use a filing guide to maintain the correct filing angle.
- Depth: File each tooth to the same depth.
- Direction: File in a smooth, consistent direction.
Adjusting the Depth Gauges:
- Flat File: Use a flat file to adjust the depth gauges.
- Gauge Height: The depth gauges should be slightly lower than the cutting teeth.
Testing the Chain:
- Visual Inspection: Inspect the chain for any damage or wear.
- Cutting Test: Make a test cut to ensure the chain is cutting properly.

Case Study: Maintaining Chain Sharpness for Efficient Milling

When milling lumber, a sharp chain is essential for producing smooth, accurate cuts. I make it a habit to sharpen my milling chain after every 2-3 hours of use. Here’s what I do:

Types of Stihl Protective Gear

Chainsaw Chaps: Chainsaw chaps are designed to protect your legs from chainsaw cuts. They are made of multiple layers of ballistic nylon, which can stop a chainsaw chain in its tracks.
Safety Glasses: Safety glasses protect your eyes from flying debris.
Hearing Protection: Hearing protection protects your ears from the loud noise of chainsaws and other power tools.
Gloves: Gloves protect your hands from cuts, abrasions, and vibrations.
Steel-Toed Boots: Steel-toed boots protect your feet from falling objects and chainsaw cuts.
Helmets: Helmets protect your head from falling objects.

I never start a logging or woodworking project without wearing the proper protective gear. Chainsaw chaps, safety glasses, and hearing protection are non-negotiable for me. I’ve seen firsthand the injuries that can occur when safety precautions are ignored, and it’s simply not worth the risk.

Choosing the Right Protective Gear

Chainsaw Chaps: Choose chainsaw chaps that are the appropriate length for your legs. They should extend from your waist to your ankles.
Safety Glasses: Choose safety glasses that fit comfortably and provide adequate protection.
Hearing Protection: Choose hearing protection that provides adequate noise reduction.
Gloves: Choose gloves that fit well and provide good grip.
Steel-Toed Boots: Choose steel-toed boots that are comfortable and provide good support.
Helmets: Choose a helmet that fits properly and meets safety standards.

Case Study: Preventing Injury with Stihl Chainsaw Chaps

Several years ago, I was felling a tree when the chainsaw kicked back and came into contact with my leg. Fortunately, I was wearing Stihl chainsaw chaps, which stopped the chain instantly. Without the chaps, I would have suffered a serious leg injury. This experience reinforced the importance of wearing protective gear at all times when working with chainsaws.

Benefits of Using Stihl Protective Gear

Reduced Risk of Injury: Protective gear significantly reduces the risk of injury when working with chainsaws, axes, and other woodworking tools.
Increased Comfort: Protective gear can also make your work more comfortable, allowing you to focus on the task at hand.
Compliance with Safety Regulations: Wearing protective gear is often required by safety regulations.

Next Steps: Putting These Expert Tips Into Action

Now that you have a better understanding of Stihl specialty tools and techniques, it’s time to put this knowledge into action. Here are some practical next steps you can take:

Assess Your Needs: Determine which Stihl tools and techniques are most relevant to your woodworking or firewood preparation projects.
Invest in Quality Tools: Invest in high-quality Stihl tools that are designed for the tasks you need to perform.
Practice Proper Techniques: Practice the techniques outlined in this guide to ensure you are using the tools safely and efficiently.
Prioritize Safety: Always prioritize safety by wearing the appropriate protective gear and following safety guidelines.
Continue Learning: Stay informed about new tools, techniques, and safety practices by attending workshops, reading articles, and consulting with experienced professionals.

By following these steps, you can enhance your woodworking and firewood preparation skills, improve your efficiency, and stay safe on the job. Remember, the right tools, combined with expert knowledge and a commitment to safety, are the keys to success in any woodworking or logging endeavor. Good luck, and happy woodworking!