Stihl MSA 300 C-O Battery Saw Review

Stihl MSA 300 C-O

When comparing the Stihl MSA 300 C-O to the classic Stihl MS 261, their performance seems similar on paper. After conducting multiple tests, it’s clear that the Stihl MSA 300 C-O stands out as one of the most powerful battery chainsaws available. This professional-grade, eco-friendly chainsaw combines cutting-edge technology with the convenience of the Stihl AP Battery System, making it a strong contender for anyone seeking a reliable, battery-powered chainsaw.

Why having the right cutting equipment matters

From my experience, pairing the right chain and bar with a battery-powered chainsaw like the Stihl MSA 300 C-O makes all the difference. Unlike gas models, battery output is precise, and the results are clear. For example, I’ve seen performance vary on smaller saws like the Stihl MSA 220 just by swapping cutting equipment.

Stihl nailed it with the Light04 system for the MSA 300. Using a 14″ Light04 bar and the RS PRO chain, I noticed minimal kickback and impressive cutting power. This setup is also trusted on the Stihl MS 261, which says a lot. If you’re looking for a professional battery-powered chainsaw with reliable performance, the Stihl MSA 300 delivers.

Is the Stihl MSA 300 for you?

If you need a powerful battery chainsaw comparable to a 50cc gas model, the Stihl MSA 300 C-O is worth considering. From my experience, it’s ideal for forest owners, farmers, and loggers working close to home. Its easy-start function also makes it a great choice for older users, while tech enthusiasts will love its advanced features.

While it may not replace a pro logger’s main saw, it’s perfect as an all-purpose tool to keep on an ATV or tractor. Arborists and urban loggers will appreciate its quiet operation a must for populated areas. That said, the Stihl MSA 220, another Stihl battery chainsaw, offers lighter handling and smooth performance for thinning tasks. Its only drawback? The thumb-operated throttle trigger lockout takes some getting used to.

AP 500 S

To get the most out of the Stihl MSA 300 C-O, you’ll need the new AP 500 S battery. Released alongside the MSA 300, this battery is a major upgrade over the AP 300 S, offering 20% more power with a 337 Wh energy capacity yet it’s the same size and connection.

What stood out to me is how Stihl improved the cells, delivering more power and durability. The AP 500 S can handle more charging cycles, making it a reliable companion for the Stihl AP Battery System. It even matches Husqvarna’s BLi 300 battery, with both offering 36V and 337 Wh.

If you’re investing in a professional battery-powered chainsaw like the MSA 300, pairing it with the AP 500 S ensures you get the full experience.

Weight importance

In the “RFF-test” (Ready For the Forest), the Stihl MSA 300 C-O with a 14″ Light04 bar weighed 7.6 kg (16.7 lbs.), or 5.65 kg (12.46 lbs.) without the battery. For comparison, the Stihl MS 261 weighs 6.45 kg (14.22 lbs.), and the Husqvarna 550 XP Mark II comes in at 7 kg (15.43 lbs.).

While the MSA 300 weighs 1.15 kg more than the MS 261, the difference didn’t seem to bother our test logger, Lars-Erik. That said, the MSA 300 is about 40% heavier than the lighter Stihl MSA 220. If weight is a key factor for you, it’s something to consider, but the added power and performance of this professional battery-powered chainsaw may make it worth it.

Looks and features MSA 300

The Stihl MSA 300 C-O we tested was a pre-series demo from Stihl’s German factory, and its build quality was exceptional right in line with other professional Stihl chainsaws.

One standout improvement over the Stihl MSA 220 is the throttle trigger lockout placement. On the MSA 300, it’s positioned at the top of the rear handle, like traditional gas saws, rather than on the thumb side. This makes it more intuitive and easier to use.

Although the MSA 300 feels larger and longer, it’s well-balanced. Our test operator, Lars-Erik, found no issues handling it, proving that this battery-powered chainsaw delivers professional-grade comfort alongside its features.

MSA 300 vs Gas saws?

