STIHL MS 291 Petrol Chainsaw

Agricultural and landowner chainsaw for frequent cutting

The STIHL MS 291 is a powerful 55.5 cm³ petrol chainsaw designed for frequent firewood processing, agricultural work, estate maintenance and appropriately sized tree work.

Its STIHL 2-MIX engine produces 2.8 kW / 3.8 hp, giving it considerably more cutting capacity than STIHL’s heavy domestic models while remaining below the weight and price of the largest professional forestry chainsaws.

Masseys offers the MS 291 with either a 16″ / 40 cm or 18″ / 45 cm guide bar. Both versions use the same engine and powerhead; the difference is the fitted guide bar and matching saw-chain length.

Every petrol chainsaw sold by Masseys is assembled, inspected and test-run by our trained team before handover.

Browse our complete range of STIHL petrol chainsaws, read our STIHL chainsaw buying guide or use the Masseys chainsaw comparison chart for further advice.

Key features of the STIHL MS 291

• 55.5 cm³ STIHL 2-MIX petrol engine
• 2.8 kW / 3.8 hp power output
• 5.6 kg powerhead weight without fuel, guide bar or saw chain
• Choice of 16″ / 40 cm or 18″ / 45 cm guide bar
• .325″ Rapid Micro saw chain
• 1.6 mm chain gauge
• Side-mounted chain tensioning
• Long-life air-filter system with pre-separation
• HD2 fine-particle air filter
• Carburettor compensator
• STIHL anti-vibration system
• Tool-free fuel and chain-oil caps
• Automatic guide-bar and chain lubrication
• Designed for agricultural, horticultural and land-maintenance work

Who should choose the STIHL MS 291?

The MS 291 is intended for farmers, estate owners, landscapers, smallholders and private users who complete frequent, demanding cutting work.

It is particularly suitable for:

• Processing larger quantities of firewood
• Cross-cutting hardwood and softwood logs
• Maintaining farms, estates and rural properties
• Clearing fallen branches and storm damage
• Agricultural and horticultural work
• Timber construction and suitable woodworking
• Felling appropriately sized trees by a competent operator
• Users upgrading from a smaller domestic chainsaw

The MS 291 may be unnecessarily large for occasional garden pruning, very small quantities of firewood or users who place minimum weight above cutting capacity.

Choosing a 16-inch or 18-inch guide bar

The MS 291 is available from Masseys with two guide-bar lengths.

Both configurations use the same 55.5 cm³ engine and produce the same 2.8 kW / 3.8 hp output. A longer guide bar provides more reach, but it does not increase the engine’s power.

16″ / 40 cm guide bar

The 16-inch version provides a useful balance of cutting capacity and manoeuvrability.

Choose it when:

• You mainly process ordinary farm or domestic firewood
• Ease of handling is important
• You regularly work around branches or confined areas
• You do not require the additional reach of an 18-inch bar

18″ / 45 cm guide bar

The 18-inch version is STIHL’s current standard UK factory configuration and provides additional reach for larger logs, stems and branches.

Choose it when:

• You regularly encounter larger-diameter timber
• The additional guide-bar reach is genuinely useful
• You are comfortable controlling a longer cutting attachment
• The machine is primarily being purchased for heavier landowner or agricultural work

The 18-inch bar adds leverage and weight at the front of the chainsaw. The 16-inch option may therefore remain easier to control where its cutting capacity is sufficient.

55.5 cm³ STIHL 2-MIX engine

The MS 291 is powered by a 55.5 cm³ STIHL 2-MIX two-stroke engine producing 2.8 kW / 3.8 hp.

STIHL four-channel combustion technology directs the fuel-and-air mixture into the cylinder to support efficient combustion, strong torque and consistent cutting performance.

STIHL states that the 2-MIX design can reduce fuel consumption by up to 20% and exhaust emissions by up to 50% compared with a conventional STIHL two-stroke engine of comparable output without 2-MIX technology.

.325-inch Rapid Micro cutting system

The standard cutting attachment uses a .325″ STIHL Rapid Micro saw chain with a 1.6 mm drive-link gauge.

Rapid Micro is a robust semi-chisel chain designed to provide:

• Strong all-round cutting performance
• Smooth cutting behaviour
• Low vibration
• Good edge durability
• Reliable performance in agricultural and firewood work

The chain length depends on the fitted guide bar. A typical 16-inch configuration uses 67 drive links, while the current 18-inch configuration uses 74 drive links.

Always check the pitch, gauge, drive-link count and markings stamped on the guide bar before ordering from Masseys’ replacement chainsaw chain range.

Side-mounted chain tensioning

The chain-tensioning screw is positioned through the side of the sprocket cover.

This gives protected access to the tensioning mechanism without positioning the combination tool directly beside the chain’s cutting teeth.

Check the chain tension:

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

Switch off the engine, allow hot components to cool, wear protective gloves and follow the operating instructions before handling or adjusting the chain.

