Stihl MS 261 CM or Husqvarna 550 xp Mark 2? Which Would I Choose?

[@S_and_S_Farms]

I totally agree with your pick. I’ve owned both of these saws. Once I bought the 550 Mark II it became my go to chainsaw. The torque on the Husqvarna saws is amazing. I have recently sold my MS 261.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

It is a great go to saw. I love the torque on the 550. It makes me wonder how it would run ported.

[@garyself9213]

@@OldSchoolMillennial they are stupid fast little saws it doesn't give it much more rpms but more torque

[@skyjacker99]

​@@OldSchoolMillennialmuffler mod will make a world of difference on the 550xp.....try that before u spend 350 on port work.

[@ryannurrenbern8625]

I just purchased a Stihl 261. Unfortunately we don’t have a Husqvarna dealer near me so that was the deciding factor for purchasing the Stihl.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

The 261 is a great saw, Ryan. You're going to love it!

[@ПеткоВасилев-м4ь]

My job is in the forests under high voltage cables and every day i'm cutting trees with different sizes . My tool is husqvarna 560xp mark 2 and i'm loving it .

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Great saw!

[@nascarnate326]

Ran both of them and ended up buying the Husky. Its a awesome saw, heated grip/carb is what sold me.

[@MrMwhit]

Hi , I'm Maddie ( Matt's my other half ) we are Husqvarna people up here in New England , or at least we as a couple . We would choose the 550 , however our next saw purchase will most likely be the Husqvarna 572 XP with a 28" bar and chain . We both cut wood and and also Climb as well . My climbing saw is T 525 XP the only thing I don't care for is the size of the fuel tank ( about 1/2 HR. runtime ) . Hope this helps some of you folks out there . Stay safe , climb high . Maddie

[@unclealansyard5176]

I have a Stihl MS 362, and MS 251, both are great. I pushed the 251 hard in some 3 ft oaks and did just fine (besides the power of 45cc) but it cut and got the job done before I got the 362. I just rebuilt a Husqvarna 51 and it's great. My dad's Husqvarna 50 from 1984 still starts and runs. So I'm like you both brands are great.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

I agree! Both great brands. Those are some nice saws and that's awesome that your dads Husky is still running good. Gotta love vintage saws too!

[@sirvozelo1]

I give up with gas saws and I am on battery-powered, keep my old Huskvarna 162 stihl run top shap.

[@rhec_junior_9122]

I own a husqvarna 450 rancher haven't had it to long but so far in really liking it

[@justinjones5288]

Mine needed a muffler mod and retuning

[@TheMidwestPatriot]

I was looking to buy one of these two saws a while back. The prices and specs were so close, I couldn’t decide. Finally, I found a local dealer that carries both brands. This is a very large dealer that caters mostly to loggers and arborists. I called them up and asked which one I should pick. The salesman said go with the Husky. He rattled off about 6 reasons why he felt it was the superior saw. I took his advice and have been very happy with it.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

That's really interesting. Did he have some of the same reasons as mine in this video? Or did he have different reasons? It's great you're happy with your pick.

[@TheMidwestPatriot]

@@OldSchoolMillennial No, his reasons were more technical. It’s been a few years now so I can’t recall what he said, but do remember him saying something about the crankshaft and the auto tune. He also said they were both good, the Husky was just a bit better.

[@davidedwards3734]

I agree with you, Dealer service is the most important. Can't go wrong with either saw. Have a Safe Day

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Exactly!

[@michaelnelson3469]

That was one of the main reasons for my switch from Stihl to Husky. Around here, Stihls are only sold by ACE hardware, and you'd be hard pressed to find a less knowledgable bunch of people when it comes to saws. The ACE guy who "set up" my 261 did not know what a scrench was, and he totally missed putting chain oil in it.

[@jakepiemme9600]

I've owned both brands in the past. No issues with either. I've gone husky now. Think its got more torque on low end and better rpms up top.

[@alsharp5824]

The Husqvarna 550 Mark 2 is the saw I prefer to run. This is one of the smoothest, well balanced saws I have ran: I have been running chainsaws for nearly 50 years. Thanks for the video!

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Thanks, Al! The 550 is one sweet saw!

[@bjrnmarstrmjohannessen6022]

I love my Husqvarna 550 xpg mk2. Easy to work with and get the job done.

