Description
The STIHL MS 212 C-BE petrol chainsaw combines the cutting performance of STIHL’s most powerful homeowner petrol saw with two important comfort features: STIHL ErgoStart and Quick Chain Tensioning.
Its 38.6 cm³ STIHL 2-MIX engine produces 1.80 kW / 2.40 hp, giving it the output required for regular firewood processing, branch removal, property maintenance and appropriately sized small-tree work. It is available with either a 35 cm / 14-inch or 40 cm / 16-inch guide bar.
Choose the C-BE model if you want the performance of the standard MS 212 but prefer a smoother starting action and the convenience of adjusting the chain without a separate spanner.
What does C-BE mean?
- C – Comfort: identifies a STIHL model with additional convenience features.
- B – Quick Chain Tensioning: allows the chain to be adjusted without a conventional combination spanner.
- E – ErgoStart: reduces the effort and speed required when pulling the starter cord.
The principal practical upgrades over the standard MS 212 are ErgoStart and Quick Chain Tensioning. Both models use the same 38.6 cm³ engine and provide the same underlying cutting output.
STIHL MS 212 C-BE at a glance
- 38.6 cm³ STIHL 2-MIX engine
- 1.80 kW / 2.40 hp output
- 35 cm / 14-inch or 40 cm / 16-inch guide bar
- 3/8-inch P Picco Micro 3 saw chain
- STIHL ErgoStart
- STIHL Quick Chain Tensioning
- STIHL anti-vibration system
- Combi lever with automatic stop return
- Carburettor compensator
- Tool-free fuel and oil caps
- Transparent fuel and chain-oil tanks
- Approximately 4.9 kg powerhead weight
Who is the STIHL MS 212 C-BE suitable for?
The MS 212 C-BE is intended for homeowners, larger-garden owners and property users who need a capable petrol chainsaw for regular rather than occasional cutting.
Typical applications include:
- Preparing domestic firewood
- Cross-cutting small and medium logs
- Removing suitable woody branches from ground level
- Clearing fallen branches
- Cutting timber for garden projects
- Maintaining trees around a larger garden or property
- Felling appropriately sized small trees where the user is competent and conditions are safe
It is not a professional forestry chainsaw and should not be selected for daily commercial logging, mature-tree felling or sustained processing of large hardwood.
STIHL ErgoStart
STIHL ErgoStart uses an additional spring between the starter-cord reel and crankshaft. Instead of requiring a fast, forceful pull, the system allows the starter cord to be pulled more slowly and smoothly.
This reduces the physical effort required to start the chainsaw and is particularly useful for customers who expect to stop and restart the machine regularly.
STIHL Quick Chain Tensioning
The Quick Chain Tensioning system allows the chain to be adjusted without a conventional combination spanner.
Fold out and loosen the wing nut on the sprocket cover, use the adjustment wheel to set the chain tension and secure the cover again. Always switch off the engine, engage the chain brake and follow the operating manual before touching the cutting attachment.
38.6 cm³ STIHL 2-MIX engine
The 38.6 cm³ STIHL 2-MIX engine produces 1.80 kW / 2.40 hp. It is designed to provide strong homeowner cutting performance with efficient fuel use and compliance with current emissions requirements.
The MS 212 C-BE uses either STIHL MotoMix or a fresh 50:1 mixture of appropriate petrol and quality two-stroke engine oil. Never operate the chainsaw on straight petrol.
Should you choose the 14-inch or 16-inch version?
| Guide-bar option | Best suited to |
|---|---|
| 35 cm / 14-inch | General firewood, pruning and customers who prioritise balance and manoeuvrability |
| 40 cm / 16-inch | Customers who need additional guide-bar reach for suitable medium domestic timber |
The 16-inch bar does not make the engine more powerful. Both versions use the same 38.6 cm³ engine. A longer guide bar adds reach but also increases the amount of cutting attachment the engine must drive.
If you frequently cut large or dense hardwood, choose a more powerful chainsaw rather than selecting the MS 212 solely because a longer guide bar is available.
3/8-inch P PM3 cutting system
The MS 212 C-BE uses a narrow-kerf 3/8-inch P Picco Micro 3 saw chain. This cutting system helps the homeowner engine use its available output efficiently while producing controlled cuts through domestic firewood and suitable branches.
