Stihl Chainsaws: 260 Pro Vs. 361

Powerhead Specs

• The powerhead of a saw consists of all the working parts of the saw except the bar and the chain. The powerhead of both chainsaws uses a single-cylinder engine with a two-stroke design. The powerhead of the 260 Pro has a displacement of 50.2 cubic centimeters while the MS 361 is rated at 59 cubic centimeters. The 260 Pro has a bore of 1.76 inches and a stroke of 1.26 inches, while the MS 361 is stroked and bored at 1.85 and 1.34 inches, respectively. The displacement is determined by the space available to the cylinder of the engine. The bore and stroke determine the width of the cylinder and the distance it travels. Generally, larger displacement engines supply more power.

Weight and Capacity

• The powerheads of the 260 Pro and MS 361 weigh 10.4 and 12.3 pounds, respectively. The 260 Pro is an overall lighter saw with a smaller engine and fuel tanks, making it more desirable for remote job sites. The fuel tanks of the 260 Pro carry 0.97 pints of fuel while the MS 361 supports 1.45 pints. The MS 361 also has a larger oil tank that supports 0.69 pints of bar oil while the 260 Pro only carries 0.61 pints of bar oil. This oil lubricates the chain to prevent damage to your saw from friction between the chain and the bar.

Compatible Equipment

• These chainsaws support a variety of chains and three basic lengths of bar. Both saws support 16-, 18- and 20-inch Rollomatic bars. These saws are also designed for similar types of chain with a pitch of either .325 inches or 3/8 inches. The major difference in the chains used on each saw is that the 260 Pro uses a seven-tooth chain sprocket for both types of chain while the MS 361 uses a nine-tooth sprocket for chains with a pitch of .325 inches.

Safety and Utility

• These saws share the same safety and utility features, including a chain brake, hand guards and bumper spikes. The chain brake and hand guards are designed to protect the user's hands and bring the blade of the chainsaw to a halt rapidly. The bumper spikes are located on the front side of the powerhead and provide a pivot point to steady the saw while you are cutting. These saws also support an optional heated handle and decompression valve to make starting the saw less difficult.