[@davidashcraft8259]

I have multiple Stihl dealers with 30 minutes of me. I don’t even know if there is a husky dealer near. Would love to try one but for me the dealers being close is the main thing. I have saws from s small 20 + year old Echo (great smaller saw) Stihl saws between MS180 to MS462 and about everything in between including a 25 year old 036Pro that belonged to my late father. If I had to choose only one everything (and what fun would that be) it would be my 261 with a 20” bar. Great job young man!

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Thanks, David! That is a good way to go for sure. Dealer Support is important. I appreciate it!

[@Cubasenet33]

I don't know which is best, but I'm going to buy the husky. My MS 230 has given me endless trouble through the 15 years of service. Before watching your vids I thought Still was the only way to go. My great thank you.

[@piknick111]

Those newer huskies look nice, overall I still prefer stihl from years of firefighting and heliack experience out west, most skilled rely on stihls. That said, it seems like huskies made improvements, I wouldn’t doubt your decision.

[@tylervanwormer8302]

😂😂

[@robertfootball1]

I have both of these saws. My 550xp wears a 20” bar and that think freaking rips! You better hold on to it when you hit the throttle in wood, because it’s going with or without you. I like my 261c and use it for smaller stuff like longing and smaller trees. Some might think it’s weird to have two 50cc saws as my only saws but I honestly don’t have a need for a bigger or smaller saw, these two are perfect for what I need. If I had to pick one though it would be the 550.

[@garyweaver6985]

I ran echo but now I just got a husky since my old saw was falling apart ,so I’m going to run Husqvarna from now on, I heard a lot of good success with husqvarna saws.

[@cottydry]

I've been a Stihl guy but acquired a Husky 346XP which wet my appetite with Husqvarna. I later bought a 550XP. It's the finest chainsaw I've ever used. If there's one saw that can do it all, this one comes real close.

[@chadzagone8577]

Love my 550. Saw is snappy

[@Matt-416]

Ever run a 562xp or a MS362c? It'll change your mind. I believe the full cutting weight of a MS362c (or a 562xp) with a 20" lightweight bar is almost identical to the weight of a 550xp with an 18". But substantially more power. I too owned and absolutely loved my 346xp NE. But the 550xp isn't it. The 550 gen 1 was close, being small, but not the gen 2. But between the two, 261c or 550xp... It's gotta be the 550. Get into anything bigger, 362c, 562xp, 462c, 572xp or 500i and 585xp... Stihl wins every class by my vote.. hands down. As an xp user of the phenomenal 371/372 and 350, 357, 346 user for decades... Husky has lost their way. Lots of Chinese parts, unserviceable engineering designs, overly complex and inferior electronics, and they've completely lost their innovation. Heck, what felling dawg options are there for the 550xp? Zero. Yet I can put a set of 500i West Coast dual-dawgs on a 261c without any modifications (though ridiculous).

[@Matt-416]

@imfree62 I have to vote for 372 against the 440. That's not saying that the 044/440 isn't a phenomenal saw, and thousands of those saws were used for people's livelihood. For me the performance is equal, but Husky's air filtration, anti-vibe, and simplicity of design gives it the edge in my opinion. I miss all those great saws.

[@McQ556]

I have the 562 & the 550xp among others. The 562xp is great as a one saw only setup but the 550 is so much lighter and nimble. Once I need to go up from the 550xp I go straight to the 500i. The 562 has become a backup saw. Just to be clear I don’t own the MK2 versions of my XP saws. With the 550 gaining weight maybe it’s a closer deal now .

[@lovestihlquality1369]

My Stihl dealer 10 minutes away. Main parts guy was a service tech for years so he actually knows saws. Valuable resource.

[@lovestihlquality1369]

But I do not like the new flip caps.

[@slpc30]

I use my father in laws 550 Mark 2 it's one of my favorite saws .I have a 365 which I really like

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Both great saws! Your father in law has good taste!

[@tonyalways7174]

The decider for me is dealer support locally. I have 3 Stihl dealers within 30 miles but the nearest Husky dealer is 50 miles away so it’s a no brainer to go Stihl for me.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Dealer support is a huge factor.

