Having been around chainsaws for a good while, I’m quite familiar with the Stihl brand and its others products. But have you ever wondered who’s behind those Stihl chainsaws?
Understanding the makers and the brand’s background is crucial, and it’s how I gauge the reliability of my equipment. So, before you branch out to other brands, let’s dive deep into what you should know about Stihl chainsaws!
Who Manufactures Stihl Chainsaws?
A variety of handheld power tools, like trimmers and blowers, are produced by the German company STIHL.
It is founded in 1926 by Andreas Stihl, a chain saw pioneer. All chain saw chains and guide bars manufactured by Stihl are made in-house.
Who Owns Stihl: Manufacturer’s History
In 1926, Andreas Stihl, a pioneer in chainsaw manufacturing, designed and built his first chainsaw from scratch. The demand for two-person saws decreased as power saws became less necessary to consumers.
Stihl expanded its business in the mid-1970s by establishing manufacturing plants in Brazil and the United States. At first, they dominated the construction and landscaping industries.
Slowly, Stihl launched a variety of equipment for home and professional use, such as blowers, line trimmers, edgers, and Stihl gasoline-powered chainsaws.
After acquiring the Chinese carburetor manufacturer Zama in December 2008, Stihl entered a new business segment with growth potential and set a safe bar for them to follow. In the 1970s, they used a Japanese company as their supplier until they developed their manufacturing model.
Gas-powered Stihl products like the FS74 trimmer from the mid-1990s and the FS80R from 2004 became very popular.
The gas-powered chainsaws like the MS 170 (foreground) and the MS 290 Farm Boss from Stihl have also had varying degrees of success.
Where Are Stihl Chainsaws Made?
Stihl chainsaws are currently manufactured in Oregon, USA, where the company has been producing them since its establishment in 1935.
They initially started with other products but added chainsaws to their lineup in 1937 due to the high demand for their top-quality items and exceptional customer service.
Stihl Made in the USA
Tree-felling professionals and amateur farmers trust the Stihl brand and its products because they are manufactured in the United States.
You’ll know you can trust a Stihl chainsaw with a high-end company like them. Electric chainsaws, such as the MSA161 battery-powered model, are among the best Stihl chainsaws sold on the market.
From my years in woodworking, I’ve observed that opting for Stihl chainsaws made in the United States can give our local economy a boost. Even though Stihl originates from Germany, it’s genuinely heartening to witness the expansion and increasing production at the Virginia Beach complex.
Although the brand did not invent the chainsaw, Stihl is one of the oldest chainsaw brands and they have significantly contributed to its development and improvement in terms of safety and performance over the years. They also keep innovating, as evidenced by the Black Carbon Stihl Chainsaw.
Stihl Factories and Manufacturing Process
Locals from Virginia are manufacturing chainsaws at the Stihl facility in the Virginia Beach plant. Stihl produces chainsaws, handheld power equipment, electrically powered equipment and several handyman tools for dad in this manufacturing plant.
The steel guide bars, engines, casings, and chain breaks are all made in the US plant.
Now, let’s find out how they are manufactured.
#1: Quality Control
They are a German manufacturer of power tools with a strong commitment to customer satisfaction and maintaining a high standard of product quality. Unfortunately, this prevents the general public from seeing the manufacturing process.
If we were granted access to just a finishing plant, it is highly unlikely that we would be allowed to photograph it. Fortunately, I’m aware of regular quality checks during manufacturing.
#2: Parts
Upon handling their products, the emphasis on high-quality components is evident. At their Oregon manufacturing facility, each part is meticulously chosen and assembled before it’s sent out to customers. It speaks volumes about their commitment to quality.
There are pre-assembled parts, then parts made on-site by skilled technicians and engineers.
(Check out our Farmertec Holzfforma chainsaw review to see if some of your Stihl attachments and accessories will work with some Holzfforma chainsaws.)
#3: Assembly
Production systems dictate the sequence in which these chainsaws are put together. It has a code label that begins with “P,” which implies various stages. Tools, parts, and procedures must be tailored to each stage to ensure the best possible quality.
#4: Packaging and Sales
There must be something more to it than only chain and bar. Packaging is a labor-intensive process that must be completed by hand.
Then, of course, there is the final step of the sales process. Shipping orders to retailers, promoting new products to customers, etc.