The exact replacement chain differs according to the selected guide-bar length and drive-link count. Check the information stamped on the guide bar or ask Masseys to identify the correct replacement before ordering.
- 14-inch version: compatible with STIHL Cut Kit 4
- 16-inch version: compatible with STIHL Cut Kit 5
STIHL anti-vibration system
Buffer and spring elements reduce the amount of engine vibration transmitted to the front and rear handles. This helps improve comfort during appropriate cutting sessions, although correct technique and regular breaks remain essential.
Combi lever with stop function
The principal starting and stopping functions are operated through one control lever. After the engine is switched off, the lever returns to its operating position, simplifying the restart of a warm chainsaw.
Carburettor compensator
The compensator helps maintain engine performance, fuel consumption and exhaust quality as the air filter gradually collects dirt. This allows the chainsaw to operate for longer between filter cleaning intervals, although the filter must still be checked and maintained in accordance with the operating manual.
Transparent fuel and chain-oil tanks
The translucent tanks allow the operator to check fuel and chain-lubricant levels without opening the caps.
The engine fuel and chain lubricant are completely separate:
- The engine uses a 50:1 petrol and two-stroke oil mixture or STIHL MotoMix.
- The guide bar and chain require suitable chainsaw chain oil in the separate oil tank.
Both tanks have tool-free bayonet-style caps for straightforward refilling.
STIHL MS 212 C-BE technical specification
| Model | STIHL MS 212 C-BE |
|---|---|
| Product type | Homeowner petrol chainsaw with comfort features |
| Engine | STIHL 2-MIX two-stroke petrol engine |
| Displacement | 38.6 cm³ |
| Power output | 1.80 kW / 2.40 hp |
| Powerhead weight | Approximately 4.9 kg without fuel, guide bar or saw chain |
| Guide-bar options | 35 cm / 14 inches or 40 cm / 16 inches |
| Saw chain | 3/8-inch P Picco Micro 3 |
| Starting system | STIHL ErgoStart |
| Chain adjustment | STIHL Quick Chain Tensioning |
| Fuel | 50:1 petrol and suitable two-stroke oil mixture, or STIHL MotoMix |
| Chain lubrication | Separate chainsaw chain oil |
Specifications checked against current STIHL product information. Confirm the selected bar length, product number, GTIN and cutting attachment before ordering replacement parts.
MS 212 versus MS 212 C-BE
| Feature | STIHL MS 212 | STIHL MS 212 C-BE |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 38.6 cm³, 1.80 kW | 38.6 cm³, 1.80 kW |
| Starting | Standard recoil starting | STIHL ErgoStart |
| Chain tensioning | Side-mounted, tool-assisted | Tool-free Quick Chain Tensioning |
| Best suited to | Customers prioritising a lower purchase price | Customers prioritising easier starting and adjustment |
The standard STIHL MS 212 performs the same cutting work for less money. Choose the C-BE where comfort and convenience justify the additional cost.
How does the MS 212 C-BE compare?
| Model | Best suited to |
|---|---|
| STIHL MS 182 | Regular but lighter homeowner firewood and garden maintenance |
| STIHL MS 182 C-BE | Customers wanting a lighter comfort chainsaw with easier starting and adjustment |
| STIHL MS 212 C-BE | Regular domestic firewood and property maintenance with maximum homeowner-range power and comfort features |
| STIHL MS 251 | More demanding property work and customers regularly processing larger timber |
Browse the full STIHL petrol chainsaw range or use our STIHL chainsaw buying guide.
What is included?
- STIHL MS 212 C-BE chainsaw
- Selected 35 cm / 14-inch or 40 cm / 16-inch guide bar
- Matching STIHL PM3 saw chain
- Guide-bar scabbard
- Operating and safety instructions
Fuel, two-stroke engine oil, chain oil and protective equipment are not included unless explicitly stated in a separate offer.
What else will you need?
- STIHL two-stroke engine oil or suitable premixed fuel
- STIHL chainsaw chain oil
- A replacement chain matched to the selected guide bar
- Suitable chain-sharpening equipment
- Chainsaw helmet, face and hearing protection
- Chainsaw gloves
- Chainsaw protective trousers
- Chainsaw safety boots
Browse our wider chainsaw accessories and fuel and oil range.
