{"reviews":[{"id":7589017,"locale":"en_US","rating":5,"title":"It’s a hot rod!!","text":"Converted to 3/8 drive.running a 25 inch bar. 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Overall very happy with it. I got the 20” bar and it is an improvement over my old 16” for sure. Although I think I’d be happy with an 18” bc it seems I’m always trying to make sure the 20” isn’t contacting the ground when bucking up logs? Starts very easy. Don’t find that I need the compression release button at all. Love the captured bar nuts! So far I give it a 4 out of 5 bc it does bog down while cutting 12”-16” logs. But that’s with heavy white oak timber so most saws would if you try to rush it. I went with the 261 bc of the extra metal construction/component's. It’s a lot of money to spend but hopefully at 61 years old, it’ll b my last saw. 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Not having to mess with the carburetor is such a plus for me as I change elevation quite a lot.","textLength":157,"csFlag":false,"inappropriateFlag":false,"reviewedFlag":false,"autoModerated":false,"published":true,"incentivized":false,"upVotes":0,"downVotes":0,"orderId":null,"dimensions":[],"responses":[],"tags":[],"media":{"photo":[],"video":[],"audio":[]},"user":{"nickName":"Ralphyzf","firstName":null,"lastName":null,"emailAddress":null,"externalId":null,"city":null,"state":null,"country":null,"ageRange":null,"badge":null,"shopperProfiles":[]},"reviewedDate":null,"purchaseDate":null,"dateCreated":"2025-11-15T00:00:00-05:00","customData":[],"incentiveType":null,"campaign":null,"deviceFingerprint":null,"topics":[{"name":"chainsaw weight","score":0.54},{"name":"power-to-weight ratio","score":0.48}],"syndication":{"sourceName":"Stihl","siteUrl":"https://www.stihlusa.com/","logoUrl":"https://images.turnto.com/site/syndicationlogos/5152_LH48.png"},"catalogItems":[{"sku":"997000-11412000607","title":"STIHL MS 261 C-M 18 in. 50.2 cc Gas Chainsaw Tool Only","url":"https://www.scheels.com/p/997000-11412000607","category":"chainsaws-and-pole-saws","reviewCount":772,"ratingCount":772,"averageRating":4.6,"ratingBreakdown":{"1":45,"2":13,"3":12,"4":57,"5":645},"active":true,"attributes":[]}]},{"id":7487704,"locale":"en_US","rating":4,"title":"Cuts great like a new saw should","text":"Pressure relief for the cylinder is a good feature. The starting procedure takes a little getting used to but overall I’m pleased with the performance. 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After reading reviews and watching hours of videos on you-tube I spent the extra money and got myself the MS261C-M. I’ve only made it through the break in period and have bucked up a pretty good sized maple with amazing results. There’s so much throttle left that I still haven’t touched. Looking forward to attacking some walnut tomorrow, this thing runs like a dream!","textLength":413,"csFlag":false,"inappropriateFlag":false,"reviewedFlag":false,"autoModerated":false,"published":true,"incentivized":true,"upVotes":0,"downVotes":0,"orderId":null,"dimensions":[],"responses":[],"tags":[],"media":{"photo":[],"video":[],"audio":[]},"user":{"nickName":"nstotes","firstName":null,"lastName":null,"emailAddress":null,"externalId":null,"city":"Iowa","state":null,"country":null,"ageRange":null,"badge":null,"shopperProfiles":[]},"reviewedDate":null,"purchaseDate":null,"dateCreated":"2025-10-29T00:00:00-04:00","customData":[],"incentiveType":null,"campaign":null,"deviceFingerprint":null,"topics":[],"syndication":{"sourceName":"Stihl","siteUrl":"https://www.stihlusa.com/","logoUrl":"https://images.turnto.com/site/syndicationlogos/5152_LH48.png"},"catalogItems":[{"sku":"997000-11412000607","title":"STIHL MS 261 C-M 18 in. 50.2 cc Gas Chainsaw Tool Only","url":"https://www.scheels.com/p/997000-11412000607","category":"chainsaws-and-pole-saws","reviewCount":772,"ratingCount":772,"averageRating":4.6,"ratingBreakdown":{"1":45,"2":13,"3":12,"4":57,"5":645},"active":true,"attributes":[]}]},{"id":7487703,"locale":"en_US","rating":4,"title":"Why the rush on the review?","text":"I only had