Description
The STIHL MS 462 C-M petrol chainsaw is a professional 72.2 cm³ forestry saw designed for felling, delimbing and processing medium to large timber.
Its STIHL 2-MIX engine produces 4.40 kW / 6.0 hp, while the powerhead weighs approximately 6.0 kg without fuel, guide bar or saw chain. This gives the MS 462 C-M an excellent power-to-weight ratio and makes it STIHL’s lightest high-performance saw in its class.
Masseys offers the MS 462 C-M with 45 cm / 18-inch, 50 cm / 20-inch and 63 cm / 25-inch cutting attachments. Select the required bar length above and check the variation image and package details before ordering replacement bars or chains.
STIHL MS 462 C-M at a glance
- Professional 70 cc-class forestry chainsaw
- 72.2 cm³ STIHL 2-MIX engine
- 4.40 kW / 6.0 hp output
- 6.0 kg powerhead weight
- 45 cm, 50 cm or 63 cm guide-bar options
- 3/8-inch professional cutting system
- STIHL M-Tronic engine management
- User-friendly M-Tronic calibration
- Long-life air-filter system with HD2 filter
- Side-mounted chain tensioning
- Captive sprocket-cover nuts
- STIHL Ematic lubrication system
- Adjustable oil delivery
- Manual decompression valve
- STIHL anti-vibration system
- Tool-free fuel and oil caps
- Optimised bumper spikes and sprocket cover
Who is the STIHL MS 462 C-M suitable for?
The MS 462 C-M is designed principally for experienced professional users who require a high-output chainsaw for sustained forestry and large-timber work.
Typical applications include:
- Felling medium and large trees
- Delimbing in medium- and high-density stands
- Cross-cutting substantial timber
- Professional forestry and woodland management
- Processing high volumes of large firewood
- Estate and land-management work
- Storm-damaged timber where the work has been properly assessed
This is not an entry-level or casual-use chainsaw. Its power, weight and cutting capacity require appropriate training, experience, personal protective equipment and an understanding of professional felling techniques.
Choosing the 18-inch, 20-inch or 25-inch version
| Guide-bar option | Best suited to | Typical chain length |
|---|---|---|
| 45 cm / 18-inch | Maximum manoeuvrability, fast delimbing and general forestry work | Typically 66 drive links |
| 50 cm / 20-inch | Balanced all-round felling and cross-cutting performance | Typically 72 drive links |
| 63 cm / 25-inch | Additional reach and larger-diameter timber | Typically 84 drive links |
All three options use the same 72.2 cm³ powerhead. A longer guide bar increases reach but also adds cutting-attachment weight and places greater demand on the engine.
The precise chain depends on the guide-bar type, pitch, groove width and drive-link count. Always check the markings on the fitted guide bar or ask Masseys before ordering replacement equipment.
STIHL M-Tronic engine management
STIHL M-Tronic electronically controls ignition timing and fuel metering. It accounts for conditions including temperature, altitude, fuel quality and air-filter condition.
This helps provide:
- Reliable cold and warm starting
- Consistent engine performance
- Fast acceleration
- Automatic adjustment to changing operating conditions
- Reduced need for routine manual carburettor adjustment
M-Tronic does not remove the need for correct fuel, regular servicing, air-filter maintenance or proper storage.
User-friendly M-Tronic calibration
The calibration procedure allows the chainsaw’s electronic engine management to re-establish its baseline settings after servicing, major changes in operating conditions or replacement of relevant components.
Follow STIHL’s operating instructions when carrying out calibration. It should not be treated as a substitute for diagnosing a mechanical, fuel or maintenance problem.
72.2 cm³ STIHL 2-MIX engine
The 72.2 cm³ STIHL 2-MIX engine produces 4.40 kW / 6.0 hp. It is designed to combine high professional output with efficient combustion and controlled fuel use.
The engine uses STIHL MotoMix or a fresh 50:1 mixture of suitable petrol and quality two-stroke engine oil. Straight petrol must never be used.
Long-life air-filtration system
Centrifugal pre-separation removes a substantial proportion of larger dust and debris before the air reaches the main filter. This reduces loading on the filter and supports longer maintenance intervals in demanding forestry conditions.
The washable HD2 filter uses fine-pore material to capture small particles. It must still be inspected, cleaned and replaced in accordance with STIHL’s maintenance instructions.
Side-mounted chain tensioning
The chain-tensioning screw is accessed through the side of the sprocket cover. This allows controlled adjustment while helping keep the operator’s hands away from the sharp cutting teeth.
