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Selection Petrol chainsaws for forestry work

MS 261 C-M VW Chainsaw

Powerful 3.0 kW forestry chainsaw with Light 04 bar, fitted with electric carburettor heating and electrically heated handles

Overview

MS 261 C-M VW Chainsaw
MS 261 C-M VW Chainsaw
MS 261 C-M VW Chainsaw

The STIHL MS 261 C-M VW petrol chainsaw is the perfect tool for small to medium tree maintenance work. This new version features a newly designed Light 04 guide bar as well as the new .325” RS Pro saw chain for improved cutting performance. The high performance .325” saw chain provides up to 20% more cutting performance compared to its predecessor (.325” RS) due to the narrower kerf. This light and well-balanced saw delivers plenty of power, whilst the M-Tronic technology controls the fuel and air mix at all times so the machine is always at optimum performance. The STIHL anti-vibration system significantly reduces vibrations at the handles for comfortable use of this petrol chainsaw throughout your working day.


The MS 261 C-M is a versatile, professional petrol chainsaw allowing you to run a selection of different bar lengths to suit your needs. It also includes useful features such as the easy-clean HD2 filter, adjustable oil delivery to the bar and chain, stainless steel muffler and captive nuts on the sprocket cover. The 2-MIX technology in the MS 261 C-M petrol chainsaw ensures up to 20% less fuel consumption and up to 50% less emissions compared to the equivalent STIHL two-stroke engines without 2-MIX technology.


The MS 261 C-M VW comes fitted with electric carburettor heating and electrically heated handles for work in cold climates.

You can find videos showing you how to fill your machine with fuel and oil, fit bars and chains and start your chainsaw here.

£954.00*

Versions

Price

* Manufacturer's recommended retail price updated as of July 2021. The manufacturer's recommended retail prices are subject to change without notice.

The version(s) available in each country may differ from the above range and specifications; specific details may be subject to change without notice. Please ask your local STIHL Approved Dealer for further information.

Product variations

Technical data

MS 261 C-M VW

Technical data

Technical data Value
Displacement cm³ 50.2
Power output kW/bhp 3/4.1
Weight kg 1) 5.1
Power-to-weight ratio kg/kW 1.7
System weight kg 2) 6
CO2 g/kWh 705
Sound pressure level dB(A) 3) 105
Sound power level dB(A) 3) 116
Vibration values left/right m/s² 4) 3.5/3.5
Tank volume l 0.50
Speed at maximum power Um 10.000
Bumper spike Stahlkralle
Sprocket - number of teeth 7 Z
Cylinder Chrom
Oil pump einstellbar
Filter Langzeit Filtersystem (Vorabscheidung) / Patronenfilter HD2
Sprocket Ringkettenrad
Chain tensioning seitliche Kettenspannung
Anti vibration system AV+Stahlfeder
Handle type Elektrische Griffheizung
Filler cap WTV werkzeugloser Tankverschluss
Chain pitch .325"
EPA Certified fuel consumption glh 0.438
EPA Certified fuel consumption l/h 1.659
Oil tank volume cm3 270

1) Without fuel, without bar and chain
2) Unfueled, with guide bar and saw chain
3) K-factor according to DIR 2006/42/EC = 2.5 dB (A)
4) K-factor according to DIR 2006/42/EC = 2m / s ²

The version(s) available in each country may differ from the above range and specifications; specific details may be subject to change without notice. Please ask your local STIHL Approved Dealer for further information.

Features

MS 261 C-M VW

Standard features

  • STIHL M-Tronic (M) Zoom
    STIHL M-Tronic (M)

    This fully electronic engine management system adjusts ignition timing and fuel metering in all operating modes. It also takes external conditions such as temperature, altitude and fuel quality into account. It ensures consistent engine performance, a constant maximum speed and superb acceleration. M-Tronic makes manual carburettor adjustments unnecessary. Thanks to electronic cold/warm start recognition, now there is only one start position on the combi-lever. The engine starts after fewer pulls and with no change of position, and can immediately accelerate up to speed - even after a cold start. M-Tronic also remembers the settings from the last time the tool was used. So when external conditions are the same, optimal engine performance is available every time you start up again.

  • Heated handles (W) Zoom
    Heated handles (W)

    These provide additional comfort in cold weather and can be engaged with a switch on the left handle as required.