Long-life air-filter system

The MS 291 uses STIHL’s long-life air-filter system with pre-separation.

Centrifugal force separates larger dust and debris particles from the cooling airflow before they reach the main filter. The HD2 filter then helps prevent finer particles from entering the engine.

This system supports longer cleaning intervals and helps maintain dependable engine performance during dusty firewood, agricultural and land-maintenance work.

The filter must still be inspected, cleaned and replaced in accordance with the operating manual.

Carburettor compensator

The carburettor compensator helps maintain engine output, fuel consumption and exhaust quality as the air filter gradually becomes contaminated.

This allows the chainsaw to continue working effectively for longer before a noticeable reduction in performance indicates that filter maintenance is required.

STIHL anti-vibration system

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

This can make the MS 291 more comfortable to control during appropriate extended cutting work. The system does not eliminate vibration, so correct technique and regular breaks remain important.

Tool-free fuel and chain-oil caps

The fuel and chain-oil tanks use bayonet-style caps that can be opened and closed without a separate tool.

Always check that both caps are correctly aligned, fully closed and free from damage before starting the engine.

Fuel and chain-oil requirements

The MS 291 requires two separate fluids:

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

For self-mixed fuel, use suitable fresh petrol with approved STIHL two-stroke engine oil at the correct 50:1 ratio.

STIHL MotoMix ready-mixed fuel can also be used. It provides a consistent fuel mixture and longer storage life than ordinary self-mixed petrol.

The cutting attachment requires separate STIHL chainsaw chain oil. Two-stroke engine oil must not be placed in the chain-oil tank.

Fuel, two-stroke engine oil, chain oil and personal protective equipment are not included unless specifically stated as part of the offer.

STIHL MS 251 vs MS 291

Specification	STIHL MS 251	STIHL MS 291
Positioning	Top-range domestic chainsaw	Agricultural and landowner chainsaw
Engine displacement	45.6 cm³	55.5 cm³
Power output	2.2 kW / 3 hp	2.8 kW / 3.8 hp
Powerhead weight	4.8 kg	5.6 kg
Best suited to	Regular domestic firewood and property maintenance	Frequent firewood, farm, estate and land-maintenance work

Choose the STIHL MS 251 when lower weight and ordinary domestic firewood work are the priorities.

Choose the MS 291 when the additional 0.6 kW of output and greater engine capacity justify the increase in machine weight.

STIHL MS 291 or professional MS 261 C-M?

The MS 291 has a larger engine than the MS 261 C-M, but the MS 261 C-M is a purpose-built professional forestry chainsaw with a stronger power-to-weight ratio and STIHL M-Tronic engine management.

Choose the MS 291 when:

• The main work is heavy firewood, farming and estate maintenance
• You prefer a conventional carburettor system
• Purchase price matters more than professional power-to-weight performance

Consider the STIHL MS 261 C-M when:

• The chainsaw will be used commercially
• Professional forestry durability is required
• Lower working weight and faster acceleration are priorities
• M-Tronic automatic engine management is valuable

STIHL MS 291 or MS 391?

The MS 391 is the next larger landowner and agricultural model in the STIHL range.

Choose the MS 291 when:

• An 18-inch guide bar provides enough reach
• You want lower weight than the MS 391
• The principal work is firewood, farming and estate maintenance

Consider the STIHL MS 391 when:

• You regularly work with larger-diameter timber
• A 20-inch guide bar is genuinely required
• The additional engine capacity justifies the extra weight

Technical specifications

Specification	Details
Model	STIHL MS 291
Product type	Agricultural and landowner petrol chainsaw
Engine	STIHL 2-MIX two-stroke petrol engine
Displacement	55.5 cm³
Power output	2.8 kW / 3.8 hp
Powerhead weight	5.6 kg without fuel, guide bar or saw chain
Power-to-weight ratio	Approximately 2.0 kg/kW
Guide-bar options	40 cm / 16″ or 45 cm / 18″
Chain pitch	.325″
Chain gauge	1.6 mm / .063″
Recommended chain type	STIHL Rapid Micro
Typical 16″ chain	67 drive links; confirm against fitted guide bar
Current 18″ chain	74 drive links
Chain tensioning	Side mounted, adjusted with combination tool
Air filtration	Long-life system with pre-separation and HD2 filter
Fuel-tank capacity	Approximately 0.50 litres
Chain-oil capacity	Approximately 0.24 litres
Fuel mixture	50:1 petrol and approved two-stroke engine oil, or STIHL MotoMix
Chain lubrication	Automatic
Fuel and oil caps	Tool-free bayonet caps
18″ factory MPN	11412000336

What is included?

The standard package should include:

• STIHL MS 291 petrol chainsaw
• Selected 16″ or 18″ guide bar
• Matching STIHL saw chain
• Guide-bar scabbard
• Combination tool
• Operating and safety instructions

Fuel, two-stroke engine oil, chain oil and protective equipment are not included unless specifically listed as part of an offer.

