Whats difference between: MS-362, 362 C and 362-CM ?

My local shop as all 3 of these saws on shelf, and each has a different bar on it: 18", 20" and a 28" which is reflected on the label. But, they can't tell me what the difference is on these saws, and we got out all their literature and catalogues and can't find the difference. Also just checked Stihls site, they aren't even all listed.... ?

The only thing we found is that if it ends in Q, it also has a "Quick chain stop" feature. But what is the C, and CM compared to letter??

The prices were $699 and $729. And the $729 has the larger bar and chain.....

 

C = Comfort feature, E = Easy2Start™, Q = an additional chain braking system, R = wrap handle, and M = STIHL M-Tronic™.
Im not sure, but if I had to guess I would say the comfort feature means spring AV. I could be way off there.

 

Ok, after some searching around on their site, found good descriptions in their "interactive catalogue". They sure do have a lot of different features, options and different size saws....

http://www.stihlcatalog.com/app.php?RelId=5.3.3.6

But what's a bit confusing is what the "C" means? They all seem to have a C-xx. and some just have C alone. But there is no explanation for what C is, other than it is a "FEATURE". So first I thought it meant the saw has additional features, which would be indicated with the following letters after the dash. But then I see there are feature letters sometimes before the C!

Examples:
MS 362 C-M = M-tronic feature

MS 362 C-MQ = M-tronic + Quick stop chain brake

BUT,
MS 362 RC-M = Wrap-handle + M-tronic


Nowhere do they say what the C means, and/or what a "Wrap-handle" is? Wrapped with leather or something? OR is it a different style handle.... ? OR, does the handle play RAP music or something??

VERY confusing!! The Germans build a good saw, but somebody needs to help them out with the model numbering system!!

 

Don't buy from that dealer.

 

Funny you say that, I just went to the only other dealer here on LI that I know of. They only knew what the M was for, M-tronic and said "You don't need that around here, it's only if you will use the saw at different altitudes". Of course, they did not have any M models in stock. hmmmmmm.... LOL!

So, do I need the M model? Or is it opverkill ?

 

Depends, how do you feel about screwdrivers?

 

I love them. But I much prefer a straight up Martini, with olives and cocktail onions. Why do you ask?

 

So, you only need a screwdriver at different altitudes?

All saws need periodic tuning, even from summer to winter. I don't know if I'm ready for m-tronic or autotune, but it can make sense for those that can't or are afraid to tune a saw.

 

Isn't "c" the quick chain tensioner?

 

I see what your saying.... but honestly, how many "normal non-professional" users do you really think are tuning their chainsaws? I've never tuned one. I start it, it cuts wood, I sharpen it.

So maybe there is my answer, I should get the M model!

 

I don't know, but the one in the shop: MS 362-C did not look to have that extra dial thingy over the normal bar bolts and tensioner screw. That dial thing I refer to is the Quick tensioner, no? And, is that thing any good?

 

Well, one dealer says you only need to tune a saw for altitude, and the other doesn't know his product line....

 

And neither will know what to do when an moronic saw stops working.

 

I have the C model, it's allot of money but Worth every dime. Granted I came from a 455 Rancher that meets my needs. The extra power the ease of starting makes it priceless. M Tronic saws and auto tune will save allot of saws from lean destruction.

 

Great, thanks master! (Now that just sounds odd!).

So why would my shop have a 362 and a 362-C brand new sitting next to each other? Gotta mean something....?

 

They have three 362 models right next to each other on shelf:
-362 with a 20" bar for $699
-362 C with an 18" for $719
-362 C-M with a 28" bar for $729