Stihl MS261 bars and chains

Stihl MS261 chainsaw bar and chain for the UK C-M spec: .325" pitch × .050" (1.3mm) gauge, Stihl Light 04 / Cut Kit 10.

The Stihl MS261 16" bar is the usual length, at 67 drive links. A Stihl MS261 18" bar is 74 drive links and is the other main size we stock. A Stihl MS261 20" bar is the same .325" .050" spec, but drive links vary by brand: 80DL on Tsumura, 81DL on Sugihara.

Shorter Stihl MS261 bars are also listed here: 13" is commonly 56 drive links, and 15" is commonly 62 or 64 drive links depending on brand. Longer 25" and 28" bars are available for this mount, but they are outside the normal MS261 setup, so match the pitch, gauge and drive-link count on your current bar.

Older 026 and early MS261 saws often run .063" (1.6mm). Check the stamp on the bar, or count the drive links, before ordering

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Stihl MS261 Guide Bars & Chains Fitment Guide

This collection covers the Stihl MS261, MS261 C-M, earlier MS260 / 026, and the cordless MSA 300 sharing the standard Stihl 3003 (Group 3B) bar mount. We stock genuine Stihl factory bars alongside professional solid-billet alternatives from Sugihara, Oregon, Cannon, and Tsumura.

Frequently Asked Questions

What chain does a Stihl MS261 take?

Current factory UK MS261 C-M saws run .325" pitch × .050" (1.3mm) gauge chain (Stihl Rapid Super Pro / 23RS Pro). Earlier models and 026 saws frequently used .325" × .063" (1.6mm). Always verify the stamp stamped into the motor end of your bar.

Will Sugihara, Oregon, or Tsumura bars fit my MS261?

Yes. Any bar engineered for Stihl Group 3B (3003 mount) with matching pitch and gauge will fit directly. Premium Japanese solid-steel bars like Sugihara and Tsumura are direct upgrades offering increased stiffness for felling and bucking.

Do I need to replace my clutch rim sprocket?

If you stay on the standard .325" pitch, you only need to replace the rim sprocket if it shows noticeable wear (grooves deeper than 0.5mm). If converting to 3/8" or 1/4" carving setups, a matching drive sprocket is mandatory.

What is the best bar length for the MS261?

The 16" (40cm / 67DL) bar offers optimal balance and cutting speed for daily ground work and snedding. An 18" (45cm / 74DL) provides extra reach for felling while remaining well within the saw's 50cc power band.