The MS 462 C-M does not use tool-free Quick Chain Tensioning. Use the correct combination tool and follow the operating manual.
Captive sprocket-cover nuts
The sprocket-cover nuts remain attached to the cover when it is removed. This reduces the risk of dropping or losing the nuts when replacing or adjusting the guide bar and chain in woodland conditions.
STIHL Ematic lubrication system
The Ematic system combines the guide bar, Oilomatic chain and controlled oil delivery to direct lubricant to the areas where it is required.
The adjustable oil pump allows delivery to be matched to the fitted cutting attachment and working conditions. Longer guide bars or particularly dry timber may require a higher oil setting.
Manual decompression valve
Pressing the decompression valve before starting temporarily releases part of the cylinder compression. This reduces the force required on the starter cord.
The valve closes automatically when the engine fires.
STIHL anti-vibration system
Spring and buffer elements reduce the amount of engine and cutting-attachment vibration transmitted to the handles. This supports better comfort during professional work but does not replace correct technique, task rotation or appropriate breaks.
Optimised bumper spikes and sprocket cover
The bumper-spike arrangement provides a secure pivot point when cutting substantial timber. The streamlined sprocket-cover profile supports efficient chip clearance and controlled movement through the cut.
Tool-free tank caps
The fuel and chain-oil tanks use bayonet-style caps that can be opened and closed without a separate tool.
- Fuel-tank capacity: approximately 0.72 litres
- Chain-oil capacity: approximately 0.34 litres
Fuel and chain lubricant are separate. The engine requires STIHL MotoMix or an accurate 50:1 fuel mixture, while the guide bar and chain require suitable chainsaw lubricant.
STIHL MS 462 C-M technical specification
| Model | STIHL MS 462 C-M |
|---|---|
| Product type | Professional petrol forestry chainsaw |
| Engine | STIHL 2-MIX two-stroke petrol engine |
| Engine management | STIHL M-Tronic |
| Displacement | 72.2 cm³ |
| Power output | 4.40 kW / 6.0 hp |
| Powerhead weight | 6.0 kg without fuel, guide bar or saw chain |
| Guide-bar options | 45 cm / 18 inches, 50 cm / 20 inches or 63 cm / 25 inches |
| Chain pitch | 3/8 inch |
| Typical chain gauge | 1.6 mm |
| Maximum chain speed | 28.9 m/s |
| Chain speed at maximum power | 21.7 m/s |
| Fuel-tank capacity | 0.72 litres |
| Chain-oil capacity | 0.34 litres |
| Sound-pressure level | 108 dB(A) |
| Sound-power level | 118 dB(A) |
| Vibration, front handle | 4.8 m/s² |
| Vibration, rear handle | 3.6 m/s² |
| Current 18-inch part number | 11422000012 |
Specifications checked against current STIHL product information and the official MS 462 C-M operating documentation. Confirm the selected bar, chain, MPN and GTIN before ordering replacement components.
MS 400.1 C-M versus MS 462 C-M versus MS 500i
| Model | Displacement | Power | Powerhead weight | Best suited to |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| STIHL MS 400.1 C-M | 62.6 cm³ | 3.9 kW / 5.3 hp | 5.5 kg | Lightweight all-round professional forestry, delimbing and medium timber |
| STIHL MS 462 C-M | 72.2 cm³ | 4.4 kW / 6.0 hp | 6.0 kg | Professional 70 cc-class felling, delimbing and larger timber |
| STIHL MS 500i | 79.2 cm³ | 5.0 kW / 6.8 hp | 6.3 kg | Higher-output forestry work requiring particularly fast acceleration |
The MS 400.1 C-M is lighter and easier to handle for extended delimbing. The MS 462 C-M provides a meaningful increase in output for larger timber while retaining a strong power-to-weight ratio. The MS 500i provides still more power and electronic fuel injection, but is heavier and more expensive.
What is included?
- 1 × STIHL MS 462 C-M powerhead
- 1 × selected 45 cm, 50 cm or 63 cm guide bar
- 1 × matching STIHL saw chain
- 1 × guide-bar scabbard
- 1 × combination tool
- Operating and safety instructions
Fuel, two-stroke engine oil, chain oil and personal protective equipment are not included unless explicitly stated in a separate package.
What else will you need?