[@68fmj51]

I'm in a conundrum because I'm trying to decide which one of these saws I want. I'm leaning towards the Husqvarna, but part of me wants to pick the Stihl simply because around here you can't swing a stick without hitting a Stihl dealer. The closest Husqvarna dealer is 35 miles away, while the closest Stihl dealer is 12 miles away. The Husqvarna dealer I mentioned is the only one within reasonable driving distance, while there are at least two Stihl dealers in the town where I work, besides the dealer in my hometown that I mentioned. I've read a few negative things about the 261 not getting enough bar oil, while the 550 has an adjustable oiler. I've also read a lot of complaints on the Stihl fuel and oil tank caps leaking constantly. I just want to pick a reliable, powerful saw to do the cutting that my Stihl MS 170 cannot do.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Not sure if you have made a purchase, but I'm giving a 261 away on the channel right now. Here's the video with the details: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kHO5pmqtZ6d4oq8

[@c.saragian9502]

I only own the 550xp mark2 and it is an awesome saw. Stihl are great saws as well. I agree cant go wrong with either but the 550xp would be my choice as well. Take care

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

I agree with you!

[@thomasherrick1461]

I prefer the husky 550. I have ran both and agree with everything you said

[@MikeFerguson-yq2jh]

I have run Stihl and Husqvarna equipment side by side for 35 years, each has its pros and cons, both quality saws weedeaters aNd blowers.

[@danielsteinshouer4295]

Both good saws, 550 husky for this guy all the way!

[@davidwheat84]

Both great brands, what the big decider for me is the relationship with the dealer.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

True statement.

[@alumniduck]

I had the opportunity to cut on both. After an hour on each I chose the Husky. It felt better while cutting more wood. If I got the stihl 261 under the tree for Christmas I wouldnt cry as that is a damned nice saw. After a few years I do have some issues with the husky, My first bar kept throwing the chain and when that happened the chain catcher destroyed the inner links on the chain. That part needs to be replaced with a rubber coated one to save the chain. Getting another bar solved the first problem. The second issue is the bar nuts. They vibrate loose too easily. The third issue was that it was hard to start and flooded easily until it was broken in. After a couple of years the saw starts just fine whether it is cold or warmed up.

[@freerangefirewood9602]

Heading in to the dealers next week to make my pick - but leaning toward the Husqvarna. We'll see how I feel once I see them in person!

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

You really can't go wrong between these two. Good luck with your decision!

[@claudesheldon9827]

I agree on the fact that husqvarna and stihl are the two best. Ive used 2series,3series, now own 5series-550,562, & 572. They comfort, balance, and chain speed is hard to beat imo. I am all for the new technology in the saws.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

I totally agree!

[@eugenecrabs3954]

@@OldSchoolMillennial You forgot to mention Echo, they are crazy underrated.

[@dcvariousvids8082]

Well I guess that since I bought the Husky, you may take that as my preference. I also have a Stihl MS500i, so I’m not biased one way or the other. My first saw was a Husky 545, which I still have after I had it rebuilt. The 545 is great up a tree, plenty of power and fairly lightweight. In the past, I’ve used Husky’s 3120XP, Stihl’s MS880 & MS660, these were used for milling. A friend and I were out felling today, Alder and ash, he’s got an MS261 CM. I doubt either of us were measuring our cutting performance against that of the other. We just had some trees to fell and process for future firewood & charcoal. There were trees, two saws and two people cutting, I don’t think either would swap their saws but neither do either of us ogle the other’s chainsaw. They are tools to be used, one is mainly orange and the other is orange & white - both are excellent chainsaws.

[@criscoscorner3791]

I bought the 550 the 1st week of May.... my firewood got here 2 Saturdays ago.. 8 cord... i just picked away at it becauce of the heat.... i had a husqvarna 254xp before this one and I'll say the 254 don't hold a candle to my 550... holy smokes it's makes cutting firewood fun..... ps... i removed the 18" bar and put on the 15"... not that the 18" was taking away the power the 15" just felt better

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Nice, man! These saws are a blast to run!

[@SgtPUSMC]

I'm a Stihl guy but only because I don't have a Husqvarna dealer within 25 miles of my home. Also, I'm a little put off on Husqvarna ever since I started seeing them in the big box stores... I have several Stihl dealers and one Echo dealer much closer to home. Echo is good, but really it comes down to Stihl or Husqvarna for me. My first "real" chainsaw was an MS250 which I still have after 10 years, a couple of years ago I bought an MS362 and I love that thing, but it's heavy for all day use and my 250 is getting a little old and beat up, plus it really feels very under powered now. I'd like to give the 550 a try, but I'll probably just go with the 261.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Either way, you won't be disappointed, man. Both great saws!

