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Home » Stihl vs Husqvarna: Chainsaw Comparison & Results

Stihl vs Husqvarna: Chainsaw Comparison & Results

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Finding the best tool for the task is always tricky. Will the product arrive in one piece? Would it perform as expected in your test run? Would it hold up well? Or would it fall apart months down the road? We at ProToolGuide believe that finding dependable brands is crucial. We’re here to recommend you reliable brands that consistently deliver. That way, you can relax and put your trust in them.

Through thorough testing and discussion, we’ve chosen ONE from ten chainsaws to be crowned champion. In this article, we decided to focus on a Stihl vs Husqvarna brand comparison. We tested 5 chainsaws from each brand, and picked the best of each brand too.

When both brands have stellar reputations, how do you choose? Which is more suitable, and to who? We wanted to find out. We’ve decided to do our due diligence, lay out all our findings, and give you our expert opinion.

Our Top Picks

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Company History: Husqvarna vs Stihl

Both brands differ in their history and experience with chainsaws. Here’s a brief comparison.

Huqsvarna

Huqsvarna is a Swedish company known for manufacturing outdoor power products. It was founded way back in 1689. The brand has since expanded to serve over 100 countries worldwide.

Their manufacturing unit only started its focus on chainsaws later in the years. Namely, when it was acquired by Electrolux in 1978. Since then, it has grown consistently in its size and reputation as a company. It remains highly recognised for its innovative technologies.

Stihl

Stihl, on the other hand, is a German company that was founded in 1926. It claims to be the best chainsaw brand, and not without good reason. It is the only company which manufactures its own chains and guide bars.

They designed the first hand-built electric powered chainsaw in 1926. Since then, their chainsaws have boomed in popularity. They have retained their title of being the best in business till date.

Comparison Chart: Stihl vs Husqvarna Chainsaws

Before we go any further, we would like to make it clear that both Stihl and Huqsvarna chainsaws are top of the line. You wouldn’t go wrong with choosing either, even at random! But, you may wonder, which brand is most suited precisely to your needs? Read ahead for our detailed comparison.

Similarities

  • Both of them have chain brakes, easily accessible fuel & oil systems, and low kickback chains
  • To keep both the air and air filter clean, their Smart Air Filtration Systems have a unique centrifugal design
  • Both chainsaws have a vibration dampening feature that reduces fatigue while operating
  • check Side adjustment makes blade tension easy to change
  • check Provide great safety features, and receive lots of praise from customers too

Differences

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EXPERT TIP

One of the big arguments between Stihl and Husqvarna, is that Stihl saws have more torque. But the ‘push’ and power of a saw depends on many factors. Consider RPM, HP, and whether the chain is well-lubricated. Not to mention, one brand does not consistently outperform the other in torque. Nonetheless, I find that my huskies run through wood like butter. This makes them great for a long day’s work.


Emily | Pro Tool Guide

Husqvarna 460 Rancher vs Stihl MS 311

The Husqvarna 460 Rancher is truly an all-round chainsaw. For a relatively lightweight saw, it sure packs quite a punch! The ergonomic design makes it easy to handle, even through a long day’s work.

It comes with a 60cc motor that can cut through almost anything. Firewood, maple, oak, locust, you just name it! We have even ran this saw for up to 5 hours a day, and it didn’t bog down once.

We own two of these (one is 3 years old and the other, 1 year old). You need not fret about durability– the chains, the air filters and spark plugs still run smoothly. We had to change the carburettor however, and that is a common issue.

Some unique features include the X-TORQ, which reduces the fuel emission levels, the Air Injection, which keeps the air filters clean, the LowVib, which reduces vibrations while in operation, and the SmartStart, which ensures easy startup.

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As for Stihls, we love the Stihl MS 311, which is an improved version of the previous MS 291 model. It has a 59cc improved engine motor that produces 4.2HP.

It has a larger fuel tank and oil tank than the Husqvarna. This saw too holds up to long hours of extended use. It weighs around 14 pounds– not too heavy for a saw for its power. You can move this one around with just some effort.

We noticed that the large chain makes work quick, even on large trees and pieces of wood. The bars are compatible up to 25″. With this saw, Stihl sticks true to its reputation for durability and performance. We’ve had this saw with us for 4 years and counting. And still, its performance is solid. This means you actually save money in the long run, as compared to getting a cheaper but inferior saw.

Other features include: Air filtration, Anti-vibration systems, a decompression valve (for easy startup), and side-access chain tensioner (for easy adjustment of saw chain with a bar wrench).

Final Verdict – Husqvarna Wins?

With this, we come to the end of our comparison between Stihl and Husqvarna chainsaws.

We feel that lumber cutters and loggers may prefer Stihl chainsaws. On the other hand, farmers and homeowners may prefer Husqvarna chainsaws. Nonetheless, a lot comes down to the exact model of chainsaw you choose. No matter what, the cutting quality of both brands are great anyway. Both saws pack powerful motors, and high-quality parts that hold up to use.

If you can, try to test run chainsaws from both brands. This may tell you which you prefer the ‘feel’ of. Also consider the area you will be using it in, and your preferred budget. Both brands have a large range, from super-lightweight saws for casual use, to heavy-duty saws for professionals.

Nonetheless, we think that Husqvarna takes a slight edge over Stihl in general. The test results, and our prior experience, suggest so.

One more advantage to buying Huskies, is that you can buy them online. No need to even get off your couch to order a Husky! Stihl wants every dealer to put out a hands-on review, and give basic training too. Sure, this may seem inconvenient to you. But if you wish to test a saw and be very reassured of its quality, this may be a plus to you. Plus, these rules demonstrate the brand’s commitment to your safety too.

We hope this article helped you to clear your doubts. If not, feel free to drop a comment below. We’d be happy to help you out.

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