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Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →The STIHL MS 261, MS 271 and MS 291 are documented for use with a 20-inch guide bar. Which is best depends on the balance you want between manufacturer-listed power, displacement and saw weight—not on a proven cutting-speed ranking. STIHL’s manuals specify the compatible bar-and-chain dimensions, so confirm the exact combination before buying or fitting a replacement.
Which STIHL saw is best with a 20-inch bar?
For the strongest published power figure and lowest dry weight of these three, the MS 261 is the standout on paper. The MS 291 has the largest displacement, while the MS 271 shares the MS 261’s displacement but has a lower listed horsepower figure. These are manufacturer specifications, not results from a controlled comparison of cutting performance or handling.
| Model | Displacement | Published power | Dry weight* | 20-inch fitment documented |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MS 261 | 50.2 cc | 4.0 hp (3.0 kW) at 10,000 rpm | 10.8 lb (4.9 kg) | Rollomatic E bar; .325-inch pitch, 0.063-inch (1.6 mm) gauge, 81 drive links (26 RM3) |
| MS 271 | 50.2 cc | 3.5 hp (2.6 kW) at 9,500 rpm | 12.3 lb (5.6 kg) | Rollomatic E bar; .325-inch pitch and 0.063-inch (1.6 mm) gauge; STIHL kit 6 lists a compatible 81-link 26 RM3 chain |
| MS 291 | 55.5 cc | 3.8 hp (2.8 kW) at 9,500 rpm | 12.3 lb (5.6 kg) | Rollomatic E bar; .325-inch pitch and 0.063-inch (1.6 mm) gauge; STIHL kit 6 lists a compatible 81-link 26 RM3 chain |
*STIHL manual dry weights exclude the bar and chain (the MS 271/MS 291 manual describes weight without the cutting attachment). Figures are manufacturer specifications checked in 2026; they do not measure cutting speed, balance or user fatigue. Sources: MS 261 manual and MS 271/MS 291 manual.
Choose the MS 261 for the published power-to-weight figures
Among these models, the MS 261 combines the highest listed horsepower, 4.0 hp, with the lowest listed dry weight, 10.8 lb. That makes it the clearest paper choice if those specifications are your priority. The figures alone do not establish how quickly it will cut a particular species or diameter of wood.
#1 Best Overall
- Powerful Performance: This 62cc gas chainsaw features a 3.8 HP (2.8 kW) engine with a 12,000 rpm Max speed, making it ideal for home and professional logging. The 20 in (508 mm) guide bar cuts diameter up to 18 in (455 mm), efficiently handling thick trunks and large branches. If you encounter startup issues, please don’t hesitate to contact our customer service for assistance.
- Easy Start Function: Our 62cc chainsaw offers cold and hot start options, adapting to different working environments. Use the choke switch, start switch, and pull the rope to begin, quickly entering work mode.
- Emergency Stop for Security: The gas chain saw features an emergency stop function. Just press the stop lever, and the chainsaw will immediately cease operation. Additionally, the guard design effectively avoids wood chips from flying, ensuring your security.
- Adaptable to Outdoor Conditions: The PA6+30%GP composite body provides excellent impact-resistant ability and high-temperature durability. Whether in cold winter or hot summer, this gas-powered chainsaw delivers stable performance, avoiding body cracking and oil leakage.
- Thoughtful Design Features: The chainsaw has a 550 ml (0.14 gal) fuel tank and 260 ml (0.07 gal) chain oil tank for extended use. The 40:1 fuel mixture ensures continuous lubrication, reducing wear. The extended pull rope makes starting easier, and the chain adjuster allows for easy tension adjustments for optimal performance.
Choose the MS 291 for the largest displacement
The MS 291 is listed at 55.5 cc, more than either 50.2 cc model. Its published power is 3.8 hp and its dry weight is 12.3 lb. Displacement by itself does not prove that it will outperform the MS 261 in a specific job.
Consider the MS 271 as the other 50.2 cc option
The MS 271 has the same listed displacement as the MS 261 but lower published power—3.5 hp versus 4.0 hp—and the same 12.3 lb dry weight as the MS 291. The available specifications support comparing those figures, but not a universal ranking for real-world work.
Rank #2
- Safety upgrade:3D Anti-Kickback Chain Brake System
- Durability breakthrough:Forged Magnesium Crankcase
- Maintenance revolution:Tool-Free Chain Tensioning System
- Environmental certification:EPA Phase III & CARB Compliant Engine
- All-weather performance:Winterized Carburetor with Pre-Heating
What 20-inch bar and chain fits these models?
STIHL’s manuals list 20-inch Rollomatic E bar configurations for all three models. The relevant specifications are .325-inch chain pitch and a 0.063-inch (1.6 mm) bar-groove gauge. For the MS 261, the manual specifies an 81-drive-link 26 RM3 chain for the 20-inch setup. STIHL’s kit 6 lists a Rollomatic E bar and two 26 RM3 81 chains for the MS 261, MS 271 and MS 291, among other models.
A second listed replacement option, STIHL’s 2+1 Cut Kit 18, includes a Light 04 50 cm bar and two .325-inch 23 RM3 81 chains for the three models. These are distinct kit variants; do not assume that a chain or bar will fit merely because it is described as 20-inch. Check the saw model, bar mount, pitch, gauge and chain code against the specific product and confirm with an authorized STIHL servicing dealer when needed.
