STIHL MS 500i Chainsaw: Price & Performance

The STIHL MS 500i petrol chainsaw is a top-tier tool for demanding forestry work, particularly for efficiently processing thick wood. Renowned for its high performance and user-friendly design, this chainsaw combines a lightweight build with dynamic handling, making it highly manoeuvrable for felling, cross-cutting, and even pruning tasks. Its standout feature is the revolutionary STIHL Injection technology, making it the world's first chainsaw with electronically controlled fuel injection. This innovation ensures optimal engine performance and exceptional starting capabilities across varying altitudes and ambient temperatures, thanks to sophisticated sensors that adjust fuel and ignition timing.

Understanding the Cost of the STIHL MS 500i

When considering the investment in a high-performance forestry tool like the STIHL MS 500i, understanding the pricing structure is crucial. The cost can vary depending on the guide bar length selected, as this directly impacts the saw's cutting capacity and overall suitability for different tasks. STIHL offers the MS 500i with two primary guide bar options:

Price Guide:

*Please note that these prices are indicative and may vary depending on your location, the specific dealer, and any ongoing promotions or package deals. It is always advisable to check with your local STIHL dealer for the most accurate and up-to-date pricing.

Key Features and Benefits of the STIHL MS 500i

The MS 500i isn't just about price; it's about delivering exceptional performance and user experience. Its advanced features contribute significantly to its effectiveness and ease of use:

STIHL Injection Technology

This is the cornerstone of the MS 500i's performance. The electronically controlled fuel injection system:

• Optimises Engine Performance: Continuously adjusts fuel delivery and ignition timing based on real-time data from sensors measuring air pressure, internal engine temperature, and external ambient temperature.
• Ensures Excellent Starting: Guarantees reliable starts regardless of altitude or temperature fluctuations, eliminating the guesswork often associated with traditional carburetted engines.
• Provides Rapid Acceleration: The system delivers fuel precisely, resulting in incredibly fast throttle response. The chain can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 0.25 seconds.

Unmatched Power-to-Weight Ratio

The MS 500i boasts a market-leading power-to-weight ratio of just 1.24 kg/kW. This means you get a substantial amount of power from a relatively lightweight machine, reducing user fatigue during extended operation and enhancing manoeuvrability.

STIHL 2-MIX Engine

Integrated within the electronically controlled injection system is the robust STIHL 2-MIX engine. This engine technology is known for:

• High Performance: Delivers consistent and powerful cutting performance.
• Low Fuel Consumption: The efficient combustion process translates to better fuel economy, saving you money on running costs.
• Reduced Emissions: The 2-MIX technology also contributes to lower exhaust emissions, making it a more environmentally conscious choice.

User-Comfort Features

STIHL understands that comfort is paramount for professional users. The MS 500i incorporates several features designed to enhance user comfort and safety:

• STIHL ElastoStart: This special combination of a spring-assisted starter mechanism and an additional element in the damping element in the starter handle reduces the shock of pulling the starter cord, protecting your muscles and joints.
• HD2 Air Filter: A durable and washable filter that effectively traps fine dust and debris, ensuring clean air intake for the engine and extending its service life.
• Captive Nuts on Sprocket Cover: Prevents the loss of nuts when changing the chain or guide bar, simplifying maintenance.
• Controlled-Delivery Oil Pump: Automatically adjusts the oil flow to the chain based on the operating conditions, ensuring optimal lubrication and reducing oil consumption.
• Tool-Free Fuel Cap: Allows for easy and quick refuelling without the need for additional tools.
• Side-Mounted Chain Tensioning: Enables precise and effortless chain tensioning from the side of the guide bar, ensuring the chain is always correctly tensioned for safe and efficient operation.

Why Choose a STIHL Petrol Chainsaw?

STIHL is the world's leading brand for petrol chainsaws, a testament to their commitment to quality, innovation, and performance. Their petrol chainsaws are designed to cater to a vast array of applications, from domestic garden maintenance to the rigorous demands of professional forestry and arboriculture.

For Home Users:

Compact and powerful, STIHL petrol chainsaws are ideal for tasks like thinning wooded areas, felling smaller trees, and processing firewood. They offer a fantastic blend of engine power, low weight, and user-friendliness. The STIHL 2-MIX motor ensures responsiveness and fuel economy. Features like STIHL ErgoStart, the Master Control lever (keeping your hand on the handle), the anti-vibration system for precise cuts, and Quick Chain Tensioning make even demanding tasks more manageable.

For Agriculture and Horticulture:

Professionals in landscaping, green area maintenance, and woodworking rely on STIHL's robust petrol chainsaws. These tools are versatile and dependable, excelling in everything from tree maintenance in parks to precise cutting of construction timber. They combine powerful cutting performance with comfortable operation, enhanced by features such as the anti-vibration system, Master Control lever, and fast-opening fuel caps. For professional use, features like carburettor pre-heating ensure reliable operation even in cold winter conditions.

For Forestry:

STIHL offers specialised petrol chainsaws for forestry, catering to all performance classes. From lighter saws for small-diameter wood to powerful models for felling and high-performance saws for large timber, there's a model for every need. The emphasis is always on a low weight without compromising performance, crucial for making progress in pruning or dense undergrowth. Features like the STIHL M-Tronic starting system ensure quick cold or warm starts, while the powerful 2-MIX engine, a range of bar lengths, and options like the Duro 3 saw chain for demanding work provide versatility and durability. Electrically heated handles and carburettor heating are invaluable for comfort and reliability in cold weather.

Where to Find a STIHL MS 500i

The best place to purchase a STIHL MS 500i petrol chainsaw is through an authorised STIHL dealer. These dealers are equipped with expert knowledge to help you choose the right model and bar length for your specific needs. They also provide essential after-sales support, servicing, and access to genuine STIHL parts and accessories. You can typically locate your nearest dealer through the official STIHL website. While some online retailers may list the product, purchasing from an authorised dealer ensures you receive the full STIHL experience, including product advice and warranty support.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What makes the STIHL MS 500i unique?
The MS 500i is the world's first chainsaw to feature electronically controlled fuel injection (STIHL Injection), offering superior engine performance and starting characteristics.

Q2: Is the MS 500i suitable for beginners?
While the MS 500i is a high-performance professional saw, its advanced features like ElastoStart and the inherent balance of the machine do contribute to ease of use. However, it is a powerful tool, and proper training and safety precautions are essential for any chainsaw user, regardless of experience level.

Q3: What is the significance of the power-to-weight ratio?
A better power-to-weight ratio means the chainsaw is more powerful relative to how much it weighs. This translates to less user fatigue, easier handling, and improved manoeuvrability, especially during long working sessions or when operating in challenging positions.

Q4: How does STIHL Injection technology work?
Sensors monitor air pressure and temperature, feeding this data to a control unit that precisely regulates the fuel quantity and ignition timing. This ensures optimal engine performance and easy starting in all conditions.

Q5: Can I use any guide bar with the MS 500i?
The MS 500i is designed to work optimally with specific STIHL guide bars, such as the ES Light bar. Using the recommended bar lengths (50cm/20" or 63cm/25") ensures you benefit from the saw's intended performance and safety features.

Conclusion

The STIHL MS 500i represents a significant leap forward in chainsaw technology. Its innovative STIHL Injection system, combined with a class-leading power-to-weight ratio and robust STIHL engineering, makes it an exceptional tool for professionals tackling demanding forestry tasks. While the investment is considerable, the efficiency, performance, and durability offered by the MS 500i provide excellent value for those who require the very best in chainsaw capability.