  • Carburetor heating Zoom
    Carburetor heating

    N/A

  • STIHL 2-MIX-Engine Zoom
    STIHL 2-MIX-Engine

    1-in-4 channel technology. The economical STIHL 2-MIX engine with 1-in-4channel technology features a high torque over a wide speed range. The chainsaw provides fuel savings of up to 20% compared to STIHL two-stroke engines in the same performance class without 2-MIX technology. Exhaust emissions are reduced by up to 50%.

  • HD2 filter Zoom
    HD2 filter

    The HD2 filter is made from polyethylene filter material with up to 70% finer pores than fleece and polyamide filters to trap even very fine dust. In addition, it is oil and water-repellent and thus very easy to clean. The PET-covered filter cartridge with quick-release lock enables the filter to be assembled and disassembled in next to no time, without using tools.

  • Decompression valve Zoom
    Decompression valve

    The decompression valve is part of the easy starting system. The valve should be pressed before starting to reduce the compression pressure when starting, as well as reducing the effort needed to pull the starter rope. The decompression valve is semi-automatic; it must be pressed manually before starting, but then closes automatically.

  • STIHL ElastoStart Zoom
    STIHL ElastoStart

    STIHL ElastoStart reduces the shock caused by the compression of the engine during starting. The compression shock is taken away from the user's joints and muscles through a spring or rubber element in the starter handle.

  • Side chain tensioner Zoom
    Side chain tensioner

    The tensioning screw can be found on the side of the chain saw through the sprocket cover. This removes the need for contact with the sharp saw chain.

  • Variable-displacement oil pump Zoom
    Variable-displacement oil pump

    Allows a precise, demand-based delivery of oil. It's possible to reduce oil production by up to 50% in the E position. For very long cutting attachments or very dry wood, an additional volume of oil can be added by the user. similar to illustration.

  • Tool free filler caps Zoom
    Tool free filler caps

    Special catches on the fuel and oil tanks for easy opening and locking without the need for tools.

  • Pre-separation air filtration system Zoom
    Pre-separation air filtration system

    STIHL long-life air filtration systems with pre-separation achieve perceptibly longer filter life compared with conventional filter systems. Air drawn in is swirled. The larger, heavier particles are ejected. The pre-cleaned air is routed to the air filter via the pre-separator duct.

  • Anti-vibration system Zoom
    Anti-vibration system

    Intense vibration at the handles of power tools can lead to long-term effects on blood vessels in the hands and arms. STIHL has therefore developed an effective anti-vibration system whereby the oscillations from the machine's engine are dampened which significantly reduces vibrations at the handles.

  • Combi lever Zoom
    Combi lever

    As M-Tronic has electronic cold and warm start recognition, only one start position is needed on the combi lever. The exact amount of fuel is supplied on demand. You do not need to know about the status of your chainsaw and can apply full throttle straight away - even with a cold start. Because the saw is warmed up by optimum acceleration in a few seconds.

  • Stop button function Zoom
    Stop button function

    After the machine is turned off, the control lever immediately moves back into the operating position. This allows a warm machine to be restarted again immediately.

  • Captive nuts Zoom
    Captive nuts

    When changing the cutting attachment, you will not risk losing the nuts on the sprocket. The MS 261 is the first STIHL chainsaw to be equipped with the captive nuts. A great advantage for all users.

  • Advanced combustion technology Zoom
    Advanced combustion technology

    Four overflow channels swirl the fuel-air mix before ignition, allowing for optimum combustion and highly efficient performance. The result is lower fuel consumption and high torque across a broad rpm range.

  • Carburettor heating (V) Zoom
    Carburettor heating (V)

    By changing the chain saw from summer to winter operation, the intake air is pre-heated over the engine fins. This ensures that the carburettor does not ice up and you can continue working in freezing temperatures.

  • Ematic chain lubrication system Zoom
    Ematic chain lubrication system

    The Ematic chain lubrication system ensures pinpoint lubrication of the saw chain links and guide bar rails. When used with STIHL OILOMATIC saw chain, it will provide maximum lubrication, longer wear and less oil consumption than conventional methods of chain lubrication. The Ematic system can reduce bar oil consumption by up to 50%.

The version(s) available in each country may differ from the above range and specifications; specific details may be subject to change without notice. Please ask your local STIHL Approved Dealer for further information.

