STIHL Chain Saw Safety Manual

Introduction

This manual contains safety precautions and recommended cutting techniques for gasoline-powered chain saws. It is important for all users, experienced or new, to familiarize themselves with the latest instructions and safety precautions. Illustrations in the "Main Parts of the Saw" chapter show STIHL MS 171, 181, and 211 models. Always refer to the specific instruction manual for your saw model, as other models may have different parts and controls. Contact your STIHL dealer or distributor if you have any questions.

WARNING: Avoid contact of the bar tip with any object. This can cause the guide bar to kick suddenly up and back, potentially resulting in serious or fatal injury. STIHL recommends using green-labeled reduced kickback bars and low kickback chains, along with a STIHL Quickstop chain brake to reduce the risk of kickback injury.

Safety Precautions

Chain saws are high-speed, fast-cutting power tools. Special safety precautions are necessary to reduce the risk of personal injury. Always read, understand, and observe all safety precautions and warnings. Periodically review the instruction manual and safety instructions. Careless or improper use can cause serious or fatal injury. Save the manual for future reference.

WARNING: The chain saw is hazardous. The saw chain has sharp cutters that can cause injury even when not moving. Reactive forces, including kickback, can be dangerous; pay special attention to the section on reactive forces.

Have your STIHL dealer demonstrate proper operation. General safety precautions for axes and hand saws also apply to chain saws. Observe all federal, state, and local safety regulations.

WARNING: Do not lend or rent your chain saw without the instruction manual. Ensure users understand the manual's information. Noise regulations may restrict chain saw use. Use the chain saw only for cutting wooden objects.

WARNING: Do not use the chain saw for other purposes, as misuse can result in personal injury or property damage.

WARNING: Minors should not use the chain saw. Keep bystanders, especially children, and animals away from the work area.

WARNING: Always stop the engine and engage the QuickStop Chainbrake before transporting or performing work on the chain saw to prevent unintentional starting.

STIHL recommends using genuine STIHL replacement parts designed for your model.

Safe use involves:

• The operator
• The chain saw
• The use of the chain saw

The Operator

Physical Condition: Be in good physical and mental health. Do not operate under the influence of substances that impair vision, dexterity, or judgment. Do not operate when fatigued.

WARNING: Be alert. If tired, take a break. Tiredness can lead to loss of control. Consult your doctor before operating if you have a condition that could be aggravated by strenuous work.

Vibration: Prolonged exposure to vibrations can cause whitefinger disease or carpal tunnel syndrome. To reduce risk:

• Keep the AV system well-maintained.
• Keep the saw chain sharp and well-maintained.
• Maintain a firm grip, but avoid excessive pressure. Take frequent breaks.

If symptoms appear, seek medical advice.

WARNING: The ignition system produces an electromagnetic field that may interfere with pacemakers. Consult your physician and pacemaker manufacturer before operating.

Proper Clothing: Wear sturdy, snug-fitting clothing that allows freedom of movement. Use overalls, long pants, or chaps with cut-retardant material. Avoid loose-fitting clothing, jewelry, or anything that could catch on the saw. Secure long hair above shoulder level.

Footwear: Wear sturdy boots with nonslip soles. Steel-toed safety boots are recommended. Never wear sandals, flip-flops, or go barefoot.

Gloves: Wear heavy-duty work gloves (leather or wear-resistant material) for grip and protection.

Eye Protection: Wear goggles or protective glasses with adequate side and top protection (ANSI Z87+). A face shield or face screen is recommended for face protection.

Head Protection: Wear an approved safety hard hat.

Hearing Protection: Wear ear plugs or ear mufflers. Be alert when wearing hearing protection as it restricts hearing warnings.

The Chain Saw

For illustrations and definitions of chain saw parts, see the "Main Parts" chapter.

WARNING: Never modify the chain saw. Use only STIHL attachments or those expressly approved by STIHL. Unauthorized attachments can be dangerous.

WARNING: Never operate a damaged, improperly adjusted, or improperly assembled chain saw. Check for damage after heavy loads or falls, especially fuel system tightness and safety device function. If damaged, have it checked by a STIHL servicing dealer.