[@ralphveasey7274]

I'll take my Dolmar 5100s, I also own a 550xp that I bought while waiting on parts for the 5100s [my screw up]. Several years ago I had friends running a 346xp and a 260 and we got to compare saws, my Dolmar impressed [smoked] them both. I have a new Makita dealer in the area so I'm going to look at the newer Makita saws, that said I really like my 550xp but my 5100s is stronger.

[@Kallaus_built]

I have the s261c and dad has the 550xp they are both amazing saws. Best 50cc saws money can buy!!

[@gmanbeavis]

I love them both. I would've bought an MS261C. I have dealers of both brands nearby. The outstanding 5 year warranty on the Husqvarna is what sold me on the 550XP. I honestly wouldn't mind to have both! I do however run a Stihl FS 131 weedeater! I think Stihl makes a superior weedeater. The Woodboss is also a great Stihl saw.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

That is a great warranty. I hope you're very happy with your choice.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Not sure if you already made a purchase, but I'm giving a MS261 away on the channel right now, if you want to enter: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kHO5pmqtZ6d4oq8

[@vikingnorm6935]

I watch every 550 Mark Ii video since I bought mine when it came out, great saw

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

I agree!

[@PhilHewkin]

Just got a husky 550 xp. Nice saw. I have 5 stihl saws. ALSO very nice saws.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Right on! They're great saws.

[@williamrhoades1913]

Everything I've seen puts the two saws pretty much neck-and-neck. My deciding factor if you've only got 2-3 saws is stick with the same brand for muscle memory for the controls.

[@justingreene9724]

After buying a husqvarna 14" concrete saw I have been kind of hooked on buying their products. . . I have bought sthil products since I was 18 I'm 35 now . . . Never thought I would invest in a different brand of chain saw

[@pawelhener5338]

I ordered my dream-saw the 550xp mk2 with the 18 inch bar in April. When I wanted to try it out my copy would not start unless pulled 30ish times with full choke / or would just die spontaneously. Worst weekend in the forrest after which I lost all confidence in that make. So I sent it back and got a 261c-m 3.0 with the light 04 16 inch bar. The Stihl performs just like expected and does not give me second thoughts about weather it’s going to turn on or die on me. And I don’t need to worry about any choke switch positions anymore

[@livewithnick]

Why would a chainsaw give you second thoughts about the weather?🤷‍♂️

[@pawelhener5338]

@@livewithnick where did you read weather?

[@stevantammy6779]

@@livewithnick whether

[@Keith-zn4vq]

I've ran both and let me tell ya, the Husqvarna is the king in my opinion. I have a 450 rancher and it kicks ass.

[@theleepster4669]

Great comparison, owned Stihls found them difficult to start and the air filters get clogged up very quickly. The 550 one and two are great chainsaws to own. Full of torque. The other Husky to mention is the 346xp, rivals the 550 and sells for good prices, considering it's not made anymore.

[@vikingnorm6935]

I never ran the Stihl, although I’d love to own 1 of them also, but the 550 Mark ii runs amazing, I was skeptical not having a regular carb but I’m a believer, I love it, the rest of the saw is awesome as well, I have tons of hours bucking & limbing, no problems to date

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

I'm giving away a 261 on the channel right now. Here's the link in case you want to enter: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kHO5pmqtZ6d4oq8

[@KD-wg4tn]

I am tasked with this decision. I have owned both brands. Both are great saws. After operating and doing general maintenance on both, the stihl 261 is the easiest when changing bars or chains and air filter. I am leaning toward the ms 261 for that reason. I was raised using a Stihl 028 AV Super purchased new after Hugo in 1989. I still have it and it still works. These two saws are comparable to the 028 new, but lighter by a pound or two. Thx for the review.

[@ciphercode2298]

I have an 8 year old 550xp and I've had to rebuild it twice,while I use 2 stihl saws that are both over 10 years old and have required no major work. One of them is my ms441cm that is my big firewood saw and I use it on my Alaskan mill. The husqvarna cuts great and feels good,but longevity seems to be an issue.

