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What does STIHL MS stand for?

STIHL is a German manufacturer of chainsaws and other outdoor power tools. The “MS” in STIHL MS refers to the model designation for their line of chainsaws. STIHL has used “MS” to designate their chainsaw models since the early 1970s.

STIHL chainsaws with an “MS” model designation first appeared in 1970 with the introduction of the MS 290. Since then, STIHL has used the “MS” prefix for all of their chainsaw model numbers, with each number referring to the chainsaw’s relative size and power.

For example, some common STIHL chainsaw models and their meanings include:

  • MS 170 – Small homeowner saw with 30cc engine
  • MS 250 – Mid-size landowner saw with 45cc engine
  • MS 361 – Professional 60cc chainsaw
  • MS 461 – Large 79cc professional chainsaw

So in summary, “MS” simply stands for “MotorSäge”, which is German for chainsaw. The numbers after “MS” denote the relative size, power, and features of that particular STIHL chainsaw model.

History of STIHL Chainsaws

STIHL was founded in 1926 by Andreas Stihl in Stuttgart, Germany. The company originally produced a single product – the “Tree Felling Machine”, which was one of the first gasoline-powered chainsaws.

In 1929, the company was renamed STIHL, an abbreviation for “Stihl Tree Service”. The early STIHL chainsaws were given model numbers prefixed by “A” such as the A1 and A2.

In 1937, STIHL began experimenting with using “MS” for chainsaw model numbers, with one of the first being the MS 290. However, the company did not fully adopt the “MS” naming convention until the early 1970s.

Some of STIHL’s most iconic and popular chainsaw models over the years have included:

  • MS 290 – Introduced in 1970, one of STIHL’s first “MS” models
  • MS 360 – Best-selling professional chainsaw in the 1980s
  • MS 361 – Updated version of the 360 introduced in 1998
  • MS 200T – Top handle chainsaw introduced in 1982
  • MS 441 – Leading professional model since 2010

Today, STIHL produces over 170 chainsaw models bearing the “MS” prefix, ranging from compact homeowner saws to high-performance professional models. The “MS” has become synonymous with STIHL’s reputation for quality and innovation in chainsaw technology.

Meaning of Numbers in STIHL MS Model Designations

The numbers after the “MS” prefix in STIHL chainsaw model numbers convey specific information about the engine size, power output, and intended use of that model. Here is an overview of what the numbers signify:

First Number – Engine Displacement

The first number in the model designation refers to the engine displacement or size of the chainsaw. This number approximately corresponds to the cubic centimeters (cc) of engine displacement:

Model Number Engine Size
MS 170 30cc engine
MS 250 45cc engine
MS 361 59cc engine

So a higher first number indicates a larger, more powerful engine. Professional-grade STIHL chainsaws typically start with 4, 5 or 6.

Second & Third Numbers – Series and Features

The second and third numbers in STIHL model designations represent the chainsaw series and features:

  • 0-49 – Homeowner/occasional use models
  • 50-79 – Landowner/farm use models
  • 80-99 – Professional use models

Higher numbers also may indicate a newer generation or series within a displacement class. For example, the MS 271 and MS 291 are newer versions of the 026 and 029 models respectively.

Other Suffixes – Chainsaw Variants

STIHL will sometimes add suffixes after the 3-digit model number to denote variations of the base saw, such as:

  • C – Comfort features
  • QW – Quiet cutting saw
  • T – Top handle saw for arborists

So an MS 201C is a comfort version of the MS 201 homeowner saw. Knowing the model number gives precise details on the chainsaw’s capabilities and intended usage.

Popular STIHL MS Chainsaw Models

Over the years, certain STIHL chainsaw models have stood out for their features, quality, and popularity among both casual and professional users. Some of the most popular historic and current STIHL MS models include:

MS 250 – Trusted Midsize Saw

The Stihl MS 250 is hugely popular for its combination of mid-range power and maneuverability. With a 45cc engine, 16-inch bar and reduced engine vibration, it tackles yard cleanup, storm damage and firewood cutting.

MS 290 – Legendary Work Saw

This was one of STIHL’s earliest “MS” models when introduced in 1970. Rugged and dependable, the 290 powers through storm damage cleanup and is a favorite of arborists.

MS 361 – Iconic Professional Saw

The MS 361 replaced the legendary 036 in 1998. With high torque and low weight, it became the chainsaw of choice for professional loggers, arborists and firefighters.

MS 441 – Leading Pro Model

STIHL’s most modern professional model, the 70cc MS 441 features a magnumpowered engine, air filtration and antivibration to dominate the most demanding cutting jobs.