Masseys recommendation
The MS 212 C-BE is the right choice when you want the strongest cutting performance in STIHL’s homeowner petrol range but do not want the inconvenience of conventional starting and tool-assisted chain adjustment.
For most domestic users, the 14-inch version provides the best balance of handling and cutting ability. Choose the 16-inch version where additional reach is genuinely useful, not simply because a longer guide bar appears more powerful.
If you only cut small quantities of lighter firewood, an MS 182 or MS 182 C-BE may be easier and less expensive. If you regularly cut large hardwood or substantial quantities of logs, consider the more powerful MS 251 instead.
Why buy from Masseys?
Masseys is an authorised STIHL dealer based in Woodville, near Swadlincote. Our workshop assembles, checks and test-runs petrol chainsaws before collection or local delivery.
- Genuine UK STIHL machinery
- Authorised dealer warranty support
- Chainsaw assembled and pre-delivery inspected
- Advice on choosing a 14-inch or 16-inch bar
- Correct replacement chains and guide bars available
- Fuel, oil and protective equipment available
- In-house servicing and repairs
- Collection from our Woodville store
For workshop support, visit our garden machinery servicing and repairs department.
Domestic warranty extension
Eligible domestic customers can extend the standard two-year STIHL warranty to three years when five litres of STIHL MotoMix is purchased with the chainsaw and the product is registered by a STIHL Approved Dealer. Eligibility is subject to STIHL’s current warranty terms.
Chainsaw safety
Chainsaws are high-speed cutting tools capable of causing serious or fatal injury. Read the complete STIHL operating manual before use and obtain suitable practical instruction.
Wear appropriate chainsaw leg protection, safety boots, gloves and suitable head, face, eye and hearing protection. Keep other people and animals clear of the working area.
Do not operate a chainsaw from a ladder, above shoulder height or in any position where the timber or escape route cannot be controlled. Large, damaged, leaning or technically difficult trees should be handled by an appropriately trained professional.
Frequently asked questions
What does C-BE mean?
C identifies a STIHL Comfort model, B indicates Quick Chain Tensioning and E indicates STIHL ErgoStart. The key practical upgrades over the standard MS 212 are easier starting and tool-free chain adjustment.
What is the difference between the MS 212 and MS 212 C-BE?
Both use the same 38.6 cm³ engine and produce 1.80 kW / 2.40 hp. The C-BE adds STIHL ErgoStart and Quick Chain Tensioning.
Is the MS 212 C-BE good for firewood?
Yes. It is STIHL’s most powerful homeowner petrol chainsaw and is well suited to regular domestic firewood preparation and property maintenance.
Should I choose the 14-inch or 16-inch bar?
The 14-inch version offers better balance and manoeuvrability for general domestic work. The 16-inch version gives additional reach but does not increase engine power.
How much does the MS 212 C-BE weigh?
The C-BE powerhead weighs approximately 4.9 kg without fuel, guide bar or saw chain. The complete operating weight is higher once the selected cutting attachment, fuel and chain oil are added.
What fuel does it use?
Use STIHL MotoMix or a fresh 50:1 mixture of appropriate petrol and quality two-stroke engine oil. Never use straight petrol.
Does it need separate chain oil?
Yes. Suitable chainsaw oil must be added to the separate chain-lubrication tank before use.
Which replacement chain does it use?
Both versions use a 3/8-inch P PM3 cutting system, but the drive-link count depends on the selected guide-bar length. Check the guide-bar markings or contact Masseys before ordering.
Is it suitable for professional forestry?
No. It is a high-performance homeowner chainsaw rather than a professional forestry model.
Does Masseys assemble the chainsaw?
Yes. Masseys assembles, checks and test-runs petrol chainsaws before collection or eligible local delivery.
Can Masseys service the MS 212 C-BE?
Yes. Our workshop provides servicing, repairs, sharpening support and genuine replacement parts for the machinery brands we supply.
For more information about the Stihl MS212 C-BE chainsaw then please visit https://www.stihl.co.uk/en
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