When it comes to professional logging, forestry, or heavy-duty woodcutting, one chainsaw that consistently proves itself in the field is the STIHL MS 661 C. Known for its power, reliability, and performance, this machine stands out, especially when you consider its remarkable stats: it can slice through 0.3 cubic meters of wood in just 18 seconds, and it’s equipped with a 63 cm bar to tackle even the largest trees. But these numbers only scratch the surface of what makes the MS 661 C a go-to tool for professionals around the world.
Built for the Demands of the Forest
At first glance, the MS 661 C looks like any other high-end professional chainsaw, but its internal mechanics tell a more powerful story. The heart of the machine is its 2-stroke, 91.1 cc engine, which delivers an outstanding 5.4 kW (7.3 hp). This level of power ensures that the saw can cut through dense hardwood like oak or beech with impressive speed and efficiency. It’s designed not for weekend warriors, but for those who make their living in the woods.
Whether you’re felling, bucking, or cutting timber to length, the MS 661 C gets the job done fast. In a timed test, it cut through 0.3 cubic meters of wood in just 18 seconds—an incredible pace that puts it among the fastest and most efficient saws in its class.
63 cm Bar: Reach and Power
The 63 cm (approximately 25-inch) guide bar is one of the standout features of the STIHL MS 661 C. This length is ideal for handling large trees, making long rip cuts, or slicing logs in one pass. It gives professionals the reach they need without the unwieldiness often associated with extra-long bars.
Despite its size, the bar is well balanced thanks to the saw’s excellent weight distribution. This makes it surprisingly easy to maneuver for a saw this powerful. Whether you’re standing on uneven terrain, working overhead, or cutting at odd angles, the MS 661 C feels secure in your hands.
Advanced Engine Technology
The STIHL MS 661 C is equipped with STIHL’s 2-MIX engine technology, which significantly reduces fuel consumption and emissions. This innovative system combines a stratified charge with a four-channel cylinder, improving combustion and delivering better torque across a wide RPM range.
For those working long hours in the forest, this means fewer refueling stops and a reduced environmental footprint. It’s a big win for both productivity and sustainability.
Chain Speed and Efficiency
The performance of any chainsaw is ultimately tied to how quickly and cleanly it can cut, and in that department, the MS 661 C shines. With a high chain speed and optimized sprocket design, the saw translates engine power into cutting performance with very little waste.
The time test of 0.3 m³ in 18 seconds highlights just how effective this saw is at converting fuel into forward motion. That speed isn’t just a statistic—it translates into real-world time savings and less physical strain for the operato
Ergonomics and Comfort
Even with all that power, STIHL has taken care to make the MS 661 C comfortable for the user. The anti-vibration system significantly reduces operator fatigue, especially during extended use. Vibration levels are kept impressively low, which helps protect hands and arms during long cutting sessions.
The saw also includes STIHL’s ElastoStart handle and decompression valve, which make starting the engine smooth and easy. These features reduce the jerking motion that can accompany chainsaw startups, providing a more controlled, user-friendly experience.
Smart Features for Smart Work
STIHL doesn’t just build powerful saws—they build intelligent tools. The MS 661 C includes HD2 air filtration, which captures even the finest dust particles. This keeps the engine cleaner for longer, extending the saw’s life and reducing the frequency of maintenance.
It also features side-access chain tensioning, making it faster and easier to adjust the chain in the field. A tool-free fuel and oil cap system ensures fast refills without fumbling, and an adjustable oiler lets you fine-tune lubrication depending on the job.
Fuel Efficiency and Tank Size
Thanks to the 2-MIX engine, the MS 661 C is impressively fuel-efficient. Its 0.85-liter fuel tank offers extended run times even under heavy loads. You can expect to spend more time cutting and less time refueling. This not only increases productivity but also means fewer interruptions in remote work environments where refueling isn’t always convenient.
Built to Last
Durability is another key strength of the MS 661 C. From its magnesium crankcase to its robust chain brake and clutch system, every component is engineered for long-term use. STIHL has earned its reputation for building machines that can endure punishing conditions, and this saw is no exception.
It’s resistant to dirt, shock, and weather—everything you’d expect from a professional-grade tool used in forests and on job sites around the world.
Ideal Use Cases
The MS 661 C is best suited for:
- Professional forestry
- Timber harvesting
- Felling large trees
- Heavy-duty firewood processing
- Milling with chainsaw attachments
If your work involves large volumes of wood or dense, heavy trees, this saw delivers the performance and reliability you need.
Conclusion: Raw Power Meets Precision
The STIHL MS 661 C – 0.3 m³ – 18 sec. – 63 cm Bar is more than just a collection of impressive numbers. It’s a finely tuned professional tool built for high performance, efficiency, and durability in the most demanding environments. Cutting through nearly one-third of a cubic meter of wood in under 20 seconds isn’t just a feat—it’s proof that this saw is built for serious work.
Its long bar, intelligent engine design, and ergonomic features combine to make one of the most effective chainsaws on the market today. Whether you’re deep in the forest or on a busy job site, the MS 661 C offers a perfect blend of speed, strength, and smart engineering.