[@skyjacker99]

028 and a 550xp mark 2 are nothing alike imo. 550xp offers alot more power. Throttle response on the 550xp is alot snappier to boot imo

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Not sure if you already made a purchase, but I'm giving a 261 away on the channel right now, if you'd like to enter: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kHO5pmqtZ6d4oq8

[@lauragomez5001]

Great details, great comparison on this two saws. I always run my Husky 261 from 1998 year model and now just purchased a Stihl 261cm and runs greats. For someone reason both of these saws are just on my to go when it comes down to cut a tree or cut fire wood 🪵. For one reason I just wanted to stay away of replacing the purge bulb And these two don't have them 😎👍🏻

[@tedneitzel]

Couldn't agree with you more. Your spot on. I have the mk2 my buddy has 261 and after he made some cuts with my saw he definitely has buyers remorse! I cut circles around him!

[@RDavies126746]

Currently run a Homelite XL-12, Echo CS-301, Husqvarna 455 Rancher, 550XP Mark II, and a 395XP. My Nephew runs a MS-261 which one day I hope to run for comparison. Can't go wrong with either saw.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

That is the truth. Wow, you've got quite the collection. Sounds like we have the same sickness.

[@frankdee8680]

Totally agree with your choice of 550 xp mk 2. I’ve put 18 inch bar on mine it’s an awesome bit of kit 👍

[@valev79]

Hello! I need detailed impressions of the 550xp mark 2 and the stihl ms 261 without the mtronic. I have to settle on one of the two. I've read quite a bit about them, but mostly initial impressions and dry information. The saw will be used primarily in the yard for cutting hardwood firewood. I will be glad if you share which of the two models is better. Which of the two models will create more joy than nerves. Which is more long-lasting and hassle-free, overall. Not primarily aimed at cutting speed. Looking for comfort and reliability on the part of the machine. To predispose to a feeling of safe and secure work, without being extreme, if you understand me. Naturally, if it contains all of these together, it's even better. 😊 Let anyone who has reasonably extended experience with the 550xp mark2 and ms261 share their extensive views on them. As well as any pressing issues to fix or recommended changes to the machine related to its optimization. Greetings!

[@aarons3203]

Great comparison Glenn! I have the 545 mark ii with a 16" bar. It cuts fast and smooth!!

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Thanks Aaron!

[@PhillipDrumz]

Hope stihl takes some pointers from this video! Love the content. Husqvarna is what I’m buying personally

[@brembodream]

I have i Sthil MS261 first edition. A Buddy of mine have the nesset one, Who is a little slimer and less weight and used bothe of them full day to I was tired. I mainly take down trees, some for sawmill, and some for firewood. In my appinion my own 1`st edition has a little more weight in the rotation mass, so the chain doesn tend to stop. Not that latest edition has any unplesent tendency of the chain to stop, but I can use a bit less rews on branches etc. Really like the Sthil. Not tried the Husqvarna, and I guess I would like that saw as much as I like the Sthil. Greeting from Oslo Norway.

[@caporaso]

Between those 2 saws I’d go with the 261, it would just match the other saws lol

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Haha, nice Jeff!

[@adelarsen9776]

The obvious question for me is : Why did you obtain both these saws ? What prompted you to get both saws ? I too believe Husky and Stihl are equal and as good as each other.

[@richcooke9241]

That is a good question. Why have two very similar saws?

[@adelarsen9776]

@@richcooke9241 Some people can afford both and have curious minds.

[@erikalmon7487]

Would your choice be any different if you were only using the saw for a few months each year? Given that the saw may sit for the better part of a year without use, do you see one being better than the other in terms of starting up and running well again after sitting so long?

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Both saws start up without issues. You really can't go wrong with either one.

[@kaptajn33]

Having experience from both Stihl and Husqvarna and i prefer the Husqvarna

[@goodboyringo9716]

I bought the 550 xp mark2 , ran 5 tanks for brake-in before flooring the throttle, then mod the muffler , wow what a difference in power. I'm glad I have the 550

[@AndreasBrOlesen]

I also have a 550 mk2. I have considered doing the muffler mod, but I kind of like that it is relatively quiet stock. I can use it for short amounts of time without hearing protection as is. My 592 is much louder, so it is kind of nice to have both a lighter and quieter alternative to the 592. I can’t figure out if the muffler mod is worth it

[@coyotesnipe]

Right now, the local husky dealer can’t seem to get saws. There’s a 261 in stock at the local store, so,,,

[@davidrehaluk8620]

I went from a 455 rancher to the 550 use it for most the work but a 357 really has more zip and a 372 for stumping

[@jase7252]

I don't know how many hours I have on saws. I believe the 261 is one of the finest chainsaws ever Made hands down. I have two Infact. The 550 is better, at first I didn't like it, but by hour 8 day 1 of cutting I was only using it for the most part. By the end of my first week I was in love. I threw an "18 bar on it and sthil full chisele chain on. It is by far and away the best mid saw on sale at this moment. I am a sthil guy 100%, there's an 88 hanging up next to me on the wall as I write this. Husky big saws are garbage, but this 550 it's insane. It literally makes going to work easier.

