So, I recently got my hands on this sweet Stihl 011 AV chainsaw from eBay, and let me tell you, it’s been quite the ride. Found it for a cool $70, and it was in decent shape, considering its age. But the real gem was meeting the guy who sold it – a true chainsaw aficionado, a restorer of these old Stihls. He was full of stories about these machines, especially the 011 series.

Now, onto the saw itself. I’ve taken it out for a spin a few times, mostly for some light tree pruning and cutting up small logs. And let me say, it’s got that vintage Stihl charm all over it, straight out of the 1980s. The sound it makes, the way it handles, it’s just classic. Though, I gotta admit, it’s not my first choice when I need serious cutting power. My newer saws definitely have it beat in terms of reliability and comfort. Still, there’s something about having this old-timer around for those lighter tasks.

Now, diving into the nitty-gritty of the Stihl 011 lineup. There’s quite a variety of versions that came out over the years. From what I’ve gathered, these babies were in production from 1980 all the way to 1996. That’s a solid run. And within that time, they released a bunch of different models with various features.

Stihl 011 Versions

Let’s break it down:

• First up, you got your STIHL 011 AV – the base model, no frills, just the essentials.
• Then there’s the STIHL 011 AVE – with Electronic Ignition, a little upgrade for those tech enthusiasts.
• Moving up the ladder, you got the STIHL 011 AVEQ – Electronic Ignition plus Quickstop Chainbrake, for those who like to stay safe while they work.
• And finally, there’s the STIHL 011 AVEQT – the top handle version, a bit more specialized for certain jobs.

Now, here’s a cool bit of trivia: all 011s come with this Anti-Vibration system, denoted by the “AV” in their names. It was a big deal back in the day, though they eventually phased it out. As far as I know, there aren’t any 011s without this feature, but hey, correct me if I’m wrong. Oh, and that “T” you see in some models? That means it’s got a top handle, in case you were wondering.

What’s interesting about the 011 is that it’s one of the few STIHL chainsaws that offers both a back handle and a top handle version. Kinda like having two flavors to choose from. And apparently, the top handle version is a bit harder to come by, making it a bit of a collector’s item.

So, there you have it – a rundown of the Stihl 011 series. From the basic model to the top-of-the-line version, there’s something for every chainsaw enthusiast out there.

The Stihl 011 is really tailored for a specific set of tasks:

• It’s perfect for those light pruning and limbing jobs, where you need precision and finesse.
• You can also count on it for taking down smaller trees without breaking a sweat.
• And when it comes to bucking up small logs for firewood or doing some light clean-up work around the yard, it’s definitely up to the task.

Now, if you opt for the top handle version, it’s a whole different ball game. This bad boy is ideal for climbing jobs, giving you that extra maneuverability when you’re up in the branches.

One thing that sets the 011 apart from some of its heavier counterparts is its ease of use. Despite being an older Stihl model, it’s surprisingly lightweight and nimble. In fact, I recently tackled a hefty 20-foot gum log with the 011 AV, and I gotta say, it handled like a champ. Took me about 15 to 20 minutes to slice through it, no problem.

Sure, I could’ve finished the job a bit quicker with one of my beefier saws, but hey, the 011 held its own admirably. It didn’t hesitate for a second, powering through the log with more gusto than I anticipated. So while it might not be the fastest kid on the block, it definitely gets the job done with finesse.

Stihl 011 Chainsaw Review

 

While I’ve enjoyed tinkering around with my Stihl 011 AV, let’s be real here—it’s not exactly a heavyweight contender in the chainsaw arena. Sure, it’s got its perks—it’s lightweight, easy to maneuver, and handles those light-duty tasks like a champ. But let’s not kid ourselves—it’s not exactly top-tier material when it comes to serious chainsaw business.

This old girl is more suited for the casual homeowner who needs to tackle occasional light jobs around the house. And for that purpose, it does a decent job. But if you’re looking to step up your game or handle bigger projects on the regular, you’ll want to invest in something beefier, like the MS 180 or Husqvarna 450 Rancher—two saws that I turn to for heavier lifting.

Now, let’s address a couple of drawbacks. First off, this little fella has a tendency to leak oil—a minor nuisance that I need to address. And let’s not ignore the fact that it pumps out a fair amount of fumes, which is par for the course for a saw of its vintage. Trust me, there’s a noticeable difference in the scent between firing up this old-timer versus a shiny new chainsaw fresh off the assembly line.

Speaking of which, I recently added a DEWALT 20v Max XR chainsaw to my arsenal, and let me tell you, the contrast in emissions is stark. Zero emissions versus the nostalgic aroma of a decades-old saw—it’s like night and day. And don’t even get me started on the McCulloch 610 I picked up, another relic from the same era as the 011. That thing’s a beast in more ways than one, weighing a ton and belching out its fair share of stink.

But hey, despite its quirks and shortcomings, if you come across a well-maintained Stihl 011 for sale, I’d say go for it. It may not be the flashiest or most powerful chainsaw out there, but it’s a reliable little workhorse that can hold its own when you need it to.

