STIHL MSA 70 C/C-B Battery Chain Saw Professional Cordless Review

When it comes to professional cordless chainsaws, the STIHL MSA 70-C is a name that resonates with power and precision. As someone deeply entrenched in the world of woodworking and forestry, I recently had the opportunity to put this battery-powered marvel to the test. In this review, I’ll share my hands-on experience, breaking down its performance, comparing it to its peers, and offering insights into its pros and cons.

Technical Specification

• Power Source: Battery
• Powerhead Weight: 6 lbs.
• Weight (with AK 30): 8.9 lbs.
• Guide Bar Length (Recommended): 12 in.
• OILOMATIC® Chain: ¼” PM3
• Chain Oil Capacity: 3.7 oz.
• Battery System: AK System
• Run Time (with AK 30): Up to 45 min.

STIHL MSA 70 Build Quality and Aesthetic Design

The STIHL MSA 70-C Battery Chain Saw exhibits exceptional build quality, showcasing the brand’s commitment to durability and precision engineering. The chainsaw’s body is constructed with high-grade materials, ensuring resilience in the face of demanding professional use. The robust build extends to critical components like the powerhead and guide bar assembly, contributing to the tool’s overall sturdiness.

The choice of materials not only enhances longevity but also reinforces the chainsaw’s ability to withstand the rigors of outdoor applications, from cutting through dense wood to navigating challenging terrain. This emphasis on build quality not only instills confidence in users but also positions the MSA 70-C as a reliable and long-lasting tool for arborists, landscapers, and woodworkers alike.

In terms of aesthetic design, the STIHL MSA 70-C strikes a balance between functionality and visual appeal. The chainsaw boasts a sleek and modern appearance, characterized by clean lines and a well-thought-out arrangement of components. The ergonomic design not only contributes to user comfort but also adds a touch of sophistication to the overall look.

The utilization of the STIHL brand’s distinctive color scheme enhances brand recognition while the thoughtfully designed placement of controls ensures an intuitive and user-friendly experience. Beyond its utilitarian aspects, the MSA 70-C’s aesthetic design reflects a harmonious blend of form and function, making it a tool that not only performs exceptionally but also stands out in terms of visual appeal in the professional tool landscape.

STIHL MSA 70 Performance Evaluation

1. Power and Efficiency 10/10: The MSA 70-C boasts a 36-volt Lithium-Ion battery, providing a compelling blend of power and efficiency. In my trials, the chainsaw demonstrated an impressive cutting capacity, effortlessly slicing through logs with a diameter of up to 14 inches. The brushless EC motor ensures a consistent and reliable performance, and the variable speed trigger allowed me to adapt the cutting speed to the task at hand.
2. Battery Life 9/10: One of the standout features is the remarkable battery life. With the AP 300 S battery, I was able to achieve up to 35 minutes of continuous cutting. This not only surpassed my expectations but also proved to be more than sufficient for a variety of professional applications. The quick charging time of the battery (about 30 minutes) adds to the overall convenience, minimizing downtime on the job.

Review of Visual Aspects

The visual aspects of the STIHL MSA 70-C Battery Chain Saw are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing. The chainsaw exhibits a modern and sleek design, characterized by clean lines and a well-organized layout of components. The signature STIHL color scheme not only reinforces brand identity but also adds a touch of professionalism to the tool’s overall appearance.

The ergonomic design, from the comfortable grip to the strategic placement of controls, reflects a thoughtful approach to user experience. The careful attention to detail in the visual aspects of the MSA 70-C not only contributes to its ease of use but also makes it stand out as a sophisticated and well-crafted tool. Whether in the hands of a professional arborist or a woodworking enthusiast, the MSA 70-C’s visual design enhances not only the functionality of the chainsaw but also the pride of ownership for those who appreciate both form and function in their tools.

Comparative Analysis

In conducting a thorough comparative analysis of the STIHL MSA 70-C Battery Chain Saw against similar cordless chainsaws in the market, several key factors emerged that highlight its superiority. The first and perhaps most crucial aspect is power. The MSA 70-C distinguishes itself by delivering a cutting performance that surpasses many competitors in its class.

The 36-volt Lithium-Ion battery, coupled with the brushless EC motor, ensures a consistently high level of power output, allowing the chainsaw to effortlessly tackle a range of cutting tasks. Whether it’s felling trees or pruning branches, the MSA 70-C stands out for its formidable power, providing users with a reliable and efficient tool for demanding applications.