WARNING: Always stop the engine before putting the chain saw down. Carrying a running saw is dangerous.

Accidental acceleration can cause the chain to rotate. Engage the chain brake when taking more than a few steps.

Transporting the Chain Saw:

• By hand: Engine off, chain guard (scabbard) on, bar pointing backward.
• By vehicle: Chain guard on, secure saw to prevent turnover and spillage.

Fuel: Use STIHL oil-gasoline mixture. Refer to the "Fuel" chapter.

Fueling Instructions

WARNING: Gasoline is flammable. Use extreme caution when handling fuel. Do not smoke or bring flames near fuel. Combustible fuel vapor can escape.

Pick a Safe Location: Fuel outdoors in a well-ventilated area, away from ignition sources. Select bare ground for fueling and move at least 10 feet (3 m) away before starting. Wipe off spilled fuel and change contaminated clothing immediately.

Allow Saw to Cool:

WARNING: Gasoline vapor pressure can build up. Shut off the engine and allow the saw to cool before removing the fuel cap to prevent burns from escaping gas, vapor, or fumes.

Cooling air is no longer drawn across the cylinder when the engine is off, causing temperatures to rise. In hot environments, cooling takes longer.

Fuel Spraying or "Geysering":

WARNING: Removing the cap on a pressurized tank can spray fuel. To reduce risk, follow fueling instructions, assume the tank is pressurized, allow the saw to cool, and be aware that cooling takes longer in hot environments.

How to Avoid Fuel Spraying:

• Follow fueling instructions.
• Assume the fuel tank is pressurized.
• Allow the chain saw to cool before removing the fuel cap.
• In hot environments, cooling takes longer.
• The engine is air-cooled; when shut off, cylinder temperature rises before cooling.

Removing the Toolless Fuel Cap

WARNING: After the saw has cooled, follow safety instructions for cap removal. Never turn directly to open. First, turn slowly to the vent position (approx. 1/8 turn counter-clockwise) to check for residual pressure.

Steps:

1. Flip up the grip and press the cap down firmly.
2. While maintaining downward pressure, turn the cap slowly counter-clockwise to the vent position (approx. 1/8 turn).
3. If venting occurs, reseal the tank by turning clockwise to closed. Allow to cool further.
4. Turn to the open position only when pressure is released. The exterior positioning mark aligns with the "unlocked" symbol.
5. Never remove the cap directly to open. Always cool and vent first.
6. Never attempt to remove the cap while the engine is hot or running.

Installing the Toolless Fuel Cap:

WARNING: An improperly tightened fuel cap can loosen and spill fuel. Position and tighten correctly.

1. Raise the grip to a 90° angle.
2. Insert the cap, aligning the exterior positioning mark with the "unlocked" symbol.
3. Press down firmly and turn clockwise (approx. 1/4 turn) to the closed position. Positioning marks align with the "locked" symbol.
4. Fold the grip flush and check for tightness.

Misaligned, Damaged or Broken Cap

WARNING: If the cap doesn't drop fully or tighten properly, its base may be rotated incorrectly, causing misalignment. This can result from handling, cleaning, or improper tightening.

To return the base to the proper starting position:

1. Drop the cap into the fuel tank opening.
2. Turn counter-clockwise with slight pressure until it drops fully (approx. 1/4 turn). This rotates the base to the correct starting position. The exterior positioning mark aligns with the "unlocked" symbol. The interior positioning mark should be under the grip.
3. Turn clockwise to close normally.

If the cap still doesn't tighten, it may be damaged. Stop using the saw and take it to your STIHL dealer.

Vapor Lock:

WARNING: Vapor lock occurs when fuel vaporizes, blocking fuel flow. It cannot be relieved by opening the fuel tank. Removing the cap without cooling can cause fuel spraying. Always follow cap removal instructions.

To relieve vapor lock:

• Place Master Control Lever in cold start position, pull starter cord approx. 20 times.
• To start, move Master Control Lever to starting throttle position, pull starter cord approx. 10 times.

If the saw won't restart or vapor lock occurs again, conditions may be too extreme for the fuel. Discontinue use and let the engine cool.

