Diagram of the MS 261 C-M that points to the following features: STIHL M-tronic, HD2 air filter, STIHL quickstop, bumper spikes and ematic lubrication system

Image with user review for MS 261 C-M that reads "It's the best all-around saw I've ever used."

Wide view of man cutting branch with MS 261 C-M

Side view of man cutting branch with MS 261 C-M

Man cutting branch with MS 261 C-M outside a barn

Close up of STIHL MS 261 C-M Chainsaw cutting log

MS 261 C-M Gas Chainsaw

Name: MS 261 C-M Gas Chainsaw
Brand: STIHL
SKU: ms261cm
Rating: 4.5858 (705 reviews)

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The MS 261 C-M gas chainsaw is a popular mid-size chainsaw that puts STIHL M-Tronic™ technology in the hands of professionals.

Features

STIHL M-Tronic™
Ematic™ Lubrication System
STIHL ElastoStart™
IntelliCarb™ Compensating Carburetor

The MS 261 C-M gas chainsaw has all the same great features as the MS 261—low exhaust emissions, high fuel efficiency, and robust performance—but also features the advanced STIHL M-Tronic™ engine management system. The STIHL M-Tronic™ onboard microprocessor digitally monitors and automatically compensates for changes in your work conditions, including elevation, temperature, fuel quality, varying octane levels, and dirty filters. The end result is maximum performance across a wide range of cutting conditions without making any manual adjustments. The MS 261 C-M gas chainsaw also features redesigned cylinders and a slimmer, ergonomic housing for an impressive power-to-weight ratio.

Features
- STIHL M-Tronic™ -
  This product features M-Tronic™ (M) - a new generation of Intelligent Engine Management that eliminates the low and high speed carburetor adjustment screws, compensates for dirty air filter and changes in elevation and fuel quality for optimum engine power at all times.
- Ematic™ Lubrication System -
  The Ematic™ guide bar, when used with STIHL OILOMATIC® saw chain, will provide proper lubrication and less oil consumption than conventional methods. The system works because two ramps, strategically placed in the guide bar rail, help contain the flow of oil and direct all lubrication to the sliding faces of the bar and chain links as well as the rivets and driver holes, which in turn can reduce bar oil consumption up to 50%.
- STIHL ElastoStart™ -
  The ElastoStart™ starter handle is an exclusive feature of STIHL. It is a starting grip with a built-in shock absorber that helps reduce the effort when pulling on the starter cord. The ElastoStart™ starter grip noticeably reduces the sudden peak forces (compression) normally felt during cranking. The forces which occur at the grip after the first compression stroke are smoothed out.
- IntelliCarb™ Compensating Carburetor -
  The IntelliCarb™ Compensating Carburetor is designed to automatically adjust the air/fuel ratio when the air filter becomes restricted or partially clogged and maintains the engine’s correct RPM. IntelliCarb™ uses air from the clean side of the air filter to control the diaphragm and flow of fuel. As the air filter becomes dirty and less air is available for the carburetor, the IntelliCarb™ system adjusts the fuel flow to compensate for the decrease in air flow. This is in contrast to typical carburetors that utilize this air from the “dirty” side of the air box.
- STIHL Quickstop® -
  STIHL chainsaws are equipped with a chain stopping system designed to reduce the risk of injury in certain kickback situations. It is called a STIHL Quickstop® chain brake. The STIHL Quickstop® chain brake is designed to stop the rotation of the chain if activated by the operator’s hand or by inertia if the saw kicks back with sufficient force. In some working positions, the STIHL Quickstop® chain brake can be activated by inertia, stopping the chain within fractions of a second.
- Bumper Spikes -
  These spikes prevent pull-in and provide better control, making cutting easier.
- Adjustable Automatic Oiler -
  The Adjustable Automatic Oiler allows the user to adjust the lubricant of the guide bar and saw chain for different bar lengths and cutting conditions.
- Decompression Valve -
  The decompression valve, also referred to as 'deco' or 'deco valve', vents compression in the cylinder for easier starting. The decompression valve temporarily reduces the compression in the combustion chamber during cranking and helps reduce the effort needed to pull the starter rope. It is opened manually and closes automatically as soon as the engine fires.
- Pre-Separation Air Filtration System -
  This time-saving technology boosts the efficiency of the engine’s filter system, doubling the time between air filter cleanings. Air drawn into the engine is first separated via centrifugal force, ejecting the heavier dirt particles before being routed to the air filter. This pre-separation means less dirt to be captured by the air filter, resulting in less frequent cleaning and maintenance.
- Side-Access Chain Tensioner -
  The side-access chain tensioner makes it much more convenient for the user to adjust the saw chain with a bar wrench as opposed to the typical location of the guide bar adjustment screw.
- Master Control Lever™ -
  The Master Control Lever™ is an easy to use single lever, operating the choke, starting throttle lock, and on-off switch. The operator must pull the throttle trigger before moving the Master Control Lever™ to the choke position.
- Anti-Vibration System -
  STIHL has developed a system for minimizing the vibration levels of handheld outdoor power equipment. The STIHL anti-vibration system helps reduce operator fatigue and provides a more comfortable working experience.
- Toolless Fuel and Oil Caps with Retainers -
  Simply lift the lever and twist the caps to remove or tighten. There’s no need to use a tool to tighten or loosen.
- Throttle Trigger Lock -
  See it in action!

Specifications

Questions And Answers

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Warnings And Safety
Chainsaw Safety and Maintenance - Video
Product Instruction Manual (PDF)
Product Safety Manual (PDF)
STIHL Limited Warranty
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IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION The occurrence called “kickback” can cause serious or fatal injury. Always read the instruction manual carefully before using your saw. STIHL uses a green and yellow color-coding system to help you select a powerhead, bar and chain combination that complies with the kickback requirements of ANSI Standard B175.1 (gasoline-powered saws) and §30 of UL 1662/ ANSI Standard B175.1 (electric chainsaws). Ask your STIHL dealer about safe operating procedures and the advantages of the STIHL Quickstop® chain brake, STIHL Quickstop® Plus additional chain braking feature, STIHL reduced kickback bars and STIHL low-kickback saw chains.

STIHL recommends the use of green reduced kickback bars and green low kickback chains on all STIHL chainsaws.
* The actual listed guide bar length can vary from the effective cutting length based on which powerhead it is installed on.
Note: STIHL recommends use of fuel with no more than 10% Ethanol content. Using fuel with greater than 10% Ethanol content may cause damage to your equipment and may void your STIHL warranty.
WARNING! Improper use of any power tool may cause serious or fatal injury. Read, understand, and follow carefully the operating and safety instructions in your instruction manual before using such products.

STIHL products sold through U.S. STIHL Dealers are for distribution in the United States only.

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POWER SOURCE	Gas
POWERHEAD WEIGHT	10.8 lbs.
GUIDE BAR LENGTH (Recommended)	16 in.
OILOMATIC® CHAIN	.325" RM3
CHAIN OIL CAPACITY	9.13 oz.
ENGINE POWER	4.0 bhp
FUEL CAPACITY	16.9 oz.
DISPLACEMENT	50.2 cc
INTENDED USE	Professional