[@aldredske6197]

Hi Glenn!!😀😀 My favorite saw of the two is the ms261. I have ran both of them. What I like better about the 261 is the top handle has much less angle than the 550 and flows better when rolling it side to side when you are limbing. With the 550 if it is balanced when you are holding it on top. When you flip it on it's side it will be out of balance. Where the 261 is always balanced in what ever angle you are holding it. Huskies just don't flow as smoothly as they Stihl. The 550 might be a little snappier than the Stihl but blocking 16 to 20 inch wood there isn't much difference. Take care my friend!!😀😀 Logger Al

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Hi Al! Thanks for sharing this. It really comes down to personal preference. There is no doubt that the 261 is a great saw. Hence why I have both.

[@thefirewooddoctor]

Logger Al, is personal preference and how it feels in the individuals hands. Can't go wrong with either saw.

[@aldredske6197]

@@thefirewooddoctor you are right Jeffery

[@briancupp6767]

I have the Stihl ms 261c-m. Love it have a Stihl dealer around corner from me why I went with it I really love it I haven’t ran or even held the husky I’d like to try it

[@jaymartinrealtor7736]

So the Husq 545 MKii is $599 and the 550 is around $639, do you think the difference is worth going to a 550 over a 545?

[@abv2518]

I choose the same as you I got the 550xpg tho Lil beast it can do anything I need to do

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

It is a beast! Enjoy that saw!

[@torreyintahoe]

I'm a retired firefighter and Stihl is all we used on the job so that's all I use.

[@chrisb9478]

I bought a Husky 550xp mk2 because no dealers remotely close to me had any Stihl pro saws in stock (mtns of W.NC) I had to order the 550 online from a dealer in AL.

[@ciphercode2298]

Really wanting a new ms261cm. I'll probably switch it over to a 3/8"rim sprocket and 20" sugi hara lightweight bar. I think I'd want bigger bucking spikes and both of them,not just an inside spike.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

I'm giving a 261 away on the channel right now. Not sure if you have purchased yet, but here's the link in case you want to enter: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kHO5pmqtZ6d4oq8

[@569iw0]

Always had stihl but the 550 is tempting

[@Matt-416]

I have owned both. I somewhat agree that the 550 is much more nimble and feels lighter. However, the 261 feels like it has more power. That being said, neither is what a 50cc pro saw should be. Yes they make more power than their respective predecessors, but they're bigger and heavier as well. To me their weights are too close to a 60cc saw (562xp, 362c) that have relatively the same dimensions but much more power. I currently have a 550xp as my only running 50cc saw, but I rarely use it. Unless I'm cording out a bunch of small stuff, I just grab a 60cc. The same wasn't true for the 346xp and 026. At least one of those saws were always with me. I guess it comes down to "feel".

[@veesheps]

550 mark 2 with 20 inch bar and chain, can't go wrong.

[@Trump2024Kentucky]

Will choose the Stihl 261 due to having a local Stihl dealer.

[@davido6915]

If i had to choose one saw I would get a ms361 or 362, reason is simple, the weight. If i can buy a 60 cc saw that weighs only 2 oz more than the 550xp and get almost another 10cc then its the clear choice. Think about it, a 50 cc saw that weighs the same as a 60cc saw! Why get less power and lug around the extra weight with less power! 550 weighs 12.2, 362 weighs 12.4 but with alot more power.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

I understand your choice. As I said it comes down to personal preference. BTW the powerhead on the 550 comes in at 11.7 pounds which comes from the Husqvarna website. So this saw is about a pound heavier than the 261.

[@iffykidmn8170]

The 361 might be a ok one saw solution, Or a 261 at roughly 11ish pounds and a 70cc saw makes for a pretty nice pair.