a few weeks to use the saw in order to meet the deadline for the $500 drawing, so I can only comment on short-term evaluation. I sure hope it lasts as long as my previous Jonsereds. So far, I am very pleased with it. No problems starting, idles well, and cuts very well. Due to proximity to structures and power lines, I had to have a large maple cut down by professionals but am handling the final transformation into firewood myself. I am glad I opted for the 20-inch bar. It does seem to use a bit more gas than I am used to, but it is also surprisingly light for such a powerful saw. I almost never give five stars as I believe most things rated always still have something that could be improved. For this saw, I just can't give it five stars if it could crap out next week - check back with me in ten years! It was also kind of expensive, but I guess that sticker shock impression is what happens when you go so long between buying new saws.","textLength":958,"csFlag":false,"inappropriateFlag":false,"reviewedFlag":false,"autoModerated":false,"published":true,"incentivized":true,"upVotes":0,"downVotes":0,"orderId":null,"dimensions":[],"responses":[],"tags":[],"media":{"photo":[],"video":[],"audio":[]},"user":{"nickName":"Nickname for review","firstName":null,"lastName":null,"emailAddress":null,"externalId":null,"city":"North of 45'th parallel","state":null,"country":null,"ageRange":null,"badge":null,"shopperProfiles":[]},"reviewedDate":null,"purchaseDate":null,"dateCreated":"2025-10-27T00:00:00-04:00","customData":[],"incentiveType":null,"campaign":null,"deviceFingerprint":null,"topics":[{"name":"easy starting","score":0.44},{"name":"wood cutting","score":0.5},{"name":"bar length","score":0.6},{"name":"firewood","score":0.59},{"name":"cutting performance","score":0.4},{"name":"fuel efficiency","score":0.41}],"syndication":{"sourceName":"Stihl","siteUrl":"https://www.stihlusa.com/","logoUrl":"https://images.turnto.com/site/syndicationlogos/5152_LH48.png"},"catalogItems":[{"sku":"997000-11412000607","title":"STIHL MS 261 C-M 18 in. 50.2 cc Gas Chainsaw Tool Only","url":"https://www.scheels.com/p/997000-11412000607","category":"chainsaws-and-pole-saws","reviewCount":772,"ratingCount":772,"averageRating":4.6,"ratingBreakdown":{"1":45,"2":13,"3":12,"4":57,"5":645},"active":true,"attributes":[]}]},{"id":7401813,"locale":"en_US","rating":5,"title":"Powerful but lightweight.","text":"After a lot of research, I bought this saw and am very happy with it. Powerful tool that made quick work of some downed trees but lightweight and easy to use for extended cutting.","textLength":179,"csFlag":false,"inappropriateFlag":false,"reviewedFlag":false,"autoModerated":false,"published":true,"incentivized":true,"upVotes":0,"downVotes":0,"orderId":null,"dimensions":[],"responses":[],"tags":[],"media":{"photo":[],"video":[],"audio":[]},"user":{"nickName":"sgreen403","firstName":null,"lastName":null,"emailAddress":null,"externalId":null,"city":null,"state":null,"country":null,"ageRange":null,"badge":null,"shopperProfiles":[]},"reviewedDate":null,"purchaseDate":null,"dateCreated":"2025-10-26T00:00:00-04:00","customData":[],"incentiveType":null,"campaign":null,"deviceFingerprint":null,"topics":[{"name":"wood cutting","score":0.52},{"name":"cutting performance","score":0.42},{"name":"power-to-weight ratio","score":0.45}],"syndication":{"sourceName":"Stihl","siteUrl":"https://www.stihlusa.com/","logoUrl":"https://images.turnto.com/site/syndicationlogos/5152_LH48.png"},"catalogItems":[{"sku":"997000-11412000607","title":"STIHL MS 261 C-M 18 in. 50.2 cc Gas Chainsaw Tool Only","url":"https://www.scheels.com/p/997000-11412000607","category":"chainsaws-and-pole-saws","reviewCount":772,"ratingCount":772,"averageRating":4.6,"ratingBreakdown":{"1":45,"2":13,"3":12,"4":57,"5":645},"active":true,"attributes":[]}]},{"id":7397863,"locale":"en_US","rating":5,"title":"Love the Saw","text":"Bought 2 months ago, switched to Stihl from another brand, starts right up and has awesome power. Purchasing a second one