Can the Stihl MSA 300 C-O compete with gas saws like the Stihl MS 261 and Husqvarna 550 XP Mark II? From my experience, the answer is yes. In our tests, all saws were prepared under identical conditions: the gas models ran on the same Aspen fuel, the MSA 300 used fossil-free electricity, and all were lubricated with the same chain oil. The MSA 300 and Husky 550 XP had new chains, while the MS 261’s chain was slightly used.

Interestingly, the Husky 550 XP didn’t make it through testing due to a breakdown it refused to start when warm. Despite this hiccup, the MSA 300 performed admirably, proving it can match the efficiency and reliability of its gas-powered counterparts in a head-to-head comparison.

You can see the result of the cookie-cutting test in the chart below.

Cut No (species)	Time sec MSA 300	Time sec 550 XP Mrk II	Time sec 550 XP Mrk II
1 (Spruce)	4,43	5,19	5,09
2 (Spruce)	4,43	4,56	4,08
3 (Spruce)	4,35
4 (Spruce	4,15		3,47
5 (Spruce)	3,21		3,41
6 (Oak)	4,52		4,22
7 (Oak)	4,41		4,04
Average	4,21	4,88	4,05

MSA 300 battery

Stihl claims the MSA 300 can deliver 3 kW of power and reach a chain speed of 30 meters per second and our tests backed this up. Using the different power modes during a cookie-cutting test, the saw kept pace with its gas-powered counterparts without overheating, even in 18°C (64°F) weather.

While the AP 500 S battery did get hot, the saw performed flawlessly, which is impressive given the challenge of delivering high energy output from a battery. Stihl clearly nailed the design, though it’s important to note that intensive tests like cookie-cutting aren’t typical chainsaw tasks. For regular use, the MSA 300 and its battery system are more than capable.

Managing Charging and Power Usage

After running the Stihl MSA 300 C-O at full power, we had to wait briefly for the AP 500 S battery to cool before recharging, which took about 35 minutes. For power consumption, the MSA 300 cut 45 “cookies” in max power mode and 65 in ECO mode, using logs with an average 20 cm diameter. This performance is consistent with models like the Husky 540i, Stihl MSA 220, and Echo DCS 1600.

From my experience, the MSA 300’s battery runtime mirrors a gas tank on a 50cc saw. For longer jobs, you’ll need enough batteries to match your workload and power mode. ECO mode helps extend battery life but doesn’t quite compare to the power of a gas saw. For forestry work, planning your battery needs is key.

Impact in Economy

The debate between battery-powered chainsaws like the Stihl MSA 300 C-O and gas saws remains heated in the logging world. From my perspective, it’s all about balancing upfront costs with long-term savings.

While battery saws may seem expensive initially, they’re a solid investment when you consider their full lifecycle compared to gas saws. Both types have similar costs for guide bars, chains, and chain oil, but batteries and chargers add an extra layer to consider. In our tests, a fully charged AP 500 S battery lasted as long as a gas tank in the Stihl MS 261 so if you use six gas tanks daily, you’d need six batteries and chargers for overnight recharging.

Fredrik’s calculations showed that a full-time logger using the Stihl MSA 300 for three years could save around $100 per month compared to a gas saw like the MS 261. For companies managing large chainsaw fleets, the savings on electricity versus gas could be significant.

That said, local gas and electricity prices vary, so it’s worth researching costs in your area. For me, the economics make sense if you’re ready to embrace a professional battery-powered chainsaw like the MSA 300.

In conclusion

The Stihl MSA 300 C-O proves that battery-powered chainsaws are now competitive with professional 50cc gas models like the Husky 540i. It offers quiet, efficient performance ideal for populated areas, making it a top choice for eco-conscious professionals.

During testing, the MSA 300 excelled in felling trees of various sizes near summer homes, earning praise for its low noise. While its safety feature, which shuts off the saw when idle, requires some adjustment, it’s user-friendly and quick to learn. Transitioning from gas saws might take time, but the MSA 300 makes it seamless.

For those looking for a powerful, eco-friendly, and professional-grade chainsaw, the Stihl MSA 300 is a glimpse into the future of logging.