[@vascopires2045]

i can't wait until the 04lite bar is available here

[@polderfischer8565]

When a Stihl 170/180 would have been my first saw, i would never buy a Stihl again ;-) And after using this highly recommended 261 i was totally disappointed. She felt noisy (nothing against loudness!), peaky and torqueless. Yes, she is light and fast, but overall...

[@WRCPNW]

Really have been enjoying your content, thanks for putting it out. I've started looking first at the 261 non m tronic now looking at 362,462, 372xp and after your videos the 550. Wish me luck. Hahaha

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Thank you! I'm glad you're enjoying the channel. Let me know which route you end up going with.

[@randyarcher1206]

I’m a homeowner with a lot of trees on my property that have fallen due to bad winters …so the cleanup has commenced ….Currently own a STIHL MS 261 cm changed out the bar and chain to Oregon Versacut set up previously had a yellow STIHL chain ….night and day I tell ya !! Cuts the like a hot knife through butter ….however in the beginning felt like it was lil underpowered until now …..Looking into the purchasing the Husky 562Xp ….welcome to the Darkside!! 😎😈👊🏼

[@michaelduncan123]

I chose the STIHL MS261C because there are multiple dealers closer to me than my nearest HUSQVARNA dealer.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

That makes sense. It's a great saw and you always want dealer support if you can get it.

[@jeffcarinda1719]

Is this Husky a pro saw like the Stihl?

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Yes it is.

[@shannonhayne783]

I have a 550 and 562 husky. Crank bearings in all 3 ( because the 550 was replaced under warranty) and it blew up

[@Telukin]

Saw your previous review and that helped me choose - I ordered my 550XP II earlier today, looking forward to it!

[@francisnoble3513]

I purchased a 550 xp mark ll two years ago i have 10 stihl saws and 4 husqvarnas the 550 has gave me more problems then any of my other saws after maybe 10 tanks of fuels thought it and had to bring it back to dealer $ 70 later it was fixed then after a few more tanks of fuel it let up on me it was under a year old the dealer wouldnt fix it husqvarna did give me a new case and crank . They said i had to put it back together got it all fixed then the carb went they charged me $260 to fix that now the oil pump went the other day i do love the saw but it has one thing after the other no sure if i would by another one

[@jolew02]

In anything other than limbing a 550xp gets walked by a dolmar 5100/5105. If you have not run one of those saws (they are getting harder to find) run one. 3/8 .050 chain 16" bar. The dolmar can pull the big chain and will smoke a 550 in anything with diameter. It feels like running a bigger cc saw honestly. Better build quality on the dolmar as well the 550 feels real cheap real quick after you use it some.

[@cottagecarvings3582]

Great job...i carve animals for a hobby amd was curious about the torque..

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Thanks 👍. Very cool!

[@jamesmitchell1614]

Pound for pound huskies seem to be torqier where stihl turns the rpms on pro models. If I were buying a farm saw id buy a stihl 10 out of 10. Ive always wanted a 260 261 for versatility....but my curiosity definitely keeps options always open. I'll probably buy both.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Haha, can't wrong with both. That's what I did.

[@thefirewooddoctor]

Can't go wrong with either saw. No idea how it happened, but switched to Husqvarna from owning Stihl many years ago. Love my 550xp. Used a 450 Rancher and thought that saw ripped. The 550xp is even better. I run mine with a 20in bar for better reach in a log pile and for reaching logs that are on the ground. For even better reach, my go-to saw is my Echo CS-590 with 24in bar. That is another saw that is hard to beat for the money spent. Overall, for me a 24in bar is optimal for weight, balance, and reach when working a pile of firewood logs. What bar length seems optimal for you for reaching logs on the ground, overall balance, and handling on the bigger saws?

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

I agree with you on the 24in bar and 25in bar for bigger saws. That's what I run on my 372xpw and my 500i. That seems to be the sweet spot. A 28 light bar would give good reach as well.

[@MrColtnutz]

Love the stihl rev but the husqy all day.

[@dirtyrotter4057]

Well i was to a dealer yesterday . You cannot reset the husky. Needs a computer . The sthil you can reset yourself.

[@johnbailey2306]

I have run both in the pro world and y'all both of these saws are timber killing saws!!! I have had way good luck with both!! So 0999😅

[@iffykidmn8170]

Why not try a Oregon Speed cut or Versa cut lighter weight bar might help with better balance of the lighter Stihl? Couple a new .050" rim sprocket Speed cut bar and narrow kerf chain.

