How to Choose the Right Stihl Chainsaw: A Guide for Homeowners and Pros

From cutting firewood to clearing trees, a good chainsaw isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity in Canada. Whether you’re maintaining your acreage, preparing for winter, or working in forestry, choosing the right Stihl chainsaw makes all the difference. At ARNS Equipment, we stock a full range of gas and battery-powered Stihl chainsaws built to handle everything from weekend chores to demanding job sites.

But with so many models to choose from, how do you know which one’s right for you? Let’s break it down.


Why Stihl Chainsaws Are the Go-To Choice in Western Canada

Stihl is the most trusted name in chainsaws, and for good reason. Every model is engineered for power, durability, and safety—no matter the job. Plus, when you buy from ARNS Equipment, you get more than just a saw:
✔️ Expert advice from trained staff
✔️ Full warranty support
✔️ Local service and parts availability
✔️ In-stock models ready for pickup or delivery

We serve customers across Canada helping rural landowners, professionals, and contractors get the right tool the first time.


5 Key Factors to Consider When Buying a Chainsaw


1. What Are You Cutting?


Your saw needs to match the workload.

  • Light jobs like pruning or cutting firewood? Go with the Stihl MS 162.

  • Bigger jobs like felling trees or clearing storm damage? Step up to the MS 291 or beyond.

2. Engine Size (cc) & Power-to-Weight Ratio

Larger saws offer more power but are heavier and more demanding to operate. Stihl’s 2-MIX and M-Tronic® engines help balance power with fuel efficiency and smoother performance.

3. Bar Length

Match your chainsaw’s bar to the job:

  • 12"–16": General property work and pruning

  • 16"–20": Firewood, felling small/medium trees

  • 20"+: Forestry, large hardwoods, milling

4. Comfort & Features

Look for:

  • Tool-free chain tensioning

  • Quickstop® Chain Brake

  • Anti-vibration systems

  • Heated handles (on models like the MS 261 C-M VW)
    Cold weather performance matters in Western Canada.

5. Gas or Battery?

Stihl’s battery chainsaws are quiet, clean, and powerful—ideal for in-town use or light work. The MSA 220 C-B is a pro-grade battery unit, while the MSA 140 C-B is great for around-the-yard jobs.


Top Stihl Chainsaws by Use Case

🧹 Light Cleanup & DIY:

Stihl MS 162
Replacing the classic MS 170, the MS 162 is a lightweight, compact gas chainsaw built for easy handling and quick jobs. Perfect for cutting firewood, pruning branches, or cleaning up storm debris.

🔥 Firewood & Acreage:


Stihl MS 250 or MS 271 Farm Boss®
A step up in power for frequent use. These saws are ideal for cutting larger firewood logs or keeping rural properties maintained.

🌲 Acreage Owners & Semi-Pro Use:



Stihl MS 291 or MS 311
Built for higher workloads and longer cutting sessions. Great for rural property owners who cut regularly, and for light commercial work.

🧰 Forestry & Professional Work:



Stihl MS 362 C-M or MS 462 C-M
High-performance chainsaws with M-Tronic® engine technology, optimized power-to-weight balance, and rugged construction. Ideal for felling large trees and logging in harsh environments.

🔋 Battery-Powered Performance:



Stihl MSA 220 C-B
Stihl’s most powerful battery chainsaw. Excellent torque and no emissions, making it ideal for urban worksites or quiet neighborhoods.


Why Buy from ARNS Equipment?

At ARNS Equipment, we’re not just a box store. We’re an authorized Stihl dealer with decades of experience serving Alberta’s homeowners, farmers, landscapers, and pros.

Here’s what sets us apart:
✔️ Hands-on product knowledge and honest advice
✔️ Fully assembled saws with fluids and test runs included
✔️ Chain sharpening, bar replacements, and in-store support
✔️ Same-day pickup available for most models
✔️ Financing available on qualifying purchases


Get the Right Chainsaw the First Time

The perfect chainsaw doesn’t just cut—it saves time, increases safety, and gets the job done faster. Whether you’re maintaining a yard in Calgary, clearing a trail in the Kootenays, or prepping firewood near Lethbridge, ARNS Equipment has the right Stihl chainsaw for you.

🛒 Shop Stihl Chainsaws Online
📍 Or visit us in-store and talk to someone who actually knows how these saws perform in Canadian conditions.