STIHL MS 162 vs. STIHL MS 172 vs. STIHL MS 182 – Which Chainsaw is Right for You?
If you’re looking for a dependable chainsaw for home or farm use, Stihl offers three great options: the STIHL MS 162, STIHL MS 172, and STIHL MS 182. Each model is designed for different levels of work, from light-duty to more demanding tasks. This review will explain the key differences, helping you make the right choice.
Complete Technical Specifications
| Specification | STIHL MS 162 | STIHL MS 172 | STIHL MS 182 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Engine Displacement | 30.1 cc (1.84 cu. in) | 31.8 cc (1.94 cu. in) | 35.8 cc (1.94 cu. in) |
| Power Output | 1.2 kW (1.6 bhp) | 1.3 kW (1.9 bhp) | 1.5 kW (2.1 bhp) |
| Weight (empty) (without bar & chain) | 3.9 kg (8.6 lbs) | 4.1 kg (9.0 lbs) | 4.3 kg (9.5 lbs) |
| Guide Bar Length Options | 30-35 cm (12-14″) | 30-40 cm (12-16″) | 35-40 cm (14-16″) |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 250 ml (8.5 fl oz) | 250 ml (8.5 fl oz) | 250 ml (8.5 fl oz) |
| Oil Tank Capacity | 145 ml (4.9 fl oz) | 145 ml (4.9 fl oz) | 145 ml (4.9 fl oz) |
| Chain Pitch | 9.32 mm (3/8″ P) | 9.32 mm (3/8″ P) | 9.32 mm (3/8″ P) |
| Chain Gauge | 1.1 mm (0.043″) | 1.1 mm (0.043″) | 1.1 mm (0.043″) |
Bar Length Options and Cutting Capacity
Bar length determines the size of trees or logs you can handle effectively.
| Performance Aspect | STIHL MS 162 | STIHL MS 172 | STIHL MS 182 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Light pruning, limbing | General yard work, small trees | Frequent use, firewood |
| Recommended Bar Lengths | 12″-16″ (30-40 cm) | 14″-18″ (35-45 cm) | 16″-20″ (40-50 cm) |
| Max Cutting Diameter | 20 cm (8″) | 30 cm (12″) | 35 cm (14″) |
| Fuel Consumption | 400 ml/hr (13.5 oz/hr) | 420 ml/hr (14.2 oz/hr) | 450 ml/hr (15.2 oz/hr) |
| Runtime per Tank | 35-40 minutes | 35-40 minutes | 30-35 minutes |
If you need versatility for thicker logs, go with the STIHL MS 182. For pruning and smaller jobs, the STIHL MS 162 is sufficient.
Who Should Buy Which?
STIHL MS 162
Best suited for:
– Occasional home use
– Light pruning and limbing
– Cutting small firewood
Advantages:
The lightest model weight in the series
Excellent maneuverability
Low fuel consumption
Limitations:
Limited power for larger tasks
Shorter bar length options
STIHL MS 172
Best suited for:
– Regular home use
– Property maintenance
– Medium-sized firewood cutting
Advantages:
Good balance of power and weight
Improved fuel efficiency
Enhanced cutting performance
Limitations:
Heavier than MS 162
Still limited for professional use
STIHL MS 182
Best suited for:
– Regular property maintenance
– Farm and ranch work
– Medium to large firewood cutting
Advantages:
Strong power output
Versatile bar length options
Robust construction
Limitations:
Higher fuel consumption
Increased weight
Choose STIHL MS 162 if:
– You need a lightweight saw for occasional use
– Budget is a primary concern
– Tasks are limited to small-diameter wood
Choose STIHL MS 172 if:
– You need regular but not heavy-duty use
– Balance between weight and power is important
– Medium-sized cutting tasks are common
Choose STIHL MS 182 if:
– You require more power for regular use
– Cutting larger diameter wood is common
– Longer bar length is needed
Maintenance Considerations
All models share similar maintenance requirements:
– Regular air filter cleaning
– Periodic spark plug replacement
– Chain sharpening and tension adjustment
– Bar maintenance and lubrication
– Fuel system cleaning
Higher models like ( STIHL MS 182 and STIHL MS 212) may require more frequent maintenance due to increased usage intensity and power output.
Safety Features Comparison
All models include essential safety features:
– Chain brake system
– Front hand guard
– Chain catcher
– Throttle lockout
– Right-hand guard
– Anti-vibration system
The effectiveness and robustness of these features improve progressively from STIHL MS 162 to STIHL MS 182
Environmental Impact
– All models meet current emission standards
– Fuel efficiency decreases as power increases
– Modern engine technology helps minimize environmental impact
– Catalytic converters available for some models
Conclusion
Each model in this series serves a specific user profile and use case:
– STIHL MS 162 excels as an entry-level, lightweight option
– STIHL MS 172 provides a balanced mid-range solution
– STIHL MS 182 offers enhanced power for regular users
The choice between models should be based on:
1. Intended use frequency
2. Required cutting capacity
3. User experience level
4. Budget constraints
5. Physical handling preferences