Before Operation:

Remove the chain guard (scabbard). Inspect the saw for proper condition and operation (see maintenance chart). WARNING: Always check the saw for proper condition and operation before starting, especially the throttle trigger, lockout, stop switch, and cutting attachment. The throttle trigger should move freely and spring back to idle. The Master Control Lever/stop switch must move easily to STOP, 0, or 0. Never modify controls or safety devices.

Starting

WARNING: To reduce fire and burn risk, start the engine at least 10 feet (3 m) from the fueling spot, outdoors only.

Start and operate the saw without assistance. Refer to the instruction manual for specific starting instructions. Proper starting methods reduce injury risk.

WARNING: To reduce injury from saw chain contact or reactive forces, engage the chain brake when starting. If equipped with Quickstop Plus, engaging only the brake is insufficient, as the chain may rotate at high speed when the throttle trigger lockout is depressed.

WARNING: Do not drop start; it is dangerous and can lead to loss of control.

Two recommended starting methods:

1. On the ground: Engage chain brake. Place saw on firm ground in an open area. Maintain balance and footing. Grip front handle firmly with left hand, press down. For rear handle level with ground, place toe of right foot in rear handle and press down. Pull starter grip slowly until resistance is felt, then pull strongly.
2. Without ground: Engage chain brake. Grip front handle firmly with left hand, arm straight. Hold rear handle between legs above knees. Maintain balance and footing. Pull starter grip slowly until resistance is felt, then pull strongly.

WARNING: Ensure the guide bar and saw chain are clear of you and all obstructions. When the engine starts, the chain may rotate if the brake is not activated. If the bar tip touches an object, kickback may occur. Always engage the chain brake before starting. Never start with the guide bar in a cut or kerf.

Once started, briefly blip the throttle trigger to release the Master Control Lever to run and allow the engine to idle down.

Always disengage the chain brake before accelerating or starting cutting. High revs with the brake engaged will damage the powerhead and chain drive.

WARNING: When pulling the starter grip, do not wrap the rope around your hand. Do not let the grip snap back; guide it to rewind properly. Failure to do so may cause hand injury or damage the starter mechanism.

Important Adjustments:

WARNING: To reduce injury from loss of control, do not use the saw with incorrect idle adjustment. At correct idle speed, the cutting tool should not move. Refer to the manual for idle speed adjustment. If you cannot set correct idle speed, have your STIHL dealer check the saw.

Holding and Controlling the Chain Saw:

Always hold the saw firmly with both hands when the engine is running. Left hand on front handle, right hand on rear handle and throttle trigger.

Left-handers should follow the same instructions. Wrap fingers tightly around handles, cradling handles between thumb and forefinger for best opposition and absorption of forces.

WARNING: To reduce risk of serious or fatal injury from loss of control, never use the saw with one hand. It is harder to control reactive forces and prevent the bar and chain from skating or bouncing.

WARNING: To reduce risk of cut injuries, keep hands and feet away from the cutting tool. Never touch a moving cutting tool with any part of your body.

WARNING: Keep proper footing and balance. Be cautious on slopes, uneven ground, or slippery conditions. Watch for hidden obstacles. Clear away fallen branches and cuttings for better footing. Use caution when cutting small brush, as it may catch the chain and cause loss of balance.

WARNING: Take extreme care in wet and freezing weather. Postpone work in windy, stormy, or heavy rainfall conditions.

WARNING: To reduce injury from loss of control, never work on a ladder or insecure support. Never hold the machine above shoulder height. Do not overreach.

Position the saw so your body is clear of the cutting attachment. Stand to the left of the cut while bucking.

Working Conditions

Operate and start the saw outdoors in a well-ventilated area, with good visibility and daylight conditions only. Work carefully.

WARNING: Your chain saw is a one-person machine. Do not allow others in the work area. Stop the engine if approached.

WARNING: Never work alone. Keep within calling distance of others.

WARNING: To reduce injury to bystanders and property damage, never let the chain saw run unattended. Shut it off when not in use and ensure unauthorized persons do not use it.

WARNING: Engine exhaust contains toxic chemicals. Never run the machine indoors or in poorly ventilated areas. If fumes concentrate, clear obstructions to permit ventilation. Take frequent breaks.

