STIHL MS 400.1 C-M Professional Petrol Chainsaw

Professional 60cc forestry chainsaw with exceptional power-to-weight

The STIHL MS 400.1 C-M is a high-performance professional petrol chainsaw developed for forestry, felling, snedding, delimbing and timber preparation.

Its completely redesigned 62.6 cm³ STIHL 2-MIX engine produces 3.9 kW / 5.3 hp and 4.3 Nm of torque from a powerhead weighing only 5.5 kg without fuel, guide bar or saw chain.

This gives the MS 400.1 C-M a power-to-weight ratio of approximately 1.41 kg/kW and places it between the lighter MS 261 C-M and the larger MS 462 C-M in STIHL’s professional forestry range.

Masseys offers the MS 400.1 C-M with an 18″ / 45 cm or 20″ / 50 cm guide bar. Both versions use the same engine and powerhead; the fitted guide bar and matching chain are the only differences.

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

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

Key features of the STIHL MS 400.1 C-M

• Professional forestry petrol chainsaw
• Completely redeveloped successor to the MS 400 C-M
• 62.6 cm³ STIHL 2-MIX engine
• 3.9 kW / 5.3 hp power output
• 4.3 Nm maximum torque
• 5.5 kg powerhead weight without fuel, bar or chain
• Approximately 1.41 kg/kW power-to-weight ratio
• STIHL M-Tronic electronic engine management
• Choice of 18″ / 45 cm or 20″ / 50 cm guide bar
• 3/8″ STIHL Rapid Super saw chain
• 1.6 mm drive-link gauge
• Variable-displacement chain-oil pump
• STIHL Ematic lubrication system
• Long-life air-filter system with HD2 filter
• Manual decompression valve
• STIHL ElastoStart
• Side-mounted chain tensioning
• Captive sprocket-cover nuts
• Tool-free fuel and chain-oil caps
• STIHL anti-vibration system
• Winter and summer carburettor settings
• 50% fuel-level marker
• Compact housing and redesigned rear handle

Who should choose the STIHL MS 400.1 C-M?

The MS 400.1 C-M is intended for professional forestry workers, arboricultural ground crews, contractors and experienced woodland owners who require more output than a 50cc professional saw without moving directly to a substantially larger machine.

Typical applications include:

• Professional tree felling
• Snedding and delimbing
• Forestry thinning work
• Cross-cutting larger timber
• Commercial firewood processing
• Woodland and estate management
• Preparing construction timber
• Storm-clearance work by suitably trained operators

The MS 400.1 C-M is unlikely to be the appropriate choice for occasional garden pruning, small quantities of domestic firewood or inexperienced users seeking a first chainsaw.

What changed from the original MS 400 C-M?

The MS 400.1 C-M is a complete redevelopment rather than a minor update to the original MS 400 C-M.

Important changes include:

• Powerhead weight reduced to 5.5 kg
• 300 g lower weight than the previous MS 400
• New 62.6 cm³ engine design
• 4.3 Nm of torque
• More compact body design
• Larger magnesium flywheel
• Improved muffler and engine cooling
• Redesigned rear handle geometry
• Wider rear-handle profile to support plunge cutting
• Ribbed underside designed to move smoothly along the trunk when snedding
• Larger HD2 air filter
• 50% fuel-level marker on the tank
• Improved access to the oil-pump adjustment bolt

The original MS 400 C-M was widely associated with its magnesium piston. The MS 400.1 is a newly designed generation and should not be described using old-model specifications unless they are explicitly confirmed for the new machine.

Choosing an 18-inch or 20-inch guide bar

Both Masseys configurations use the same 62.6 cm³ engine and produce the same 3.9 kW / 5.3 hp output.

A longer guide bar provides additional cutting reach but also increases front-end weight and leverage. It does not make the engine more powerful.

18″ / 45 cm guide bar

The 18-inch version is the more agile and balanced choice for mixed professional forestry work.

Choose it when:

• Snedding and manoeuvrability are priorities
• You regularly work in closely spaced woodland
• The majority of the timber does not require a 20-inch bar
• You want to minimise front-end weight
• You need a versatile felling and delimbing setup

20″ / 50 cm guide bar

The 20-inch version provides additional reach for larger stems and cross-cutting work.

Choose it when:

• You regularly encounter larger-diameter timber
• A 50 cm guide bar is genuinely required
• The additional cutting reach is more important than maximum agility
• You are comfortable controlling the increased front-end leverage

For most mixed forestry workloads, select the shortest guide bar that comfortably suits the timber being cut.

62.6 cm³ STIHL 2-MIX engine

The newly developed 62.6 cm³ STIHL 2-MIX engine produces 3.9 kW / 5.3 hp and 4.3 Nm of torque.

Its four-channel combustion design directs the fuel-and-air mixture into the cylinder to support efficient combustion, strong acceleration and professional cutting output.

The engine complies with current EU Stage V emissions requirements and uses a 50:1 mixture of suitable petrol and approved two-stroke engine oil.

STIHL M-Tronic engine management

STIHL M-Tronic is a fully electronic engine-management system that regulates ignition timing and fuel metering.