Cutting Attachments

MS 261 C-M VW

Cutting Attachments

    • Light 04 Zoom
      Light 04

      The Light 04 is the first STIHL guide bar model to feature this new name and innovative design. The new Light 04 features a special construction that means you benefit from improved balance and therefore less fatigue when sawing, because this tool's slim contour means it weighs up to 200 g less than existing guide bars. The result is easier manoeuvrability during cutting, and agile chainsaw work. And the new design is more than just easy on the eye, as you can also read information about its properties and features directly on the bar. So you can always find the right combination of bar and chain for your STIHL chainsaw.

    Technical data Value
    Bar length 35cm/14",40cm/16",45cm/18"
    Groove width 1.3mm/.050"
    Sprocket pitch 8.25mm/.325"
    Number of teeth on the sprocket 10
    Bar type Stern-Rollomatic
    Bar connection 3.003

    Versions

    Price

    * Manufacturer's recommended retail price updated as of July 2021. The manufacturer's recommended retail prices are subject to change without notice.

    • Light 04 Zoom
      Light 04

      The Light 04 is the first STIHL guide bar model to feature this new name and innovative design. The new Light 04 features a special construction that means you benefit from improved balance and therefore less fatigue when sawing, because this tool's slim contour means it weighs up to 200 g less than existing guide bars. The result is easier manoeuvrability during cutting, and agile chainsaw work. And the new design is more than just easy on the eye, as you can also read information about its properties and features directly on the bar. So you can always find the right combination of bar and chain for your STIHL chainsaw.

    Technical data Value
    Bar length 35cm/14",40cm/16",45cm/18"
    Groove width 1.3mm/.050"
    Sprocket pitch 8.25mm/.325"
    Number of teeth on the sprocket 10
    Bar type Stern-Rollomatic
    Bar connection 3.003

    Versions

    Price

    * Manufacturer's recommended retail price updated as of July 2021. The manufacturer's recommended retail prices are subject to change without notice.

    • Light 04 Zoom
      Light 04

      The Light 04 is the first STIHL guide bar model to feature this new name and innovative design. The new Light 04 features a special construction that means you benefit from improved balance and therefore less fatigue when sawing, because this tool's slim contour means it weighs up to 200 g less than existing guide bars. The result is easier manoeuvrability during cutting, and agile chainsaw work. And the new design is more than just easy on the eye, as you can also read information about its properties and features directly on the bar. So you can always find the right combination of bar and chain for your STIHL chainsaw.

    Technical data Value
    Bar length 35cm/14",40cm/16",45cm/18"
    Groove width 1.3mm/.050"
    Sprocket pitch 8.25mm/.325"
    Number of teeth on the sprocket 10
    Bar type Stern-Rollomatic
    Bar connection 3.003

    Versions

    Price

    * Manufacturer's recommended retail price updated as of July 2021. The manufacturer's recommended retail prices are subject to change without notice.

    • Rapid Micro 3 Pro (RM3) Zoom
      Rapid Micro 3 Pro (RM3)

      Minimum-vibration saw chain, high cut quality, sturdy, and low chatter. The new high-performance saw chain in the .325" chain pitch and 1.3 mm drive link thickness is suitable for felling, delimbing, sawing firewood, and maintaining young stands. Its narrower saw kerf enables the .325" Pro to achieve up to 20% better cutting performance in comparison with the previous .325" saw chains in this drive link thickness.

    Technical data Value
    Chain pitch 8.25mm/.325"
    Pitch .325 inch
    Drive link gauge 1.3 mm
    Drive link thickness 1.3mm/.050"
    Required File size 4.8mm / 3/16"

    Versions

    Price
    • Rapid Micro 3 Pro (RM3) .325", 1.3 mm, 60 drive links, 35 cm / 14" £31.45*
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    * Manufacturer's recommended retail price updated as of July 2021. The manufacturer's recommended retail prices are subject to change without notice.

    • Rapid Micro 3 Pro (RM3) Zoom
      Rapid Micro 3 Pro (RM3)

      Minimum-vibration saw chain, high cut quality, sturdy, and low chatter. The new high-performance saw chain in the .325" chain pitch and 1.3 mm drive link thickness is suitable for felling, delimbing, sawing firewood, and maintaining young stands. Its narrower saw kerf enables the .325" Pro to achieve up to 20% better cutting performance in comparison with the previous .325" saw chains in this drive link thickness.