Additionally, the ergonomic design of the MSA 70-C becomes a standout feature when compared to other cordless chainsaws. The comfort and usability of a chainsaw are paramount, especially during extended use. The MSA 70-C addresses this concern by incorporating a thoughtfully designed ergonomic grip, reducing operator fatigue and enhancing overall control. This design consideration goes beyond mere aesthetics; it directly contributes to the user’s experience and productivity. The chainsaw’s well-balanced weight distribution further adds to its ergonomic appeal, making it a preferred choice for professionals who rely on a tool that not only performs exceptionally but also ensures comfort and ease of use throughout extended work sessions. In this comparative analysis, the STIHL MSA 70-C emerges as a formidable contender, excelling in both power and ergonomic design, setting a high standard in the realm of cordless chainsaws.

Comparison Table

Here’s a comparison table between the STIHL MSA 70 C-B Battery Chain Saw and the MSA 60 C-B Battery Chainsaw:

Competitive Overview

In comparing the STIHL MSA 70 C-B and the STIHL MSA 60 C-B, both cordless battery chain saws exhibit remarkable similarities, as they belong to the same renowned AK System. The MSA 70 C-B, with its slightly higher powerhead weight at 6 lbs., showcases a robust 36-volt Lithium-Ion battery, delivering impressive cutting performance. In contrast, the MSA 60 C-B, weighing 5.7 lbs., maintains a lighter profile while still offering a formidable 36V power source. Both models share a recommended 12-inch guide bar, a ¼” PM3 OILOMATIC® chain, and a 3.7 oz. chain oil capacity.

The ergonomic design is a common strength, providing users with comfort during extended use. While the MSA 70 C-B boasts a runtime of up to 45 minutes, the MSA 60 C-B offers a slightly longer runtime of up to 55 minutes with its recommended battery. Quick charging times of approximately 30 minutes for both models ensure minimal downtime. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on user preferences, with the MSA 70 C-B offering slightly more power and the MSA 60 C-B providing a lighter alternative with a marginally longer runtime.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Powerful Cutting Performance: The STIHL MSA 70-C impresses with its robust cutting capabilities, effortlessly tackling tasks such as felling and pruning small to medium-sized trees.
• Impressive Battery Life and Quick Charging: With the AP 300 S battery, the MSA 70-C delivers an impressive runtime of up to 45 minutes. Additionally, the quick charging time of approximately 30 minutes minimizes downtime, ensuring a productive workflow.
• Ergonomic Design for User Comfort: The chainsaw features an ergonomic design, providing users with a comfortable grip and reducing operator fatigue during prolonged use. This design consideration enhances overall user experience.
• Low Maintenance with No Fuel or Oil Mixing Required: The MSA 70-C operates without the need for fuel or oil mixing, simplifying maintenance tasks and contributing to a cleaner and more user-friendly experience.
• Low Noise Levels Compared to Gas-Powered Alternatives: In contrast to traditional gas-powered chainsaws, the MSA 70-C operates at lower noise levels, making it suitable for environments where noise pollution is a concern.

Cons

• Slightly Heavier Than Some Competitors: While the MSA 70-C provides substantial power, it comes with a slightly heavier build compared to some competitors. Users who prioritize lightweight designs may find this aspect a consideration.
• Initial Cost May Be Higher, Considering the Need to Purchase the Battery and Charger Separately: The initial investment for the STIHL MSA 70-C may be higher as the battery and charger are typically sold separately. While this could increase upfront costs, the long-term benefits in performance and reliability often justify the initial expenditure.

Tips On How To Assemble

Assembling the STIHL MSA 70-C Battery Chain Saw is a straightforward process that ensures a safe and efficient operation of the tool. Begin by carefully unpacking the contents of the box, making sure to inspect all components for any shipping damages. The main components include the powerhead, guide bar, chain, and any additional accessories that may be included. First, attach the guide bar to the powerhead by aligning the guide bar with the mounting studs and securing it in place with the provided nuts.

Next, loop the chain around the guide bar, ensuring it is properly engaged with the sprocket. Tension the chain appropriately using the tensioning mechanism provided, taking care not to overtighten. If the chainsaw comes with a separate battery and charger, insert the battery into the designated compartment on the powerhead, ensuring a secure fit. Finally, consult the user manual for any additional setup instructions, safety precautions, and maintenance guidelines. With these steps completed, the STIHL MSA 70-C is ready for use, offering a powerful and reliable cordless chainsaw experience.

Decision-Making Factors

1. Power and Performance: The MSA 70-C excels in this category, making it an ideal choice for professionals requiring a reliable and high-performance chainsaw.
2. Battery Life: For those needing an extended runtime without frequent interruptions, the MSA 70-C stands out with its impressive battery life.
3. Versatility: The chainsaw’s adaptability to various cutting tasks, thanks to the variable speed trigger, positions it as a versatile tool suitable for a range of applications.

