Stihl MS 250 Review — Is it Any Good? (2023)

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When looking for a reliable wood-cutting solution, most users often turn to reliable chainsaw brands like Stihl, which offers saws with higher price tags.

If you don’t want to potentially waste your money on an overpriced model, I have you covered. Join me as I share my findings from my Stihl MS 250 reviews and tests to see how well it performed for various woodcutting tasks.

STIHL MS 250 No Background

What We Like

What We Don't Like

Design and Build

If you’re familiar with Stihl content and product line, you’d know that MS 250 chainsaw is an older model. This unit, made of American and foreign materials, is surprisingly light, despite housing a 3-HP gas engine. It only weighs 10.1 lbs, making it handy for cutting firewood pieces.

On the side, you’ll spot the side-access chain tensioner instead of its typical location. This design gives better access to the guide bar adjustment screw. It also makes it easier for the bar wrench to fine-tune the saw chain.

The Stihl MS 250 chainsaw also features a single control lever that handles multiple machine operations, including starting throttle lock and choke positions. On top of that, the unit has a wide-foot placement area and a rear saw hand guard for safer usage.

stihl ms 250 build

Stihl MS 250 Features

Overview of Specifications

Starting Process

While it’s true that Stihl MS 250 chainsaw is an excellent tool that does its job well, it doesn’t have a decompression button like other modern models. Because of this, you must rev the saw up while it’s still on the ground and step on its handle.

You must do this step while engaging the chain brake and pulling the rope to get the engine going.

Some may suggest “drop starting” Stihl MS 250 chainsaw for faster startups. However, it goes against the tool’s safety standards [1] and may cause unprecedented accidents regardless of specifications, model, or brand.

Besides stepping on the chainsaw handle, you can consider the leg lock method, where you secure it between your thighs.

stihl ms 250 starting

The starting process also differs for Stihl MS 250 chainsaw during the cold season. You must continue turning the lever until the choke, and you hear the saw popping.

From there, turn the idle setting on and pull the rope again. As the chainsaw starts running again, you can activate the throttle trigger to return the unit to its optimum temperature.

Engine Power

Thanks to its gas engine displacement of 45.4 cubic centimeters, Stihl MS 250 chainsaw can handle slightly larger properties than electric models of the same size.

And if you’re using the chainsaw in extreme temperatures, you can maintain the engine heat with the unit’s winter/summer shutter. You can easily spot it in the middle of the spark plug and air filter.

Chain Tensioner

Besides the accessible chain tension at the side of the saw, this unit’s efficiency and convenience become more evident with its automatic oiler. It keeps the chain properly lubricated, allowing smooth tensioning and better cutting results.

Cutting Performance

Its lightweight construction and adequate power range give MS 250 a competitive edge in tackling small to medium wood-cutting tasks. Depending on your sawing needs, you can improve your cutting capabilities with longer guide bars up to 18 inches in length.

Despite not being a new model, the tool features an easy startup process that prevents costly mistakes and wasted time.

stihl ms 250 cutting performance

Maintenance

Although it’s undoubtedly a great saw for creative projects, not cleaning and maintaining Stihl MS 250 chainsaw can lead to costly repairs or tool replacement. You can do this by checking the condition of its air filter and spark plug.

Over time, you’ll notice issues starting the saw if the unit carries a clogged air filter. You must clean it regularly for a better cutting experience. If it’s beyond cleaning, you can opt to replace it.

On top of that, a damaged spark plug can cause your MS 250 to misfire and interrupt power flow during operations. To prevent this, you must ensure it’s not coal-black or grimy.

Price and Warranty

If you scan today’s market, it’s evident that this unit belongs to the mid-range chainsaw products. The cost may fluctuate between physical stores and online Stihl retailers, but its general price pulse is far from premium models.

Stihl backs most of its tools with a one-year warranty policy. However, we suggest reading the fine print thoroughly for terms and conditions.

Parts and Spares Availability

Although not a new model, most of the Stihl MS 250 chainsaw’s parts and components are available on eBay and Amazon. All that’s left to do is differentiate the legit product listings from fraudulent offers.

stihl ms 250 parts

Who is the Stihl MS 250 for?

For a chainsaw model this light and powerful, you can count on it for occasional medium to heavy-duty work. It’ll suit homeowners with problems getting rid of tree trunks and thick branches in their mildly extensive property.

Why is it Popular Among Homeowners?

Its popularity among homeowners is mainly due to its balanced weight and power. It’s handy enough to handle tasks that require mobility, like cutting firewood, and powerful enough to maintain properties and clean up debris from passing storms.

More Stihl chainsaw reviews:

Review Conclusion: Stihl MS 250

As you can see, this Stihl MS 250 review eventually returned overwhelming positive results. And while we understand the worry about using an older model, the unit’s straightforward controls make it more efficient and convenient for newbies and professionals alike.

So long as it’s properly maintained and used, this chainsaw can deliver excellent cutting results and long-lasting durability.

Robert Johnson is a woodworker who takes joy in sharing his passion for creating to the rest of the world. His brainchild, Sawinery, allowed him to do so as well as connect with other craftsmen. He has since built an enviable workshop for himself and an equally impressive online accomplishment: an extensive resource site serving old timers and novices alike.
Robert Johnson
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