STIHL® FS 261 C-E Petrol Brushcutter

• Displacement: 41.6 cm³ / 2.5 cu-in
• Power: 2 kW
• Engine Power: 2.7 bhp
• Device Weight (without refueling): 7.6 kg
• Cutting Circle Diameter: 520 mm
• Tank Capacity: 0.75 L / 750 cm³ / 25.4 fl oz (US)
• Device Length (without cutting tool): 180 cm

What is the STIHL FS 261 C-E brushcutter?
The STIHL FS 261 C-E is a professional gas-powered brushcutter designed for large-scale mowing, dense vegetation and demanding landscape, horticultural and agricultural work.

Who is the STIHL FS 261 C-E best suited for?
It is built for professional landscapers, agricultural operators, municipal crews, forestry workers and property-maintenance teams.

What engine does the STIHL FS 261 C-E use?
It uses a high-torque STIHL 2-MIX two-stroke engine.

What is the engine displacement?
The engine displacement is approximately 41.6cc.

How much power does the STIHL FS 261 C-E produce?
The listed output is approximately 2 kW, or 2.7 bhp.

Does the STIHL FS 261 C-E require mixed fuel?
Yes. It uses gasoline mixed with approved two-stroke engine oil according to STIHL specifications.

What are the benefits of STIHL 2-MIX engine technology?
STIHL states that the 2-MIX engine can reduce fuel consumption and exhaust emissions compared with conventional two-stroke engines in the same performance class.

What is STIHL Easy2Start?
Easy2Start reduces the effort required to pull the starter cord, allowing the engine to start with a smooth, steady pull.

Does the FS 261 C-E have electric start?
No. It uses a recoil starter with STIHL Easy2Start assistance.

What is the manual fuel pump used for?
The primer pump delivers fuel to the carburetor to help reduce the number of starter pulls after the machine has been sitting.

What cutting attachment comes with the STIHL FS 261 C-E?
It comes standard with the STIHL 300-3 brush knife.

What is the STIHL 300-3 brush knife used for?
It is designed for cutting dense grass, scrub, thorny growth and other heavy vegetation.

Can the STIHL FS 261 C-E use other cutting attachments?
Yes. It is compatible with approved mowing heads, grass blades, shredder blades and circular saw blades.

Can the FS 261 C-E cut small trees?
With an approved circular saw blade, it can handle suitable woody growth and small stems within the attachment’s rated capacity.

Is the STIHL FS 261 C-E suitable for regular grass trimming?
Yes. It can perform large-area mowing with an approved mowing head or grass-cutting blade.

What is the cutting-circle diameter?
The listed cutting-circle diameter is approximately 520 mm.

Why is the large cutting diameter useful?
It allows the operator to cover more ground with each pass during large mowing and clearing jobs.

What type of handle does the FS 261 C-E use?
It uses an ergonomic bike-style mowing handle.

Why is the bike handle useful?
It supports a natural side-to-side scything motion and provides better control when clearing large areas.

Can the bike handle be adjusted without tools?
Yes. A central clamping device allows tool-free handle adjustment.

Can the handle be folded for transport?
Yes. It can rotate approximately 90 degrees to reduce the machine’s width during transport or storage.

What is the multi-function control handle?
It places the main engine controls within easy reach of one hand.

What does the stop button do?
It allows the engine to be switched off quickly while leaving the controls ready for the next start.

Does the STIHL FS 261 C-E have an anti-vibration system?
Yes. The anti-vibration system reduces the amount of engine vibration transferred to the handles.

Why is reduced vibration important?
It helps improve comfort and reduce strain during extended professional use.

Is a harness included?
Yes. The supplied information states that a double shoulder harness is included.

Why is the double shoulder harness useful?
It distributes the machine’s weight across the body and improves control during longer mowing and clearing jobs.

How much does the STIHL FS 261 C-E weigh?
The listed dry weight is approximately 7.6 kg without fuel.

Does the listed weight include the cutting attachment?
The supplied information only states that the weight excludes fuel. The exact weight with the attachment and guard should be confirmed.

What is the fuel-tank capacity?
The tank holds approximately 0.75 litres, or 25.4 US fluid ounces.

How long is the STIHL FS 261 C-E?
The listed length is approximately 180 cm without a cutting attachment.

What is the long-life air-filter system?
It is designed to provide extended service intervals and reduce how frequently the filter needs cleaning or replacement.

Is the air filter easy to access?
Yes. The filter is designed for convenient access during routine maintenance.

What is the compensator carburetor?
The compensator adjusts fuel delivery as the air filter becomes dirty, helping maintain engine output, fuel efficiency and emissions performance.

Does the compensator eliminate air-filter maintenance?
No. The air filter still needs regular inspection, cleaning and replacement.

What is the protective mowing guard used for?
It helps shield the operator from grass, stones and other debris thrown by the cutting attachment.

What is the diagnostic socket?
It allows an authorized STIHL dealer to access machine operating data, service information and repair history.

What is the KWF-Profi quality mark?
It is a professional equipment certification issued by the Kuratorium für Waldarbeit und Forsttechnik in Germany.

What does the KWF-Profi certification indicate?
It indicates that the machine has been assessed against professional requirements for performance, durability, ergonomics and safety.

Is the STIHL FS 261 C-E suitable for large properties?
Yes. Its high power, large cutting diameter and bike handle make it well suited to large fields, estates and commercial properties.

Can it handle thorny hedges and scrub?
Yes. The included brush knife is designed for dense, thorny and overgrown vegetation.

Can it be used for young stand maintenance?
Yes. It is suitable for maintaining young stands and controlling competing vegetation when fitted with the appropriate attachment.

Is the STIHL FS 261 C-E suitable for noise-sensitive areas?
It is a powerful gas machine, so a professional battery model may be better where reduced noise is essential.

Does the STIHL FS 261 C-E produce exhaust emissions?
Yes. It is gas powered, although the 2-MIX engine is designed to reduce emissions compared with older two-stroke designs.

What maintenance does the STIHL FS 261 C-E require?
Routine maintenance includes checking the air filter, spark plug, fuel system, cutting attachment, gearbox, starter, clutch and protective guard.

Should the cutting attachment be inspected before use?
Yes. Check the blade or mowing head for wear, cracks, damage and secure installation before every job.

What protective equipment should be worn?
Wear eye and face protection, hearing protection, gloves, sturdy boots, long pants and suitable protective clothing.

What are the main benefits of the STIHL FS 261 C-E?
Its main benefits include a powerful 41.6cc engine, Easy2Start, a large cutting diameter, an included brush knife, anti-vibration technology and compatibility with multiple professional cutting attachments.

Where can I buy the STIHL FS 261 C-E brushcutter in Canada?
The STIHL FS 261 C-E brushcutter is available in store from Arns Equipment in Calgary or online across Canada at arns.ca.