STIHL MS 251 C-BE Petrol Chainsaw

STIHL MS 251 C-BE petrol chainsaw

The STIHL MS 251 C-BE is a powerful top-range domestic petrol chainsaw designed for regular firewood cutting, property maintenance and timber construction.

Its 45.6cm³ STIHL 2-MIX engine produces 2.2kW / 3hp. The C-BE version combines this performance with STIHL ErgoStart, a manual fuel pump and tool-free Quick Chain Tensioning, making starting and routine chain adjustment more convenient than on a conventional petrol chainsaw.

The MS 251 C-BE is available with either a 40cm / 16-inch or 45cm / 18-inch guide bar. Both versions use the same engine and produce the same power; only the cutting attachment changes.

• 45.6cm³ STIHL 2-MIX engine
• 2.2kW / 3hp power output
• 5.2kg powerhead weight without fuel, bar or chain
• 16-inch or 18-inch guide-bar options
• STIHL ErgoStart
• Manual fuel pump
• Tool-free Quick Chain Tensioning
• Long-life air-filter system
• Carburettor compensator
• STIHL anti-vibration system
• Tool-free fuel and chain-oil caps
• STIHL Ematic chain lubrication

Browse the complete STIHL petrol chainsaw range or read our STIHL chainsaw buying guide for help comparing models.

Who should choose the STIHL MS 251 C-BE?

The MS 251 C-BE is best suited to private users, landowners and regular firewood cutters who need more performance than a compact homeowner saw but do not require a professional forestry chainsaw.

Typical applications include:

• Preparing regular quantities of domestic firewood
• Cross-cutting appropriately supported logs
• Maintaining larger gardens and smallholdings
• Cutting construction and landscaping timber
• Clearing suitable fallen branches
• Pruning appropriate branches at ground level
• Felling suitable small trees by a competent operator

It is not intended for full-time professional forestry, large-tree felling or continuous production cutting.

Masseys recommendation

Choose the MS 251 C-BE when you want the performance of the MS 251 but would benefit from easier starting and tool-free chain adjustment.

For ordinary domestic firewood and property maintenance, we would generally favour the 16-inch version because it is more compact and easier to manoeuvre. Choose the 18-inch version only when the additional reach is genuinely useful for the timber you regularly handle.

If your workload is lighter, compare the STIHL MS 231 C-BE or the more compact STIHL MS 212 petrol chainsaw.

If you do not need ErgoStart or tool-free chain adjustment, the standard STIHL MS 251 provides the same core engine performance in a lighter and less expensive configuration.

Choosing a 16-inch or 18-inch guide bar

The two versions have the same 45.6cm³ engine and 2.2kW / 3hp output. A longer guide bar does not increase engine power.

40cm / 16-inch version

The 16-inch version is the most balanced choice for many domestic and landowner users.

Choose the 16-inch model when:

• Handling and manoeuvrability are important
• You mainly prepare ordinary domestic firewood
• You work around branches or more restricted spaces
• You do not regularly need the additional reach of an 18-inch bar
• You want the current STIHL UK RM3 Pro cutting configuration

The current official part number for the 16-inch version is 11432000671.

45cm / 18-inch version

The 18-inch version provides additional cutting reach but does not make the chainsaw more powerful.

Choose the 18-inch model when:

• You regularly handle larger, appropriately supported timber
• The extra reach is genuinely useful
• You have sufficient experience to control the longer cutting attachment
• You mainly work in open firewood or property-maintenance areas

The longer bar can feel less manoeuvrable during branch work and in confined spaces.

The exact replacement chain and manufacturer identifier for the 18-inch version depend on the fitted stock configuration. Check the information stamped on the guide bar or ask Masseys to identify the correct replacement before ordering.

45.6cm³ STIHL 2-MIX engine

The STIHL 2-MIX engine produces 2.2kW / 3hp from a displacement of 45.6cm³.

STIHL’s four-channel combustion design directs the fuel-and-air mixture into the cylinder in a controlled way to support efficient combustion and strong torque.

Compared with a STIHL two-stroke engine of the same power output without 2-MIX technology, STIHL states that fuel consumption can be reduced by up to 20% and emissions by up to 70%.

STIHL ErgoStart and manual fuel pump

STIHL ErgoStart reduces the speed and force required on the starter cord.

An additional spring between the starter rope pulley and crankshaft stores energy during the pull and releases it to turn the engine. This allows the engine to start from a smoother and slower pull than a conventional recoil system requires.