The system automatically responds to factors including:

• Engine temperature
• Ambient temperature
• Altitude
• Fuel quality
• Air-filter condition
• Changing cutting loads

M-Tronic removes the need for normal manual carburettor adjustment and helps maintain consistent acceleration and output throughout the working day.

Reset and calibration procedures vary between M-Tronic generations. Follow the operating manual or ask the Masseys workshop for assistance rather than using an unverified generic reset process.

Simplified starting controls

Only one start position is required on the combi lever.

After the engine is stopped, the control automatically returns to the normal operating position, allowing a warm machine to be restarted without manually moving through several lever positions.

STIHL ElastoStart reduces sudden load peaks in the starter cord, while the manual decompression valve reduces cylinder compression during starting.

Compact professional design

The redesigned housing is more compact than the previous generation and is intended to improve manoeuvrability during felling, snedding and delimbing.

The geometry of the rear handle has also been revised. Its wider end provides a more stable contact point against the operator’s leg during suitable plunge-cutting techniques.

A ribbed pattern on the underside of the saw helps it move along the trunk and reduces the chance of bark and smaller twigs becoming caught beneath the housing while snedding.

Improved engine cooling

A larger magnesium flywheel and revised muffler help manage engine temperature during demanding professional work.

Maintaining cooling airflow remains essential. The air intakes and filter should be checked and cleaned according to the operating manual.

3/8″ Rapid Super cutting system

The MS 400.1 C-M uses a professional STIHL 3/8″ Rapid Super saw chain with a 1.6 mm drive-link gauge.

The full-chisel RS chain is designed for:

• Fast professional cutting
• Felling
• Snedding
• Cross-cutting clean timber
• High cutting performance in forestry applications

The correct chain depends on the selected guide bar:

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

Side-mounted chain tensioning

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

This provides protected and convenient access to the adjustment mechanism without positioning the combination tool directly beside the chain’s cutting teeth.

Check chain tension:

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

Switch off the engine, allow hot parts to cool and wear suitable gloves before handling or adjusting the chain.

Captive sprocket-cover nuts

The sprocket-cover nuts remain attached to the cover when loosened.

This reduces the risk of losing them during chain changes, guide-bar removal and cleaning in the forest or workshop.

Variable-displacement oil pump

The adjustable oil pump allows chain-oil delivery to be matched to the guide-bar length, timber and working conditions.

The economy position reduces unnecessary chain-oil use during ordinary cutting. Additional lubrication can be selected for longer cutting attachments, dry timber or demanding operating conditions.

The adjustment bolt has been repositioned for easier access using the supplied combination tool.

STIHL Ematic lubrication

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

Always check the chain-oil level and oil delivery before starting work. Inadequate lubrication can rapidly damage the guide bar and chain.

Add suitable STIHL chainsaw chain oil before the first use.

Long-life air-filter system

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

The larger HD2 filter then helps prevent fine dust from entering the engine. Its PET filter material is oil- and water-repellent and can be removed without tools for cleaning or replacement.

The filter should still be inspected and maintained according to the operating instructions.

Winter and summer operation

The carburettor-heating system can be changed between summer and winter settings.

In winter mode, preheated intake air flows around the carburettor to help reduce the risk of icing in cold conditions.

Return the machine to the appropriate summer setting when conditions no longer require carburettor heating.

Fuel-level marker

The fuel tank includes a visible 50% marker, giving the operator a quick reference when checking remaining fuel during the working day.

This does not replace normal pre-use fuel checks or safe refuelling procedures.

Fuel and chain-oil requirements

The MS 400.1 C-M requires two separate fluids:

• A 50:1 mixture of petrol and approved two-stroke engine oil for the engine
• Dedicated 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 ratio.

STIHL MotoMix or another compatible ready-mixed alkylate fuel can also be used where appropriate.

The cutting attachment requires separate chainsaw chain oil. Never place two-stroke engine oil in the chain-oil tank.

Fuel, two-stroke engine oil, chain oil and personal protective equipment are not included unless expressly stated in the selected offer.

MS 261 C-M vs MS 400.1 C-M vs MS 462 C-M

Choose the MS 261 C-M when minimum weight and agility are more important than maximum output.

Choose the MS 400.1 C-M when you need substantially more cutting performance while retaining a compact professional platform.

Choose the MS 462 C-M when larger timber and heavier felling work justify moving into the 70cc class.

MS 400.1 C-M or MS 500i?

The STIHL MS 500i uses electronically controlled fuel injection and produces 5.0 kW, placing it above the MS 400.1 C-M for large-timber production work.

Choose the MS 400.1 C-M when:

• You want a compact professional 60cc-class saw
• Lower powerhead weight is important
• An 18-inch or 20-inch bar is sufficient
• You prefer M-Tronic electronic carburettor management

Consider the MS 500i when:

• You regularly process substantially larger timber
• Maximum cutting output is required
• Electronic fuel injection and rapid throttle response justify the additional cost and weight

Technical specifications

What is included?