[@saltrock9642]

I was on the fence but Stihl won simply because a dealer is 10 min from my house and they are a complete service center for all Stihl products. Thanks.

[@Corné-o6h]

Standing for this choice right now. No need for two for the work I am doing with it. I've been told that Husqvarna of the two gives more vibrations which is due to an artificial elbow important to me. Can you say something about that?

[@notachance374]

I’ve seen comments about how most prologgers, most skilled use stihl, this is just simply a geographic bias, they are in general split on market share Sorry if u r a pro and think either is the preferred of a “pro”. I know many pros on both sides, yet husky in my region is likely 70-89% market share. And this is coming from me, a husky fan boy with 5 pro huskie saws husky ride on mower, husky push mower and trimmer ( pgrass tools aren’t “full husky) I do as well have an echo for climbing and a 50 cc stihl Always work as they should and are very reliable tools I would say, buy a pro saw if you want problem free equipment!

[@patrickvennard838]

I had both I didn't like the stihl for similar reasons to yours. Good choice your right both saws will get the job done. How is your MS500i? I now just run my 550XP and 353 for small stuff.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

The 500i runs great! I'm still breaking it in. I plan on running it against my ported 372xpw pretty soon. It should be a good matchup.

[@adambatchelder4121]

I really don't have a preference eather, I agree the stihl caps kinda suck. I bought the stihl for 2 reasons weight and the fact that I already had a stihl 260 that was a great saw that has ran for ever. I sent the new 261 to Gary Buxton for the porting and mufler mods and it absolutely hauls ass .

[@sinanacar7564]

İ have husky 550 M2. Only thing i dont like is the handler. Holding and pulling the triger is litle uncomfortable.

[@mf6532]

I have a 261CM but I need at times extra power,so 572xp I got my eyes on you.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

A 50cc saw pairs really well with a 70cc saw and I've heard great things about the 572.

[@christopherbrown8164]

Considering that you own these saws and the larger 500i, I'm curious as to what you find yourself reaching for when it's time to cut firewood. I own a Husqvarna 562xp and a Stihl 462c. I'm wondering if adding a 50cc saw to the arsenal would be worth while. I was thinking I would like the light weight and lower fuel consumption for firewood production in 20" and smaller wood.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

Lately I find myself grabbing the 550. However, I try to rotate them and make sure to share the love.

[@bradbentley863]

I have more Hooskys than I will use in 4 lifetimes. Like the author, I actually love Stihls too (coin flip). Do my own work on them though, and having a common footprint is the bee's knees. If you already have a 70 series, then the 50 makes amazing sense. If you have a 60, you are already in that in-between hybrid mode. It really depends on how much limbing and brush work you want to do. These high-end 50s are light sabers. The 346xp (what the 550xp replaced) is still my go to saw for walking the property lines.

[@Psy6o]

562 is a legendary saw

[@jeffshannon4096]

My wife and I recently moved to Tennessee and are living off grid in a large wall tent. We are using a Harbor freight portable garage for equipment and tools. My first chainsaw which is a MS 170 which I truly love. We have 15 acres completely wooded and I knew that I was going to be needing a larger chainsaw in the very near future. I have both dealers nearby so that's not an issue. I think that if I flipped a coin either one is an excellent chainsaw but I am just on the fence right now. We just had a recent storm and a large tree maybe 20 in dropped and it has to be cut up in the near future. Most likely it will be the husky.

[@OldSchoolMillennial]

What did you end up going with? Sounds like you guys are living an adventure!

[@MatthewC137]

I don't think many realize that the Husky's single piston ring is responsible for the performance advantage when both saws are new/not broken-in yet and that advantage diminishes with use and the single ring becomes a disadvantage. The single ring is THE reason the Husky revs so quickly. The Stihl, however, is likely to gain power through the break-in period and maintain its rated power for much longer than the Husky because it uses 2 piston rings which aid in heat transfer to the cylinder and reduces blow-by (leaked pressure which causes more wear and reduced power along with more frequent top end rebuilds). Two rings can also help to stabilize the piston which also reduces wear. Since chainsaws are tools not toys, the Stihl is the easy choice for me. If we were talking about dirt bikes (toys) for MX racing the benefits of two rings would not necessarily be the deciding factor.