MS 170 – Top Homeowner Saw

This 30cc chainsaw packs surprising cutting power into a compact body ideal for yardwork. Features like Quickstop chain braking made it STIHL’s top casual user model.

MS 211 – Rugged All-Around Saw

With a 35cc engine and toolless chain adjustments, the MS 211 tackles everything from back yard cutting to small farm and ranch jobs. It’s a perfect all-purpose chainsaw.

These saws represent the outstanding balance of performance, features and value that have made STIHL a leading chainsaw brand for both homeowners and professionals.

Use of “MS” By Other Manufacturers

The popularity of STIHL’s “MS” naming convention has led other chainsaw manufacturers to adopt similar model number systems:

  • Husqvarna uses “450” “455” and “460” to denote chainsaw engine size.
  • Echo chainsaws use “CS” prefixes like the CS-400 and CS-590.
  • Poulan and Craftsman often use a mix of letters and numbers like Poulan Pro PP4218.

However, no other chainsaw brand is as strongly associated with the “MS” model designation as STIHL. Most chainsaw experts agree that STIHL’s system offers an easy way to interpret key specs and capabilities across their extensive professional and consumer model lineup.

Notable STIHL MS Model Technologies

While known primarily for their chainsaws, the STIHL MS series has also pioneered many technologies that have improved power, safety, and ease of use:

Anti-Vibration System

Introduced on the MS 260 in 2002, this uses a rubber-mounted handlebar to dramatically reduce vibration levels during cutting.

IntelliCarbâ„ ̆

The MS 441 introduced this automatic compensation for air filtration loading, maintaining optimal airflow and engine power.

M-Tronicâ„ ̆

This electronic engine management system on models like the MS 500i optimizes ignition timing and fuel consumption as conditions change.

Quickstop Chain Brake

Allows chainsaw chains to stop in seconds if kickback occurs. First used on the MS 021 in 1984.

STIHL M-Tronic Engine System

Microprocessor-controlled fuel injection adjusts power output and fuel consumption, debuting on the MS 241 C-M in 2013.

These are just a few examples of STIHL’s culture of continuous innovation to boost performance, safety, and ease of use across the MS chainsaw line.

Significance and Legacy of STIHL’s MS Model Line

The creation and evolution of STIHL’s MS chainsaw models have significantly impacted the timber cutting industry as well as homeowners and outdoor enthusiasts:

  • Established the first standardized chainsaw naming system.
  • Introduced professional-grade performance to “Prosumer” models for farm/ranch owners.
  • Pioneered low-vibration engine mounts for chainsaw comfort.
  • Set new standards for chainsaw safety with innovations like chain brakes.
  • Advanced environmental friendliness through fuel efficiency gains.
  • Expanded chainsaw versatility through purpose-built models for homeowner, professional, and specialty use.

Today the “MS” prefix enjoys instant recognition among chainsaw users worldwide. For both professional loggers and weekend warriors, it represents STIHL’s enduring passion for no-compromise chainsaw engineering.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did STIHL chainsaws start using the “MS” model designation?

STIHL first used “MS” chainsaw model numbers sparingly in the late 1930s. However the company did not adopt “MS” across its chainsaw lineup until the early 1970s beginning with models like the MS 290.

What is the difference between STIHL model numbers like MS 460 and MS 460 R?

The “R” designation indicates a chainsaw with a wrap-handle rear bar. So the MS 460 R features a full wrap-around front and rear handlebar for specialized cutting jobs.

Why don’t STIHL model numbers match the engine displacement exactly?

Engine displacement numbers are usually “rounded” in STIHL model numbers. So an MS 362 has a 59cc engine, not a 62cc. This simplifies model names while still indicating general engine class.

Does STIHL makeCutoff saws?

Yes, STIHL’s cutoff saws or “quick cut” saws use model numbers like TS 400 and TS 700. They are optimized for fast, straight-line cuts in materials like concrete, metal or pipe.

What is the most powerful chainsaw STIHL makes?

Currently the MS 881 chainsaw is STIHL’s most powerful model at 121cc and 9.4 horsepower. It is designed for full-time professional use in demanding applications like logging.

Conclusion

The STIHL MS model line represents over 50 years of continuing innovation in chainsaw technology. Since its humble beginnings in the MS 290, it has come to define professional-grade performance for loggers, arborists and serious outdoor enthusiasts.

From the legendary 041 to industry-leading modern saws like the MS 500i, the “MS” prefix sets the standard for quality, durability and cutting effectiveness. Whether you’re a homeowner or make your living with a chainsaw, the MS models remain an iconic symbol of STIHL’s engineering excellence.