The standard package should include:

• STIHL MS 400.1 C-M professional petrol chainsaw
• Selected 18″ or 20″ guide bar
• Matching STIHL Rapid Super 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 workshop support

Routine maintenance helps protect starting reliability, M-Tronic performance and cutting efficiency.

Regular checks should include:

• Chain tension and sharpness
• Guide-bar condition
• Chain-oil delivery
• HD2 filter condition
• Fuel filter
• Spark plug
• Chain-brake operation
• Starter system
• Cooling-air passages
• M-Tronic operation and calibration

Our garden machinery servicing and repairs workshop can assist with M-Tronic diagnosis, servicing, repairs, replacement components and chain sharpening.

Chainsaw safety and protective equipment

The MS 400.1 C-M is a professional high-speed forestry chainsaw. It should only be operated by someone with appropriate training, competence and protective equipment.

Before use:

• Read the operating and safety instructions
• Understand the chain brake and kickback risks
• Inspect the timber and surrounding work area
• Check chain tension and lubrication
• Keep bystanders and animals clear
• Plan an appropriate escape route for felling work

Suitable protective equipment should include:

• Professional chainsaw trousers
• Chainsaw boots
• Forestry helmet
• Eye or face protection
• Hearing protection
• Protective gloves

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

Never operate a chainsaw from a ladder. Large, leaning, storm-damaged or technically difficult trees require suitable professional training, planning and equipment.

Why buy the STIHL MS 400.1 C-M from Masseys?

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

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

Buying from Masseys gives you access to:

• Help choosing between the 18-inch and 20-inch versions
• Advice comparing the MS 261 C-M, MS 400.1 C-M, MS 462 C-M and MS 500i
• Genuine UK STIHL machinery and cutting attachments
• Product preparation and operating guidance
• Warranty registration and support
• Replacement guide bars and Rapid Super chains
• Fuel, two-stroke oil and chain oil
• M-Tronic diagnosis and workshop support
• Chain sharpening and genuine replacement parts
• Local collection and delivery options

For help selecting the right professional chainsaw or guide-bar length, please contact Masseys before ordering.

Frequently asked questions

Is the STIHL MS 400.1 C-M a professional chainsaw?

Yes. It is a professional forestry chainsaw developed for felling, snedding, delimbing and timber preparation.

What engine does the MS 400.1 C-M have?

It has a completely redesigned 62.6 cm³ STIHL 2-MIX engine producing 3.9 kW / 5.3 hp and 4.3 Nm of torque.

How much does the MS 400.1 C-M weigh?

The powerhead weighs approximately 5.5 kg without fuel, guide bar or saw chain.

What is the difference between the MS 400 and MS 400.1?

The MS 400.1 is a complete redevelopment. It is approximately 300 g lighter and uses a new 62.6 cm³ engine, compact housing, revised cooling system, redesigned handle, larger HD2 filter and improved professional handling features.

Does the MS 400.1 have the old MS 400 magnesium piston?

The original MS 400 C-M was specifically marketed around its magnesium piston. STIHL describes the MS 400.1 as a completely new machine and highlights its larger magnesium flywheel rather than positioning it as the same magnesium-piston design.

What does M-Tronic do?

M-Tronic electronically controls ignition timing and fuel metering, accounting for operating conditions such as temperature, altitude, fuel quality and engine load.

Does M-Tronic need manual carburettor adjustment?

Normal manual carburettor adjustment is not required. Dealer diagnosis or recalibration may occasionally be appropriate following servicing or a change in machine performance.

Should I choose the 18-inch or 20-inch version?

Choose the 18-inch version for lower front-end weight and greater manoeuvrability. Choose the 20-inch model when additional guide-bar reach is regularly required.

Is the 20-inch version more powerful?

No. Both versions use the same 62.6 cm³, 3.9 kW powerhead. Only the guide bar and matching chain length change.

Which chain does the MS 400.1 use?

It uses a professional 3/8″ STIHL Rapid Super chain with a 1.6 mm drive-link gauge. The 18-inch version uses 66 drive links and the 20-inch version uses 72.

What is the difference between the MS 261 and MS 400.1?

The MS 261 C-M produces 3.0 kW and prioritises low weight and agility in the professional 50cc class. The MS 400.1 produces 3.9 kW and is better suited to larger timber and heavier forestry work.

What is the difference between the MS 400.1 and MS 462?

The MS 462 C-M produces 4.4 kW and sits in the larger professional 70cc class. The MS 400.1 is lighter and more compact, while the MS 462 is intended for heavier felling and larger timber.

What is the difference between the MS 400.1 and MS 500i?

The MS 500i produces 5.0 kW and uses electronically controlled fuel injection. The MS 400.1 is a lighter 60cc-class saw using STIHL M-Tronic electronic engine management.

What fuel does the MS 400.1 use?

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

Does it need separate chain oil?

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

Can the chain-oil flow be adjusted?

Yes. The variable-displacement oil pump allows lubrication to be adjusted for the guide bar and cutting conditions.

Can Masseys service M-Tronic chainsaws?

Yes. Masseys’ on-site workshop can assist with servicing, M-Tronic diagnosis, repairs, replacement parts and chain sharpening.