Operate the saw to minimize noise and emissions. Do not run the engine unnecessarily.

WARNING: Dust, mist, and fumes from sharpening can cause respiratory problems, cancer, or other harm. Consult your employer or agencies like OSHA/NIOSH if unfamiliar with risks. California lists substances known to cause cancer or reproductive toxicity.

WARNING: Inhaling dusts like mold or pollen can cause allergic reactions. Inhaling dusts and airborne contaminants can cause respiratory illnesses, including from wood dust.

Control dust, mist, and fumes at the source. Cut with a properly sharpened chain. Operate the unit so wind or the process directs dust away from the operator.

Operating Instructions

WARNING: Do not operate with the starting throttle lock engaged. This impairs control. Begin and continue cutting at full throttle, engaging the bumper spike firmly in the wood if possible. Always work with the bumper spike for better control. Without it, the saw may pull forward suddenly.

WARNING: Never touch a moving saw chain with your hand or body, even when the engine is not rotating.

In an emergency, switch off the engine immediately (Master Control Lever to STOP, 0, or 0).

WARNING: Always stop the engine before putting the saw down.

The saw chain continues to move briefly after the throttle trigger is released (flywheel effect).

Accelerating the engine while the chain is blocked increases load and can cause clutch slippage, leading to overheating and damage. If clutch slippage exceeds 3 seconds, allow the motor housing to cool, check chain brake operation, and ensure the saw chain is not turning at idle.

WARNING: Your chain saw is equipped with a chain catcher to reduce injury from thrown or broken chains. Do not operate with a damaged or missing chain catcher.

WARNING: Inspect anti-vibration elements periodically. Replace damaged or worn elements immediately, as they can lead to loss of control. Replace elements in sets. Consult your STIHL dealer if unsure.

If the saw is subjected to unusually high loads, check its condition before continuing. Check fuel system tightness and control/safety device function. If damaged, have it checked by your STIHL dealer.

Your saw is not designed for prying or shoveling. Such use can damage the cutting attachment or AV system.

WARNING: When sawing, ensure the saw chain does not touch foreign materials like rocks, fences, or nails, as this may cause kickback.

WARNING: If the rotating saw chain strikes a rock or hard object, sparks may ignite flammable materials, especially in dry conditions. Do not use the saw near flammable materials or dry vegetation during fire risk.

WARNING: Take special care when cutting shattered wood due to risk from slivers.

WARNING: Never modify the muffler. Modifications can increase fire risk, burn injury, or hearing loss, and may damage the engine. Have the muffler serviced by a STIHL dealer.

The muffler and other engine parts get hot. Do not touch them while hot. Keep the area around the muffler clean. Let the engine cool in a safe location away from combustible substances.

WARNING: An improperly mounted or damaged cylinder housing or muffler shell can interfere with cooling. Do not work with damaged parts.

The muffler has a spark-arresting screen. Never operate with a missing, damaged, or clogged screen. Correct gas/oil mix ratio usually keeps it clean. If performance loss occurs, have the muffler maintained by a STIHL dealer. Some laws require a maintained spark arrester.

WARNING: Some STIHL saws have a catalytic converter. The muffler does not cool down as rapidly. To reduce fire risk, set the saw down upright and away from combustible materials when hot.

Maintenance, Repair and Storing

Maintenance intervals apply for normal operating conditions. Shorten intervals for difficult conditions or longer use. Extend intervals for occasional use.

WARNING: Use only identical STIHL replacement parts. Non-STIHL parts can cause serious or fatal injury.

Follow maintenance and repair instructions in the manual. Refer to the maintenance chart.

WARNING: Always stop the engine and ensure the cutting tool is stopped before maintenance, repair, or cleaning.

WARNING: Do not attempt maintenance or repair not described in the manual. Have such work done by a STIHL dealer. Improper tools can cause damage.

Wear gloves when handling saw chains.

WARNING: Use the specified spark plug, ensuring it and the ignition lead are clean. Press the spark plug boot snugly onto the terminal. A loose connection can cause arcing and fire.

WARNING: Never test the ignition system with the spark plug boot removed, as uncontained sparking may cause a fire.

