In this Stihl MS 250 review, I will share why this saw became my go-to tool. I remember the exact day my small electric saw failed me. A big storm had passed through. A large oak tree blocked my driveway. Winter was coming fast. My little saw just could not handle it. I needed something with real guts.
That is when I found the Stihl MS 250.
This saw is not for pros who climb tall trees all day. It is for people like us. It is for homeowners with a big yard or a wood stove to feed. It runs on gas. It is loud. And it is strong.
When I first took it out of the box, it felt solid. It did not feel like a toy. It felt like a tool ready to work.
Quick Specs
Here are the numbers you need to know.
| Feature | The Details |
| Engine | 45.4 cc Gas (2-Cycle) |
| Power | 3.0 bhp |
| Bar Size | 18 inches |
| Weight | 10.1 lbs (No fuel or bar) |
| Chain Type | .325 pitch |
| Warranty | 1 Year |
Key Features: What You Get
The list of specs is fine. But here is what they mean for you.
The Starter: This saw has a standard pull cord. It does not have a “spring assist” to help you pull. You will feel the engine fight back a bit. It reminds you that this is a powerful machine.
Side Chain Screw: I love this feature. You adjust the chain tension from the side. The screw is right between the two nuts. You do not have to put your hand near the sharp chain on the front. It is much safer.
Automatic Oiler: You cannot adjust the oil flow. It pumps oil on its own. For cutting firewood, this is perfect. It is one less thing to worry about.
Performance: How Does It Cut?
This is the part that matters most. I took the saw to that fallen oak tree. Oak is very hard wood. It tests a saw.
The Cut Test: I pushed the 18-inch bar into the log. The wood chips flew. The MS 250 runs very fast. Some small saws stop if you push too hard. This one did not stop. It kept eating the wood. It felt stronger than I expected for its size.
Speed: It is snappy. When you hit the trigger, the chain speeds up right away. This is great for cutting small branches. You can go from branch to branch very fast.
Gas Usage: I cut wood for about 40 minutes on one tank. It is not the best on gas. But it trades gas mileage for power. I will take the power any day.
Handling: How Does It Feel?
Chainsaws are heavy. If they hurt your hands, you will get tired. Accidents happen when you are tired.
The Shaking: This is an old design. It uses rubber parts to stop the shaking. It does not use the smooth steel springs found on new saws. After an hour, my hands tingled a little bit. It is not bad, but you will feel it.
Balance: The balance is great. The saw sits flat in your hand. The heavy bar does not tip forward. This makes it easy to carry around the yard.
Care and Use
I like to fix my own tools. I look for saws that are easy to work on.
The Air Filter: You do not need tools to reach the filter. You just twist a knob on the back. The cover pops off. The filter is right there. You can wash it with soap and water.
The Caps: Stihl uses “flippy caps” for the gas and oil. You flip up a tab and twist. I have a love-hate relationship with them. They are easy to use with gloves. But be careful. If you do not line them up right, they will leak.
Safety Features
Stihl did a good job here. The chain brake is fast. If the saw kicks back at you, the brake stops the chain instantly. There is also a plastic guard on the bottom. If the chain snaps, this guard protects your legs.
The Good and The Bad
Pros
- Power: It is light but very strong.
- Proven: This model has been around for years. It works.
- Parts: You can find spare parts anywhere.
Cons
- Flooding: It can be hard to start if you are not careful.
- Shaking: It vibrates more than new, expensive saws.
- Cold Starts: It takes a minute to warm up on cold days.
The Verdict
The Stihl MS 250 is my top pick.
It is not the fanciest saw you can buy. It does not have heated handles. But when I pull the cord, it starts. When I touch wood, it cuts.
If you need to cut firewood for winter, buy this saw. It is the best value for the money. Just learn how to start it right, and it will last you for a long time.
FAQs – Stihl MS 250 Review
What size bar comes on the Stihl MS 250?
The Stihl MS 250 uses an 18-inch bar. It has a .325 pitch chain. You can use a 16-inch bar for speed. It is a great tool for wood. It cuts fast and stays sharp.
What is the fuel mix for a Stihl MS 250?
Use a 50:1 mix of gas and oil. This is best for the Stihl MS 250. Try to use gas with no ethanol. It helps the saw run smooth. It will last for a long time.
Why is my Stihl MS 250 hard to start?
The saw may flood if you pull too much. Listen for a pop sound. Then take the choke off. Fresh gas helps it start. Change the spark plug if it is old.
How much does a Stihl MS 250 cost?
The Stihl MS 250 costs about 400 dollars. It is a good deal for the power. You can find it at a local shop. They will help you set it up and show you how to use it.