When it comes to professional chainsaws, Stihl has built a reputation for producing high-quality, durable, and efficient tools. Among their top models are the Stihl MS 661 C-M and the Stihl MS 500i, both of which are designed for heavy-duty cutting tasks, such as felling large trees, logging, and forest management. While both chainsaws offer excellent performance, they are designed for different types of users and tasks. In this comparison, we’ll break down the differences, advantages, and potential drawbacks of each model to help you decide which chainsaw is better suited for your needs.
Stihl MS 661 C-M: Power and Performance
The Stihl MS 661 C-M is a professional-grade chainsaw that is known for its impressive power and reliability. With a 91.1 cc engine, it is designed to handle some of the toughest jobs in forestry and land management. Let’s take a deeper look at its features:
Engine and Power
The MS 661 C-M is equipped with a high-performance 91.1 cc engine that delivers excellent cutting power, making it suitable for felling large trees, bucking, and other demanding tasks. The engine is designed to deliver a perfect balance between power and fuel efficiency, providing longer running times and reducing the need for frequent refueling during long work sessions.
M-Tronic Technology
One of the standout features of the MS 661 C-M is Stihl’s M-Tronic technology. This electronic engine management system automatically adjusts the engine’s performance to ensure optimal fuel efficiency and maximum power output. M-Tronic also adapts the engine’s settings to different operating conditions, such as temperature and fuel quality, which helps reduce emissions and improve the overall running quality of the chainsaw.
Comfort and Handling
Despite its larger engine size, the MS 661 C-M is designed with ergonomics in mind. It features an anti-vibration system that reduces the strain on the user’s hands and arms, even during long hours of cutting. The chainsaw is well-balanced, which helps reduce operator fatigue, allowing for more comfortable use over extended periods.
Additionally, the MS 661 C-M is equipped with a comfortable handle and easy-to-use controls, making it a good choice for users who need to work for long hours in challenging environments.
Durability and Maintenance
Like most Stihl products, the MS 661 C-M is built with durability in mind. The chainsaw features high-quality components that are designed to withstand tough work conditions. Additionally, it comes with Stihl’s Easy2Start system, which makes it easier to start the engine, reducing the amount of effort required to get the saw going.
Stihl MS 500i: Innovation and Precision
The Stihl MS 500i is a newer addition to Stihl’s lineup, and it incorporates several groundbreaking innovations that set it apart from older models like the MS 661 C-M. The MS 500i is known for its fuel-injection system, which provides a significant leap forward in terms of engine performance and efficiency.
Engine and Fuel Injection
The most notable feature of the MS 500i is its fuel-injection system. Unlike traditional chainsaws, which rely on carburetors to mix fuel and air, the MS 500i uses an electronic fuel injection (EFI) system. This system optimizes the fuel-air mixture for maximum combustion efficiency, resulting in better performance and lower fuel consumption. The EFI system also reduces the risk of engine stalling, particularly in challenging conditions.
The MS 500i features a 70.7 cc engine, which is slightly smaller than the MS 661 C-M, but it still provides plenty of power for most professional applications. The smaller engine size makes the MS 500i lighter and more maneuverable, which is an advantage when working in tight spaces or when the user needs a saw that can be easily lifted and handled.
Fuel Efficiency and Emissions
The fuel injection system in the MS 500i not only improves performance but also contributes to greater fuel efficiency and lower emissions. By optimizing the combustion process, the fuel-injection system ensures that the engine runs smoothly and efficiently, which means longer work times between refuels and a more eco-friendly operation.
Comfort and Handling
The MS 500i is designed for operators who require precision and ease of use. Its ergonomic design is focused on reducing operator fatigue, and it features a lightweight build compared to the MS 661 C-M. This makes the MS 500i ideal for users who prioritize mobility and need to work in various positions.
Like the MS 661 C-M, the MS 500i also features an anti-vibration system that reduces the amount of vibration transferred to the operator’s hands and arms. Additionally, the saw’s compact design and well-balanced construction make it easier to control, especially when working in tricky or confined spaces.
Advanced Technology
The MS 500i is equipped with Stihl’s Advanced Engine Management System (AEMS), which provides precise control over the engine’s performance. The AEMS works in tandem with the fuel-injection system to ensure consistent power delivery and improved fuel efficiency. This system also adapts to different environmental conditions, which is particularly useful for users who work in varying temperatures and altitudes.
Key Differences Between the MS 661 C-M and MS 500i
Power and Engine Size
The most obvious difference between the MS 661 C-M and the MS 500i is the engine size. The MS 661 C-M has a larger 91.1 cc engine, which delivers more power and is better suited for heavy-duty tasks like felling large trees and cutting through dense timber. On the other hand, the MS 500i’s 70.7 cc engine is smaller, but still provides ample power for a wide range of tasks while offering better fuel efficiency and a lighter, more manageable design.
Fuel System
The MS 500i incorporates an electronic fuel-injection system, which offers better fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and more reliable engine performance, especially under changing conditions. The MS 661 C-M, however, uses Stihl’s M-Tronic system, which adjusts the engine’s performance electronically but still relies on a carburetor for fuel delivery.
Weight and Handling
Due to its larger engine, the MS 661 C-M is heavier and might be less maneuverable compared to the lighter MS 500i. The MS 500i’s compact design and advanced technology make it an ideal choice for users who need a more agile saw without compromising on power.
Price
As a newer model with advanced fuel injection technology, the MS 500i tends to be priced higher than the MS 661 C-M. The cost difference may be justified if you prioritize fuel efficiency and the latest in engine technology
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between the Stihl MS 661 C-M and the Stihl MS 500i ultimately depends on the type of work you do and your specific needs.
- Choose the MS 661 C-M if you need a powerful, heavy-duty chainsaw for cutting through large trees, timber, and tough environments. Its larger engine size and M-Tronic system are ideal for professionals who need consistent power and performance over extended periods.
- Choose the MS 500i if you value fuel efficiency, reduced emissions, and a lightweight design without sacrificing power. Its fuel-injection system and compact build make it perfect for users who need a chainsaw that’s easy to handle but still powerful enough for professional applications.
Both chainsaws are excellent choices for professionals, but the best one for you depends on your specific needs and preferences.
