There are chainsaws, and then there’s the Stihl MS 881. Engineered for professionals who demand power, reliability, and performance, the MS 881 is a force to be reckoned with. Designed for the toughest jobs in forestry and timber harvesting, it’s the most powerful chainsaw in the Stihl lineup, and arguably, one of the most powerful chainsaws in the world.
In this post, we’re going to walk through the cold start process of the Stihl MS 881 and give it a solid trial cut to see what it’s made of. Whether you’re a seasoned logger, a chainsaw enthusiast, or simply curious about top-tier equipment, buckle up—this is going to be a thrilling ride.
Meet the Stihl MS 881
The Stihl MS 881 is designed for heavy-duty cutting. It boasts a massive 121.6cc engine with 6.4 kW (about 8.6 horsepower) of output, making it perfect for sawing through massive logs and hardwoods. Its fuel efficiency, emissions control, and ease of operation make it a leader in its class.
Specs at a glance:
- Displacement: 121.6 cc
- Power Output: 6.4 kW (8.6 hp)
- Weight: 9.9 kg (21.8 lbs) without bar and chain
- Guide Bar Length: Up to 41 inches
- Fuel Capacity: 1.3 liters
This beast isn’t your average backyard tool—it’s made for real work. But power is only useful when it’s backed by consistency, and that’s where the cold start performance really matters.
Cold Start Procedure
Starting a large displacement chainsaw like the MS 881 when it’s cold takes a bit of know-how. Thankfully, Stihl has equipped this model with features that make the process smooth and reliable.
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Safety First:
- Place the saw on level ground.
- Engage the chain brake by pushing it forward.
- Ensure the bar and chain are properly tensioned.
- Check Fluids:
- Make sure there’s enough fuel and chain oil.
- Use a high-quality 2-stroke engine oil for optimal performance.
- Set the Master Control Lever:
- Move the master control lever to the full choke position.
- Prime the Engine:
- If your model has a manual fuel pump (primer bulb), press it several times until fuel is visible.
- Pull the Starter Cord:
- Hold the front handle with your left hand and place your right foot through the rear handle.
- Pull the starter cord until the engine fires briefly (usually within a few pulls).
- Adjust Choke:
- Move the master control lever up one notch to the half-choke position.
- Start Again:
- Pull the starter cord again. This time, the engine should start and continue running.
- Warm Up:
- Let the engine warm up for about 30 seconds to a minute.
- Once warmed, gently blip the throttle to return the master control lever to the idle position.
You’re now ready for action.
Trial Cut: Let the Beast Roar
With the MS 881 warmed up, it’s time to put it to the test. For this trial cut, we chose a large hardwood log, about 36 inches in diameter. This is the kind of timber that separates hobby saws from professional-grade equipment.
Setup:
- 36″ Oak log
- 36″ Stihl Rollomatic ES bar
- Stihl 3/8″ RS (Rapid Super) chain, freshly sharpened
- Full PPE (helmet, ear protection, chaps, gloves, boots)
Observations:
- Throttle Response: Immediate. The MS 881 doesn’t hesitate. From the moment you engage the throttle, the power surge is evident.
- Cutting Power: The saw chews through hardwood like a hot knife through butter. The RPMs stay strong under load, with minimal bogging down.
- Vibration Control: Surprisingly manageable. For a saw of this size, the anti-vibration system does an excellent job. Prolonged use doesn’t fatigue the hands as quickly.
- Chain Oil Delivery: Spot-on. The adjustable oiler delivers consistent lubrication, keeping the chain cool and efficient.
- Noise: It’s loud. Not shocking for a saw with over 8 horsepower, but you’ll definitely want ear protection.
After several full-depth passes, the MS 881 didn’t flinch. No overheating, no stalling, no hiccups. Just raw, consistent power.
Why Choose the MS 881?
There are many reasons why professionals swear by the MS 881:
- Reliability: Cold starts, hot starts, long hours—it handles them all.
- Longevity: With proper care, this saw can serve for years, even decades.
- Efficiency: Despite its power, it’s relatively fuel-efficient thanks to Stihl’s 2-MIX engine technology.
- Ease of Use: Stihl has engineered the controls to be ergonomic and intuitive.
It’s not for casual users. But for loggers, arborists, and sawmill operators, this machine is a trusted partner.
Maintenance Tips
To keep your MS 881 running like new:
- Clean the air filter regularly
- Sharpen the chain before every major cutting session
- Check bar oil with every fuel fill
- Inspect spark plug and fuel filter every few months
- Store with care: Drain the fuel if storing for more than a month
Regular maintenance makes all the difference, especially with a powerhouse like this.
Final Thoughts
The Stihl MS 881 is a legend in its own right. From the cold start to the final cut, it proves why it’s the go-to choice for professionals who need serious cutting capability. It’s not a toy. It demands respect. But if you know what you’re doing and treat it right, it will deliver performance that few saws can match.
Whether you’re felling massive trees, milling timber, or just want to experience the pinnacle of chainsaw engineering, the MS 881 is ready for the challenge. Just remember to wear your PPE and know your limits—because this saw won’t back down.
Let the chips fly!