WARNING: Do not operate a damaged, missing, or modified muffler. It increases fire and hearing loss risk. The spark-arresting screen reduces fire risk; never operate if the screen is missing, damaged, or clogged. Risk of brush or forest fire is greater in hot, dry weather.

In California, operating gasoline-powered tools on certain land requires a complying spark arrester. The owner is responsible for maintaining it. Check local regulations.

Keep the chain, bar, and sprocket clean. Replace worn parts. Keep the chain sharp. A dull chain requires more effort and may cause burn marks. Keep the chain at proper tension.

Tighten all nuts, bolts, and screws after each use, except carburetor adjustment screws.

Reactive Forces

WARNING: For the chain brake to function correctly in reducing kickback risk, it must be properly maintained. Like an automobile brake, it incurs wear each time it's engaged. Excessive wear reduces effectiveness.

Keep the brake band and clutch drum free of dirt, grease, and foreign matter.

Return the saw to a STIHL servicing dealer for periodic inspection and servicing of the brake system (heavy usage: every 3 months; moderate usage: twice a year; occasional usage: annually).

Return immediately for maintenance if the brake system cannot be cleaned or its operating characteristics change.

Do not clean with a pressure washer.

Store the saw in a dry place away from children. Empty the fuel tank before storing for longer than a few days.

REACTIVE FORCES INCLUDING KICKBACK

WARNING: Reactive forces can occur any time the chain is rotating and can cause serious personal injury.

The force of cutting wood can reverse and work against the operator. If the rotating chain is suddenly slowed or stopped by contact with an object or is pinched, reactive forces can occur instantly, leading to loss of control, serious or fatal injury. Understanding these forces helps avoid surprise.

The most common reactive forces are:

• Kickback
• Pushback
• Pull-in

Kickback:

WARNING: Kickback may occur when the moving saw chain near the upper quadrant of the bar nose contacts a solid object or is pinched. This can fling the bar up and back, causing severe or fatal injury.

Kickback can occur when the saw chain contacts wood, is pinched during limbing, or during plunge or boring cuts. The greater the force of kickback, the harder it is to control. Factors include chain speed, contact speed, angle of contact, and chain condition.

The type of bar and saw chain used is important. STIHL recommends reduced kickback bars and low kickback chains.

Chain Saw Kickback Standard:

Complies with § 5.11 of ANSI/OPEI B175.1-2012.

• Chain saws with displacement < 3.8 cubic inches (62 cm³) must meet a 45° computer-derived kickback angle and have at least two devices to reduce kickback risk (e.g., chain brake, low kickback chain/bar).
• Chain saws with displacement ≥ 3.8 cubic inches (62 cm³) must have at least one device to reduce kickback risk.

WARNING: Computer-derived angles may not relate to real-life kickback angles. Features designed to reduce kickback may lose effectiveness if not maintained. Compliance does not guarantee the bar and chain will rotate at most 45° in real-life kickback.

STIHL Quickstop Chain Brake:

STIHL's Quickstop chain brake system reduces injury risk in kickback situations.

Two activation mechanisms:

• Manual activation: In kickback, the saw moves upward. The brake engages if the left hand contacts the front guard (activation lever).
• Inertia activation: All STIHL saws have inertia activation. If the kickback impulse is strong enough, the brake engages without contacting the front hand guard.

WARNING: Never use a chain saw if the chain brake does not function properly. Take it to your STIHL dealer.

Low Kickback Saw Chain and Reduced Kickback Bars:

STIHL offers reduced kickback bars and low kickback saw chains designed to reduce kickback injury. Other chains offer higher cutting performance but are more prone to kickback.

STIHL uses a color code system: green labels indicate reduced kickback risk. Matching green-labeled components (saws under 3.8 cu. in. displacement with green bars and chains) complies with the kickback standard.

STIHL recommends green-labeled reduced kickback bars and low kickback saw chains for all users, equipped with a STIHL Quickstop chain brake.

Ask your STIHL dealer to match your saw with the appropriate bar/chain combination.

WARNING: Non-listed bar/chain combinations may increase kickback forces and risk. Check with your dealer for new combinations.

WARNING: Reduced kickback bars and low kickback chains do not prevent kickback but are designed to reduce injury risk. They are available from your STIHL dealer.