soon.","textLength":127,"csFlag":false,"inappropriateFlag":false,"reviewedFlag":false,"autoModerated":false,"published":true,"incentivized":true,"upVotes":0,"downVotes":0,"orderId":null,"dimensions":[],"responses":[],"tags":[],"media":{"photo":[],"video":[],"audio":[]},"user":{"nickName":"Tjkokoska","firstName":null,"lastName":null,"emailAddress":null,"externalId":null,"city":null,"state":null,"country":null,"ageRange":null,"badge":null,"shopperProfiles":[]},"reviewedDate":null,"purchaseDate":null,"dateCreated":"2025-10-24T00:00:00-04:00","customData":[],"incentiveType":null,"campaign":null,"deviceFingerprint":null,"topics":[],"syndication":{"sourceName":"Stihl","siteUrl":"https://www.stihlusa.com/","logoUrl":"https://images.turnto.com/site/syndicationlogos/5152_LH48.png"},"catalogItems":[{"sku":"997000-11412000607","title":"STIHL MS 261 C-M 18 in. 50.2 cc Gas Chainsaw Tool Only","url":"https://www.scheels.com/p/997000-11412000607","category":"chainsaws-and-pole-saws","reviewCount":772,"ratingCount":772,"averageRating":4.6,"ratingBreakdown":{"1":45,"2":13,"3":12,"4":57,"5":645},"active":true,"attributes":[]}]},{"id":7378025,"locale":"en_US","rating":5,"title":"Rock solid saw","text":"I’ve got a few of these and they’re very strong solid saws. All have tons of usage and a lot of hours. Two of them cut trees every day for 3 months straight during hurricane michael and still going today.","textLength":204,"csFlag":false,"inappropriateFlag":false,"reviewedFlag":false,"autoModerated":false,"published":true,"incentivized":true,"upVotes":0,"downVotes":0,"orderId":null,"dimensions":[],"responses":[],"tags":[],"media":{"photo":[],"video":[],"audio":[]},"user":{"nickName":"Cca205","firstName":null,"lastName":null,"emailAddress":null,"externalId":null,"city":null,"state":null,"country":null,"ageRange":null,"badge":null,"shopperProfiles":[]},"reviewedDate":null,"purchaseDate":null,"dateCreated":"2025-10-20T00:00:00-04:00","customData":[],"incentiveType":null,"campaign":null,"deviceFingerprint":null,"topics":[{"name":"wood cutting","score":0.42},{"name":"chainsaw weight","score":0.42}],"syndication":{"sourceName":"Stihl","siteUrl":"https://www.stihlusa.com/","logoUrl":"https://images.turnto.com/site/syndicationlogos/5152_LH48.png"},"catalogItems":[{"sku":"997000-11412000607","title":"STIHL MS 261 C-M 18 in. 50.2 cc Gas Chainsaw Tool Only","url":"https://www.scheels.com/p/997000-11412000607","category":"chainsaws-and-pole-saws","reviewCount":772,"ratingCount":772,"averageRating":4.6,"ratingBreakdown":{"1":45,"2":13,"3":12,"4":57,"5":645},"active":true,"attributes":[]}]},{"id":7378024,"locale":"en_US","rating":5,"title":"Nice powerful chainsaw, works great!","text":"This is my first gas-powered chainsaw so I don't have a point of comparison, but I have been very happy with the MS-261 C-M. The weight is not bad for the amount of power you get. The design is clearly well thought out and the engineering is of high quality.\r\nIt takes a bit of practice to start it efficiently from cold, I find a slow pull before quick pulls helps, but it still takes 4 pulls or so. At least the pulls are easy thanks to the decompression valve.\r\nI've only owned it for about 6 months but have cut a ton of dead/fallen trees with it and it is going strong.","textLength":574,"csFlag":false,"inappropriateFlag":false,"reviewedFlag":false,"autoModerated":false,"published":true,"incentivized":true,"upVotes":0,"downVotes":0,"orderId":null,"dimensions":[],"responses":[],"tags":[],"media":{"photo":[],"video":[],"audio":[]},"user":{"nickName":"Jazzik","firstName":null,"lastName":null,"emailAddress":null,"externalId":null,"city":"New York","state":null,"country":null,"ageRange":null,"badge":null,"shopperProfiles":[]},"reviewedDate":null,"purchaseDate":null,"dateCreated":"2025-10-20T00:00:00-04:00","customData":[],"incentiveType":null,"campaign":null,"deviceFingerprint":null,"topics":[{"name":"chainsaw weight","score":0.65},{"name":"power-to-weight ratio","score":0.72}],"syndication":{"sourceName":"Stihl","siteUrl":"https://www.stihlusa.com/","logoUrl":"https://images.turnto.com/site/syndicationlogos/5152_LH48.png"},"catalogItems":[{"sku":"997000-11412000607","title":"STIHL