    Technical data Value
    Chain pitch 8.25mm/.325"
    Pitch .325 inch
    Drive link gauge 1.3 mm
    Drive link thickness 1.3mm/.050"
    Required File size 4.8mm / 3/16"

    Versions

    Price
    • Rapid Micro 3 Pro (RM3) .325", 1.3 mm, 67 drive links, 40 cm / 16" £35.55*
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    * Manufacturer's recommended retail price updated as of July 2021. The manufacturer's recommended retail prices are subject to change without notice.

    • Rapid Micro 3 Pro (RM3) Zoom
      Rapid Micro 3 Pro (RM3)

      Minimum-vibration saw chain, high cut quality, sturdy, and low chatter. The new high-performance saw chain in the .325" chain pitch and 1.3 mm drive link thickness is suitable for felling, delimbing, sawing firewood, and maintaining young stands. Its narrower saw kerf enables the .325" Pro to achieve up to 20% better cutting performance in comparison with the previous .325" saw chains in this drive link thickness.

    Technical data Value
    Chain pitch 8.25mm/.325"
    Pitch .325 inch
    Drive link gauge 1.3 mm
    Drive link thickness 1.3mm/.050"
    Required File size 4.8mm / 3/16"

    Versions

    Price
    • Rapid Micro 3 Pro (RM3) .325", 1.3 mm, 74 drive links, 45 cm / 18" £39.70*
      Save and compare

    * Manufacturer's recommended retail price updated as of July 2021. The manufacturer's recommended retail prices are subject to change without notice.

The version(s) available in each country may differ from the above range and specifications; specific details may be subject to change without notice. Please ask your local STIHL Approved Dealer for further information.

Accessories

MS 261 C-M VW

Accessories

    • MotoMix Zoom
      MotoMix

      STIHL MotoMix is our patented premixed fuel, specially blended for ultimate performance. This 50:1 mixture is a combination of premium non-ethanol, high-octane motor fuel and our highest quality STIHL HP Ultra oil. It also stays fresh in your equipment over extended storage periods.

    Technical data Value
    Shelf life up to 5 Years

    Versions

    Price

    * Manufacturer's recommended retail price updated as of July 2021. The manufacturer's recommended retail prices are subject to change without notice.

    • ForestPlus chain oil Zoom
      ForestPlus chain oil

      Based on high-quality mineral oils, ForestPlus is suitable for use with all chainsaws, including harvesters. ForestPlus delivers reliable chain lubrication and no resin build up, even during prolonged down times.

    Versions

    Price

    * Manufacturer's recommended retail price updated as of July 2021. The manufacturer's recommended retail prices are subject to change without notice.

    • HP Ultra 2-stroke engine oil Zoom
      HP Ultra 2-stroke engine oil

      Fully synthetic oil with exceptional lubrication properties. Burns with extremely low residue due to ash-free additive. Suitable for continuous use under the most demanding engine conditions. Performance class: JASO-FB, ISO-L-EGB. Fuel/oil ratio 50:1. Recommended for STIHL 4-MIX engines.

    Versions

    Price

    * Manufacturer's recommended retail price updated as of July 2021. The manufacturer's recommended retail prices are subject to change without notice.

    • Varioclean Zoom
      Varioclean

      Water based, alkaline detergent specifically for dissolving and removing burnt-in resin and oil residue from your machine, and cleaning your tool’s housing, HD2 filter, wire mesh filter or PA filter. The detergent is biodegradable. Avoid contact with the eyes and keep out of reach of children.

      To use Varioclean, first wait for your machine to cool down. Then, spray it onto the surface of the part you are cleaning and leave it for a maximum of 5 minutes, so the cleaner is not allowed to dry. Then, wash it off with water and wipe with a cloth to dry. We recommend you wear safety glasses when doing this.

    Technical data Value
    Shelf life 3 Years
    Biodegradable Yes

    Versions

    Price

    * Manufacturer's recommended retail price updated as of July 2021. The manufacturer's recommended retail prices are subject to change without notice.

The version(s) available in each country may differ from the above range and specifications; specific details may be subject to change without notice. Please ask your local STIHL Approved Dealer for further information.

Documents

Owners manuals and safety brochures

Languages Date Link
manual icon en 04/05/2021
Download PDF 3 MB
Download PDF 3 MB