Rank #3
- Power Through Jobs Faster: Unleash the 58cc 2-stroke engine to cut quicker and refuel less. Our 30% larger fuel tank gives you more continuous runtime, turning all-day projects into afternoon victories and giving you your weekend back
- One Saw for Any Task: Why haul two saws? Our Quick-Switch system lets you swap the 20” felling bar for the 18” limbing bar in seconds. Go from clearing large fallen trees to precision pruning without missing a beat
- No More Hard Starts: Fire up reliably on the first few pulls with our Quick-Start recoil, even in the cold. On-site chain tensioning is fast with the included scrench, so you can eliminate frustrating delays and keep working
- A Tool That Won't Quit: Engineered for reliability with a pro-grade centrifugal air filter and automatic oiler that protect the engine from dust and debris; count on fewer work stoppages and a longer tool life, season after season
- Stay in Control, Cut in Comfort: A fast-acting inertial chain brake and low-kickback chain put safety first. Feel the difference as our dual-spring anti-vibration system soaks up engine buzz, fighting fatigue so you stay sharp
- STIHL 2+1 Cut Kit 6: Rollomatic E bar and two 26 RM3 81 chains; listed for the MS 261, MS 271 and MS 291 among other models.
- STIHL 2+1 Cut Kit 18: Light 04 50 cm bar and two .325-inch 23 RM3 81 chains; listed for the MS 261, MS 271 and MS 291.
What to know before choosing a 20-inch setup
Listed bar length is not the same as cutting length
STIHL states in its manuals: “Actual cutting length will be less than listed bar length.” A 20-inch bar therefore does not promise a full 20 inches of usable cut.
Verify the combination and safety labeling
The manuals describe reduced-kickback STIHL bars with green labels and low-kickback STIHL chains with green labels for the combinations they list. STIHL also advises contacting an authorized servicing dealer for the latest bar-and-chain recommendations because available combinations may change. Use the manual and current dealer guidance rather than treating every 20-inch attachment as interchangeable.
Rank #4
- Unleash 3.6HP Dominant Power: Tackle your backyard maintenance with a robust 58cc engine delivering 3.6HP. This gas chainsaw(91 ft/s chain speed) slices through thick logs, storm-downed trees, and hardwood with relentless force, turning daunting cleanup tasks into satisfying accomplishments
- Your Complete 2-in-1 Cutting Solution: The gas chainsaw comes with both a 20 inch bar for felling large trees and an 18 inch bar for precision limbing. Effortlessly switch between tasks, ensuring you have the right chain saw for every job
- Starts Without the Struggle: Forget the frustration of stubborn motors. The advanced easy-start recoil system helps reduce pull-force, allowing you to fire up this chainsaw quickly and reliably, even in cold weather,saving your energy for the work ahead
- Engineered for Long-Session Comfort: Designed for homeowners, this chainsaw gas powered unit features an ergonomic dual-spring anti-vibration handle that absorbs punishing engine shake. Maintain a secure, comfortable grip and work longer with less fatigue and strain
- Built Safe and Reliable: Safety is a core design focus. This chain saw gas power tool includes a Quick-Stop chain brake for instant reaction to kickback. The automatic oiling system keeps the bar and chain consistently lubricated, with a 550ml fuel tank and 260ml oil capacity for extended runtime, enhancing durability and performance
Match the saw to the work and the operator
A longer bar is not automatically the better choice. These published figures do not establish which saw is appropriate for a particular tree, job or operator’s experience, and they do not quantify handling or fatigue. Use workload and handling needs alongside the specifications, and get model-specific advice when the application is uncertain.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Sources and scope
The model specifications and bar configurations above come from STIHL’s manuals, checked in 2026. Replacement-kit details come from STIHL USA’s product listings. The cited material does not provide an independent head-to-head test, current local inventory or a measured performance winner.
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Quick Recap
Best Value
- Take Back Your Property: The 63CC 2-cycle engine delivers 3.7HP, 8500 RPM, and 85 ft/s chain speed, helping you turn fallen limbs, thick rounds, ranch upkeep, and firewood prep into finished work with steady confidence
- Match the Bar to the Job: Use the 20-inch setup for wider trunks and bucking, then switch to the 18-inch setup for limbing, trimming, and tighter spaces, so you can choose the right cutting range with less guesswork
- Start and Handle with Less Frustration: Listed at 14 lb, the easy-start recoil system helps reduce pull-cord effort, while shock-absorbing handles support a steadier grip when long cleanup jobs demand focus
- Keep Cutting Care Predictable: The 0.26 L automatic oiler feeds the bar and chain during use, helping manage dry friction and heat so routine maintenance feels simpler and the saw stays ready for the next section of wood
- Replace Chains with Confidence: The 20-inch chain uses 0.325P, 0.058G, and 76DL; the 18-inch chain uses 0.325P, 0.058G, and 72DL, so you can confirm the correct fit before ordering and avoid costly guesswork
- STIHL MS 261 Owners Instruction Manual
- STIHL MS 271/MS 291 Instruction Manual
- STIHL 2+1 Cut Kit 6
- STIHL 2+1 Cut Kit 18
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
