Stihl dominates chainsaw tests with an electric model capable of handling anything. From firewood to tree felling and large jobs, this electric chainsaw is up to the task.
By Zach Lazzari
Posted on Sep 6, 2024 1:50 PM EDT
Reviewed By Stephanie Cronk
7 minute read
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Stihl MSA 300 C-O Electric Chainsaw: At a Glance
Rating: 5/5
Buy at Ace Hardware for $819.99
Stihl has long been a leader in the chainsaw market with a series of high-performance gas models that serve property owners and commercial operators. As with most brands, they have entered the electric market and, in the case of their MSA 300 C-O, have done so with a bang.
I tested this model alongside a dozen other models and brands with a mix of electric and gas engines. While many performed exceptionally well, the MSA 300 C-O stood out in terms of battery quality, power, and capabilities. It’s a serious chainsaw that is lighter than gas models and proved easy to handle for longer periods of time. When lined up against other chainsaws, it’s the first one I will grab and use for landscaping, cutting trees, and any other yard maintenance.
Whether it was cutting limbs and clearing brush or ripping through big sections of deadfall, the chainsaw performed a step above the rest. It’s on the more expensive side but the performance, brand support, and potential longevity make this a clear favorite for property owners, firewood cutting, and hard use. Read on to see why this electric chainsaw took first prize in our best chainsaw test.
| What We Like | What We Don’t Like |
| Quieter than gas; makes it more enjoyable to use | Higher price point than most other electric saws |
| Tons of power for making big and difficult cuts | |
| IPX4-rated battery for working in the elements |
| Stihl MSA 300 C-O Specs | |
| Power source | AP 500 Battery |
| Bar length | 16, 18, and 20 inches |
| Weight | 14.1 pounds with battery |
Testing the Stihl MSA 300 C-O Electric Chainsaw
This electric chainsaw can run on various Stihl batteries, but I used the 500S model. It’s a 36-volt battery with 9.4 amp hours of holding power. Stihl recommends a 16-inch bar, but the chainsaw has no problems with an 18-inch bar. I ran the bigger bar and the performance was spectacular.
As an electric chainsaw, no gas is required. Removing the gas engine creates a lighter saw, and this one is only 14 pounds with the battery installed. Like any saw, it does require bar oil. The Stihl-specific brand bar oil is ideal, but it will run just fine on other brand oils so long as they are bar specific.
While experienced chainsaw operators all have favorite gas models, it’s worth trying this electric option. In my tests, it worked hard, performing the same tasks as heavy-duty gas models with ease. In fact, the lightweight design made it easier to maneuver and handle. The 36-volt chainsaw is a powerful option when combined with the durable and long-lasting 500S battery.
Easy Setup Process
Some chainsaws do come assembled, but you will still want to adjust chain tension and add oil/fuel before using those. The Stihl MSA 300 C-O does not come assembled, and I think this is a good thing. Every chainsaw owner should know how to remove the bar and chains and how to reassemble while achieving the right chain tension.
With this particular chainsaw, the process is simple, and it matches that of most other chainsaws. You will remove the side plate to add the bar and chain. With the chain positioned over the tensioner, you can use the provided tool to add tension. After this, the only thing left is to charge the battery, add bar oil, and use the saw.
It’s worth noting that bar oil is extremely important. Before making any cuts, run the chain for at least 30 seconds to lubricate everything. Once lubricated, you are ready to use the chainsaw! The actual setup only requires 15 minutes or so. It’s simple and, when armed with the knowledge of setup, you can change bars and chains in a cinch.
Straightforward to Use
When it comes to the actual functionality, it’s surprisingly easy to use this chainsaw. You don’t need to start an engine, allow for warm-up, or do anything special beyond using the push-button controls and chain brake. The oiler is also automatic for worry-free use.
When it comes to bar oil, there is an adjustment you can make to match the bar length. On the underside of the chainsaw, you can turn the oiler screw to increase or reduce oil. I increased the oil flow a bit to match the needs of an 18-inch bar. With everything assembled and oiled, it’s time to start the chainsaw.
With this model, you simply add the battery, engage the trigger lock by gripping the handle, and hit the power switch. The green light will show power, and the oil light will illuminate if the saw needs to run to lubricate before cutting. Release the chain brake and run until the oil light shuts off. You are now ready to make your cuts. It’s simple, intuitive, and very easy to grab this chainsaw and get to work.
Powerful and Durable
The big question with any electric chainsaw is the power. Gas models offer excellent power and have the ability to run constantly by adding more fuel. For this reason, gas will remain a favorite when working long days or operating in remote settings.
That said, the power offered by this chainsaw and the design make it a great option. It can cut through big logs and work alongside gas models with comparative power. The build is also durable, and it uses the same casing as Stihl gas models. If power and durability are a concern for you, look no further than this model.
The power is also managed through a power-selector button. It allows for transitions between three different modes ranging from Eco to maximum power. When working in the Eco mode, you can also control chain speed by compressing the trigger at different levels. Full compression offers full power on the chain.
Is the Stihl MSA 300 C-O worth the money?
Cost is the only thing that might give buyers hesitation with this chainsaw. It’s more than double the price of many other options in the marketplace. That said, I also think it’s the only electric model built to really replicate performance from a higher-quality gas chainsaw. In my opinion, it is worth the money and is a top-tier saw in any category.
One major advantage that is reflected in the price is the battery quality. It’s a moisture- and dust-rated battery with a ton of power. You shouldn’t use it through a downpour, but the rating lends confidence to dew-covered mornings and adverse weather situations. Investing in a second battery is also a good idea to run longer and harder in the field.
At around $800 with a single battery, the price is significant, but so is the performance value. I think this chainsaw is likely more than the average homeowner will require. For property owners performing regular tree work and for those who need something for heavy clearing or firewood, this saw is a good value.
Buy the Stihl MSA 300 C-O chainsaw at:
Meet the Tester
Zach Lazzari is a freelance writer splitting time between the great outdoors, travel, and DIY projects ranging from camper builds to home renovations and maintenance. His home base in Montana is the perfect testing ground for winter products and snow equipment. With over a decade of professional writing experience, Lazzari also covers a variety of other projects and maintenance topics for BobVila.com.