The manual fuel pump can be pressed before starting to move fuel into the carburettor. This reduces the number of starting pulls after the machine has been stored or run low on fuel.

ErgoStart makes the engine easier to start, but it is not electric starting and does not remove the need to follow the correct cold- and warm-start procedures.

Tool-free Quick Chain Tensioning

STIHL Quick Chain Tensioning allows the chain to be adjusted without using a combination spanner.

Loosen the large sprocket-cover knob, turn the adjustment wheel to alter the chain tension, then retighten the cover.

The chain must still be checked:

• Before every use
• After fitting a new chain
• During longer cutting sessions
• Whenever the chain no longer sits correctly against the guide bar

Switch off the engine, allow the cutting attachment to cool and wear suitable gloves before checking or adjusting the chain.

Long-life air-filter system

The long-life filtration system uses pre-separation to remove larger particles from the incoming air before they reach the main filter.

An HD2 filter then helps prevent fine dust entering the engine. This supports longer intervals between filter cleaning than a conventional filtration system.

The filter still requires inspection and maintenance. “Long-life” does not mean maintenance-free.

Carburettor compensator

The compensator helps keep engine performance, fuel consumption and exhaust quality relatively consistent as the air filter gradually becomes contaminated.

The air filter should be cleaned or replaced when required by the maintenance schedule or when a noticeable reduction in performance occurs.

STIHL anti-vibration system

Spring and buffer elements reduce the amount of engine and cutting vibration transmitted to the front and rear handles.

This can make the machine more comfortable during appropriate longer cutting sessions. It does not eliminate vibration, so regular breaks and correct technique remain important.

STIHL Ematic chain lubrication

The Ematic system combines the guide bar, Oilomatic saw chain and controlled-delivery oil pump to direct chain lubricant where it is required.

STIHL states that this can reduce chain-oil consumption by up to 50% compared with a cutting attachment without the Ematic system.

The guide bar and chain still require a supply of suitable chain oil. The tank must be checked before and during use.

Fuel and chain-oil requirements

The MS 251 C-BE requires two separate fluids:

• A 50:1 mixture of suitable petrol and approved two-stroke engine oil
• Dedicated chainsaw chain oil for the guide bar and moving chain

You can use fresh suitable petrol mixed accurately with approved two-stroke oil, or STIHL MotoMix ready-mixed fuel.

Browse our range of garden-machinery fuel and two-stroke oil.

The guide bar and chain require separate STIHL chainsaw chain oil. The engine’s fuel mixture does not lubricate the cutting attachment.

Fuel, two-stroke oil and chain oil are not included unless specifically stated in the selected offer.

STIHL MS 251 C-BE technical specifications

Standard MS 251 or MS 251 C-BE?

The standard MS 251 and MS 251 C-BE use the same 45.6cm³, 2.2kW engine and deliver the same core cutting performance.

Choose the standard STIHL MS 251 when you are comfortable with conventional starting and tool-assisted chain adjustment.

Choose the MS 251 C-BE when the additional starting and adjustment convenience is worth the modest increase in weight and purchase price.

MS 231 C-BE or MS 251 C-BE?

The MS 231 C-BE is the smaller comfort-featured option. The MS 251 C-BE has a larger engine and is better suited to more regular or demanding firewood and property-maintenance work.

Choose the MS 231 C-BE when lower weight and easier handling matter more than maximum domestic cutting performance.

Choose the MS 251 C-BE when you regularly handle heavier firewood or want the strongest saw in this part of STIHL’s domestic range.

Replacement chains and guide bars

The required replacement chain depends on the selected bar length and the exact cutting attachment fitted to your machine.

Do not order solely by model name. Check the pitch, gauge and drive-link count stamped on the guide bar.

Order a genuine replacement chain for the STIHL MS 251 or browse our full range of chainsaw chains.

What is included?

The standard package includes:

• STIHL MS 251 C-BE petrol chainsaw
• Selected 16-inch or 18-inch guide bar
• Matching STIHL saw chain
• Guide-bar scabbard
• Standard operating and safety documentation

Masseys assembles and performs a pre-delivery inspection on the chainsaw for collection or qualifying delivery services.

Fuel, two-stroke engine oil, chain oil and personal protective equipment are not included unless specifically stated.

Maintenance

The MS 251 C-BE requires regular maintenance to remain safe and provide reliable cutting performance.