Maintenance and Service Kit 13

Regular maintenance helps protect engine performance, cutting efficiency and machine life.

Routine checks should include:

• Chain tension and sharpness
• Guide-bar condition
• Chain-oil delivery
• HD2 air-filter condition
• Fuel filter
• Spark plug
• Chain-brake operation
• Starter mechanism

The correct routine-maintenance pack is STIHL Service Kit 13, which contains an air filter, fuel filter and spark plug for the MS 271, MS 291, MS 311 and MS 391.

View Masseys’ range of STIHL service kits.

Chainsaw safety and protective equipment

The MS 291 is a powerful petrol chainsaw intended for demanding regular work. It should not be used without suitable instruction, pre-use checks and protective equipment.

Before use:

• Read the complete operating and safety instructions
• Understand the chain brake and kickback risks
• Receive suitable operating instruction
• Inspect the work area and timber
• Check chain tension and lubrication
• Keep other people and animals clear

Suitable protective equipment should include:

• Chainsaw protective trousers
• Chainsaw boots or suitable cut-resistant footwear
• Eye or face protection
• Hearing protection
• Protective gloves
• A suitable helmet where falling material presents a risk

Browse Masseys’ chainsaw trousers and wider range of chainsaw accessories and PPE.

Never use a chainsaw from a ladder. Tree felling should only be attempted by a competent operator with a safe working area, an appropriate escape route and an understanding of the forces involved.

Warranty

The standard domestic warranty is two years, subject to STIHL’s current terms, correct use and appropriate maintenance.

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

Why buy the STIHL MS 291 from Masseys?

Masseys is a STIHL Authorised Dealer based in Woodville, near Swadlincote.

Every petrol chainsaw sold by Masseys is assembled, inspected and test-run by our trained team before handover.

Buying from Masseys gives you access to:

• Help choosing between 16-inch and 18-inch guide bars
• Advice comparing the MS 251, MS 291, MS 391 and MS 261 C-M
• Genuine UK STIHL products and cutting attachments
• Product preparation and operating guidance
• Warranty registration and support
• Replacement guide bars and saw chains
• Fuel, two-stroke engine oil and chain oil
• Chain sharpening and workshop support
• Local collection and delivery options

Our garden machinery servicing and repairs workshop can assist with maintenance, repairs, chain sharpening and genuine STIHL replacement parts.

For help choosing the correct chainsaw or guide-bar length, please contact Masseys before ordering.

Frequently asked questions

What engine does the STIHL MS 291 have?

It has a 55.5 cm³ STIHL 2-MIX petrol engine producing 2.8 kW / 3.8 hp.

How much does the MS 291 weigh?

The powerhead weighs approximately 5.6 kg without fuel, guide bar or saw chain. Its complete operating weight is higher once the cutting attachment, fuel and chain oil are added.

Is the MS 291 a professional chainsaw?

STIHL positions it primarily as an agricultural and landowner chainsaw for farming, horticulture, construction and frequent firewood work. It is not the same as a purpose-built professional forestry model such as the MS 261 C-M.

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

Choose the 16-inch version when easier handling is the priority. Choose the 18-inch version when additional guide-bar reach is genuinely useful. Both versions use the same engine and power output.

Is the 18-inch version more powerful?

No. Only the guide bar and matching chain length change. The engine is identical.

What chain does the MS 291 use?

It uses a .325″ STIHL Rapid Micro chain with a 1.6 mm drive-link gauge. The required drive-link count depends on the fitted guide bar.

What is the difference between the MS 251 and MS 291?

The MS 291 has a 55.5 cm³, 2.8 kW engine compared with the MS 251’s 45.6 cm³, 2.2 kW engine. The MS 291 is more powerful but is approximately 0.8 kg heavier before the bar, chain and fuel are fitted.

Is the MS 291 better than the MS 251?

It is better suited to heavier workloads and larger quantities of firewood. The MS 251 may be the better choice where lower weight, easier handling and ordinary domestic cutting are more important.

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.

Does it require separate chain oil?

Yes. Dedicated chainsaw chain oil must be added to the oil tank to lubricate the guide bar and chain.

Does it include fuel or oil?

Fuel, two-stroke oil and chain oil are not normally included unless expressly stated as part of the offer.

Can the MS 291 cut hardwood?

Yes, provided the timber is appropriate for the fitted guide bar and the chain is sharp, correctly tensioned and properly lubricated. Cutting performance will vary with timber species, diameter and condition.

Can it fell trees?

It can be used for appropriately sized tree work by a competent operator. Larger trees, difficult conditions and commercial felling require suitable training, planning and potentially a professional forestry chainsaw.

Which service kit fits the MS 291?

STIHL Service Kit 13 is designed for the MS 271, MS 291, MS 311 and MS 391.

Can Masseys service and sharpen it?

Yes. Masseys provides chainsaw servicing, repairs, genuine replacement parts and chain sharpening through its on-site garden-machinery workshop.