WARNING: Even with a Quickstop, reduced kickback bar, and/or low kickback chain, the risk of injury by kickback is not eliminated. Always observe safety precautions.

Low Kickback Saw Chain:

Some chains have components to reduce nose contact kickback. STIHL's low kickback saw chain meets ANSI/OPEI B175.1-2012 performance requirements.

WARNING: Some low kickback chain/bar combinations may not be certified for the 45° kickback angle or tested with all combinations.

WARNING: A blunt or incorrectly sharpened chain can negate design features intended to reduce kickback energy. Improperly set depth gauges or altered cutter shapes increase kickback risk. Always cut with a properly sharpened chain.

Reduced Kickback Bars:

STIHL green-labeled reduced kickback bars are designed to reduce kickback injury when used with STIHL green-labeled low kickback saw chains.

WARNING: Used with other chains, these bars may be less effective in reducing kickback.

WARNING: For a balanced saw and to comply with the standard, use only bar lengths listed in the specifications chapter.

To avoid kickback:

1. Hold the chain saw firmly with both hands and maintain a secure grip.
2. Be aware of the guide bar nose location at all times.
3. Never let the nose of the guide bar contact any object. Do not cut limbs with the nose. Be careful near wire fences and when cutting small limbs, brush, and saplings.
4. Don't overreach.
5. Don't cut above shoulder height.
6. Begin cutting and continue at full throttle.
7. Cut only one log at a time.
8. Use extreme caution when re-entering a previous cut.
9. Do not attempt plunge cuts if inexperienced.
10. Be alert for shifting logs or forces that pinch the saw chain.
11. Maintain the saw chain properly (sharpened and tensioned).
12. Stand to the side of the cutting path.

Bow Guides:

WARNING: Do not mount a bow guide on any STIHL chain saw. They are potentially dangerous and increase kickback risk due to a larger contact area. Low kickback chain will not significantly reduce kickback injury when used on a bow guide.

Working Techniques

Limbing: Removing branches from a fallen tree.

WARNING: Extreme danger of kickback during limbing. Do not work with the nose of the bar. Be cautious and avoid contacting the log or other limbs with the nose.

Do not stand on a log while limbing.

Start limbing by leaving lower limbs to support the log. When underbucking freely hanging limbs, a pinch may occur, or the limb may fall, causing loss of control. If a pinch occurs, stop the engine and remove the saw by lifting the limb.

WARNING: Be extremely cautious when cutting limbs or logs under tension (spring poles). They could spring back, causing loss of control and severe or fatal injury.

Pull-in: Occurs when the saw chain on the bottom of the bar is suddenly stopped by pinching, catching, or a foreign object. The reaction pulls the saw forward, causing loss of control.

Pull-in often occurs when the bumper spike is not held securely or the chain is not rotating at full speed.

WARNING: Use extreme caution when cutting small brush and saplings, as they can catch the chain, whip towards you, or pull you off balance.

To avoid pull-in:

1. Always start a cut with the chain rotating at full speed and the bumper spike in contact with the wood.
2. Using wedges to open the kerf can reduce pull-in risk.

Pushback: Occurs when the saw chain on the top of the bar is suddenly stopped by pinching, catching, or a foreign object. The reaction drives the saw rapidly back toward the operator, causing loss of control and potential injury.

Pushback often occurs when the top of the bar is used for cutting.

To avoid pushback:

1. Be alert for forces or situations that may pinch the top of the saw chain.
2. Do not cut more than one log at a time.
3. Do not twist the saw when withdrawing the bar from a plunge or underbuck cut.

Bucking

Bucking is cutting a log into sections.

WARNING: When bucking, do not stand on the log. Ensure the log will not roll downhill. If on a slope, stand on the uphill side. Watch for rolling logs.

Cut only one log at a time.

Cut shattered wood carefully, as sharp slivers may be flung towards the operator.

When cutting small logs, place them on a sawhorse with "V"-shaped supports. Never let another person hold the log, or hold it with your leg or foot.

Logs under strain:

Risk of pinching! Start relieving cut (1) at the compression side. Then make bucking cut (2) at the tension side. If the saw pinches, stop the engine and remove it from the log.