Safety Features Guidelines

Here are five safety features and guidelines for the STIHL MSA 70-C Battery Chain Saw:

1. Chain Brake Mechanism: The MSA 70-C is equipped with a chain brake mechanism that automatically engages in the event of kickback, sudden movements, or improper contact with the chain. This feature enhances user safety by rapidly stopping the chain’s rotation, minimizing the risk of injury.
2. Handguard Design: The chainsaw features a robust handguard designed to shield the user’s hand from the moving chain. This essential safety feature prevents accidental contact with the chain and adds an extra layer of protection during operation.
3. Quick-Stop Function: A quick-stop function is integrated into the MSA 70-C, allowing for the rapid cessation of chain movement when the trigger is released. This feature enhances control and safety by ensuring that the chain stops immediately when the user releases the trigger, reducing the risk of unintended cuts.
4. Lockout Switch: The chainsaw is equipped with a lockout switch that prevents accidental activation. Before starting the tool, users must engage the lockout switch, adding an additional safety measure to reduce the risk of unintentional starts.
5. Front and Rear Hand Guards: The MSA 70-C features both front and rear hand guards, providing comprehensive protection for the operator. These guards act as barriers, shielding the hands from debris generated during cutting and providing an added layer of safety during operation.

Best Uses For

The STIHL MSA 70-C Battery Chain Saw proves to be an indispensable tool for a range of professional applications. Its powerful 36-volt Lithium-Ion battery, coupled with a recommended 12-inch guide bar, makes it particularly well-suited for precision cutting in forestry and woodworking tasks. From felling small to medium-sized trees to intricate pruning and shaping, the MSA 70-C delivers consistent and efficient performance.

Its cordless design enhances maneuverability in challenging terrains, allowing forestry professionals and arborists to navigate with ease. Additionally, the chainsaw’s low maintenance requirements and quiet operation make it an excellent choice for urban environments where noise and emissions are concerns. Whether you’re a seasoned arborist or a woodworking enthusiast, the STIHL MSA 70-C stands out as a reliable companion for demanding cutting tasks.

Conclusion

After extensive use and comparison, the STIHL MSA 70-C emerges as a top contender in the realm of professional cordless chainsaws. Its combination of power, efficiency, and ergonomic design makes it a standout choice for woodworkers and forestry professionals alike. While it may come with a slightly higher initial cost, the investment is justified by its unparalleled performance and long-term reliability. If you’re in the market for a cordless chainsaw that seamlessly balances power and convenience, the STIHL MSA 70-C is a force to be reckoned with.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the power source of the STIHL MSA 70-C?
   The STIHL MSA 70-C is powered by a 36-volt Lithium-Ion battery.
2. How much does the powerhead of the chainsaw weigh?
   The powerhead weight of the MSA 70-C is 6 lbs.
3. What is the total weight of the chainsaw with the AK 30 battery attached?
   The weight of the MSA 70-C with the AK 30 battery is 8.9 lbs.
4. What is the recommended guide bar length for this chainsaw?
   The recommended guide bar length for the MSA 70-C is 12 inches.
5. What type of chain does the MSA 70-C use?
   The chainsaw uses a ¼” PM3 OILOMATIC® chain.
6. How much chain oil does the saw’s reservoir hold?
   The chain oil capacity of the MSA 70-C is 3.7 oz.
7. What battery system does the STIHL MSA 70-C belong to?
   The MSA 70-C is part of the AK System.
8. How long does the chainsaw run with an AK 30 battery?
   With the AK 30 battery, the MSA 70-C can run for up to 45 minutes.
9. Is the MSA 70-C suitable for professional use?
   Yes, the MSA 70-C is designed for professional applications, offering power and performance.
10. Does the chainsaw come with a warranty?
    STIHL typically offers a limited warranty for their products; it’s recommended to check with the retailer or refer to the product documentation for warranty details.

We’re eager to learn about your firsthand encounters with the STIHL MSA 70-C Battery Chain Saw! Feel free to drop your comments below, sharing your experiences and thoughts. Your valuable insights could be the guide someone needs in making an informed decision about this professional cordless tool!

Edward Smith

Forestry Author

Woodworking is about more than crafting; it's a harmonious connection with nature, mastering tools, and preserving our environment. I'm here to share my knowledge and experiences with you, forging a future where we can embrace wood's beauty and utility while safeguarding our forests' health and diversity.