Looking for a backup saw

And BTW, I think you will like the saw stock, you won't 'need' to port it.

 

If you were limbing a lot of pines or were into quite a few smaller logs and that's why you wanted a smaller saw than that heavy 311 then maybe that 250 for $300 makes a lot of sense, but to swap out and keep up with a 311 then another 311 or a 261 c-m makes more sense. Especially considering it weighs 3 pounds less.
A 311 with a longer bar and a 261 with a 16 or 18 might be a nice combo too. Depending on what size logs you're working.

 

I burn 6-8 cord a year all hardwood and my main saw is a MS250 with a muffler mod. I have a bigger saw for the big stuff, but the 250 does the bulk of the work. It's light, easy handling, starts well, and works well for me. I know the pro saws are built better, but I had a hard time justifying double the price for the 261 to get 3/4 hp over the 250. The muffler mod probably makes up for that. I've had it for two years now and it's a keeper. If I was cutting a lot more than I do now, or had an unlimited budget, I would step up.

I keep my eyes open for used stuff, but seems like locally here everyone thinks their worn out, straight gassed saw is made of gold and I haven't run into a "deal" yet that would allow me to move into the pro saws without spending almost what a new one would cost after I spend time and parts getting it how I want it.

My MS250 has proved to be a very good bang for the buck. So far.

I take good care of it, but don't baby it. I keep the chain like a razor and touch it up often. I run the semi-chisel on it because it pulls all the fence row duty too. I've just put the second chain on it since I owned it and probably has had near 20 gallons of fuel through it.

 

Thanks everyone for the input. Does anyway know what if any difference there is between the 261 c and the 261 cm.

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What he said^^^^^.
Dad has a 261 and it’s a good little saw. Not a screamer but just plain reliable. And this coming from a husky guy.....::: gag hack. I think I just puked a little lol

 

Thanks for saying this, you summed up my experience.


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Go with a used 026 or 260 or new/used 261. Good 026 run for $200, 260 for $300. If used my FIL’s 250 and it doesn’t compare to my 026 and 260.

Let us know what you end up with and post some pics!!

 

CM is mtronic. Stihl’s version of autotune. Don’t need to tune the carb as it does it automatically.

I like my version 1 261cm very much but would like the lighter version 2 more. A buddy has the 250 and loves it. Cash and a bit less power is compelling case. I got 261 when the switched over to the version 2 on a nice sale price so I think I ended up with the best of both worlds.

 

I think im going to go with the 261c....any thoughts on putting a 3/8 chain on it? Im thinking that because thats what i have on my ms311

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I run 3/8 .50 ga full chisel on my ported & non ported 026's with no issue. 18" bar 3/8 might be a bit much though.

 

I'd sell ya a rebuilt 10mm 044. Make ya a nice backup saw to your 311

 

Hmmmm... if it's anything like mine that would be a huge upgrade.

 

It's similar, just no bananas. Stock.

 

I have owned a MS290 with a 16" bar since 2010 as my main saw and its worked well for me. I think its a step down from the 311 as far as CC wise. The needle bearing on the clutch went in January. I was at the dealer getting a new bearing and the guy hands me a new 261. I fell in love with it in terms of weight plus it being a "pro" saw and wanted this as my next saw.
I had bought a used 460 powerhead Winter 2018. Bought bars/chains etc. Had dealer do carb tune up kit and its my big wood saw. A lot of bigger wood had come my way.
Im a bargain hunter and recently found a new 261c on ebay for one third less than MSRP. It was supposed to be a 261C, but turned out to be a 261. Ive yet to use it. Havent really had any good wood to cut lately. Buying used scares me as im not a "chain saw mechanic", other than the basics.
IMO opinion a 250 would be perfect for a "back up" saw based on your budget and needs. Never used one, but have heard good things about it. If you opt for the 261 it will become your main use saw and may rarely use the 311 again!
Careful CAD is very contagious as ive learned.
Let us know what you opt for.
I believe the 261C and 261 CM are one in the same? Maybe someone here can verify that.

 

I’ve never run 3/8 on my 261cm but I have no doubt that it will handle it. If you appreciate good quality equipment you will be very happy with the 261 over the 250.

If I were to buy a new one today I would probably go with the standard carb version. The mtronic is great when working properly but can be a bit finicky.

I have a 10 year old 250 that I keep around for the inexperienced guys. It actually still runs well but the cheap construction doesn’t hold up to rough use very well. On mine the AV system is sloppy enough that it let the handlebar rub a hole in the plastic oil tank. Hopefully Stihl has improved that in the past 10 years.


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The new one i just bought was supposed to be Mtronic, but turned out 261 standard carb. What happens for it to be finicky? Most had recommended the Mtronic too.
Welcome to FHC Action Great to have you on board.

 

Thanks, good to be here.

I don’t know what causes the strange behavior in mine, but every now and then when it is hot it will shut off and not restart until it is cold. Seems to be a fuel issue so I suspect either a fuel solenoid problem or communication issue between carb and coil/control module.

My 261 was new in 2014, so I assume that is a version 1 saw but not sure. Maybe the newest ones don’t have this issue.

I had to replace the control module a couple years ago. Unfortunately there is only one Stihl shop in the country where we currently live, and their service is terrible. They told me they would be happy to sell me the new part if I bought it complete with the rest of the saw! Needless to say I waited for a new one to be brought out from my old dealer in the US.


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I just just bought the 261cm with a 16" bar....they stickered it wrong so i got it for $30 cheaper too. Cant wait to try it out. Thank you everyone for your input!!!

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One last question....is there a way you guys like to "break in" your new saws?

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Start it and run it like you stole it,