Only trained professionals should work in areas with tangled logs, limbs, and roots. "Blow down" areas are extremely hazardous. Drag logs into a clear area before cutting. Pull out exposed and cleared logs first.

Felling

Felling is cutting down a tree.

Before felling, consider all conditions affecting the direction of fall (wind, lean, obstacles, slope, wood structure, decay, snow load).

WARNING: There are factors affecting fall direction. Look for these conditions before cutting and be alert for changes while the tree is falling.

WARNING: Observe the tree's general condition. Inexperienced users should not cut decayed, rotted, leaning, or tensioned trees, as they could snap or split, causing injury. Look for broken or dead branches that could fall.

When felling on a slope, stand on the uphill side.

Felling Instructions:

Maintain a distance of at least 2 1/2 tree lengths from the nearest person.

Take extra precautions near roads, railways, and power lines. Inform authorities beforehand.

WARNING: Engine noise may drown out warning calls.

Escape Path:

First, clear the tree base and work area. Then, establish two escape paths (B) generally opposite the planned fall direction (A), at about a 45° angle. Remove obstacles. Place tools and equipment a safe distance away, but not on escape paths.

Buttress Roots: If the tree has large buttress roots, cut into the largest buttress vertically first (horizontally next) and remove the piece.

Gunning Sight: Use the gunning sight on the shroud and housing to check the desired direction of fall. Position the saw so the sight points exactly in the direction you want the tree to fall.

Conventional Cut:

• Properly place felling notch perpendicular to the line of fall, close to the ground.
• Cut down at approx. 45° angle to a depth of about 1/5 to 1/4 of the trunk diameter.
• Make second cut horizontal.
• Remove resulting 45° piece.

Open-face Technique:

• Properly place felling notch perpendicular to the line of fall, close to the ground.
• Cut down at approx. 50° angle to a depth of approx. 1/5 to 1/4 of the trunk diameter.
• Make second cut from below at approx. 40° angle.
• Remove resulting 90° piece.

Making Sapwood Cuts:

• For medium to larger trees, make cuts on both sides of the trunk at the same height as the felling cut.
• Cut to no more than the width of the guide bar. This helps prevent sapwood splintering.

Conventional and open-face technique:

• Begin 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) higher than the center of the felling notch.
• Cut horizontally towards the felling notch.
• Leave approx. 1/10 of the diameter uncut (the hinge).
• Do not cut through the hinge, as this could cause loss of control.
• Drive wedges into the felling cut to control the fall.

WARNING: If the bar tip contacts a wedge, kickback may occur. Use wood or plastic wedges, not steel.

The hinge helps control the falling tree.

Felling Cut for Small Diameter Trees: Simple Fan Cut

Engage bumper spikes behind the intended hinge and pivot the saw around this point as far as the hinge. The bumper spike rolls against the trunk.

Felling Cut for Large Diameter Trees:

WARNING: Felling trees with a diameter greater than the guide bar length requires sectioning or plunge-cut methods, which are dangerous due to guide bar nose use and potential kickback. Only trained professionals should attempt these.

Sectioning Method: Make the first felling cut with the guide bar fanning toward the hinge. Use the bumper spike as a pivot for the next cut. Avoid repositioning the saw unnecessarily. Keep the guide bar engaged in the kerf for a straight cut. Insert a wedge if the saw pinches. Do not cut the hinge on the last cut.

Plunge-cut Method: Timber more than twice the guide bar length requires the plunge-cut method before felling. Make a large, wide felling notch. Make a plunge cut in the center of the notch.

The plunge cut is made with the guide bar nose. Begin at an angle, cutting until the kerf depth is about the guide bar width. Align the saw in the direction of the recess. Insert the guide bar at full throttle.

WARNING: Extreme danger of kickback at this point. Take extra caution to maintain control. Follow the sectioning method for the felling cut. Inexperienced users should not attempt plunge-cutting; seek professional help.

WARNING: Never stand directly behind the tree when it is about to fall, as the trunk may split (barber-chairing) or the tree may jump backward. Always keep to the side of the falling tree. When the tree starts to fall, withdraw the bar, shut off the engine, and walk away on the escape path. Watch for falling limbs.

