I have some long ago notes when I researched this nearly 10 years ago. And some professionals answered me. Here’s what I wrote down over 10 years ago in my little notebook. I’m afraid I don’t remember details so I’m following your question with interest. This would have been for my 16” MS250 I bought new in 2008 and used yesterday. I didn’t get my 18” one used till a couple of years ago. Both have been excellent saws and always start fairly easily. MICRO = Semi chisel 63PMC3 30 75 26RMC3 36RMC3 Full Chisel 63PS3 26R6C 36RSC3 Ripping Chain 63 PMX 36 RMX Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
I don't know what the prices are where you live, but here Oregon is about 1/2 of the price of Stihl chain and Laser is a bit less than Oregon. Stihl chain is a bit longer lasting, but not twice as long, so Oregon or Laser it is for me. LAst time I looked Stihl was $32 for 3/8 .050 72 dl and oregon was $14 and Laser was $13 I paid $23 for 3/8 .050 115 dl for a Laser chain, I didn't even price the Stihl loop.
There are “performance” options if you are using green safety chain in semi-chisel. Look into a loop of full chisel yellow. It’ll “bite/pull” a little more aggressively and cut faster. If you cut a lot of dirty wood, the down side is it will dull quicker.
Here's a thorough review and test of the different brands out there. Ultimately he found the Oregon brand to be best value for performance.
I personally like Stihl chain. It holds an edge longer, & around here if I buy two it's 20% off both chains. Oregon is my second choice. Yes to yellow label chain whether full or semi chisel.
Here you can get about three Oregon chains for the price of two Stihl. The Oregon has a rep of being easier to sharpen but not hold it's edge as long. More time spent sharpening and sooner to wear out, too, I suppose. In our case, my son only buys Stihl chains. He has limited time off and a good paying job. I've been buying Oregon for price and feel I have more time than money. I currently trying to decide the answer to which is better, myself. I like Stihl chain and would start using it most of the time if it will pencil out. I suppose if I wanted to keep records of actual time used, I could start out two new chains and alternate to see which ran longer. Variables like type and hardness of wood and how many times I let the chain touch ground would have to be figured in. I know I wouldn't feel as bad if I "rocked" an Oregon as I would a more costly Stihl.
I I ran a 290 with a 16" bar as my only saw for years and used to get Oregon chain at a big box store. Now with multiple saws and bar lengths ive come to appreciate Stihl chain. For the few extra bucks id go with Stihl. Check ebay and you cant hunt down a better deal.
