The new STIHL compact battery chainsaw

For many users large, heavy to use chainsaws are cumbersome and awkward for the routine maintenance jobs around the home. The age of battery power is here. It may make the perfect gift for Christmas.

James Maloney

19 October 2016

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The lightweight STIHL saw weighs just less than 3.7kg (including battery). The manufacturer says the compact cordless system chainsaw is perfect for pruning small branches around your garden or cutting logs for the fire.The MSA 120 C-BQ has a 1/4” Picco chain and 30cm cutting bar, which provides the cutting performance. The soft handle grip and quiet battery power also mean you can comfortably work for extended periods with no ear defenders and without the worry of disturbing the neighbours or the children. The saw is also perfect for indoor use, with no exhaust fumes.

The MSA 120 C-BQ has a 1/4” Picco chain and 30cm cutting bar, which provides the cutting performance. The soft handle grip and quiet battery power also mean you can comfortably work for extended periods with no ear defenders and without the worry of disturbing the neighbours or the children. The saw is also perfect for indoor use, with no exhaust fumes.

The simple operating controls include a number of safety features. The hand guard must be released for the saw to operate. The quick-stop super chain brake significantly reduces the chain coasting time once the trigger is released and the battery’s neutral locking position means the chainsaw is safe to move and cannot be accidentally started in transit.

The MSA 120 C-BQ has a Quick Chain Tensioning system for tool-less tightening of the chain. For the market that this saw is aimed at, it is plus for the machine.

A handy eyelet makes it easy to hang the chainsaw on the wall, keeping it neatly stored and away from younger members of the family.

STIHL says the battery has a run time of up to 35 minutes depending on the workload on the saw. The 35 minutes performance is based on uninterrupted work with the chainsaw to prune several smaller trees in one go or cutting firewood for the log store.

The MSA 120 C-BQ chainsaw is just one product in the new STIHL compact cordless system, with a cordless leaf blower, hedge trimmer and grass trimmer completing the set.

Each tool is supplied with a charger and one of two long-lasting 36V lithium-ion batteries, with different energy capacities. For convenience, the batteries are compatible with all tools in the STIHL Compact cordless system, so with one quick swap of the battery, the leaf blower or hedge trimmer can be used.

The STIHL compact cordless system is available exclusively from over 650 STIHL-approved dealerships nationwide. Recommended retail price for the MSA 120 C-BQ starts from €399 including battery, charger and VAT.