WARNING: Be extremely careful with partially fallen trees. If the tree hangs or does not fall completely, set the saw aside and pull it down with a winch, block and tackle, or tractor. Trying to cut it down with the saw may cause injury.

Maintenance and Care

Maintenance intervals apply for normal operating conditions. Adjust for difficult conditions or longer use.

¹) STIHL recommends STIHL servicing dealer

²) When using professional chainsaws (with a power output of 3.4 kW or more) for the first time, tighten the cylinder block screws after 10 to 20 hours of operation

Main Parts

Diagram showing the main parts of a STIHL chain saw with numbered callouts:

• 1 Shroud Twist Lock
• 2 Carburetor Adjusting Screws
• 3 Manual Fuel Pump (Easy Start¹)
• 4 Shutter (Summer and Winter Position, only MS 211)
• 5 Chain Brake
• 6 Chain Sprocket
• 7 Chain Sprocket Cover
• 8 Chain Catcher
• 9 Chain Tensioner (lateral)
• 10 Bumper Spike
• 11 Guide Bar
• 12 Oilomatic Saw Chain
• 13 Adjusting Wheel for Quick Chain Tensioner¹⁾
• 14 Handle of Wingnut (Quick Chain Tensioner¹⁾)
• 15 Oil Filler Cap
• 16 Muffler
• 17 Front Hand Guard
• 18 Front Handle (Handlebar)
• 19 Spark Plug Boot
• 20 Starter Grip
• 21 Fuel Filler Cap
• 22 Master Control Lever
• 23 Throttle Trigger
• 24 Throttle Trigger Lockout
• 25 Rear Handle
• 26 Rear Hand Guard
• # Serial Number
• ¹) Depending on Model

Definitions

1 Shroud Twist Lock: Lock for shroud.

2 Carburetor Adjusting Screws: For tuning the carburetor.

3 Manual Fuel Pump: Provides additional fuel feed for a cold start.

4 Shutter: With summer and winter positions. Carburetor is heated in winter position.

5 Chain Brake: A device to stop the rotation of the chain. Activated in a kickback situation by the operator's hand or by inertia.

6 Chain Sprocket: The toothed wheel that drives the saw chain.

7 Chain Sprocket Cover: Covers the clutch and chain sprocket.

8 Chain Catcher: Helps to reduce the risk of operator contact by a chain if it breaks or comes off the bar.

9 Chain Tensioner (lateral): Permits precise adjustment of chain tension.

10 Bumper Spike: Toothed stop for holding saw steady against wood.

11 Guide Bar: Supports and guides the saw chain.

12 Oilomatic Saw Chain: A loop consisting of cutters, tie straps and drive links.

13 Adjusting Wheel for Quick Chain Tensioner: Permits precise adjustment of chain tension.

14 Handle of Wingnut (Quick Chain Tensioner): Must be released to allow chain to be tensioned with adjusting wheel.

15 Oil Filler Cap: For closing the oil tank.

16 Muffler: Reduces engine exhaust noise and diverts exhaust gases away from operator.

17 Front Hand Guard: Provides protection against projecting branches and helps prevent the left hand from touching the chain if it slips off the handlebar. Also serves as the lever for chain brake activation.

18 Front Handle (Handlebar): Handlebar for the left hand at the front of the saw.

19 Spark Plug Boot: Connects the spark plug with the ignition lead.

20 Starter Grip: The grip of the pull starter, for starting the engine.

21 Fuel Filler Cap: For closing the fuel tank.

22 Master Control Lever: Lever for choke control, starting throttle, run and stop switch position.

23 Throttle Trigger: Controls the speed of the engine.

24 Throttle Trigger Lockout: Must be depressed before the throttle trigger can be activated.

25 Rear Handle: The support handle for the right hand, located at the rear of the saw.

26 Rear Hand Guard: Gives added protection to the operator's right hand.

Guide Bar Nose: The exposed end of the guide bar.

Clutch: Couples engine to chain sprocket when engine is accelerated beyond idle speed.

Anti-Vibration System: Includes anti-vibration elements designed to reduce vibration transmission from the engine and cutting attachment to the operator's hands.