A chainsaw is a must-have tool for homeowners who take on projects like cleaning up storm debris, removing dead tree branches, or cutting firewood.
At Carl’s Mower & Saw, we carry the full line of the two leading chainsaw brands: Husqvarna and STIHL. Both offer great chainsaw options, so how do you know which is right for you?
To help you decide, we’re pitting the Husqvarna 445 against the STIHL MS 251. While both are 18” chainsaws, we’ve identified some differences that might make your selection a bit easier. Check out our video for a full breakdown of both models, or cut to the chase with this quick summary of each chainsaw. Let’s get ready to rummmbbbble!
Husqvarna 445 Review
In this corner, we have the Husqvarna 445, which delivers both power and fuel efficiency, a winning combo in our book. It features LowVib® technology, with dampeners between the engine and the chassis, making this model one smooth operator. It’s also got an inertia-activated chain brake, which means you’re less likely to get injured from kickback. (Read more about chainsaw safety here.)
The Specs:
- Weight: 11.2 lbs
- Displacement: 50 cm³ (Chalk this one up to Husqvarna, with 5 cm³ more than STIHL.)
- Engine power: 2.8 Bhp
- Chain: .05”
- Gauge: .325”
- Bar & chain: 18”
- Bar nut: 13mm
Advantages over STIHL
Combined choke/stop control. Husqvarna’s SmartStart® technology makes it a breeze to get the chainsaw going: pump the primer 5 times, pull the starter handle, take the choke off, and you’re ready for action.
Back to run. When you hit the stop switch, this model automatically returns to the run position.
Easy access. Time to clean or change the air filter? Simply use a flathead screwdriver to flip 3 tabs open to remove the shroud cover.
Gas and go. When you’re ready to add fuel, Husqvarna’s easy-to-open flip cap doesn’t require a screwdriver—simply flip the cap up, unthread it, fill up, and get back to the task at hand.
Unique chain tensioner design. Husqvarna built the chain tensioner right into the metal cover to move heat of the clutch farther away from the engine for extended life.
STIHL MS 251 Review
And now, the competition: the STIHL MS 251. This is an environmentally smart choice, creating a whopping 50 percent less exhaust emissions than previous models. Chainsaws help with tasks that are anything but delicate, and this model’s high-tech polymer housings are made to handle impact. Bonus: they’re corrosion resistant!
Keeping dust out of a chainsaw’s engine is key to its longevity. The STIHL MS 251 features a cylindrical air filter with a rubber ring, which mounts solidly to the machine to block dirt and dust — leading to better performance and a longer engine life.
The Specs:
- Weight: 11 lbs (This round goes to STIHL. This model is .2 oz lighter than Husqvarna.)
- Displacement: 45 cm³
- Engine power: 3.0 Bhp (Another point for the MS 251, which has .2 Bhp more than the 445.)
- Chain: .05”
- Gauge: .325”
- Bar & Chain: 18”
- Bar nut: 17mm
Advantages over Husqvarna
Larger bar nut. STIHL consistently uses a 17 mm bar nut for a better clamping area.
Chain tensioner. The chain tensioner is located within the body of the saw, making it simple to remove the cover and put it back when you’re ready to work.
Sprocket access. The internal clutch provides easier access to the sprocket to take the chain on and off.
American made. STHIL products sold in America are made in the U.S.
Conclusion
Both of these chainsaws pack a punch. They also have a lot in common. The cooling fins area is roughly the same size, so heat dissipation from the engine should be about equal. The anti-vibration mechanism is the same for both models. The power and weight of both chainsaws are nearly identical, as are the fuel and oil mix ratios.
So which one wins the matchup?
Ultimately, your decision depends on what feels good in your hands and which brand is locally available. We recommend that you buy directly from a dealership for their expert support, warranty assistance, and long-term maintenance. Here at Carl’s Mower & Saw, when you buy a piece of equipment, it comes ready to go—we’re talking fully assembled, gassed up, and warranty filed. We can’t promise all authorized dealers work this way, but you’re definitely more likely to experience this when you buy from an authorized dealer versus an online purchase, which should give you confidence before you even get your new machine home.
We carry both STIHL and Husqvarna models here at Carl’s Mower & Saw. If you’re in Northwest Washington State, come on in and let us personally help you choose the chainsaw that’s right for you!
About
Established in 1990 by Carl and Beth Levien, Carl’s Mower & Saw remains a family-owned and locally operated business to this day. We’re committed to providing an exceptional customer experience to both contractors and homeowners. Whether you’re looking for sales, service or rentals, you’ll find quality outdoor power equipment brands known for their durability and dependability, including Exmark, Gravely, Honda, Husqvarna, STIHL, and BCS America. For inquiries, feel free to reach out by calling 360-384-0799 or emailing info@carlsmower.com.
