STIHL MSA 120 C-B Review: [2024] An Honest Review

If you’re a homeowner who needs a cordless electric chainsaw for some light cutting jobs, you might want to check out the STIHL MSA 120 C-B. It’s a reliable and easy-to-use tool that doesn’t need any gas or cords.

STIHL MSA 120 C-B Performance and Measurements

As I began to use the STIHL MSA 120 C-B, I was struck by its impressive performance. Powered by a 36V Lithium-Ion battery, the chainsaw’s chain speed of 9.9 m/s allowed me to efficiently cut through branches up to 4 inches in diameter. I was able to complete a variety of cutting tasks around my property with ease, from pruning small trees to trimming back overgrown shrubs.

One of the standout features of the MSA 120 C-B was its battery life. In my experience, the battery lasted for approximately 35 minutes of continuous cutting, which was more than enough time for my typical yard work. Additionally, I found the charging time for the battery to be relatively quick, at around 60 minutes. This meant that I was able to quickly recharge the battery in between uses, without having to wait too long before getting back to work.

STIHL MSA 120 C-B Design and User Experience

Weighing in at 4.2 kg (9.3 lbs) without the battery, the STIHL MSA 120 C-B is lightweight and easy to handle, minimizing user fatigue during extended use. The ergonomics of this chainsaw are well-thought-out, with a comfortable handle and reduced vibrations for a pleasant cutting experience.

Here are some design features of the STIHL MSA 120 C-B:

1. Lightweight: The chainsaw is designed to be lightweight, making it easy to handle and maneuver.
2. Ergonomic grip: The grip is designed to be comfortable and ergonomic, reducing fatigue during extended use.
3. 12-inch guide bar and chain: The chainsaw comes with a 12-inch guide bar and chain, which is suitable for pruning and trimming small trees and branches.
4. Battery-powered: The chainsaw is powered by a 36V Lithium-Ion battery, making it a convenient and environmentally friendly option compared to gas-powered chainsaws.
5. Easy to start: The chainsaw features an easy-to-use start system, which eliminates the need for pulling cords or priming the engine.
6. Quick charging: The battery can be fully charged in approximately 60 minutes, allowing for minimal downtime during use.
7. Chain speed: The chainsaw has a chain speed of 9.9 m/s, allowing it to efficiently cut through branches up to 4 inches in diameter.
8. Safety features: The chainsaw features a safety switch and trigger lock to prevent accidental startup and a front handguard to protect against flying debris.

Comparisons and Competitors

In terms of power and cutting capacity, the STIHL MSA 120 C-B is comparable to the Greenworks 20262 and the EGO Power+ CS1400. While the MSA 120 C-B‘s chain speed and battery life are slightly lower than the STIHL MSA 140 C-B, it still offers sufficient performance for light cutting tasks at a more affordable price point.

When evaluating the STIHL MSA 120 C-B‘s power and cutting capacity against competitors such as the Greenworks 20262 and the EGO Power+ CS1400, it’s essential to delve into the performance, battery life, and overall user experience of each model.

Greenworks 20262

The Greenworks 20262 is a 40V cordless electric chainsaw with a 12-inch bar and chain. It features a chain speed of 10.8 m/s and a battery life of approximately 30 minutes, depending on cutting conditions. Although the Greenworks 20262 has a similar bar length to the STIHL MSA 120 C-B, it has a slightly faster chain speed. However, its battery life is shorter, which could be an important factor for users who require longer cutting sessions. The Greenworks 20262 is typically priced lower than the STIHL MSA 120 C-B, making it an attractive option for those on a budget, but with some trade-offs in performance and battery life.

EGO Power+ CS1400

The EGO Power+ CS1400 is a 56V cordless electric chainsaw with a 14-inch bar and chain. It boasts a chain speed of 12.0 m/s and a battery life of up to 45 minutes. While the EGO Power+ CS1400 has a longer bar and slightly faster chain speed than the STIHL MSA 120 C-B, it is also a more expensive option. The battery life of the EGO Power+ CS1400 is similar to that of the STIHL MSA 140 C-B, but its overall performance is closer to the MSA 120 C-B.

