Stihl MS 162 Chainsaw Review: A Balanced, Reliable Tool for Homeowners and Enthusiasts

When it comes to reliable chainsaws that balance power and ease of use, Stihl is a brand that often comes to mind. The Stihl MS 162, a gas-powered chainsaw, is an excellent choice for homeowners and those who tackle medium-duty cutting tasks such as pruning, firewood cutting, or even some light logging. But does it live up to Stihl’s renowned reputation for quality and performance? In this review, we’ll take a detailed look at the MS 162, examining everything from engine power to user experience.

Performance: Power Meets Precision

The MS 162 comes equipped with a 1.5 kW (2.0 hp) engine that delivers strong performance for its class. It strikes an excellent balance between power and fuel efficiency, making it ideal for residential use and occasional property maintenance. This chainsaw’s cutting efficiency is particularly impressive when dealing with medium-sized wood, especially for tasks like trimming branches or felling small trees.
The MS 162 handles softwoods like pine with ease, providing smooth, consistent cuts. However, it requires more effort to cut harder woods like oak or hickory. Nevertheless, it still performs well for homeowners who need to cut firewood or manage trees on their property.
In terms of handling, the chainsaw feels stable and relatively light at just 3.8 kg (8.4 lbs) without fuel. Its compact design and low-vibration technology help reduce fatigue during extended use, making it a solid choice for those tackling multiple hours of work.

Design and Build Quality: Comfort and Durability

Stihl is known for building sturdy, durable chainsaws, and the MS 162 is no exception. Its construction feels solid, with a robust plastic casing that can withstand the rigors of regular use. One of the standout features is the well-balanced design, which ensures that the chainsaw is easy to maneuver. This is particularly important for users who are not professional loggers but need a tool that they can handle with confidence and comfort.
The MS 162 includes Stihl’s anti-vibration system, which significantly reduces the vibrations transferred to the user’s hands, enhancing comfort. The ergonomic handle design, coupled with the reduced vibration, ensures that long cutting sessions won’t leave your hands or arms sore, even when working for extended periods.

Technical Details

Here are the key specifications for the Stihl MS 162 chainsaw:

Features: Efficiency and Ease of Use

One of the key features of the MS 162 is its user-friendly design. It is equipped with a tool-free fuel cap, making refueling quick and easy without the need for additional tools. This is a nice touch for those who may not want to fiddle with complicated mechanisms during their work.
Additionally, the MS 162 is designed with an easy-access air filter system, which simplifies maintenance. The air filter is easily removed for cleaning or replacement, ensuring the engine runs at peak performance. The chain tensioning system is also tool-free, which means you can adjust the tension quickly without the need for a wrench. This is especially convenient for homeowners and occasional users.

Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance

Fuel efficiency is another strength of the MS 162. With its relatively small fuel tank, you’ll still have plenty of cutting time between refills, especially when working with smaller wood or pruning tasks. The automatic oiling system ensures that the bar and chain remain lubricated during use, reducing wear and tear and ensuring smooth operation.
Routine maintenance tasks such as air filter cleaning and spark plug access are made easy by the design. The ease of chain tensioning and maintenance makes this chainsaw a good choice for those who don’t want to spend too much time on upkeep.

User Experience: Noise and Reliability

The MS 162 is relatively quiet for a petrol chainsaw, with a sound pressure level of 94 dB(A). While it is not silent by any means, it is manageable, especially when compared to larger, more powerful models. The lower noise level is a benefit for homeowners who may be working in residential areas.
Reliability is where the MS 162 shines. It starts consistently and is ready to work without much fuss. During longer sessions, the chainsaw doesn’t overheat, and the low-vibration design reduces operator fatigue, allowing users to keep going without discomfort.

Comparison with Other Chainsaws

When compared to other chainsaws in the same category, such as the Husqvarna 120 Mark II or the Echo CS-310, the Stihl MS 162 offers a superior anti-vibration system and ergonomic design. The Husqvarna model is slightly less expensive but doesn’t match the Stihl in terms of comfort or ease of use. The Echo CS-310 is comparable in power, but the Stihl chainsaw’s superior fuel efficiency and tool-free maintenance features give it an edge for homeowners.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:
• Great balance of power and weight
• Easy to handle and ergonomic design
• Low vibration and comfortable for extended use
• Tool-free maintenance
• Reliable starting and consistent performance

Weaknesses:
• May struggle with very hard woods
• Slightly louder than some electric models

Who Should Buy the Stihl MS 162?

The Stihl MS 162 is perfect for homeowners, landowners, and hobbyists who need a chainsaw for light to medium-duty tasks like pruning, firewood cutting, and general property maintenance. While it’s not designed for heavy-duty logging, it’s more than capable of handling everyday tasks. Its ergonomic design, low vibration, and ease of maintenance make it an excellent choice for those who value comfort and reliability.

Common Questions and Answers

1. Q: What is the engine power of the Stihl MS 162?
A: The MS 162 has an engine power of 1.5 kW (2.0 hp), which is ideal for medium-duty tasks.
2. Q: How heavy is the Stihl MS 162?
A: The chainsaw weighs 3.8 kg (8.4 lbs) without fuel, making it relatively light and easy to handle.
3. Q: Can the Stihl MS 162 handle hardwoods like oak?
A: While the MS 162 can cut through hardwoods, it is better suited for softer woods. For dense hardwoods, a more powerful chainsaw may be required.
4. Q: Is the Stihl MS 162 fuel-efficient?
A: Yes, the MS 162 is quite fuel-efficient, making it a cost-effective choice for homeowners.
5. Q: How easy is it to maintain the MS 162?
A: The MS 162 is designed for easy maintenance, with tool-free access to the air filter and chain tensioning system.
6. Q: Does the MS 162 have low vibration?
A: Yes, the MS 162 features Stihl’s anti-vibration system, which reduces fatigue and enhances comfort during extended use.
7. Q: How loud is the Stihl MS 162?
A: The MS 162 has a sound pressure level of 94 dB(A), which is moderate but quieter than larger chainsaws.
8. Q: What is the maximum bar length for the MS 162?
A: The MS 162 comes with a 35 cm (14 in) bar, making it ideal for most
residential cutting tasks.
9. Q: Can I use the MS 162 for professional logging?
A: While the MS 162 is durable, it is not designed for professional logging tasks. It is best suited for homeowners and occasional users.
10. Q: Is the MS 162 easy to start?
A: Yes, the MS 162 has an easy-start system, making it reliable for consistent use.

User Reviews

1. John H. (Homeowner)
“I’ve had the MS 162 for about 6 months now, and it’s been fantastic for trimming trees and cutting firewood. It starts easily every time, and the low vibration makes it comfortable to use for long periods. Definitely recommend it!”

2. Sarah M. (Landowner)
“The MS 162 has been a great tool for managing my property. It’s lightweight and easy to handle, and I appreciate how easy it is to maintain. I’m not a professional, but this chainsaw gives me the power I need for most tasks.”

3. Tom G. (Hobbyist)
“As a weekend warrior, I needed something powerful but not too heavy. The MS 162 fits the bill perfectly. It cuts through smaller trees with ease and doesn’t wear me out. Love it!”