STIHL MS 881 MAGNUM Review

The largest and most powerful chainsaw in the STIHL lineup.

For the largest, toughest and most demanding jobs, professionals can find the performance they need in the MS 881 chainsaw. With its updated engine design and up to 41” guide bar length, the MS 881 is the largest, most powerful saw in the STIHL lineup. Greater fuel efficiency than the previous model means savings of time and money. Another time-saving feature is the stop switch, which automatically returns to run position after the engine is stopped, reducing the chance of flooding the engine when starting.

Features

Adjustable Automatic Oiler

The Adjustable Automatic Oiler allows the user to adjust the lubricant of the guide bar and saw chain for different bar lengths and cutting conditions.

Anti-Vibration System

STIHL has developed a system for minimizing the vibration levels of handheld outdoor power equipment. The STIHL anti-vibration system helps reduce operator fatigue and provides a more comfortable working experience.

STIHL ElastoStart™

The ElastoStart™ starter handle is an exclusive feature of STIHL. It is a starting grip with a built-in shock absorber that helps reduce the effort when pulling on the starter cord. The ElastoStart™ starter grip noticeably reduces the sudden peak forces (compression) normally felt during cranking. The forces which occur at the grip after the first compression stroke are smoothed out.

Fuel and oil caps with retainers

The fuel and oil cap retainers keep the caps attached to the unit for added convenience.

Side-Access Chain Tensioner

The side-access chain tensioner makes it much more convenient for the user to adjust the saw chain with a bar wrench as opposed to the typical location of the guide bar adjustment screw.

STIHL Quickstop®

STIHL chainsaws are equipped with a chain-stopping system designed to reduce the risk of injury in certain kickback situations. It is called a STIHL Quickstop® chain brake. The STIHL Quickstop® chain brake is designed to stop the rotation of the chain if activated by the operator’s hand or by inertia if the saw kicks back with sufficient force. In some working positions, the STIHL Quickstop® chain brake can be activated by inertia, stopping the chain within fractions of a second.

Ematic™ Lubrication System

The Ematic™ guide bar, when used with STIHL OILOMATIC® saw chain, will provide proper lubrication and less oil consumption than conventional methods. The system works because two ramps, strategically placed in the guide bar rail, help contain the flow of oil and direct all lubrication to the sliding faces of the bar and chain links as well as the rivets and driver holes, which in turn can reduce bar oil consumption up to 50%.

Decompression Valve

The decompression valve also referred to as ‘deco’ or ‘deco valve’, vents compression in the cylinder for easier starting. The decompression valve temporarily reduces the compression in the combustion chamber during cranking and helps reduce the effort needed to pull the starter rope. It is opened manually and closes automatically as soon as the engine fires.

HD2 Air Filter

The new HD2 air filter on this unit is washable, providing an extremely long filter life and lowering maintenance costs. The large surface area allows for longer run times between cleanings and high performance even while operating in dusty and dry conditions. Overall, the HD2 air filter provides better protection of the engine compared to standard air filters.

The largest most powerful saw in the STIHL lineup

With its updated engine design and up to 41” guide bar length, the MS 881 is the largest, most powerful chain saw in the STIHL lineup.

Greater fuel efficiency and reduced exhaust emissions as compared to the previous model

The MS 881 has the same power as the MS 880 while using less fuel and reducing exhaust emissions, saving time and money while also being better for the environment.

Efficient stop switch technology

Efficient stop switch technology saves users time and reduces the chance of flooding the engine when starting.

Easy manual adjustment of the carburetor settings

The simplified design of the carburetor allows for easy manual adjustment.

STIHL OILOMATIC Saw Chain

STIHL makes its own saw chains.

Ematic™ Bar

Includes a polymer ramp reservoir that holds bar oil until it can be picked up by a passing chain. This can reduce oil usage by up to 50%.

Bumper Spikes

They help prevent pull-in and provide better control, making cuts easier.

Spark Arrester Muffler

Has large baffles which reduce noise levels and contain a screen designed to reduce the emission of sparks.

STIHL Quickstop® Chain Brake System

Designed to stop the chain in fractions of a second. Can be manually activated by inertia if the kickback force is sufficient.

Front Hand Guard

Designed to reduce the risk of injury.

Front Handle

Designed for a secure grip and ergonomically angled for comfort.

Protected Spark Plug

Protected, yet easy to change.

Large Starting Handle

Easy to grip.

Smooth Clean Design

Has no rough edges to snag on clothing or brush.

Air Filter Cover

Easy to remove for fast and easy filter cleaning or replacement.

Master Control Lever™

Is a single lever operating the choke, starting throttle lock and on-off switch.

Rear Hand Guard

Reduces the risk of injury as well as provides a wide area for foot placement during starting.

High-Tech Polymer Housings

Lightweight, withstand greater impact, and are corrosion-resistant.

Translucent Fuel Tank

Allows operator to easily check fuel level before starting work.

Anti-vibration system

Helps reduce operator fatigue.

Electronic Ignition

Provides easier starting and smoother running.

Replaceable “In Tank” Fuel and Oil Filters

Lower cost and are easy to maintain.

Inboard Chain Brake

Requires less maintenance and makes saw chain sprocket easier to remove.

Automatic Bar and Chain Oiler

Lets the operator concentrate on cutting, not bar lubrication.

Chain Catcher

Helps reduce the risk of operator contact by a chain if it should break or derail.

Throttle Trigger Lockout

Must be depressed before the trigger can be activated.