In comparison to its competitors, the STIHL MSA 120 C-B offers a balanced blend of performance and affordability. While its chain speed and battery life may be slightly lower than the STIHL MSA 140 C-B, it still provides adequate performance for light-cutting tasks at a more budget-friendly price point. Users who need a reliable chainsaw for occasional use or smaller tasks may find the STIHL MSA 120 C-B to be a suitable option, as it offers a good compromise between performance and cost.

Ultimately, the choice between the STIHL MSA 120 C-B, Greenworks 20262, and EGO Power+ CS1400 will depend on the user’s specific needs, budget, and preference for brand reputation. It’s important to carefully consider factors such as cutting capacity, battery life, and chain speed when choosing the right chainsaw for your tasks.

Comparison Table

This table provides an overview of the key features and performance metrics of the three chainsaws, helping you make an informed decision based on your specific needs and budget. Remember to consider factors such as cutting capacity, battery life, and chain speed when choosing the right chainsaw for your tasks.

STIHL MSA 120 C-B Benefits and Drawbacks

The main benefits of the STIHL MSA 120 C-B include its lightweight design, ease of use, and solid performance for light-cutting tasks. However, a notable drawback is its limited cutting capacity, making it unsuitable for larger tasks or frequent heavy use. Additionally, the battery and charger are sold separately, adding to the overall cost.

STIHL MSA 120 C-B Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. Lightweight and ergonomic design: The STIHL MSA 120 C-B features a lightweight body and ergonomic handle, making it comfortable and easy to maneuver during cutting sessions.
2. Low noise and vibration: As an electric chainsaw, it produces less noise and vibration compared to gas-powered models, providing a more pleasant user experience and being more environmentally friendly.
3. Ease of use: The tool-free chain tensioning system allows for simple and fast chain adjustments, making it user-friendly even for beginners.
4. Safety features: Equipped with a chain brake and a quick-stop chain brake, the MSA 120 C-B offers added user safety during operation.
5. Adequate performance for light tasks: While not as powerful as the MSA 140 C-B, the MSA 120 C-B still provides sufficient performance for light-cutting tasks around the home or property.
6. Reputable brand: STIHL is known for producing high-quality, long-lasting outdoor power tools, which ensure reliability and durability.
7. More affordable price point: Compared to the MSA 140 C-B, the MSA 120 C-B is available at a more budget-friendly price.

Cons:

1. Limited cutting capacity: The STIHL MSA 120 C-B is designed for light cutting tasks, and its cutting capacity may not be suitable for heavy-duty cutting or professional use.
2. Reduced power compared to MSA 140 C-B: Although adequate for many tasks, the MSA 120 C-B does not offer the same cutting power as the more powerful MSA 140 C-B model.
3. Shorter battery life: With approximately 35 minutes of battery life, the MSA 120 C-B offers less runtime than the MSA 140 C-B, which could be a concern for users who require longer cutting sessions.
4. Battery and charger not always included: In some cases, the battery and charger may need to be purchased separately, adding to the overall cost.

Evolution and Improvements

Over time, STIHL has made improvements and developed newer models of their cordless chainsaws, such as the MSA 140 C-B. However, the STIHL MSA 120 C-B chainsaw still provides a reliable cutting experience for those with lighter cutting needs. It’s worth noting that if you have larger tasks that require more power and longer battery life, the MSA 140 C-B might be a better fit for you. Ultimately, it comes down to your specific needs and preferences.

Conclusion

The STIHL MSA 120 C-B is a dependable, lightweight, and user-friendly cordless electric chainsaw that offers adequate cutting performance for light tasks around your home. While it may not be suitable for larger projects or heavy use, the MSA 120 C-B’s features and performance make it a solid choice for homeowners seeking a reliable, budget-friendly option for their cutting needs.

Kevin Lallab

Forestry Author

Snow and land management isn't just a profession for me; it's a calling. My aim is to make life safer and more comfortable for those in my community while ensuring that our environment remains healthy and vibrant. Whether you need advice on snow removal, chimney maintenance, wood stoves, or land management, I'm here to help. Together, we can create a safer and more sustainable future.