• Check chain tension before and during use
• Keep the saw chain correctly sharpened
• Maintain the chain-oil level
• Clean the guide-bar groove and oil holes
• Clear sawdust from the sprocket-cover area
• Inspect and clean the air filter
• Check the guide bar, chain and drive sprocket for wear
• Use fresh and correctly mixed fuel
• Follow the service schedule in the STIHL manual

STIHL Service Kit 15 contains an air filter, fuel filter and spark plug for routine MS 251 maintenance.

Masseys provides garden machinery servicing and repairs, including chain sharpening, maintenance and genuine replacement parts.

Chainsaw safety and protective equipment

A petrol chainsaw can cause serious or fatal injury if used incorrectly.

• Read the complete STIHL instruction manual before use
• Obtain appropriate instruction if you are inexperienced
• Wear chainsaw trousers and protective footwear
• Use suitable gloves, eye, face, head and hearing protection
• Check the chain brake, chain tension and lubrication before starting
• Secure and support timber properly
• Keep people and animals outside the working area
• Do not operate the chainsaw from a ladder
• Do not cut above shoulder height
• Use a qualified professional for dangerous, leaning or storm-damaged trees

Browse our chainsaw trousers and complete range of chainsaw accessories and protective equipment.

STIHL domestic warranty

The MS 251 C-BE is supplied with the applicable STIHL warranty when purchased and used in accordance with the current warranty terms.

Eligible domestic customers can currently extend the warranty from two years to three years by purchasing five litres of qualifying STIHL MotoMix with the chainsaw and having the extension registered by a STIHL Approved Dealer at the point of purchase.

Ask Masseys to confirm the current warranty and extension conditions before ordering.

Frequently asked questions

What does C-BE mean?

The C-BE configuration groups STIHL comfort features. The B identifies Quick Chain Tensioning, while the E identifies STIHL ErgoStart.

What engine does the MS 251 C-BE have?

It has a 45.6cm³ STIHL 2-MIX engine producing 2.2kW / 3hp.

How much does the MS 251 C-BE weigh?

The powerhead weighs approximately 5.2kg without fuel, guide bar or saw chain. Its operating weight is higher after the selected cutting attachment and fluids are fitted.

Should I choose the 16-inch or 18-inch version?

Choose the 16-inch version for easier handling and ordinary firewood or property-maintenance work. Choose the 18-inch version when the additional reach is genuinely useful. Both versions have the same engine and power.

Is the 18-inch MS 251 C-BE more powerful?

No. Bar length does not alter the engine output. Both versions use the same 45.6cm³, 2.2kW engine.

Is the MS 251 C-BE suitable for firewood?

Yes. Regular domestic firewood cutting is one of its main applications, provided the timber is appropriately sized, stable and safely supported.

Is the MS 251 C-BE suitable for beginners?

ErgoStart and tool-free chain tensioning make routine operation more convenient, but this remains a powerful petrol chainsaw. New users need appropriate instruction, full protective equipment and an understanding of kickback, chain-brake operation and safe cutting technique.

Is ErgoStart electric starting?

No. ErgoStart still uses a starter cord, but its spring-assisted mechanism reduces the speed and force needed to start the engine.

Does it need separate chain oil?

Yes. Dedicated chainsaw chain oil is required to lubricate the guide bar and moving saw chain.

What fuel does it use?

It uses a 50:1 mixture of suitable petrol and approved two-stroke engine oil. STIHL MotoMix ready-mixed fuel can also be used.

What chain fits the MS 251 C-BE?

The saw uses a .325-inch cutting system. The exact gauge and drive-link count depend on the fitted 16-inch or 18-inch guide bar, so check the guide-bar markings before ordering.

Does Masseys assemble the chainsaw?

Masseys assembles and performs a pre-delivery inspection for collection and qualifying delivery services. The operator must still complete all checks required by the STIHL instruction manual before each use.

Why buy the STIHL MS 251 C-BE from Masseys?

Masseys is an authorised STIHL dealer based in Woodville, Swadlincote, Derbyshire.

Our team can help you choose between the 16-inch and 18-inch configurations, compare the standard and C-BE versions and select the correct fuel, chain oil, replacement chain and protective equipment.

• Genuine UK STIHL product
• Advice from an established STIHL dealer
• Chainsaw assembly and pre-delivery inspection
• Help choosing the correct bar length
• Genuine chains, guide bars, fuels and oils
• Warranty-registration support where applicable
• Workshop servicing and chain sharpening
• Local collection and qualifying delivery options

Visit Masseys at 129 Swadlincote Road, Woodville, Swadlincote, Derbyshire DE11 8DA, or contact the Masseys team for product advice before ordering.