I picked up a very nice 361 just a couple of days ago. Aside from a chip in the engine shroud, it's practically minty...
I thought all the 361c models had that extra large lever on the handle for a quick stop chain brake like this pic
Best I can tell is that it means something like "has special features." Mine has the tool- free chain tensioner.
The last one I sold I got 400 for . I regreted it and built another that was lean siezed , strait gas I suspect. Its my favorite saw. I had a 362 that I sold . IMO the 361 is a better saw . I've never ran the m troronic 362 though.
The 361c has the quick chain tensioner and triple activated brake. I have a 18o with one (quick tensioner). I hate them and will never own another. http://www.stihlusa.com/WebContent/CMSFileLibrary/instructionmanuals/MS361C_Manual.pdf
My 361's the first quick tensioner I've owned, and I haven't even had reason to go out and try it yet so I don't have an opinion. I did do a little reading, though, and didn't find anyone who was better than lukewarm about the feature. I like flippy caps, though!
There is a 362cm that just popped up in the classifieds if your not set on an 036 or ms361? Anything against the ms360 or you just dont list it as its basically the same as an 036?