In this article, I’m going to talk about the Stihl MS170 – MS181. These chainsaws are designed for the occasional use to chop up limbs and branches around the yard, or other miscellaneous items that just need to be cut up. Classified by Stihl as Homeowner Chainsaws, but on the lower end. A lot of them have the same features between models, but the real reason for stepping up in models is the difference in horsepower.
The two models that stands out the most, and which most of our Salesmen love preaching about are the MS180C and MS181C. For the typical Homeowner this saw will take care of any problems you have. Except your neighbor Gary’s Ankle-Biter, who just can’t stop and won’t stop barking. But any fallen limbs you need cut up for the bonfire you’re having with your friends next weekend, count on the MS180C or MS181C of Stihl.
With these models, there are a few features that will make your life a whole lot easier. Starting with the Easy2Start system, cranking this system is so easy I can do it with two fingers. Additionally, you won’t have to stand there and yank until you get arms like Arnold. All it is, is just a quick long pull after you prime the motor and make your adjustments on the choke. It’s really as easy as that. If you don’t believe me, or just want to try it out yourself, come on over to Farm Services in Downtown Graham and we’d love to give you a little test drive.
On top of that, these models have something called Toolless Quick Chain Adjuster (QCA) and Stihl Rollomatic. Unlike the adjusters other maker’s use, the QCA adjusts the tightness of the chain in three steps without the risk of losing a tool. Sort of how you lose your 10mm socket whenever you need it, or whatever tool you need, that’s just the way of the universe. All you have to do is lift the circular QCA tab and loosen it counter-clockwise, adjust the sprocket knob just above the QCA tab, and then tighten the tab going clockwise. It’ll only take you 30 seconds as compared to the five, ten, fifteen plus minutes it would take to find that forsaken tool.
Now we shift focus to the Rollomatic. This optional feature takes a few inches off the end of the guide bars and lightens the overall weight by 30%! So, if taking a look at these models at the shop, and its just slightly heavier than you’d like or than what comfortable, then go with the Rollomatic to fit you and the way you do things.
At the end of the day, that’s what really matters. If you want things done a certain way, there should be a way to get what you want. If I want a left-handed football, then by the Grace of God there should be a way to get a left-handed football. What will I do with it? I don’t know, probably just mount it over the fireplace to mess with people. But the principle of the matter remains, and that what the people at Stihl are working hard to accomplish, and I don’t know about y’all but I sure can see it.