MS 261 C-M 18 in. 50.2 cc Gas Chainsaw Tool Only","url":"https://www.scheels.com/p/997000-11412000607","category":"chainsaws-and-pole-saws","reviewCount":772,"ratingCount":772,"averageRating":4.6,"ratingBreakdown":{"1":45,"2":13,"3":12,"4":57,"5":645},"active":true,"attributes":[]}]}],"offset":0,"limit":10,"total":772}"Full Description:\nThe MS 261 C-M has all the same great features as the MS 261 - low exhaust emissions, high fuel efficiency and robust performance - but also features the advanced STIHL M-Tronic™ engine management system. With STIHL M-Tronic™, an onboard microprocessor digitally monitors and automatically compensates for changes in your work conditions including elevation, temperature, fuel quality, varying octane levels and dirty air filters. The end result is maximum performance across a wide range of cutting conditions without making any manual adjustments. The MS 261 C-M also features redesigned cylinders and a slimmer, ergonomic housing for an impressive power-to-weight ratio. \r\n \r\n Note:\n\nFeatures:\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Front hand guard is designed to reduce the risk of injury\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The side-access chain tensioner makes it much more convenient for the user to adjust the saw chain with a bar wrench as opposed to the typical location of the guide bar adjustment screw\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Anti-vibration system has developed a system for minimizing the vibration levels of handheld outdoor power equipment\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Pre-separation air filtration system time-saving technology boosts the efficiency of the engines filter system, doubling the time between air filter cleanings\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The decompression valve temporarily reduces the compression in the combustion chamber during cranking and helps reduce the effort needed to pull the starter rope\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Large starting handle is easy to grip\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Protected spark plug is protected, yet easy to change\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Front handle is designed for a secure grip and ergonomically angled for comfort\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Toolless fuel and oil caps with retainers simply lift the lever and twist the caps to remove or tighten\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Smooth clean design has no rough edges to snag on clothing or brush\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\nSpecifications:\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>UPC: 886661634804\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Part #: 11412000607\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Model #: MS 261 C-M\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Chain: .325" RM3\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Engine Displacement: 50.2 cubic centimetre\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Weight: 10 pounds\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>CHAIN OIL CAPACITY 9.3 oz.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>ENGINE POWER 4.0 bhp\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>DISPLACEMENT 3.06 cu. in.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Bar Length: 18 inch\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Antivibration Handle: Yes\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>CARB Compliant: Yes\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Engine Type: 2-Cycle\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Start Type: Pull Start\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Tension Adjustment Type: Quick-Adjust\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Powered By: Gas\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>FUEL CAPACITY 16.9 oz.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n"