Stihl MS 260 Chainsaw Review

Stihl MS 260 Chainsaw left hand side

Stihl MS260 Chainsaw

The Stihl MS260 was introduced to the Stihl chainsaw line in 2001, discontinued in 2011 and replaced by the MS261 in 2010. Stihl billed the MS260 as a robust chainsaw for forestry work.

Suitable work for the MS260

Stihl recommended this saw for professional use. Some users dispute that idea and consider the MS260 a good saw but for non-professional use. Most owners consider the MS260 reliable and layman-friendly, and a good buy for use around the yard and farm.

Stihl MS260 Chainsaw Features

Featuring all the standard components of an STIHL chainsaw like the anti-vibration system, single-lever master control, tool free filler caps and Ematic chain lubrication system just to name a few, the STIHL MS260 is easy to operate. It can also double as a hedge trimmer with the separate HS246 attachment.

The MS260 features a retrofit catalytic converter, weighs 4.8 kg and has a power output of 2.6 kW.

There are two other variations of the STIHL MS260; the MS 260C-B and the MS260-W. The special Chain Quick Tensioning function that comes with the MS260 C-B makes it more convenient than the basic model as it enables the user to adjust the chain with a thumb wheel, without the need for tools. On the other hand, the MS 260-W has a heated handle which would be a luxury in cold weather.

Weigh up each model carefully to determine which one suits your needs best, but remember product specifications vary from country to country so don’t forget to confirm the details with your local dealer before making a purchase. Always remember to use the correct safety equipment when operating your chainsaw.

Stihl MS260 Accessories

The HS246 hedge trimmer is one of the more unusual Stihl accessories, and is available for the MS260.

In a few easy steps, the HS246 hedge trimmer attachment can be mounted on the MS260 chainsaw. The HS246 features a 60cm cutting blades and weighs in at 1.8 kg.

MS260 Availability and Spares

The Stihl MS260 has been replaced by the slighly heavier but more powerful MS261. Used MS260 machines can frequently be found for sale on auction sites. Check out machines available on Ebay.

If you already own an MS260 then it’s good to know that there are still hundreds of spare parts advertised for sale. Have a look at the spares available on Ebay.

Stihl MS260 Chainsaw right hand side

Replacement Parts on Ebay

Stihl MS260 Cylinder and Piston Kit
Cylinder and Piston Kit
Stihl MS260 Replacement Carburetor
Carburetor
Stihl MS260 Walbro Carburetors
Walbro Carburetors
Stihl MS260 Carburetor Repair Kit
Carburetor Repair Kit
Stihl MS260 Air Filter
Air Filter
Stihl MS260 Replacement Muffler
Muffler
Stihl MS260 Ignition Module
Ignition Module
Bosch WSR6F Spark Plug and Box
Bosch WSR6F Spark Plug
NGK BPMR7A Spark Plug and Box
NGK BPMR7A Spark Plug

MS260 Manuals

Stihl MS260 Workshop Manual
Workshop Manual
Stihl MS260 Operator Manual
Operator Manual
Stihl MS260 Parts Manual
Parts Manual

Stihl MS260 Chainsaw Specifications

Model NameStihl MS260
Engine Typesingle-cylinder two-stroke
Engine Capacity50.2 cc, 3.06 cu.in
Cylinder Bore44.7 mm, 1.76 in
Piston Stroke32 mm, 1.26 in
Ignition TypeElectronic (breakerless) magneto
Spark Plug TypeBosch WSR6F ( check on EBay ) or NGK BPMR7A ( check on EBay )
Spark Plug Gap0.5 mm, 0.02 in
Carburetor TypeAll position diaphragm type with built-in fuel pump. Walbro WT-426, WT-427, WT-581, WT-590, WTE-1.
Fuel Tank Capacity0.46 litre
Fuel Mixture50:1 with Stihl two-stroke air-cooled engine oil
Weight4.8 kg, 10.6 lb
Catalytic ConverterRetrofitted
Chain Lubrication TypeAutomatic oil pump
Oil Tank Capacity0.145 litre

Stihl MS260 User Comments

It is fair to say that most comments on the Stihl MS260 are positive. Stihl sold this model saw for many years and it was clearly popular with their regular customers. However, it is not without the occasional negative review.

  • Brilliant machine, high quality unit, quiet and easy to handle. Plenty of power.
  • The 260 is an excellent ground saw. I used one every day over several winters. The saw has been very reliable and has enough power to fell small trees. Since I bought it the only failure was a broken front chain brake spring.
  • My MS260 ran well for a while. I kept it clean and well maintained but after a while I had problems with it. First the crank failed and was replaced. Not long after it stopped idling properly. I cleaned up the carburetor and filter but I just couldn’t get it to run properly.
  • A reliable, dependable saw. Starts and runs well every time. Does all that need it to. If it ever does fail, I would replace it with another.