 

The STIHL 011 has garnered some positive comments and reviews from users:

• “These saws are fantastic performers as long as they’re properly lubricated. Without oiling, they’re more of a showpiece. Plus, finding replacement diaphragms can be a bit tricky.”
• “I’ve found the 011 AVT to be a stellar companion for quad biking adventures.”
• “The 011 is a gem, but sourcing parts is becoming a challenge these days.”
• “I adore my 011, but recently it sprung a leak. Any leads on where to find replacement parts?”
• “Count me among the fans of the 011. As long as it’s running smoothly, cutting through wood, and oiling, $75 is an absolute steal.”
• “The 011 is a real winner, especially if it’s been well taken care of over the years.”
• “My 011 AV is my go-to for handling limbs and smaller tasks. Can’t beat it.”

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Specs And Features

 

STIHL 011 Specs	Details
Cylinder displacement	41 cm³ / 2.5 cu. inch
Power	2 kW / 2.7 hp
Cylinder Bore	38 mm / 1.5 inch
Piston Stroke	36 mm / 1.42 inch
Max RPMs	10,500
Idle RPMs	2,400
Powerhead weight	AV: 10.1 lb/4.6 ks; AVQ 4.7 kg/10.3 lb
Fuel tank volume	0.25 l / 0.53 US pint
Oil tank volume	0.24 l /0.51 US pint
Oil pump type	Automatic, fixed flow
Chain gauge, pitch	0.043″ / 3/8″
Bar length	30, 35, 40 cm / 12, 14, 16 inch

 

The Stihl 011 is a reliable 41cc chainsaw, tipping the scales at around 10 lbs. It’s a solid workhorse, no doubt. Now, if you’re looking for something a tad smaller, the 010 AV might catch your eye. It’s almost a spitting image of the 011, except it packs a slightly smaller punch with its 36 mm bore, clocking in at 37cc.

One feature that really stands out to me is the magnesium casing. It’s a touch of craftsmanship that you don’t see often in today’s low-powered saws. While modern homeowner chainsaws tend to sport sturdy plastic casings, there’s just something reassuring about the durability of metal. It’s like a nod to the good old days of quality craftsmanship.

 

When it comes to the Stihl 011, its design is all about user convenience. Up top, you’ve got the choke switch, making cold starts a breeze. Just below that sits the power switch, easily accessible for when you’re revving up for action. And let’s not forget about the trigger lock—an underrated feature that really comes in handy when you’re firing up the chainsaw.

Now, onto the practical stuff. The 011 comes equipped with a chain brake, adding an extra layer of safety to your cutting experience. And versatility is the name of the game here—it’s compatible with a range of bar sizes, from 12 to 16 inches, giving you options to tackle different tasks with ease.

Under the hood, you’ll find a felt air filter, keeping dust and debris at bay to ensure smooth operation. And let’s not overlook the automatic diaphragm-style oiler, ensuring your chain stays lubricated for optimal performance.

When it’s time for a tune-up, STIHL recommends Bosch WSR6F or Champion RCJ7Y spark plugs, ensuring you’ve got the right tools for the job. With its thoughtful design and reliable performance, the Stihl 011 is a chainsaw that’s ready to tackle whatever you throw its way.

Stihl 011 Price

I snagged my Stihl 011 for a cool $70, and honestly, I wouldn’t have shelled out much more than that. It’s not exactly in mint condition, and truth be told, I didn’t really need it—I just couldn’t resist the urge to give it a whirl.

Now, if you’re in the market for a 011, you’ll find quite the range in prices out there. I’ve seen listings as low as $20 for parts-only deals, all the way up to a hefty $200, depending on factors like the condition of the saw and where you’re located. It’s no secret that certain parts of the world command higher prices than others, so keep that in mind.

And if you’re eyeing that elusive top handle version, be prepared to dig a little deeper into your wallet. They’re less common, which tends to drive up the price. But buyer beware—the parts situation can be a bit of a headache, regardless of which version you’re after.

Now, onto the nitty-gritty of finding parts and accessories. eBay is always a go-to for both whole saws and individual parts, offering a treasure trove of options. If you’re in the market for OEM or aftermarket parts, H L Supply is your ticket to chainsaw heaven. And let’s not forget about the convenience of Amazon, serving up everything from aftermarket parts to chains and spark plugs with just a few clicks.

When it comes to pricing, opinions vary:

• Some folks reckon that the condition of the saw is the ultimate decider, with potential for some decent cash on eBay if it’s in tip-top shape.
• Others aren’t quite as optimistic, citing concerns about the reliability of the oilers and their impact on resale value.
• But hey, there are always those collectors out there who are willing to pay a premium for a piece of chainsaw history.

The Stihl 011 AV falls somewhere in the middle of the pack—it’s not the cream of the crop, but it’s certainly not a slouch either. It’s got its niche as a handy tool for pruning and light firewood duties, making it a favorite among those who appreciate vintage charm.

Now, when it comes to vintage chainsaws, the professional-grade models like the 044, 056, or 075 tend to steal the spotlight. They command higher prices and have a dedicated fanbase. But let’s not overlook the smaller guys like the 011—they may not fetch as much cash, but they’ve got their own place in Stihl’s storied history.

And you know what? It’s important to keep these little fellows chugging along too. They’re just as much a part of the Stihl legacy as their bigger siblings. So if you ever come across the opportunity to buy or restore a 011, don’t hesitate—embrace it as a piece of chainsaw history and give it the love it deserves!