- STIHL MotoMix or suitable two-stroke engine oil
- Professional-quality chainsaw chain oil
- A correctly matched spare chain
- Suitable filing and sharpening equipment
- STIHL Service Kit 14
- Forestry helmet with face and hearing protection
- Chainsaw gloves
- Chainsaw protective trousers
- Professional chainsaw safety boots
- Felling wedges and suitable forestry tools
Masseys recommendation
The MS 462 C-M is the strongest choice for professional users who need a genuine 70 cc-class saw but do not require the additional power, cost or electronic fuel injection of the MS 500i.
The 18-inch version provides the most agile handling for delimbing and mixed forestry work. The 20-inch version is the best all-round configuration for many professional users. The 25-inch version is appropriate where additional reach and larger timber capacity justify the extra cutting-attachment weight.
Users who spend more time delimbing than felling should also consider the lighter MS 400.1 C-M. Those regularly working in very large timber should compare the MS 500i and MS 661 C-M.
Why buy the STIHL MS 462 C-M from Masseys?
Masseys is an authorised STIHL dealer based in Woodville, near Swadlincote. Our machinery team can help professional users choose the correct bar length, identify replacement chains and select the appropriate fuel, oil, sharpening equipment and personal protective equipment.
- Genuine UK STIHL professional machinery
- Choice of 18-inch, 20-inch and 25-inch cutting attachments
- Chainsaw assembled and inspected before handover
- Advice on guide bars, chains and forestry accessories
- Genuine STIHL oils, filters and service components
- Manufacturer warranty support
- In-house machinery servicing and repairs
- Collection from our Woodville store
For workshop support, visit our garden machinery servicing and repairs department.
Professional safety and competence
The MS 462 C-M is a high-output professional forestry chainsaw capable of causing serious or fatal injury. It should only be operated by users with suitable chainsaw training, experience and competence for the work being undertaken.
Wear appropriate chainsaw leg protection, forestry boots, gloves and suitable head, eye, face and hearing protection.
Before felling:
- Assess the tree, surrounding hazards and weather conditions
- Establish and clear escape routes
- Keep other people outside the danger area
- Check chain sharpness, tension and lubrication
- Confirm that the chain brake and controls operate correctly
- Use suitable felling wedges and techniques
Storm-damaged, hung-up, leaning or technically difficult trees should only be handled by people with the specialist competence and equipment required.
The MS 462 C-M is a rear-handle ground-work chainsaw. It must not be used as a top-handle saw for aerial tree work.
Frequently asked questions
What is the STIHL MS 462 C-M designed for?
It is designed for professional forestry, including felling, delimbing and processing medium to large timber.
How powerful is the MS 462 C-M?
Its 72.2 cm³ engine produces 4.40 kW / 6.0 hp.
How much does the MS 462 C-M weigh?
The powerhead weighs approximately 6.0 kg without fuel, guide bar or saw chain.
Should I choose the 18-inch, 20-inch or 25-inch version?
Choose the 18-inch version for maximum manoeuvrability, the 20-inch version for balanced all-round forestry work, or the 25-inch version when additional reach is required for larger timber.
Does a 25-inch bar make the chainsaw more powerful?
No. All variants use the same 72.2 cm³ engine. A longer bar provides additional reach but adds weight and increases the load on the powerhead.
What does M-Tronic do?
M-Tronic electronically manages ignition timing and fuel delivery while accounting for temperature, altitude, fuel quality and engine conditions. It supports consistent output without routine manual carburettor adjustment.
Is the MS 462 better than the MS 400.1?
It is more powerful, but not automatically better for every task. The MS 400.1 is lighter and particularly well suited to extended delimbing and medium timber. The MS 462 is preferable where genuine 70 cc-class output is required.
What is the difference between the MS 462 and MS 500i?
The MS 500i has greater displacement and output and uses electronic fuel injection for particularly rapid acceleration. The MS 462 is lighter, less expensive and remains a very strong 70 cc-class professional saw.
What fuel does the MS 462 C-M use?
Use STIHL MotoMix or a fresh 50:1 mixture of suitable petrol and quality two-stroke engine oil. Never use straight petrol.
Does it require separate chain oil?
Yes. Suitable chainsaw lubricant must be added to the separate 0.34-litre oil tank.
Which replacement chain does it use?
It uses a professional 3/8-inch cutting system. The exact chain type, gauge and drive-link count depend on the selected guide bar, so check the bar markings before ordering.
Does Masseys assemble the chainsaw?
Yes. Masseys assembles and inspects STIHL petrol chainsaws before collection or eligible local delivery.
Can Masseys service the MS 462 C-M?
Yes. Our workshop provides servicing, inspection, repairs, chain maintenance and genuine replacement-parts support for the professional machinery brands we supply.
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