#5: Aftermarket Support
Their products are popular in construction and landscaping markets; thus, product information should be readily available. You can find all the information you need to fix your Stihl chainsaw on the company’s website.
In addition, you can use this website to locate a Stilhl dealer in your area just in case you need to have your chainsaw maintained or repaired.
Origin of Chainsaws with Stihl
Stihl was the first company to produce chainsaws primarily used in forestry. Working in the woods always has its own set of challenges to overcome. Chainsaws are an efficient way to deal with rocks, logs, and other forestry work issues.
Using chainsaws to cut down trees and clear brush has grown increasingly popular with homeowners and landscapers over the last 80 years. They’re also used in agriculture and food production, among other things.
Are Stihl Chainsaws Good and Reliable?
STIHL is one of the most trusted brands in the electric tool industry. Their chainsaws have been in use for nearly a century and a half.
High power, optimal ergonomic design, and low weight make Stihl chainsaws extremely reliable and comfortable. It’s available in a variety of configurations and for a variety of purposes.
However, problems are unavoidable for any kind of power tool, so if your Stihl chainsaw is having problems starting, it’s a common problem that can be fixed.
STIHL chainsaws have power ratings ranging from 1.3 kW to 6.4 kW. (1.6 HP to 8.7 HP). They are the best-selling chainsaw brand because of their unchallenging technology, reliable design, long-life performance, and simple maintenance.
Stihl Chainsaw Prices
Iif you’re gearing up to fell a significant number of trees and want a tool that’ll stand the test of time, shelling out $400 to $600 is a worthwhile investment. On the other hand, for those looking at annual firewood tasks, I can assure you that a mid-range saw priced between $200 and $400 should do the trick.
The Stihl MSA 120C Chainsaw costs $385. Chainsaws like the Stihl MS 382 Chainsaw, the MS 460 Chainsaw, and the MS 462 Chainsaw are in the price range of $577 to 899.
Life Expectancy of Stihl Chainsaws
Depending on the brand, each saw’s lifespan is affected by the manufacturing company, which creates saws with varying materials, power sources, and other specifications. No matter how high quality a product is, it will wear out faster as you use it.
Similarly, when frequently used, American-made chainsaws or products made by the oldest manufacturer will have a shorter lifespan.
Stihl chainsaws last up to ten years or more under normal use but can be used regularly and last for 20 to 30 years. The Pro products typically have a run time of 2,000 hours or more.
Top Stihl Chainsaw Models Today
#1: Stihl MSA 140 C-BQ
A battery-powered chainsaw, STIHL MSA 140 C-BQ, can run for 45 minutes at a time. It weighs 8.6 lbs. with a bar of 10-12 inches in length.
The minimum warranty period for the STIHL MSA 140 C-BQ is three years. So, look no further if you’re looking for a long-lasting chainsaw with a light and sturdy bar.
#2: Stihl MS 251 C-BE
STIHL MS 251 C-BE uses gas or oil as its power source. This chainsaw weighs nearly 11.9 lbs. with a bar length of 16-18 inches. And, just like many other chainsaws I’ve encountered, it comes with a one-year warranty.
#3: Stihl MS 271 FARM BOSS
The MS 271 FARM BOSS features a highly efficient gas engine with a 16.9 oz fuel capacity and 3.49 bhp engine power and other advanced technologies. The total weight of the powerhead [1] is 12.3 pounds.
Where to Buy Stihl Chainsaws for Sale
As a Germany-based company, they think their products wouldn’t sell through mass retailers like Lowe’s and Home Depot, enhancing the brand’s exclusivity.
Customers who want to buy these bright-orange machines must go through an authorized dealer.
FAQ
Are Stihl chainsaws made in China?
Stihl chainsaws are made in both Europe and China. The chain saw parts, including the early chain, blades, sprockets, etc., are manufactured in Hefei, China, and exported to countries like the United States.
Is Stihl the same as Husqvarna?
Stihl is not the same as Husqvarna, a privately held company. These two brands have factories in the USA, China, and Brazil, but Stihl’s headquarters is in Germany, while Husqvarna’s headquarters are in Sweden. These two companies may have the same factory locations, but they are not the same.
Conclusion
Now that you know who makes Stihl chainsaws, you should also know that they are one of the best-known brands in outdoor power equipment. They’ve made several improvements to their long-running chainsaw line.
Regarding chainsaws, several factors come into play, and STIHL has a reputation for producing durable products no matter where the building manufacturing plants are.
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
